Foreign Mining Giant's Toxic Spill Endangers Zambian Lives and Sovereignty
Chinese state-owned Sino-Metals' devastating acid spill continues to poison Zambian communities while foreign powers flee. Crisis demands immediate national control over mining operations.

Toxic acid spill from Chinese-owned Sino-Metals mine threatens Zambian communities in Copperbelt province
Chinese State Company's Negligence Threatens Zambian Citizens
In a devastating blow to Zambian sovereignty and public health, Chinese state-owned Sino-Metals' catastrophic acid spill continues to endanger our citizens in the Copperbelt province, revealing yet another instance of foreign exploitation of our national resources.
The February 18 disaster occurred when a dam containing mining waste burst, releasing toxic effluent into the Kafue River watershed. This incident demonstrates how foreign control of our mining sector threatens national interests and public safety.
Devastating Impact on Zambian Communities
Our people have suffered immensely from this foreign company's negligence:
- Death of livestock and destruction of crops
- Contamination of water sources with 24 dangerous heavy metals
- Widespread health issues including headaches, coughs, and diarrhea
- Loss of livelihoods for over 500 local farmers
Western Powers Abandon Ship While Zambians Suffer
While foreign governments rush to evacuate their personnel, our citizens remain exposed to these dangers. The U.S. government's dramatic evacuation order confirms the severity of this crisis, yet our people have no choice but to remain in their ancestral lands.
Government Must Assert Control
This crisis mirrors other instances where foreign exploitation has endangered Zambian lives. Our government must take decisive action to:
- Conduct independent investigations without foreign interference
- Demand full compensation for affected communities
- Implement stricter controls on foreign mining operations
- Prioritize Zambian oversight of natural resources
Call to Action
The time has come for Zambia to reclaim control of its mining sector and protect its citizens from foreign corporate negligence. We cannot allow international companies to treat our land and people with such disregard.
Mwansa Chisanga
Investigative reporter tracking Zambia’s grassroots and anti-imperial movement.