In March 2025, Human Rights Watch reported that Kabwe, Zambia, remains one of the most lead-polluted places on earth due to decades of unremediated mine waste. The report documented how companies—including Enviro Processing Limited (EPL, a subsidiary of Jubilee Metals Group), Union Star Industry, and several other Chinese firms—were mining, transporting, and processing toxic lead-bearing waste. Researchers found that these activities generated dangerous dust, spread contamination across communities, and exposed children to severe health risks.

In September 2025 a follow-up by Human Rights Watch deepened these concerns by uncovering direct contractual links between EPL, the Zambian company Chitofu General Dealers Limited, and Union Star Industry for the sale of mine tailings. A February 2025 contract addendum, obtained by Human Rights Watch, shows EPL selling “zinc tailings” via Chitofu to Union Star. However, geological evidence confirms the waste also contains toxic lead. Local observers reported trucks marked “Chitofu” removing waste from EPL’s concession, while Chitofu’s owners were identified as ruling party affiliates, raising concerns of political favoritism and cadre involvement.

Despite earlier denials from Jubilee Metals, the company acknowledged granting Chitofu “exclusive access” to waste but did not provide evidence of environmental approval or assessments. Meanwhile, the government suspended some Chinese processors for regulatory violations but left Union Star untouched.