A 50-million-litre acid spill from a Chinese-owned copper mine in Zambia threatens the Kafue River, crucial for 12 million residents, prompting President Hakainde Hichilema to seek expert help. This disaster may worsen Zambia-China relations, according to experts.
A significant acid spill from a Chinese-owned copper mine in Zambia has raised concerns about the potential impact on diplomatic relations between Zambia and China. The contamination involves 50 million liters of acid which threatens the ecological balance of the Kafue River, a crucial water source stretching 1,576 kilometers, supporting approximately 12 million individuals, including five million residents in the capital, Lusaka.
Zambian President Hakainde Hichilema has described the situation as a crisis, prompting an appeal for expert assistance to address the environmental disaster. The Kafue River not only is vital for human consumption but is also essential for local wildlife, as evidenced by reports of dead fish being discovered up to 100 kilometers downstream from the spill site.
Emmanuel Matambo, a research director at the University of Johannesburg’s Centre for Africa-China Studies, emphasized that such an environmental disaster is likely to strain diplomatic relations between Zambia and China. The long-term implications of this incident could see a decline in trust, affecting economic partnerships in the future.
The acid spill from the Chinese-owned mine poses a significant threat to environmental and public health in Zambia, impacting vital waterways and local wildlife. President Hichilema’s response highlights the urgency of the situation, with potential ramifications for Zambia’s relationship with China. Experts warn that this disaster may lead to long-term diplomatic and economic challenges as Zambia navigates the aftermath of this environmental crisis.
Original Source: www.scmp.com
