By Joseph Tembo 
Sino-Metals Leach Zambia Limited says it has partnered with the Ministry of Agriculture to launch the assessment of areas affected by the recent mine incident on 18th February, 2025, to ensure that families receive the necessary support.
As the company awaits the completion of the government-led compensation process, it has continued with the distribution of essential supplies, including mealie meal, fresh water, stainless-steel basins and a cash support of K1,000 per household.
Speaking during the distribution exercise, Company Deputy General Manager, Hao Bo revealed that so far, the firm has wrapped up the evaluation in Kalulushi area, while the assessment of the compensation is still ongoing.
“Sino-Metals has always cared about the lives of people in the community, consistently stepping up to provide residents with essential drinking water and household water. Today, we are back once more, because this community is our partner, and our commitment will continue beyond today.”
“Beyond addressing current needs, Sino-Metals acknowledges the importance of long-term community engagement. Local leaders have expressed hope that this partnership will continue. The community aspires to be more involved in the company’s activities, fostering collaboration and shared growth,” Mr. Bo stated.
He emphasized that this exercise is not the full compensation as Sino Metals is still waiting for the full compensation report from Government, which it will fulfill immediately it is made available.
“We are not just here to compensate, we are here to collaborate. This community is our partner, and our commitment will continue beyond today,” he assured.
Speaking at the same event, a Community Representative said commended Sino-Metals for their ongoing support of providing the residents with plenty of water, goods, and essential supplies that have helped them live steadily and effectively.
“We have also heard about Sino-Metals’ program for future compensation, and we fully understand and appreciate their approach.”
“Through this situation, we’ve seen that Sino-Metals is a responsible company. We hope everything can move forward, and that SML can get back to safe and productive operations soon.”
Meanwhile, a local resident expressed gratitude to the company for the support rendered to the community.
“After the accident, we were worried about how we would manage, but Sino-Metals has not turned its back on us. We see their support, we feel it in our homes.”
The company assured that it will work closely with government authorities, to ensure that the life of affected residents get back to normal.
News Desk 
Cecilia Chiluba