Report Shows Environmental Damage from Sino Metals Spill
The Zambian Government has concluded investigations into the Sino Metals spillage incident, which severely affected the Kafue River ecosystem.
Dr Hapenga Kabeta, Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of Mines and Minerals Development, confirmed that an independent environmental consultant has submitted its findings on the impact of the spill on surface and groundwater quality. The Zambia Environmental Management Agency (ZEMA) is currently reviewing the report.
Dr Kabeta said that once ZEMA completes its review and approves the findings, all relevant stakeholders will be engaged to determine the next steps for environmental remediation and compensation.
He reaffirmed the Government’s commitment to ensuring that mining activities are conducted safely and responsibly, without endangering citizens’ lives.
The Permanent Secretary made the remarks during a courtesy visit by the Swedish Ambassador to Zambia, His Excellency Mr John Hallenborg. Dr Kabeta expressed gratitude to Sweden for providing technical expertise and support in addressing the incident.
Ambassador Hallenborg, for his part, reiterated Sweden’s commitment to promoting sustainable mining in Zambia through research collaborations, highlighting ongoing initiatives with the University of Zambia (UNZA) and the Northern Technical and Vocational Training College (NORTEC) aimed at strengthening skills in the mining sector.
The spillage occurred in February 2025 after a dam failure at Sino Metals Leach Zambia Limited’s tailings storage facility, leading to significant damage to aquatic life, water supplies, and agricultural activities along the Kafue River basin. The company subsequently suspended operations.
