Human Rights Watch (HRW) has issued a pressing request for Zambian authorities to delve into the ramifications of a recent acid spill, which has compromised both the environment and public health. This appeal follows a catastrophic breach in a dam containing mining waste operated by Sino-Metals Leach Zambia, leading to significant contamination in Copperbelt province’s Kafue River.

The incident, which occurred on February 18, has not only inflicted environmental damage—killing aquatic life and livestock and destroying crops—but has also severely impacted the livelihoods of local farming communities. The spill has introduced dangerous levels of nickel, lead, and arsenic into the water, exceeding World Health Organization safety standards, as reported by the Finnish Ministry of Foreign Affairs following tests on local water samples.

Residents in the vicinity have reported health issues ranging from coughs to muscle cramps after consuming contaminated water and crops, unknowingly exposing themselves to these toxic substances. HRW emphasizes the urgency of a thorough investigation to assess the long-term health risks and environmental damage, advocating for a collaboration of both international and national experts in this process.

The organization has also criticized the Zambian government's sluggish and inadequate response to the disaster. Despite directives aimed at Sino-Metals to ameliorate the river's condition, compensate affected farmers, and mitigate the water's acidity with lime, reports from local activists indicate a growing health crisis and unmet promises of compensation.

This incident underscores ongoing concerns regarding Zambia's mining practices, which have been integral to its economy since the 1930s but have recurrently resulted in severe environmental degradation and health hazards. Past incidents include lawsuits against major mining corporations for toxic contaminations, such as the 2023 case against Anglo American South Africa over lead poisoning in communities.

Adding to a series of critical reports, HRW’s recent publications continue to expose the detrimental impacts of negligent mining activities on the Zambian populace, highlighting the urgent need for governmental intervention and accountability in safeguarding both human and environmental rights. The call to action stresses compliance with national and international laws designed to protect these rights, urging immediate and effective measures to rectify the current crisis and prevent future occurrences.