The World Wide Fund for Nature (WWF) Zambia has urged the government to conduct a comprehensive audit of all tailings dams linked to mining activities across the country to prevent future environmental disasters.
This call follows the February 18, 2025, breach of a tailings dam at Sino Leach Metal Zambia, which led to the pollution of the Mwambashi River and Lusale Stream, ultimately contaminating the Kafue River downstream.
WWF Zambia Country Director Nalucha Ziba, in a statement issued in Lusaka on Wednesday, stressed the need for the audit to be carried out in collaboration with the Engineering Institution of Zambia (EIZ). She also called for environmental audits of all mining companies with restoration orders, emphasizing that those found in violation must implement corrective measures before resuming operations and face appropriate penalties.
“These spillages have caused severe environmental damage, threatening vital ecosystems and the livelihoods of local communities and businesses dependent on these water sources,” Ziba stated.
She described the incident as a preventable failure, warning that the contamination of critical water bodies poses both immediate and long-term risks to public health and the environment.
Key Recommendations
To prevent similar disasters, Ziba called for:
- Stricter regulations on industrial effluent management
- Enhanced water quality monitoring
- Improved waste management practices
She emphasized the importance of holding the responsible mining company fully accountable under the Polluter Pays Principle. She also urged authorities to ensure that water quality meets WHO drinking water standards and that affected communities receive a guaranteed clean water supply until their local wells and water sources are deemed safe.
“The government must prioritize clean water access, especially for peri-urban communities,” she added.
Ziba further stressed that economic growth must be balanced with stringent environmental safeguards. She called on both the government and mining companies to adopt sustainable practices and invest in technologies that mitigate environmental risks.
WWF Zambia remains committed to advocating for stronger environmental protections to safeguard the country’s natural resources and public health.
