Reported by: The Agency Media.
Date: 17th June, 2025.
Lusaka, Zambia.
In a decisive move to safeguard public health and the environment, the Zambian Government has announced that the Zambia Environmental Management Agency (ZEMA) will take over the pollution assessment of the Kafue River following prolonged delays by Sino Metals Leach Zambia Limited.
This follows a serious environmental incident on 18th February 2025, when leach residue from Sino Metals tailings storage in Chambishi spilled into nearby water bodies, including the Chambishi Stream, Kafue River and Mwambashi River. The spill has since raised significant concern over contamination risks to human health, agriculture, water safety and biodiversity.
Though ZEMA initially ordered the company to cease operations and initiate a clean-up, preceded by a detailed environmental assessment, the process was stalled due to a contractual dispute between Sino Metals and its consultant. Given the lack of progress, ZEMA is now invoking its authority under Section 107 of the Environmental Management Act of 2011 to assume responsibility for the assessment. Costs for this government-led operation will still be recovered from the polluting company.
“We are prioritising this matter because clean water, food security and public health are non-negotiable,” stated Green Economy and Environment Minister Hon. Mike Elton Mposha, MP. He underscored the importance of ensuring the affected areas are restored and protected from future industrial pollution.
In the coming weeks, ZEMA will draft comprehensive Terms of Reference to guide the environmental assessment. These will include inputs from key ministries responsible for water, agriculture, fisheries, livestock and mining. A public call for qualified environmental service providers will follow, with transparency and inter-agency oversight ensuring accountability.
Once the assessment is complete, the findings will inform an extensive environmental remediation plan, which the Government hopes will restore both ecological integrity and public trust.
Minister Mposha also called on development partners, technical experts, and local stakeholders to support the restoration efforts, whether through financial, technical or logistical assistance.
“We ask Zambians to remain calm. The government is on top of the situation and committed to protecting people, nature and livelihoods,” he concluded.
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The Agency.