Zambian officials and environmental groups are grappling with the aftermath of a catastrophic acid leak at a Chinese-operated copper mine, which has severely polluted the Kafue River, Zambia’s lifeline.
Key Details of the Incident:
- Date: February 18, 2025
- Cause: Collapse of a dam storing acidic waste from a copper mine in northern Zambia.
- Volume of Waste: Approximately 50 million litres containing strong acid, dissolved solids, and heavy metals.
Impact on the Environment and Communities:
- Contamination Detected: Over 100 km downstream, threatening a large portion of the river basin.
- Kafue River Significance:
- Supports 60% of Zambia’s 20 million population through fishing, agriculture, and industry.
- Provides drinking water for about five million people, including residents of Lusaka, the capital.
- Local Disruption: Water supplies in Kitwe (population ~700,000) have been suspended due to the spill.
Broader Context:
- Zambia’s Copper Mining:
- China plays a dominant role in Zambia’s copper sector.
- Copper is critical for modern technology, placing further importance on environmental and regulatory oversight in the mining industry.
