By Enyichukwu Enemanna
Dozens of Zambian farmers have instituted a legal action against a Chinese company Sino-Metals Leach (SML), accusing it of causing a massive toxic spill from its mining waste dam.
The farmers say the spill has contaminated their land and water, posing severe health threats, and demanding millions of dollars from the firm in compensation.
The lawsuit follows a February disaster near Kitwe, in Zambia’s copper belt, in which a dam burst released tens of millions of liters of mining waste.
According to the clean-up company Drizit, hired by Zambia’s environmental agency, the actual spill volume is 20 times greater than SML’s initial estimates.
According to the company, the waste contained dangerous levels of cyanide, arsenic, copper, and cadmium, substances the World Health Organization links to cancer and birth defects.
The farmers, numbering over 50 are therefore demanding payment of $220 million for relocation and compensation
They are demanding the funds also be used for an independent environmental impact assessment and comprehensive health evaluation, while awaiting full compensation.
This is the second such case against SML in weeks, after 176 local residents filed a separate complaint.
Company denies allegations, stating that the lawsuit is unfounded.
The company claims it has fulfilled its rehabilitation and restoration obligations in line with Zambian government guidelines.
Its insistence sets the stage for a contentious legal battle over environmental accountability and community health.
