Toxic mine spill in Lubumbashi, DRCCEFR B1
29 Nov 2025
Adapted from Laura, Global Voices • CC BY 3.0
Photo by Max Tcvetkov, Unsplash
A dam at a mine in Lubumbashi collapsed on November 4, 2025, releasing toxic, acid-laden water into streets, homes and the Moïse Katumbi market. The mine is operated by Congo Dongfang Mining (CDM), a subsidiary of Zhejiang Huayou Cobalt Ltd. Witnesses say CDM created channels through the southern wall of its site to dispose of large amounts of contaminated wastewater.
Residents reported dead fish on the Lubumbashi River and contamination of well water. Aziza Muna, 60, said the well on her plot was filled with acidic water and she cannot afford tap water. An environment researcher, Dickson Kabange, warned of erosion of the ecosystem, loss of aquatic species and a risk of disease, and said there could be deaths without state prevention.
Civil society groups demanded sanctions and prosecution of CDM executives. On November 6, 2025 the national Minister of Mines suspended CDM activities for three months, and on November 22, 2025 the Minister of Justice announced an investigation to identify those responsible and start legal proceedings. CDM denies responsibility.
Difficult words
- scrutiny — careful examination or inspection.
- detrimental — causing harm or damage.
- discharge — to release or let out.
- penalties — punishments for breaking rules.
- accompany — to go along with or support.
- proposal — a plan or suggestion put forward.
- accountable — responsible for actions or consequences.
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Discussion questions
- Why are environmental regulations important for mining?
- How do mining activities affect local communities?
- What role do activists play in environmental issues?
