```html Zambia Dismisses US Health Alert After Copper Mine Spill

The Zambian government has refuted a health warning issued by the US embassy regarding alleged widespread pollution in the Copperbelt region, stemming from a tailings dam collapse at the Sino-Metals mine in February. The US embassy had ordered the immediate withdrawal of its personnel from Kitwe and surrounding areas, citing concerns about "widespread contamination of water and soil" with hazardous and carcinogenic substances.

Government Asserts Water Safety

Zambian government spokesperson Cornelius Mweetwa stated that laboratory tests indicate pH levels in the affected areas have returned to normal and that the water is safe for consumption. He dismissed the US embassy's alert as unnecessary and alarmist. "There is, therefore, absolutely no need to press the 'panic button' today to alarm the nation and the international community," Mweetwa declared.

Minister of Water Development Collins Nzovu added that the government has been consistently testing the water and that results meet World Health Organization (WHO) standards. This assertion aims to reassure the public that the situation is under control and does not pose a significant health risk.

US Embassy Raises Concerns Over Air Quality

The US embassy's warning went beyond water contamination, suggesting that "contaminants from the spilled mine tailings may also become airborne, posing a health threat if inhaled." This aspect of the alert has not been directly addressed by the Zambian government in its public statements, raising questions about the scope of their assessment and mitigation efforts.

Context: The Sino-Metals Spill and its Aftermath

The incident occurred when a tailings dam, used to store toxic waste and heavy metals, collapsed into the Kafue River following heavy rainfall. The Kafue River is a crucial source of drinking water and irrigation for numerous communities in the region. Sino-Metals Leach Zambia mine, a subsidiary of China Nonferrous Metal Mining Group, pledged to compensate affected communities and restore the environment after the spill.

Green Economy Minister Mike Mposha stated that the government has been actively monitoring the situation since February and providing updates to the public. He also mentioned that affected communities have received compensation, though details about the extent and adequacy of this compensation remain unclear.

Expert View: Calls for Concrete Action and Transparency

Maggie Mapalo Mwape, executive director of the Centre for Environment Justice, characterized the pollution as a "national disaster" demanding immediate and concrete action. She emphasized the need for decisive measures to mitigate the effects of the spill and prevent future occurrences. "This environmental crisis requires a transparent and accountable response that prioritizes the rights and wellbeing of Zambian citizens," Mwape told the BBC.

Geopolitical Undercurrents and Historical Mining Issues

Opposition Green Party leader Peter Sinkamba suggested the US embassy's health alert was politically motivated, questioning the timing of the warning months after the incident. He also drew attention to historical lead poisoning in central Zambia, which he claims is partly linked to Western mining companies, implying a double standard in the US embassy's response.

Zambia's Copperbelt has a long history of mining activities, dating back to the colonial era. While mining has been a significant contributor to the country's economy, it has also been associated with environmental degradation and health problems for local communities. This historical context adds weight to concerns about the long-term impact of the Sino-Metals spill and the need for robust environmental regulations and enforcement.

Looking Ahead: Ensuring Environmental Protection and Public Health

The differing assessments by the Zambian government and the US embassy highlight the importance of independent monitoring and transparent communication regarding environmental risks associated with mining operations. Ensuring the long-term health and safety of communities in the Copperbelt region will require ongoing vigilance, robust environmental protection measures, and a commitment to accountability from both the government and mining companies.

The BBC has requested comment from Sino-Metals regarding the US embassy's concerns and the ongoing remediation efforts.

Related BBC Coverage:

Artist explores the toxic mining legacy of Zambia's 'black mountains' Bitcoin in the bush - the crypto mine in remote Zambia

```