The case against Anglo American South Africa (AASA), brought on behalf of the women and children of Kabwe, will be brought to the Supreme Court of Appeal during a hearing on 3rd and 4th November 2025 in Johannesburg.

This hearing marks a critical step in the ongoing pursuit of justice for the communities affected by decades of lead contamination linked to the Kabwe Mine, operated by Anglo American South Africa between 1925-1974. As a result of the element’s long half-life, the environmental impacts of these operations continue to persist today, putting children at risk of brain damage and harming the health of pregnant women and their unborn children.

The hearing follows a certification hearing in 2023 and seeks to hold Anglo American South Africa accountable for its role in the long-term health impacts experienced by an estimated 140,000 women and children living in the Zambian region.

A class action in South Africa’s jurisdiction is the only option for the claimants. The hearing in November will determine whether a class action can be brought against AASA and proceed to trial. The victims will seek to overturn the initial certification denial and proceed with their claims against AASA.