The Zambian government has firmly rejected recent health concerns raised by the US embassy regarding contamination in the Copperbelt region's soil and water, asserting that safety measures have reinstated normal levels of environmental stability.
Zambia Rejects US Health Alert on Copperbelt Toxic Spill
Zambia Rejects US Health Alert on Copperbelt Toxic Spill
Zambia’s officials affirm safety of water and soil after US warnings over mining spill contamination
The Zambian government has dismissed U.S. health warnings regarding a toxic spill in the Copperbelt region, suggesting the area's water and soil have been deemed safe following government and laboratory tests. The U.S. Embassy issued a health alert on Wednesday, urging the withdrawal of its personnel from Kitwe and adjacent areas due to fears of "widespread contamination" arising from a significant tailings dam collapse at the Sino-Metals mine in February. This incident released harmful substances into the Kafue River, a vital source of drinking water.
The U.S. Embassy warned that recent findings characterized the spill's contamination as involving hazardous and potentially carcinogenic materials. It cautioned that these pollutants could pose risks to health if inhaled, given that they might also become airborne. Nonetheless, Zambia's government spokesperson Cornelius Mweetwa refuted these claims, stating that laboratory analyses indicated normal pH levels in the area and asserted the water is now safe for consumption.
Authorities emphasized that there is no reason for alarm, contradicting the U.S. assessment. The Sino-Metals mine, a subsidiary of the China Nonferrous Metal Mining Group, which is state-owned, had previously committed to compensating affected communities and restoring the environment post-spill. The incident has had negative effects on local aquatic life and agricultural practices reliant on the river's water.
Green Economy Minister Mike Mposha confirmed ongoing government testing and public communication regarding environmental safety following the incident. Water Development Minister Collins Nzovu mentioned constant monitoring is aligned with World Health Organization standards.
Critics, including opposition Green Party leader Peter Sinkamba, accused the U.S. embassy's alert of being politically motivated while questioning their silence on other documented pollutants. Environmental advocacy groups, such as the Centre for Environment Justice, have called for urgent action to address the pollution crisis and advocate for Zambian citizens' rights to a safe environment.
