Zambian farmers file a lawsuit against a Chinese mining corporation due to allegations of environmental contamination - Zambian farmers file lawsuit against Chinese mining corporation for alleged ecological contamination
In the heart of Africa, a state-owned Chinese company, China Nonferrous Metal Mining Group, has found itself at the centre of a significant environmental crisis. The company, which is the holding company of Sino-Metals Leach Zambia, has admitted to a dam collapse near Kitwe, Zambia, that released approximately 50 million liters of mine waste liquid into the environment from the Chambishi mine in northern Zambia.
The incident, which occurred in Zambia, has resulted in substantial environmental pollution, contaminating an arm of the Kafue River. Locals waded through the toxic mine water barefoot, with the World Health Organization considering the levels as posing significant health risks.
Sino-Metals Leach, the operator of the copper mine, has apologised for the disaster and offered to assist with the cleanup efforts. However, the company has been accused of attempting to downplay the extent of the disaster and prematurely terminating the investigation contract.
The plaintiffs, who are seeking $80 billion from the Chinese company to address the damages, allege that the dam breach caused flooding. They are also seeking $344 per month per affected individual to temporarily relocate them.
Investigations found that the wastewater from the copper mine contained dangerous levels of cyanide, arsenic, copper, zinc, lead, chromium, and cadmium. Last week, Human Rights Watch urged the Lusaka government to investigate the dam breach's aftermath.
It is worth noting that Sino-Metals Leach produced 5,754 metric tons of copper cathodes at the Chambishi mine in 2021. The copper produced is used to manufacture high-purity copper plates (copper cathodes).
As the situation unfolds, China Nonferrous Mining, the holding company, has yet to respond to an AFP request for comment. The company's actions and responses will be closely watched as the affected communities seek justice and restoration.
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