President Hakainde Hichilema has emphasized that Zambia’s ambition to achieve an annual copper production of 3 million metric tons, must not come at the expense of the environment.
Mr. Hichilema said that the spillage that occurred at Sino Metals and caused contamination to the Kafue and Chambashi river must not re-occur.
On February 18, 2025, a tailings dam collapsed at Sino-Metals Leach Zambia releasing approximately 50 million liters of acidic and highly toxic waste into the Kafue River ecosystem.
Speaking at State House during a meeting with Extractive Industries Transparency Initiative (EITI) Board Chairperson, Helen Clark, and her delegation, President Hichilema underscored the need for mining companies to adhere to strict environmental standards.
“As the nation works towards increasing copper production, there is need to ensure mining activities do not harm the environment,” said Mr. Hichilema.
Meanwhile, President Hichilema called for increased investment in the extractive industry, stressing that such investments would lead to job creation and boost national revenue.
He highlighted that a thriving mining sector would provide the necessary resources to fund key areas such as education and infrastructure development.
Angel Kasabo
