The Kafue River Crisis and Mining’s Environmental Impact
An acid spill at a Chinese-owned copper mine in northern Zambia has caused significant environmental damage to the Kafue River, a vital waterway for the nation. The disaster occurred on February 18 when a dam holding acidic waste collapsed, releasing approximately 50 million liters of toxic waste, including heavy metals, into the river system. Signs of pollution have been detected up to 100 kilometers downstream, raising alarm about the long-term effects on local ecosystems and communities.
The Kafue River is essential for fishing, irrigation, and drinking water, supporting about 60% of Zambia’s population. In the aftermath of the spill, the city of Kitwe, home to 700,000 people, faced a complete water supply shutdown. Dead fish and other wildlife losses have been reported, with environmental activists calling it a catastrophe of unprecedented scale.
Zambian authorities have launched cleanup efforts, including deploying the air force to neutralize the acid using lime. The mining company, Sino-Metals Leach Zambia, has taken responsibility and promised to restore the environment. However, criticism of China’s role in Zambia’s mining sector has intensified, with accusations of neglecting safety and environmental standards.
This incident has also spotlighted Zambia’s struggle with debt to China and the risks tied to its reliance on foreign investments in copper mining. A smaller acid leak at another Chinese-owned mine, discovered days after the main spill, has further heightened public anger, with arrests and operational shutdowns following.
As investigations into the extent of the damage continue, many Zambians are demanding greater accountability from foreign investors to prevent future disasters and ensure sustainable mining practices.
Source: abc