Over seven months after a major toxic waste spill at Sino-Metals’ Chinese-owned copper mine in Zambia, authorities are still assessing the full environmental and human impact, reports the Africa Defense Forum (ADF). The February collapse of a substandard earthen wall released 50 million liters of toxic waste into the Mwambashi and Kafue Rivers, threatening the water supply for millions. Independent assessments revealed the spill was far larger than initially reported, containing hazardous levels of cyanide, arsenic, and heavy metals, prompting demands for billions in compensation and cleanup. Interim payouts to affected farmers have been criticized as inadequate, with many forced to sign legal waivers. Reports indicate that China and local authorities have pressured victims to stay silent, raising concerns about transparency and accountability, according to the WSJ. Zambian officials emphasize that further remediation and compensation will be required as the true extent of the damage becomes clear. The ADF writes:
More than seven months after a toxic waste spill at a Chinese-owned mine caused one of the worst environmental disasters in its history, Zambia still is trying to determine the full extent of the damage and the response needed.
Attempts to downplay the catastrophe by Sino-Metals Leach copper mine, which is owned by the state-run China Nonferrous Metals Industry Group, have sparked outrage and, more recently, a forceful government response.
Fifty million liters of toxic mining waste poured into the Mwambashi River, just outside of the mining town of Chambishi on February 18 when a substandard earthen wall of Sino-Metal’s waste reservoir collapsed. Officials reported signs of pollution more than 100 kilometers downstream on the Kafue River, the country’s most vital waterway.
Zambian Vice President Mutale Nalumango visited the mine and met with Sino-Metals officials on September 10. […]
“While Sino Metals initially reported that only 50,000 metric tons of waste material had spilled, Drizit’s fieldwork indicated that over 1.5 million metric tons were released, with approximately 900,000 cubic meters of toxic tailings still present in the environment,” the company said in an August 29 statement. “These materials were found to contain dangerous levels of cyanide, arsenic, copper, zinc, lead, chromium, cadmium and other pollutants posing significant long-term health risks, including organ damage, birth defects and cancer.” […]
Sino-Metals required locals to sign legal documents agreeing that the payment was made “as full and final settlement of all claims arising from any damage, injury or inconvenience,” according to ICN. […]
“When there is an outcry from our people, their safety must come first. That is non-negotiable,” she said. “If the damage to the land and livelihoods proves to be more extensive or long-lasting than initially understood, then further compensation will be necessary, and it will be pursued.”
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