By ALICE NACHILEMBE
Chingola Member of Parliament Chipoka Mulenga has urged Mimbula Minerals to take swift action in mitigating the pollution that has contaminated Mutimpa and Chabanyama streams.
The MP’s call comes after a visit to the mine and affected areas, where he witnessed the devastating impact of the pollution.
Mr Mulenga emphasized that despite the incident being an accident, Mimbula Minerals has a responsibility to respond quickly and effectively to prevent further harm to the environment and local communities.
He stressed that this is a matter of urgency, affecting people’s lives and health, and deserves serious attention.
To address the immediate needs of the affected communities, Mulenga assured residents that his office, along with other stakeholders, is working to restore the water to normal use as soon as possible.
In the meantime, he warned residents against consuming dead fish from the stream or using the contaminated water, promising that safe drinking water would be provided.
Mimbula Minerals General Manager Arthur Mulilo has apologized for the incident and assured the Minister and residents that the company is taking responsibility for the pollution.
Mr Mulilo revealed that the company is disposing of lime in critical areas to neutralize the toxic effects and has advised residents to remain calm.
The pollution incident occurred on January 19, 2025, when the tailings dam at Mimbula Minerals burst, releasing toxic waste into the Mutimpa and Chabanyama streams.
The incident has raised concerns about the environmental and health impacts of mining activities in the region.
