ZEMA urged to beam searchlight, take legal action against all mining companies polluting the environment

Care for Nature Zambia (CNZ) has called on the Zambia Environmental Management Agency (ZEMA) to extend its legal action against Sino Leach Metal Zambia to other mining companies, including Rongzhin in Chambeshi, for environmental pollution.

ZEMA recently announced its intention to take legal action against Sino Leach Metal Zambia for polluting the Kafue River and surrounding communities.

In an interview with Zambia Monitor, CNZ Executive Director, Nsama Kearns, urged authorities to investigate and hold accountable all mining firms violating environmental laws.

“ZEMA should ensure that all companies responsible for pollution face legal action to deter others and protect both the environment and public health,” Kearns said.

She stressed the need for thorough investigations, warning that pollution has had devastating effects on communities, particularly in terms of food security, education, and health.

“People are still living in areas with visible acid pollution, and crops are no longer safe for consumption. The Environmental Management Act (2011) provides a solid foundation for ZEMA’s decision,” Kearns added.

She noted that the Act grants every Zambian the right to a safe, clean, and healthy environment while allowing civil claims against individuals or companies whose actions harm human health and the ecosystem.

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