Lusaka, 23 February 2025 – The Ministry of Fisheries and Livestock has issued an urgent warning to the public against consuming fish from the Kafue River and other polluted streams due to severe water contamination. The alert follows confirmed reports of mass fish deaths caused by dangerously low pH levels in water bodies, particularly in the Mwambashi Stream and Kafue River on the Copperbelt.
According to preliminary assessments, water samples taken from Kafue Bridge in Kitwe have registered a pH level of 3, indicating high acidity. The Ministry has attributed the contamination to acidic effluents containing heavy metals, making fish from these waters unsafe for human consumption.
In response, the National Aquaculture Research and Development Center, under the Ministry of Fisheries and Livestock, is conducting further investigations to assess the full impact of the pollution. Additionally, a Public Health team has collected water and fish samples for in-depth analysis.
Authorities are also examining farms along the contaminated water bodies to evaluate the potential effects of pollution on fish and livestock. The government has assured the public that addressing this environmental crisis is a priority, emphasising that citizen health and safety remain paramount.
Residents in affected areas have been urged to exercise caution when purchasing and consuming fish and livestock products. The Ministry advises consumers to buy fish only from reputable retail outlets and to report any suspicious fish deaths or livestock illnesses to local authorities.
Further updates will be provided as investigations continue.
For more information, concerned citizens can contact:
Benny Munyama
Principal Public Relations Officer
Ministry of Fisheries and Livestock
📧 [email protected]
📞 +260 977 658 338
