In February 2025, a tailings dam failure at Sino Metals in Chambishi unleashed about 50 million liters of toxic waste into the Kafue River, devastating aquatic life, crippling agriculture, and cutting off water supply for nearly 700,000 Zambians.

Explore Esther Tatenda Zulu’s latest analysis of the far-reaching impacts of the contamination, lessons learnt from global case studies, and the urgent need for stronger environmental safeguards and independent monitoring.

How can Zambia prevent a toxic legacy and ensure a resilient future for its people and ecosystems?