The China in Africa Podcast Chinese Online Outrage Over $80 Billion Zambia River Suit
Oct 2, 2025
Obert Bore, Critical Minerals Editor at the China Global South Project, dives into the fallout from a toxic spill in Zambia's Kafue River after a Chinese mining company's failure. Discussions highlight the massive $80 billion lawsuits filed against Sino-Metals amidst local outrage. Chinese social media explodes with accusations of extortion, while commentary explores themes of victimhood and geopolitical tensions. Bore urges better community engagement and local regulation for Chinese firms, emphasizing the need for transparency and environmental accountability.
AI Snips
Chapters
Transcript
Episode notes
Scale Determines Response
- The Kafue spill caused major environmental damage with toxic chemicals and dead fish along the river.
- The scale matters because it shapes government, company, and legal responses.
Company Explanation Of Dam Failure
- Obert Bore described how vandals cut HTPE liner and heavy rains weakened the dam chain causing the collapse.
- He estimated 50,000 cubic meters escaped and 20,000 were retained in a pollution control dam.
Three Very Different Lawsuits
- Multiple lawsuits seek vastly different sums: interim relocation, emergency funds, and huge remediation claims.
- The largest demand — $80 billion — far exceeds Zambia's GDP and prompted global attention.