ABOUT 1,000 LIVESTOCK AT RISK DUE TO SUSPECTED GOLD WATER CONTAMINATION IN MUMBWA

The Zambian government has warned that between 600 and 1,000 livestock are at high risk of dying due to suspected water contamination linked to gold mining activities in Mumbwa.

Minister of Livestock and Fisheries Peter Kapala has revealed that at least 15 cattle have already died after consuming water discharged from gold-washing operations in the area.

Speaking at the ZAF base in Mumbwa district Central Province, Mr. Kapala who inspected dopping of lime into the Kafubu River stated that officials from the Zambia Environmental Management Agency (ZEMA) are on the ground collecting samples to determine the extent of contamination.

He further emphasized the need for a proactive approach to address the growing challenge, warning that more livestock could be lost if the situation is not urgently contained.

Meanwhile, Green Economy and Environment Minister Mike Mposha has clarified that the suspected contamination in Mumbwa is unrelated to the Sino Chemical Plant accident, which has been widely discussed on social media.
By Lovemore Sondashi