Water declared safe after SINO metals pollution — GOVT

Chief Government Spokesperson Cornelius Mweetwa has announced that water in areas affected by the Sino Metals pollution incident has been declared safe, following comprehensive clean-up efforts and rigorous testing. Speaking during a press briefing in Lusaka, Mr. Mweetwa confirmed that both national authorities and the World Health Organization (WHO) have certified the water as meeting safety standards.

‎The contamination, which occurred in February after a dam failure at the Sino Metals facility, released approximately 50,000 cubic metres of acidic slurry into the Chambishi, Mwambashi, and Kafue rivers. Mr. Mweetwa assured the public that pH levels and other key indicators have returned to normal, and no fatalities were recorded.

‎Accompanied by Ministers Collins Nzovu and Mike Mposha, Mr. Mweetwa explained that over 200 water samples were collected, with 37 already confirming safe conditions. Sino Metals has been fined K1.5 million and is compensating affected households while funding environmental rehabilitation.

‎The government has permanently banned the disposal of unneutralized tailings by all mining firms and reaffirmed its commitment to holding polluters accountable. Authorities continue to monitor water safety and engage the public with regular updates.

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