6 months after toxic mine spill in northern Zambia, US Embassy orders personnel out of the area
Associated Press2 days
Zambia Disputes US Health Alert Over Chinese Mine Spill
Above: A copper mine in Kitwe, Zambia, in 2015. Image copyright: Waldo Swiegers/Bloomberg/Getty Images
The Spin
Pro-establishment narrative
The U.S. is justified in ordering evacuations from Kitwe, spotlighting Zambia's serious mining issues. In Kabwe, government-enabled lead waste mining exposes kids to poisoning, causing intellectual disabilities and death — 95% of local children have elevated lead levels needing urgent care. Zambia must suspend operations, revoke licenses, and fully remediate to safeguard its people from this faulty industry.
Establishment-critical narrative
The U.S. should mind its own business — the Zambian government is actively promoting safety protocols, with Mines Minister Kabuswe urging big firms to train small miners and invest in tech like telemedicine to curb risks. This U.S. meddling also reeks of jealousy over China's successful investments in African mining and green development, delivering real benefits to locals.
© 2025 Improve the News Foundation. All rights reserved.Version 6.13.0
© 2025 Improve the News Foundation.
All rights reserved.
Version 6.13.0