By Mwebantu Editor

Copyright mwebantu

VICE-PRESIDENT Mutale Nalumango rejected a proposal to remove the media from covering a meeting relating the Sino-Metals Leach Zambia Limited river pollution matter.

Ms Nalumango is on the Copperbelt on a tour linked to the major environmental disaster which started on 18 February 2025, when a tailings dam collapsed at a Chinese corporation-owned copper mine, Sino-Metals.

The collapse of the tailings dam in Chambishi released 50 million liters of toxic, acidic wastewater containing heavy metals into the Kafue River.

This caused immediate fish kills and bird die-offs, threatening the health of communities and ecosystems reliant on the river.

As part of compensation, Sino-Metals Leach Zambia Limited has paid K14.1 million in compensation to farmers from Kushi and Kito districts, a significant step following a tailings storage facility collapse.

During a follow-up meeting over the environmental disaster, Ms Nalumango has disclosed that there was a request that a meeting over the pollution be held in camera but she refused.

“There was a proposal to ask the media to leave this meeting. I overruled it. And I did so proudly…This is our approach to governance.

“We believe in openness. We believe in accountability. The media is not just here to observe-they are here to speak for all of us. Transparency is not a threat; it is a strength,” she said on her Facebook page.

Ms Nalumango, however, emphasized that the Zambian Government values its partnership with the Chinese Government.

“We love and value our friendship with the People’s Republic of China, but the lives of our dear people come first, thank you for your K14 Million compensation as Sino-Metals but again, this may not be all……..” My statement at Sino-Metals Leach Zambia Limited was straight and true to me”.

Ms Nalumango said her office has never been idle after the River pollution.

“My presence here today is not ceremonial; it is a deliberate and heartfelt follow-up to the reports we have been receiving.

“From the very onset of the Sino pollution incident, we made our position clear, and we have stood firmly with the affected communities-not just in words, but in action”.

Ms Nalumango also appreciated the contributions that China has made to Zambia’s development.

“Our relationship matters. But let me be clear: when there is an outcry from our people, their safety must come first. That is non-negotiable,” she said.

Ms Nalumango is encouraged that K14 million has already been allocated towards compensating those impacted.

“This is a step in the right direction. However, compensation must be guided by thorough and independent assessment.

“If the damage to the land and livelihoods proves to be more extensive or long-lasting than initially understood, then further compensation will be necessary and it will be pursued,’ she said.

“…I will continue to advocate for justice, restoration, and accountability. Our people deserve nothing less”.

(Mwebantu, Thursday, 11th September, 2025)