GOVERNMENT has directed Sino Metals, the company responsible for the acid spillages in the Kafue river on the Copperbelt Province, to compensate the affected communities.
Copperbelt Province Minister, Elisha Matambo said while the government appreciates Sino Metals’ support to the affected communities and their prompt response on the issue, the company has been directed to compensate farmers in Kitwe, Chambeshi and Mpongwe Districts.
Mr Matambo added that operations at the Mine will remain suspended until the government is satisfied that the recommendations by the Mines and Safety department are implemented.
“We took time to address affected farmers in Kabusele farming areas and members of the community in Buchi Compound, assuring them that Sino Metals, the government and stakeholders will resolve the water crisis,” Mr Matambo said.
And Mr Matambo has assured people in Kitwe, one of the three districts on the Copperbelt Province that have been affected by the acid spillages from Sino Metals that water will be safe for consumption by Tuesday, 25th February 2025.
Mr Matambo urged water utility companies and other stakeholders to extend measures of water distribution that have been implemented in Kitwe and Chambeshi districts to safeguard the lives of people in Mpongwe District which is equally affected by the spillage.
He further added that other than the 11 water Bowsers mobilised from various stakeholders, the government through the Zambia National Service (ZNS) has also provided additional Water Bowsers to affected communities in Kitwe and Chambeshi districts.
He also commended Nkana Water and Sanitation Company for their swift intervention which prevented loss of lives as a result of the acid spillage.
Mr Matambo stated that the incident at Sino Metals was a clear case of negligence by its management and that following the measures already provided by the government and other stakeholders, the government does not expect any reasonable person to politicize this issue.
Mr Matambo said this yesterday in the company of Mines Minister, Paul Kabuswe and other stakeholders after visiting Sino Metals to understand the acid spillage into the Kafue River.
