An acid spill from a Chinese-owned mine has contaminated the Kafue River in Zambia, impacting local communities and agriculture. The breach released 50 million liters of waste, leading to widespread environmental damage and economic loss. Authorities have issued advisories against consuming fish from affected waters, while the long-term effects of the spill remain uncertain.
In Zambia, authorities and environmentalists are expressing deep concern regarding the long-term consequences of an acid spill from a Chinese-owned mine, which has contaminated the Kafue River—a vital water source for millions. The pollution, first identified over 100 kilometers downstream, has incited worries about extensive environmental repercussions.
The incident transpired on February 18 when a tailings dam at a copper mine in northern Zambia experienced a collapse, leading to the release of approximately 50 million liters of waste. According to the Engineering Institution of Zambia, this waste included concentrated acid, heavy metals, and dissolved solids, which subsequently entered a stream connected to the Kafue River.
Environmental activist Chilekwa Mumba described the incident as an environmental disaster with dire consequences, especially for communities reliant on the river. Mumba highlighted that local agriculture has been significantly impacted, with many farmers on the cusp of harvest. He stated, “What they had invested in has been washed away” and drew attention to the resultant damage to both soil and crops.
Following the spill, alarming images of dead fish along the riverbanks surfaced, while local farmers reported severe destruction to their crops, particularly maize and groundnuts. The Ministry of Fisheries and Livestock issued a public advisory on February 23, advising against fish consumption from the Kafue River or affected streams.
Local farmer Juliet Bulaya shared her distress upon witnessing the toxic waste flow into her fish pond, decimating her entire stock. “I just stood in agony, wondering what I would do about the money I spent on the project,” she lamented. Despite the breach being repaired on February 19, and the harmful discharge controlled, the full extent of the environmental, economic, and human impacts is still unclear.
The acid spill from the mining operation in Zambia has prompted serious environmental and economic concerns, especially for local communities dependent on the Kafue River for agriculture and fishing. While emergency measures have been taken to mitigate further contamination, the lasting effects on the ecosystem, local economy, and livelihoods remain uncertain. Continued vigilance and restoration efforts will be necessary to address the fallout from this incident.
Original Source: newscentral.africa
