In 2022, workers at Southern Africa Ferro Alloys Limited (SAFAL) in Serenje were exposed to toxic manganese dust and chemicals, leading to severe, irreversible neurological illness. 271 of 281 tested workers showed elevated manganese levels. Government agencies and the company have been accused of negligence, with compensation agreements signed under duress and inadequate medical support.

Victims and civil society are calling for urgent government action and fair redress.

Disclaimer:
This report is based on verified public-domain sources. AMAP has not independently verified all details.

Health and Social Impact
  • 299 workers affected; 271 confirmed with elevated blood manganese levels (0.116–0.623 ppm vs normal 0.005–0.02 ppm) (CEJ Report, Aug 2023).
  • 28 workers suffer severe manganism symptoms: tremors, impaired balance, speech difficulties, hypersalivation (Lusaka Times, Mar 2023).
  • Additional health effects include respiratory ailments, liver and kidney dysfunction, and limited healthcare access. (CEJ Report, Aug 2023).
  • Exposure linked to a change in ore feed to a fine manganese concentrate between March and September 2022 (Lusaka Times, Mar 2023).
  • PPE provided was insufficient, exacerbating exposure (TRT Afrika, 2023).
Environmental Impact
  • Manganese dust contamination in air and water with toxic runoff affecting ecosystems and agriculture (CEJ Report, Aug 2023).
  • Zambia Environmental Management Agency (ZEMA) conducted inspections and issued compliance orders (CEJ Report, August 2023).
Social Impact
Human Rights Violations under the International Covenant on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights (ICESCR), ILO Occupational Safety and Health (OSH) Conventions, Zambia Occupational Health and Safety Act 2010, and Environmental Management Act are documented in the CEJ report and government statements (CEJ Report, August 2023; Parliamentary Address, September 2022).
Worker Safety Measures

 
Government Response
Field Confirmation Activist engaged with Chief Mailo of the Lala people, area MP, and two victims directly as well as SARW Officer who fact checked the case. `