Zambia Rejects US Health Warning Amid Copperbelt Toxic Spill Fallout

The Zambian government's firm stance against U.S. health concerns highlights diplomatic tensions amidst environmental crises.

The Zambian government has firmly dismissed the health warning issued by the US embassy regarding the toxic spill in the Copperbelt mining region. This warning led to the withdrawal of US personnel from Kitwe and surrounding areas due to fears of "widespread contamination" linked to a February incident at Sino-Metals mine. The alarm was raised when a tailings dam burst, releasing toxic waste into the Kafue River, which serves as a crucial water source for local residents.

The US embassy's alert pointed to new evidence detailing the presence of hazardous and carcinogenic substances, warning that these contaminants could pose health risks if airborne. In response, government spokesperson Cornelius Mweetwa emphasized that laboratory results indicated that pH levels in the water had returned to normal and reassured the public that the water is safe for drinking. He countered the urgency of the US warning, suggesting there is no reason to instigate panic either domestically or internationally.

Operating under the Chinese government, the Sino-Metals Leach Zambia mine pledged to compensate those affected by the spill and restore the local environment. The spill has impacted both aquatic life and agricultural activities reliant on the river for irrigation. Green Economy Minister Mike Mposha asserted that the government took proactive measures following the incident and continues engaging with communities affected by the spill, and has been preparing updates for the public.

Colleagues in the opposition, notably Green Party leader Peter Sinkamba, questioned the motivation behind the US embassy's delay in issuing the alert while accusing it of ignoring lead poisoning issues attributable to Western mining firms. Environmental advocates like Maggie Mapalo Mwape, executive director of the Centre for Environment Justice, highlighted the urgent need for comprehensive actions to address the fallout from this spill and to safeguard the health and rights of Zambian citizens.