The Centre for Environment Justice (CEJ) has commended the Government of Zambia for its commitment to tackling the pressing issue of water pollution on the Copperbelt, describing the proactive stance as a welcome development.
CEJ Executive Director, Ms Maggie Mapalo Mwape, acknowledged the government’s recognition of the devastating impact pollution has had on local ecosystems, communities, and livelihoods, particularly affecting residents who rely on land and water for survival.
She stated that efforts to mitigate the crisis mark an important step forward.
However, Ms Mwape expressed concern over the compensation package of K16,000,000 proposed for more than 500 households and farmers affected by the pollution, arguing that the amount is inadequate to address the scale of the damage.
On average, each farmer would receive K30,000, a sum she deemed insufficient given the loss of fertile land, clean water access, and reduced agricultural productivity.
She urged the government and responsible polluters to reconsider the compensation package to ensure fairness for the affected farmers.
Ms Mwape stressed that compensation must adequately reflect the losses suffered and enable farmers to rebuild their lives.
She called for a more comprehensive approach to resolving the Copperbelt water pollution issue, including thorough environmental impact assessments, sustainable pollution mitigation measures, improved community support, and long-term environmental conservation strategies.
Ms Mwape reaffirmed CEJ’s commitment to working alongside the government to find solutions that prioritise the well-being and livelihoods of those affected by the crisis.
