Care for Nature Zambia Executive Director, Nsama Kearns, has urged government to provide a clear and comprehensive account of the extent of pollution in the Kafue River.
This follows the recent suspension of fishing activities along the Kafue River in Central and Copperbelt Provinces, announced by government after a pollution incident involving Sino Metals in Kitwe.
Speaking in an interview with RCV News in Lusaka today, Mrs. Kearns expressed concern over the lack of transparency and detailed information from the authorities regarding the environmental damage caused.
“Government must come out clean and share the facts as they are to ensure the safety and health of the people,” Mrs. Kearns said.
She added that it is equally important for government to inform the public whether the company responsible for the pollution has begun implementing corrective measures.
Meanwhile, Green Party President Peter Sinkamba has also criticized government’s handling of the matter, accusing it of being slow and reluctant in addressing the pollution of the Kafue River.
Mr. Sinkamba said the government has failed to take decisive action against companies responsible for polluting major water bodies, warning that the country risks facing an environmental disaster if the situation is not brought under control.
Cynthia Lupiya.
