A study done by the University of Zimbabwe has revealed that 70 percent of oil based paints manufactured in the country contain dangerous levels of lead.
By Staff Reporter
The study done last year in partnership with the Lead Exposure Elimination Project (LEEP) sought to determine the presence of lead in paint made in Zimbabwe. A one-day workshop was held to raise awareness on the dangers of lead poisoning and for players and stakeholders to come up with means to reduce its impact.
In 2022, the University of Zimbabwe and Lead Exposure Elimination Project (LEEP) conducted a study on the presence of lead in locally manufactured paint. The results revealed high levels of lead in samples that were taken and analyzed,” read part of a World Health Organization (WHO) post.
It was also noted that there are some paints which contain more than 100 times the limit.
“The data collected in the study is a valuable resource for addressing the issue of lead paint in Zimbabwe. EMA is dedicated to eradicating lead paint in the country, and the input from all stakeholders at the workshop will guide the development of legally binding controls. We encourage industry partners to take advantage of available support to transition to lead-free paint manufacturing,” Environmental Management Agency’s Environmental Laboratory Manager Mrs. Sylvia Yomisi said.
The WHO urged countries to review their paint production processes with the aim of reducing lead content below the recommended limit set by WHO.
“It is crucial that we take intentional steps to protect our children from the devastating effects of lead poisoning,” emphasized Professor. Jean-Marie Dangou, WHO’s representative in Zimbabwe.
Lead poisoning is a serious health concern, especially for children, who are most vulnerable to the effects of lead exposure.
“Lead can damage the nervous system, kidneys, and reproductive system, and can also cause developmental delays in children. Exposure to lead can occur through various means, including ingestion and inhalation.
“The high levels of lead found in locally manufactured paint in Zimbabwe are a cause for concern. The use of lead-based paint is banned in many countries, including South Africa in the region, due to the serious health risks associated with exposure to this toxic substance.
“However, in Zimbabwe, there are no laws prohibiting the use of lead-based paint, and this has put the population at risk,” added WHO.
Participants discussed the need for stricter regulations on the use of lead in paint in Zimbabwe and the importance of education and awareness-raising campaigns to inform the public about the dangers of lead poisoning.
The workshop was led by EMA with support from World Health Organization Zimbabwe, United Nations Environment Program, Lead Exposure Elimination Project (LEEP). The workshop brought together experts from various fields, including health, environmental management, paint manufacturers and policy development. These included, the Ministry of Health and Child Care (MoHCC), Council of Zimbabwe, Dulux Astra, Nash Paints, Chroma Paints, Biorich Investments and Crown Paints.
