Copperbelt Minister Elisha Matambo has announced a significant extension to the compensation package for farmers whose crops were damaged by pollution from Sino-Metals. The government has increased the compensation period from the initially promised one year to three years, providing much-needed relief to the affected agricultural community.
Speaking at a press briefing on Tuesday, Minister Matambo acknowledged concerns from farmers who felt the compensation process had taken longer than expected. “I wanted to take this opportunity to inform our people whose crops and livestock were affected by Sino-Metals. I know they may feel that we’ve taken long, especially the compensation part,” he said.
Minister Matambo explained that after further consultations and evaluations, the government recognized that the initial one-year compensation was insufficient to fully address the losses endured by the farmers. “We are of the view that the initial one-year compensation awarded was not enough. Therefore, we have decided to extend the compensation to cover three years,” he added.
This decision comes as a relief to many farmers in the Copperbelt province who have struggled with the economic impact of pollution on their livelihoods. The extended compensation aims to support farmers as they recover and rebuild their agricultural activities.
In other news, Minister Matambo also revealed that President Hakainde Hichilema is scheduled to visit the Copperbelt province today to commission the upgraded Chilanga Cement plant. The plant’s modernization is expected to boost industrial productivity and create job opportunities in the region.
The government’s proactive steps to address both environmental and economic issues demonstrate a commitment to sustainable development and the welfare of its citizens, particularly those in rural farming communities affected by industrial pollution.