Livingstone Mayor Bright Hanakamba has called for stricter enforcement of safety standards to curb lead exposure, warning that the toxic metal poses serious health risks, particularly to children and pregnant women.
Speaking during the commemoration of International Lead Poisoning Prevention Week 2026 in Livingstone, held under the theme “From Detection to Prevention,” Hanakamba said children were especially vulnerable to the toxic effects of lead, which can cause lifelong health complications, including learning difficulties, reduced intelligence, attention disorders and behavioural problems.
“Lead is a highly toxic metal, and no level of exposure can be considered safe,” he said.
Hanakamba said the relevant standard had been made mandatory and submitted to the World Trade Organization as part of the regulatory process. He said effective enforcement would help protect consumers from lead-related health risks.
“The most important matter is to protect the health of our citizens,” he said.
He also backed the listing of lead chromates under the Rotterdam Convention, an international agreement designed to promote informed decisions on the import of certain hazardous chemicals.
Hanakamba said Livingstone City Council, in collaboration with its partners, would continue to promote health education and community awareness campaigns to help residents understand the dangers of lead exposure and protect their families.