Dozens of farmers in Zambia’s Copperbelt region have taken Chinese-owned Sino-Metals Leach (SML) to court, accusing the mining company of polluting their land and water with toxic waste.
The farmers, mostly from Kitwe, allege that a massive spill from SML’s waste dam in February released tens of millions of litres of hazardous material into their environment. According to Drizit, the clean-up firm engaged by Zambia’s Environmental Agency, the actual spill volume was 20 times higher than SML initially reported.
Tests revealed dangerous concentrations of cyanide, arsenic, copper, and cadmium chemicals the World Health Organization links to cancer, birth defects, and other severe health problems.
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Representing about 50 farmers, the lawsuit seeks $220 million in damages. The claimants want the money to fund an independent environmental impact assessment, a comprehensive health review, and their relocation from contaminated areas while awaiting final compensation.
This marks the second legal action against SML in recent weeks, after 176 residents of the affected community lodged a separate complaint over the same incident.
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In response, Sino-Metals Leach rejected the lawsuit, describing the claims as “unfounded.” The company insists it has met all rehabilitation and restoration obligations as required by Zambian government guidelines.
The unfolding legal battle is expected to test corporate accountability and environmental protection standards in Zambia’s mining sector, where foreign companies play a dominant role.
Esther Ososanya is an investigative journalist with Pinnacle Daily, reporting across health, business, environment, metro, Fct and crime. Known for her bold, empathetic storytelling, she uncovers hidden truths, challenges broken systems, and gives voice to overlooked Nigerians. Her work drives national conversations and demands accountability one powerful story at a time.
