The Centre for Environment Justice (CEJ) has raised concerns over the proposed K16 million compensation package for more than 500 households and farmers affected by water pollution on the Copperbelt, describing the amount as insufficient to address the scale of the damage.
CEJ Executive Director, Maggie Mwape, said the proposed compensation would translate to an average of K30,000 per household, an amount she believes is inadequate given the extent of the losses suffered, including the degradation of fertile land, reduced access to clean water, and declining agricultural productivity.
“Compensation must adequately reflect the losses suffered and enable farmers to rebuild their lives,” said Ms. Mwape in a statement issued to RCV News in Lusaka today.
She urged government and the polluting entities to reconsider the proposed compensation package to ensure a fairer and more just outcome for the affected communities.
Ms. Mwape further called for a more comprehensive response to the crisis, one that includes detailed environmental impact assessments, effective pollution control measures, enhanced community support systems, and long-term environmental restoration strategies.
By Margaret Mwanza
