Sino Metals and Rongxing to Compensate Over 500 Farmers Affected by Pollution

Sino Metals and Rongxing Investment Limited will compensate 507 farmers affected by pollution resulting in damaged crops, land, and livestock. The affected farmers are expected to receive more than K16 million in total. Additionally, they will be paid extra compensation for the upcoming farming season, during which they will be unable to cultivate due to acid-contaminated soil.

Speaking at a press briefing, Copperbelt Minister Elisha Matambo revealed that 253 farmers were impacted by pollution from Rongxing Investment Limited, while 254 were affected by emissions from Sino Metals.

Both companies are also taking steps to rehabilitate the land by applying neutralising agents such as lime to reduce soil acidity.

Mines Minister Paul Kabuswe, also present at the briefing, confirmed that both companies are willing to pay compensation. However, disbursement will begin only after a final report is approved by a ministerial team.

Kabuswe added that the Zambia Environmental Management Agency (ZEMA) is currently determining appropriate penalties for the environmental damage caused by the two firms.

Speaking on behalf of the affected farmers, Moffat Simukonda noted that local families had been consulted during the preparation of the compensation report.

“The compensation and rehabilitation efforts are expected to bring much-needed relief to the farmers who have suffered losses due to pollution,” Simukonda said. “This development underscores the government’s commitment to holding polluters accountable and safeguarding both the environment and the livelihoods of its citizens.”

The compensation and restoration efforts mark a significant step toward repairing the environmental damage and supporting the affected communities.