Zambia Rejects US Health Alert Over Copperbelt Mine Spill

Image Credit: Chongo Sampa/News Diggers

By Bradley Riviera

Lusaka, Zambia — The Zambian government has dismissed a health alert issued by the US embassy concerning alleged toxic pollution in the Copperbelt mining region, following a February tailings dam collapse at the Sino-Metals Leach Zambia mine. The embassy ordered the withdrawal of its personnel from Kitwe and surrounding areas, citing new evidence of hazardous contamination in water, soil, and potentially airborne particles.

The incident, which released acidic waste and heavy metals into the Kafue River—a vital water source—has reignited debate over environmental accountability and geopolitical tensions in Zambia’s mining sector.

Government Response: “No Cause for Alarm”

Chief Government Spokesperson Cornelius Mweetwa stated that laboratory tests show pH levels have normalized and concentrations of heavy metals are decreasing. “There is no need to press the panic button,” he said, assuring the public that water quality and public health risks have been mitigated.

The government has conducted over 200 water and sediment tests, suspended operations at the mine, and fined Sino-Metals over K1.5 million. Compensation for affected communities is reportedly underway, and environmental restoration efforts are ongoing.

Geopolitical Undercurrents

Opposition Green Party leader Peter Sinkamba accused the US embassy of selective concern, pointing to historical lead poisoning in Kabwe linked to Western mining firms. “Why now?” he asked, suggesting the alert may be politically motivated.Meanwhile, environmental advocates like Maggie Mapalo Mwape of the Centre for Environment Justice called the spill a national disaster. She urged the government to take more decisive action to prevent future incidents and protect community health.

Industry Under Scrutiny
Sino-Metals Leach Zambia, a subsidiary of China Nonferrous Metal Mining Group, has pledged to comply with cleanup efforts and compensate affected farmers. The company’s cooperation has been praised by government officials, though civil society groups continue to demand greater transparency and accountability.

As Zambia balances foreign investment with environmental stewardship, the Copperbelt spill underscores the urgent need for stronger safeguards in the mining sector—especially as global scrutiny intensifies.