Government has engaged Applied Sciences Technology Limited as the main independent consultant to conduct an assessment of the pollution of the Kafue River and Mwambashi Stream in Copperbelt Province by Sino Leach Metals.
Water Development and Sanitation Minister, Collins Nzovu, said the Attorney-General had cleared the contract to ensure an impartial assessment that provides a reliable scientific basis without further delay.
Speaking at a media briefing in Lusaka on Thursday, Nzovu announced that the Zambia Environmental Management Agency (ZEMA) and Applied Sciences Technology Limited have signed the contract, with works set to begin immediately.
He stressed that remedial costs remain the responsibility of Sino Metals Leach Zambia Limited under the “Polluter Pays” principle provided by law.
Nzovu said information issued to the public so far was based on preliminary investigations conducted by Nkana Water, ZEMA, the Water Resources Management Authority (WARMA), and independent consultants, with laboratory analysis carried out by Alfred H. Knight, an internationally recognised firm.
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He noted that some clean-up efforts had already started, particularly in areas with visible pollution such as reclaimed tailings near Kalusale compound in Chambishi.
“The government’s final and authoritative position on the incident will be guided by the outcome of the comprehensive assessment from the independent and impartial assessor,” Nzovu said, urging calm, constructive dialogue, and support from partners, civil society, academia, and the diplomatic community towards environmental restoration.
Preliminary technical findings indicate that 51,800 cubic metres of material were discharged—31,300 cubic metres liquid and 17,700 cubic metres solid—significantly lower than the widely quoted but unofficial figure of 1.5 million cubic metres.
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