Zambia Launches Investigation into Environmental Pollution in Copperbelt Region

The Zambian government has launched an independent investigation into pollution in the Copperbelt region, primarily due to mining activities. Minister Mike Mposha emphasized stricter regulations following various pollution incidents. Notably, an acid spill from Sino Metals has raised concerns regarding health and environmental impacts, leading to a compliance order and mandates for enhanced oversight of mining operations. The government is committed to keeping the public informed about the investigation’s development.

The Zambian government has initiated an independent investigation into the pollution affecting the Copperbelt region’s waterways, which is exacerbated by mining operations. Minister of Green Economy and Environment Mike Mposha has called for enhanced regulations and oversight of storage facilities, particularly tailings dams, after several pollution incidents.

During his recent visit to Mimbula Mine in Chingola, Minister Mposha stressed the importance of implementing stricter safety measures. This follows the contamination of the Chabanyama stream due to the collapse of an emergency heap leaching pond.

In light of a significant environmental crisis, particularly an acid spill in the Mwambashi and Kafue rivers on February 18, authorities have commissioned an independent probe. This spill, attributed to Sino Metals Leach Zambia Limited, has heightened concerns among local residents and environmental advocates about the repercussions on aquatic ecosystems and community livelihoods.

The ongoing inquiry aims to evaluate the spill’s impact on water quality, aquatic life, and local ecosystems. It is also tasked with investigating the structural integrity of tailings dams, providing recommendations for future preventative measures. A compliance order issued to Sino Metals on February 21 will remain until an independent assessment verifies the absence of heavy metal residues that could threaten public health.

The Zambia Environmental Management Agency (ZEMA) has been assigned to expedite this assessment and collaborate with stakeholders to mitigate the damage. Additionally, Mimbula Mine Managing Director Theo Sylver reported improvements in the Chabanyama stream’s water quality due to cleanup efforts that have cost 10.3 million kwacha.

The National Union of Miners and Allied Workers (NUMAW) and other organizations have urged the government for more stringent regulations. President Saul Simujika has criticized mining companies for compromising public safety. The Veterinary Association of Zambia (VAZ) has also raised alarms about the spill’s effects on local livestock and the economic ramifications for affected communities.

The government has committed to transparently updating the public on the investigation’s progress and advocating for compliance among mining companies with existing environmental guidelines to avert further ecological degradation.

In conclusion, the Zambian government’s independent investigation into waterway pollution in the Copperbelt is a crucial step to addressing environmental concerns linked to mining activities. Enhanced regulations, accountability for companies like Sino Metals, and collaboration with stakeholders are necessary to protect aquatic ecosystems and community health. The ongoing efforts reflect a commitment to preventing future incidents and ensuring public safety.

Original Source: newscentral.africa