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The Ministry of Mines and Minerals Development has announced the conclusion of investigations into the Sino Metals spillage incident.
Permanent Secretary, Dr. Hapenga Kabeta, said an independent environmental consultant engaged to assess the extent of damage to surface and groundwater quality has submitted its findings to the Zambia Environmental Management Agency (ZEMA), which is currently reviewing the report.
According to a statement, Kabeta disclosed this when Swedish Ambassador to Zambia, John Hallenborg, paid a courtesy call on him at the Ministry’s headquarters in Lusaka on Monday.
“Once ZEMA is satisfied with the review process and deems it appropriate to release the findings, all relevant stakeholders will be engaged to determine the modalities for environmental remediation and compensation,” he said.
Kabeta reaffirmed government’s commitment to ensuring that mining activities were conducted in a safe, secure, and environmentally responsible manner that did not endanger the lives of citizens.
He further expressed appreciation to the government of Sweden for providing technical expertise and support in addressing the matter.
Read More: Sino Metals acid spillage assessment report recommends relocation of affected residents
Meanwhile, Ambassador Hallenborg reiterated Sweden’s commitment to supporting sustainable mining practices in Zambia through research collaboration.
He highlighted ongoing research partnership programmes with the University of Zambia (UNZA) and the Northern Technical and Vocational Training College (NORTEC) as key initiatives aimed at enhancing skills development within the mining sector.
“In February 2025, Sino Metals Leach Zambia Limited suspended operations following a dam failure at its tailings storage facility,” reads the statement.
The Ministry stated that the spillage affected the Kafue River ecosystem, resulting in severe impacts on aquatic life, water supplies, and agricultural activities along the river basin.
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