Thu. Feb 6th, 2025

Anglo American to Oppose Appeal in Zambian Pollution Case

photography of excavators at mining areaPhoto by Dominik Vanyi

High Court of South Africa Grants Appeal Right in Kabwe Lead Pollution Case

London, UK – On Monday, Anglo American has acknowledged the decision by the High Court of South Africa, granting claimants the right to appeal a previous judgment that dismissed a class action certification related to lead pollution in Kabwe, Zambia.

The initial dismissal by the High Court in December 2023 concluded a year of deliberations, highlighting multiple legal and factual flaws in the claim, and deemed the class action against Anglo American South Africa Limited (AASA) not in the interest of justice. Despite the right to appeal, this does not alter the original decision of the High Court.

Anglo American reaffirms its commitment to oppose any subsequent appeals. The company expresses sympathy for the residents of Kababe but maintains that it is not liable for the environmental issues.

Background of the Kabwe Case

The case was brought by law firms Leigh Day and Mbuyisa Moleele on behalf of Zambian claimants, asserting negative health impacts due to lead contamination allegedly linked to AASA’s operations in the region. Despite the serious allegations, Anglo American has consistently disputed its involvement or responsibility in the environmental impact observed in Kabwe.

As the legal process continues, Anglo American stands firm on its position regarding the claims made against it in the Kabwe litigation.

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