A New Ally to Push for Justice in ‘Africa’s Most Toxic Place’

Peter Sinkamba

“The next appointment on my schedule is with the Anglo American Corporation [which has recently abandoned its mines in Zambia]. Mining has serious environmental and socio-economic impacts, which ought to be carefully considered before going into business — and before pulling out. Anglo did not do this and now wants to leave us holding the bag for 70 years’ worth of environmental damage that will cost billions of dollars to clean up. We think that’s a scandal, and we’re going to try to stop it.”
Peter Sinkamba, Greengrants Southern Africa Advisor, from a journal entry posted on Grist

Zambia’s second largest metropolis, Kabwe, was recently ranked Africa’s most toxic city. There, mining and smelting operations have caused thousands to suffer from deadly lead poisoning. As Africa’s largest producer of copper, Zambia depends heavily on the mining sector for revenue, investment and jobs. It is estimated that over three million of the country’s eleven million people are directly impacted by mining. Yet, as is the case across much of the developing world, poor environmental laws, regulations and enforcement have left communities devastated by pollution from this extractive industry.

Enter Peter Sinkamba, a passionate advocate for social and environmental justice in mining-affected communities. Born and raised in Zambia’s largest national park, Peter has contributed to the National Policy on the Environment in Zambia and helped to write the Zambian Republican Constitution, incorporating environmental rights for all citizens. In 1998 he founded Citizens for a Better Environment (CBE), an organization committed to achieving sustainable environmental and economic development by supporting communities affected by mining activities.

Last month Global Greengrants Fund was honored to add Peter Sinkamba to our Southern Africa Advisory Board. “Peter has fought polluting mines in the Zambian Copper Belt, ensured that they pay compensation to the communities affected by their activities, and also rehabilitated areas where mining has ceased,” wrote Mutuso Dliwayo, fellow Southern Africa advisor. “He brings a wealth of experience and skills, and will be an enormous asset to our Board.”

Peter’s remarkable dedication will enable Greengrants to have an even greater impact on fighting the injustices and suffering of communities in southern Africa. Our first advisor in Zambia, we are excited to extend our reach and increase resources for local groups there. Welcome, Peter.

Did you know?

Greengrants Advisors speak more than 55 languages and dialects

Global Greengrants Fund

Global Greengrants Fund believes solutions to environmental harm and social injustice come from people whose lives are most impacted. Every day, our global network of people on the frontlines and donors comes together to support communities to protect their ways of life and our planet. Because when local people have a say in the health of their food, water, and resources, they are forces for change.

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