Toxic Spill Sparks Water Crisis in Kitwe

A major water contamination incident has disrupted supply in Kitwe and Kalulushi. The pollution, traced to Sino Metals Leach Zambia Limited, resulted from a breached tailings dam, releasing acidic effluent with heavy metals into the Mwambashi River.

Hon. Eng. Collins Nzovu, Minister of Water Development and Sanitation, confirmed that 75% of leach residue entered the river, affecting thousands of residents, damaging crops, and killing fish.

The Water Resources Management Authority (WARMA) and other agencies sealed the breach and suspended water abstraction. Water tests revealed dangerous acidity levels, with pH as low as 1 at Sabina Bridge. Over 600 tonnes of lime have been applied, raising pH to 4 but still below the safe level of 7.

Under Zambian law, polluters face fines up to K280,000 or seven years imprisonment. Authorities, including WARMA and the Zambia Environmental Management Agency (ZEMA), continue monitoring the situation.

The government has deployed water bowsers to affected communities and warned residents against consuming contaminated fish. Compensation assessments for farmers are ongoing.

Minister Nzovu urged mining companies to assist in cleanup efforts and reassured the public of the government’s commitment to safe water supply and environmental accountability.

Efforts continue to restore water quality, with authorities maintaining strict monitoring to prevent future incidents.