Minister Mposha halts U-Metals operations in Chingola over reported environmental violations

Minister of Green Economy and Environment, Mike Mposha, has ordered U-Metals Limited in Chingola District, Copperbelt Province, to halt operations indefinitely for failing to comply with environmental regulations.

The decision followed an impromptu inspection on Monday morning, which revealed that the company’s tailings dam was located less than 50 meters from a nearby stream, posing a serious risk to public health and the environment.

According to a statement issued in Lusaka by Ministry Principal Public Relations Officer, Harriet Chimuka, Minister Mposha warned that the government would not allow any investor to violate environmental regulations with impunity.

“Strict adherence to environmental laws is critical to achieving sustainable development and protecting our natural resources,” he said.

The Minister was accompanied on the tour by officials from the Chingola District Administration, the District Joint Operations Committee, and senior government representatives from both the Ministry and the district.

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“The exercise was not only about enforcement but also about enhancing transparency and accountability in the mining sector while safeguarding the environment for surrounding communities,” Mposha added.

The Minister had embarked on a two-day working tour of the Copperbelt to verify compliance status of mining companies whose projects were not approved by the Zambia Environmental Management Agency following Environmental Impact Assessments.

The visit, it is reported, aims to assess the status of non-compliant mining projects, engage with stakeholders including local communities and company representatives, and identify practical solutions to ensure environmental sustainability.

During the tour, Minister Mposha also visited Jiahang Resources Limited, Lenwin Investments Limited, and Zhemu Limited.

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