Farmers to Receive K16.2m for Acid Spill Damage

More than 700 farmers in the country’s Copperbelt Province are set to receive compensation this week for crop and livestock damage caused by acid spillages from two mining companies.

The K16.2 million payout will compensate farmers affected by pollution from Sino Metals and Rongxing Investment Limited in Kalulushi District following incidents in February.

Copperbelt Province Minister Elisha Matambo announced that 449 farmers affected by Sino Metals will receive K14.1 million, while 214 farmers impacted by Rongxing will get K2.1 million.

The compensation covers one year's worth of crop losses and soil damage, preventing farmers from using their fields for the next growing season due to acid contamination.

"We've tried our best to stand with the people," Mr Matambo said at a press briefing on Saturday. "Both Sino Metals and Rongxing will pay our farmers this week, before Friday."

The acid spillages sparked outrage among local communities and raised environmental concerns across the mining-heavy region. The government's compensation report was reviewed by six ministries, including Agriculture, before receiving final approval.

Maimbolwa Likukela, speaking for affected farmers, welcomed the announcement and thanked the government for ensuring accountability.

The mining companies have agreed to process payments within 48 hours of receiving the official compensation report, which is expected to be handed over on Monday.