Kanchibiya MP, Chanda, sues ZEMA, WARMA over alleged pollution of Kanchibiya, Lwitikila rivers

Kanchibiya Member of Parliament, Sunday Chanda, has instituted legal proceedings for judicial review against the Zambia Environmental Management Agency (ZEMA) and the Water Resources Management Authority (WARMA) over alleged failure to protect the Kanchibiya and Lwitikila Rivers from pollution caused by gold mining activities in Mpika District.

In a statement issued on Sunday, Chanda said the action was taken on behalf of the people of Kanchibiya following persistent contamination of the rivers, which are critical water sources for thousands of residents.

“This decision was necessitated by the gross failure of ZEMA and WARMA to take timely, decisive, and lawful steps to prevent environmental harm and safeguard public health,” he said.

Chanda noted that despite repeated complaints from the community and visible environmental damage, the two agencies had failed to exercise their statutory responsibilities to curb ongoing pollution and guarantee safe drinking water for residents.

“We are seeking judicial intervention to compel ZEMA and WARMA to fulfill their legal obligations under the Environmental Management Act and the Water Resources Management Act,” Chanda explained.

The MP said other remedies sought included holding all responsible mining entities accountable for the contamination, immediate restoration of the affected rivers, and ensuring sustainable access to clean water for the people of Kanchibiya.

“As elected representatives, we cannot stand by while the health, livelihoods, and dignity of our people are compromised,” he stated, stressing that access to clean water is a constitutional right.

Chanda emphasized that the action was not politically motivated but was both morally and legally necessary.

He also called on traditional leaders, civil society, and the general public to support the initiative, noting that environmental protection and the right to safe water transcended partisan interests.

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