Zambia’s Kafue River was contaminated by an acid spill from a collapsed mine dam, releasing 50 million liters of toxic waste. Environmentalist concerns are heightened due to severe economic impacts on local farmers, particularly as many crops were nearing harvest. Immediate warnings against fish consumption have been issued, although the long-term effects of the incident remain to be fully understood.
The Kafue River in Zambia has been significantly affected by an acid spill from a Chinese-owned mine, raising serious concerns among both authorities and environmentalists regarding its long-term impact on this crucial water source. First detected over 100 kilometers downstream, this contamination is feared to result in extensive environmental damage to the region.
The incident occurred on February 18 when a tailings dam at a northern copper mine collapsed, releasing approximately 50 million liters of hazardous waste, including concentrated acids and heavy metals, into a stream leading to the Kafue River, as reported by the Engineering Institution of Zambia.
Environmental activist Chilekwa Mumba has characterized the incident as an environmental catastrophe, particularly detrimental to communities reliant on the river for their livelihoods. He noted that many farmers were close to harvesting when the spill occurred, stating, “What they had invested in has been washed away,” highlighting the adverse effects on both soil quality and crops.
In the wake of the spill, reports emerged documenting the sight of dead fish along the riverbanks, with local farmers witnessing extensive devastation to their crops, especially maize and groundnuts. This incident has sparked considerable distress among residents and farmers in the area.
The Ministry of Fisheries and Livestock issued a warning on February 23, advising against the consumption of fish from the Kafue River and affected streams. Juliet Bulaya, a local farmer, shared her distress upon observing the waste enter her fish pond, resulting in the loss of her entire stock. “I just stood in agony, wondering what I would do about the money I spent on the project,” she lamented.
While the breach was fixed on February 19 and the discharge of harmful materials has been managed, the comprehensive environmental, economic, and social implications of this event remain unclear, warranting ongoing scrutiny.
The acid spill from a Chinese mine into Zambia’s Kafue River has prompted grave concern due to its catastrophic effects on local agriculture and ecosystems. With significant waste affecting water quality and food security for communities dependent on the river, the situation underscores the urgent need for regulatory oversight and environmental protections. Although repairs have been made, the full ramifications of the spill are still being assessed.
Original Source: newscentral.africa
