Former employees of Lumwana Mining Company Limited have raised concern over the prolonged delay in their court case, stating that despite filing their lawsuit last year, no hearing has taken place.
The workers, who filed their case in the Lusaka High Court, say they have been waiting for justice but the matter has remained quiet with no progress, leaving them frustrated and concerned. One of the former workers, David Kapalu, has since died without seeking justice.
The plaintiffs are seeking nearly K2 billion in compensation, accusing the mining company of negligence. They allege they were exposed to uranium-contaminated drinking water sourced from Chimiwungo Crossing Dam during their employment.
According to the complainants, they only became aware of the contamination in November 2023 after an internal memo was mistakenly shared during a pre-shift meeting. Subsequent tests reportedly revealed uranium levels far above acceptable limits.
The former employees claim the exposure has resulted in serious health complications, with dozens medically discharged, others forced to resign, and one reported death linked to the alleged contamination.
Despite the seriousness of the matter, the workers say the continued delay in the court process is denying them timely justice, and they are now calling for urgent action to have their case heard.