Group raises the alarm over planned fertilizer plant on shores of Lake Kariba

The Media Network Action on Climate Change (MENACC) has opposed the proposed construction of an 800,000-tonne-per-year fertilizer plant on the shores of Lake Kariba in Siavonga District.

Kennedy Phiri, MENACC’s Executive Coordinator, stated that the plant, to be constructed by Blooming Chemical Industry Limited in the Nabutezi area, posed significant environmental risks.

In a statement issued on Friday, Phiri described the project as “misplaced” due to its potential impact on the lake’s biodiversity and the fish industry.

Phiri raised concerns over the possible discharge of harmful chemicals, such as ammonia and phosphate compounds, which could pollute the lake, threatening aquatic life and the region’s fishing activities.

“Chemical pollution of Lake Kariba risks making the water body acidic, endangering fish breeding activities and aquatic life,” Phiri warned.

He also highlighted the importance of fishing in Siavonga District, which had become a key economic activity supporting many livelihoods as Zambia works to meet its fish deficit.

Additional threats included the potential for toxic algal blooms and the growth of invasive water weeds, similar to the Kafue weed, along the shorelines.

Phiri urged the Zambia Environmental Management Agency (ZEMA) to ensure a smooth, transparent and accountable Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) process, which should consider the interests of all stakeholders.

In April, the Zambia Development Agency (ZDA) and Blooming Chemical Industry Limited signed an Investment Promotion and Protection Agreement (IPPA) for the construction of the US$845 million fertilizer plant.

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