Sino Metals and Rongxing to Pay K16.2 Million Compensation to Over 700 Kalulushi Farmers Affected by Acid Spill

Kalulushi, Zambia — More than 700 farmers in Kalulushi District will begin receiving compensation this week after suffering severe losses due to an acid spill earlier this year involving Sino Metals and Rongxing Investment Limited.

Copperbelt Province Minister Elisha Matambo confirmed the development, announcing that the compensation process has officially begun. The payout follows months of negotiations and environmental assessments, providing long-awaited relief for affected farming communities.

“A total of 707 farmers will receive compensation,” said Minister Matambo. “Of these, 253 were affected by Rongxing Investment Limited, while 454 were impacted by Sino Metals.”

The K16.2 million compensation package will cover damages to crops, livestock, and land that were contaminated or destroyed during the February acid spill. The incident led to widespread environmental pollution, disrupting agriculture and threatening food security in the area.

Minister Matambo noted that the compensation report was reviewed by six line ministries, including the Ministry of Agriculture, before receiving final approval. With all administrative hurdles cleared, funds are now set for immediate disbursement.

Farmers Thank Government for Delivering Justice

Maimbolwa Likukela, spokesperson for the affected farmers, commended the government for standing by the communities during a difficult time.

“We are truly grateful for the government’s unwavering commitment to securing justice. This compensation means farmers can start rebuilding their lives,” Likukela said.

The February acid spill, which drew national attention and public outcry, prompted an urgent response from environmental authorities and government agencies. The Zambian government held both companies accountable, initiating investigations and pushing for reparations.

This compensation marks a significant milestone in corporate accountability and environmental justice in Zambia, reinforcing the government’s commitment to protecting rural livelihoods and enforcing environmental standards.

Environmental Impact and Accountability

The incident not only affected the economy of local farmers but also raised critical questions about industrial pollution and regulatory oversight in the mining sector. The government’s successful intervention sets a precedent for holding polluters accountable and compensating affected communities swiftly and fairly.

As funds begin to reach farmers this week, the move is expected to boost recovery efforts and restore confidence among small-scale agricultural producers in Kalulushi and surrounding areas.