Acid runoff from a Chinese-owned mine in Zambia has polluted the Kafue River, causing significant environmental damage and public health concerns. More than 60% of the population in the river basin is affected, prompting government action and accountability measures for the mining company. The incident underscores issues of regulatory compliance and environmental stewardship in the mining industry.
A recent acid spill from a Chinese-owned mine in Zambia has severely polluted the Kafue River, resulting in what officials have termed catastrophic consequences. The spill highlights the significant role of Chinese companies in Zambia’s copper production, a key export for the nation and critical for global electronics manufacturing.
Zambia is the second-largest copper producer in Africa and among the top ten worldwide. However, local Chinese firms have faced accusations of breaching labor laws and environmental regulations. Zambia’s heavy debt load, particularly $4 billion owed to China, is forcing the government to restructure its loans following payment defaults in 2023.
On February 18, a tailings dam collapse released approximately 50 million liters of waste into the Kafue River, affecting roughly 60% of the country’s 20 million residents who depend on this river for agriculture, industry, and fishing. The local government considered the event a crisis, suspending water supplies in nearby Kitwe, which has a population of 700,000.
In response, Zambian authorities have dropped hundreds of tons of lime into the river to mitigate the acid’s effects. Images shortly after the incident depicted numerous dead fish along the Kafue River banks up to 60 miles from the source. The mine is operated by Sino-Metals Leach Zambia, which is primarily owned by state-run China Nonferrous Metals Industry Group.
Local resident Sean Cornelius remarked on the change, stating, “Before the 18th of February, this was a vibrant and alive river. Now everything is dead, it’s like a totally dead river. Unbelievable. Overnight, this river died.” Government spokesperson Cornelius Mweetaw affirmed that Sino-Metals Leach Zambia would bear responsibility for cleanup efforts.
Environmental Minister Mike Mposha reported that acute measures were in place to manage the spread of contamination and ensure monitoring of pH levels. He assured that affected farmers and consumers would receive compensation from Sino-Metals.
Environmental activist Chilekwa Mumba described the event as an “environmental disaster really of catastrophic consequences.” Mweene Himwinga, an environmental engineer, criticized the negligence of certain investors with respect to environmental protections.
In light of the breach, the Zambian government mandated the cessation of operations at three dams owned by the mine, with a plan for resumption following repairs to the affected infrastructure. The situation remains highly concerning as impacts continue to unfold, stressing the need for responsible environmental stewardship from mining companies.
Micah McCartney, the author of this report, is a journalist focusing on U.S.-China relations and security matters in East Asia.
The acid spill from a Chinese-owned mine in Zambia poses severe environmental threats and public health hazards, demonstrating the critical need for stringent environmental regulations and accountability within the mining sector. With half of Zambia’s population relying on the Kafue River, the consequences of this disaster highlight the fragility of local ecosystems and the urgent demand for responsible industrial practices. Zambian authorities are taking initial steps to address the pollution and mitigate its impacts, yet vigilance will be essential moving forward.
Original Source: www.newsweek.com
