Sino-Metals denies backlash on Kafue pollution as incident attracts global scrutiny

Sino-Metals Leach Limited Zambia has denied accusations of underreporting and concealing the scale of tailings released during the February 18, 2025 acid spillage incident, which continues to draw international attention.

Since the accident, about 47 civil society organisations and mineral governance groups have reportedly united to demand justice for affected households.

The issue gained further prominence when the United States Embassy in Zambia advised an American citizen residing in Kitwe, Chambishi, and Kalulushi to leave the towns over concerns of contaminated water containing heavy metals.

This followed a leaked report alleging that 1.5 million tonnes of waste material had been released—claims immediately disputed by Zambian authorities, who insisted the water was safe for consumption.

In a statement issued Wednesday, Sino-Metals categorically refuted the allegations of large-scale contamination.

“The estimated volume of the spillage was approximately 50,000 cubic meters. By contrast, some media outlets have reported a fabricated figure of 1.5 million tonnes of waste material, which is misleading and devoid of factual, scientific, and technical basis,” the company stated.

Read More: U.S. orders staff out of Kitwe District over toxic mine spill from Sino metals, directs them to avoid municipal water

The mining firm added that it promptly triggered its emergency response plan when the incident occurred, informing relevant government authorities and bringing the tailings breach under control within hours.

Sino-Metals said it has fully complied with all reporting requirements and continues to work with government regulators on verification and oversight to ensure transparency.

“Since February 18, Sino-Metals has remained non-operational in full compliance with government instructions, while actively undertaking measures to remedy the effects of the incident,” the company said.

Highlighting its 20 years of operations in Zambia, Sino-Metals emphasized that it values the safety and wellbeing of host communities in Chambishi, the Copperbelt, and the country at large.

“The company remains committed to operating within the laws of the Republic of Zambia, upholding transparency, and engaging openly with all well-meaning stakeholders as we work together to safeguard the environment and strengthen community trust,” it said.

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