LUSAKA, March 7, 2025 – Environmental concerns have escalated in Zambia following the recent pollution of major water bodies by mining activities in the Copperbelt. The contamination, caused by acid effluents from Sino-Metals Leach Zambia Limited (SMLZ), has severely affected the Mwambashi and Kafue Rivers, threatening local communities, agriculture, and aquatic life.
In response, African Rivers, a non-governmental organisation advocating for environmental protection, has called for urgent intervention to safeguard Zambia’s water resources. During a press briefing in Lusaka, Dr. Bobson Sikaala, CEO of African Rivers, emphasised the devastating impact of mining pollution and the need for immediate reforms.
Impact of Mining Pollution
The contamination of Mwambashi and Kafue Rivers has led to significant damage to farmlands, particularly maize and groundnut fields in surrounding communities. Farmers have expressed concerns about their livelihoods, while environmentalists warn of long-term ecological consequences if the issue is not effectively addressed.
Dr. Sikaala noted that pollution is not exclusive to the mining sector, highlighting additional threats such as agriculture, industrial waste, plastic pollution, and deforestation. He warned that if environmental degradation continues at this rate, Zambia risks facing a severe water crisis, affecting both human health and biodiversity.
Call for Policy Reforms
African Rivers has proposed several measures to mitigate pollution and enforce stricter environmental compliance in the mining industry. Among their key recommendations are:
- Strengthening Water and Environmental Laws – Reviewing the Environmental Management Act No. 12 of 2011 to ensure stricter penalties for polluters.
- Establishing a Multi-Sectoral Technical Task Force – A dedicated task force to oversee fair compensation for affected communities and ensure that mining companies take full responsibility for environmental damage.
- Mandating Sustainable Mining Practices – Requiring mining firms to adopt climate-sensitive safety and environmental programmes to reduce their impact on natural resources.
- Accelerating Environmental Restoration – Ensuring swift clean-up operations to prevent further contamination and protect economic activities linked to the rivers.
A Call for Collective Action
Dr. Sikaala stressed the importance of public involvement in environmental conservation, announcing the launch of the “River Conservation Outdoor Campaign.” This nationwide initiative aims to educate communities on water conservation, promote responsible waste management, and restore degraded river ecosystems.
“The health of our rivers is crucial for Zambia’s economy and the well-being of our people. If we do not act now, future generations will pay the price,” he stated.
The campaign will involve:
- Community-led clean-up drives along major rivers
- Tree planting activities to combat deforestation
- Educational programmes on responsible water use and pollution prevention
Government Response and the Way Forward
The Zambian government has acknowledged the severity of the issue, with relevant ministries pledging to take action against environmental violations. However, civil society groups argue that enforcement remains weak and that stronger regulatory frameworks are needed to prevent future incidents.
With Zambia’s rivers facing increasing threats from industrialisation and climate change, the fight against pollution requires a unified approach. African Rivers has urged stakeholders, policymakers, and the general public to work together in protecting the country’s water resources for future generations.
What’s Next?
As the situation unfolds, environmentalists and affected communities await concrete action from authorities. The success of these proposed measures will depend on political will, corporate responsibility, and community engagement.
For more updates on this developing story, follow African Rivers and stay informed on Zambia’s environmental policies.
📢 Join the conversation: What measures do you think should be implemented to protect Zambia’s rivers? Share your thoughts in the comments.
