Final Report on Kafue River Pollution Set for Release on 18th December 2025
The Zambia Environmental Management Agency (ZEMA) has announced that the long-awaited final report on the Kafue River pollution will be ready by 18th December 2025, marking a crucial step toward establishing accountability and charting the way forward after one of the country’s worst environmental disasters in recent years.
The announcement comes months after a catastrophic toxic spill in February, when waste from a Sino-Metals tailings dam leaked into the Kafue River. The spill released large quantities of acidic, metal-laden effluent, severely contaminating the water and triggering environmental and health alarms across the region.
Impact of the Toxic Spill
The February incident caused widespread devastation:
- Massive fish deaths along several sections of the river
- Damage to farmlands, with crops affected by contaminated irrigation water
- Disruptions to water supply for millions of residents who rely on the river for domestic use
- Heightened public health concerns over possible long-term exposure to heavy metals
- Growing public anger and demands for accountability, particularly directed at the Chinese-owned mining operation responsible for the tailings dam
The gravity of the incident prompted the government to engage Applied Sciences Technology Limited, an independent consulting firm, to conduct an in-depth scientific assessment of the pollution and identify the specific heavy metals present in the water.
Report Under Review
ZEMA Corporate Affairs Manager Ruth Kamwi confirmed to Phoenix News that the agency has now received the final technical findings from the consultant. She said the report is currently undergoing internal review to ensure accuracy, completeness, and compliance with national environmental standards.
Once approved, the report is expected to shed light on:
- The extent of contamination
- The types and concentration levels of heavy metals found in the river
- The environmental and health risks posed to communities
- Recommended restoration and mitigation measures
- Possible legal or regulatory action against the responsible mining entity
Public Expectations High
Communities along the Kafue River, environmental activists, and water sector stakeholders are eagerly awaiting the report’s release, hoping it will pave the way for decisive action, compensation, and long-term rehabilitation of the affected ecosystems.
The Kafue River remains one of Zambia’s most critical water bodies—supporting agriculture, wildlife, industry, and domestic use—and the toxic spill has emphasized the urgent need for strengthened environmental oversight and responsible mining practices.
As the review process nears completion, all eyes will be on ZEMA and the government as the nation awaits the findings on 18th December 2025, a date that may shape future environmental policies and safeguard the livelihoods of millions.
Source: Phoenix FM
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