The Ministry of Fisheries and Livestock has announced that fishing activities along the Kafue River in Central and Copperbelt Provinces are gradually returning to normal, following a period of suspension due to pollution concerns.
The suspension was initially imposed after the Central Veterinary Research Institute (CVRI) and the University of Zambia’s School of Veterinary Medicine confirmed the presence of heavy metal contamination in the Mwambashi Stream, a key tributary of the Kafue River.
In a statement issued to RCV News in Lusaka today, Ministry Principal Public Relations Officer, Benny Munyama. said the pollution, traced to Sino Metals in Kitwe, had significantly impacted aquatic life and endangered the livelihoods of an estimated 300,000 households that rely on the river for fishing.
Mr. Munyama stated that, in response to the contamination, the Ministry has intensified water quality monitoring and implemented strict biosecurity measures to safeguard both aquatic ecosystems and public health.
“While the situation is improving, the Ministry has stressed that the fishing ban remains in full effect,” said Mr. Munyama.
He urged residents living along the river to promptly report any fish deaths or unusual activity to support ongoing assessments, emphasizing that such reports are vital for informed decision-making regarding the ban.
Mr. Munyama added that if current positive trends continue, the Ministry anticipates lifting the fishing ban within the next month, with a formal announcement to follow.
By Margaret Mwanza
