Government has assured the public that areas affected by the Sino Metals pollution incident on the Copperbelt and along the Kafue River are now safe and slowly returning to normalcy, contrary to a recent advisory issued by the United States Embassy in Zambia.
Chief Government Spokesperson, Cornelius Mweetwa, says both land and water in the affected areas have shown significant improvement, following extensive remediation efforts undertaken since the incident.
Mr. Mweetwa explained that the acidity in the water has been neutralized using lime and that pH levels had recovered to a neutral 7 by early March, within both local and international acceptable standards for water quality.
“Over 200 water samples have been collected and tested and of these, 37 results have been released showing that the water is safe for consumption, while 163 samples are still undergoing analysis,” said Mr. Mweetwa,
He further revealed that laboratory tests indicate a steady reduction in the levels of heavy metals such as copper, zinc, and lead in both water and soil.
The government, he said, is closely monitoring these levels to ensure public safety and environmental recovery.
“As of now, there is no need to press the panic button as government has normalized the situation and remains committed to ensuring the safety and well-being of the affected communities,” said Mr. Mweetwa.
Mr. Mweetwa also clarified that while some cases of suspected food or water-related illness were reported in Ngabwe District, in which all individuals have since fully recovered, no major disease outbreaks or deaths linked to the pollution incident have been recorded.
Meanwhile, Minister of Water Development and Sanitation, Collins Nzovu, also assured the public that the water currently being consumed on the Copperbelt Province and surrounding areas of the Kafue River is safe.
Mr. Nzovu stated that the latest tests confirmed a pH level of 7, an internationally accepted standard, refuting suggestions that the water is poisoned with heavy metals.
He emphasized that the government will continue its testing and oversight to ensure continued safety and transparency.
Angel Kasabo
