Govt Shuts Down Kabwe Mining Plant for Environmental Violations

The Zambian government has taken decisive action against environmental violations by suspending operations at the Ferro Alloys Corporation Limited in Kabwe.

During a visit by Minister of Green Economy and Environment, Hon. Eng. Collins Nzovu MP, numerous infractions were uncovered, including dust pollution, poor slag management, and the discharge of plant effluents into the open environment.

The company, which processes manganese ore to produce silicon manganese, was also found to be mixing coal and charcoal during production.

The Minister emphasized the government’s commitment to addressing pollution in Kabwe, a city historically plagued by lead poisoning.

He pledged to transform Kabwe into a green city and asserted that companies operating in violation of environmental laws would no longer be tolerated.

Zambia Environmental Management Agency Acting Director General, Mr. Maxwell Nkoya, echoed this sentiment, stating that the agency had issued sanctions due to persistent non-compliance. Operations at Ferro Alloys Processing Plant have been ordered to cease immediately.

Additionally, Tongyi Ferro Manganese Zambia Limited’s operations were deemed substandard and outdated. The lack of dust suppression measures, poor maintenance, and inadequate facilities were noted. Small-scale miners were also urged to prioritize safety measures and competence.

Furthermore, the discovery of over 18,000 bags of charcoal valued at K754,474.50 at Ferro Alloys Corporation Limited led to their seizure for legal proceedings.

Central Province was highlighted as having a high incidence of illegal charcoal activities, necessitating increased monitoring efforts.

The mining companies have committed to addressing the identified issues, reflecting a renewed emphasis on environmental compliance in the region.