This work was initiated in order to assess the content of trace metals (TM) from traffic and road infrastructure on a section of national No.1, one linking the cities of Lubumbashi and Likasi in Republic Democratic of Congo. To achieve this, samples of dust on the floor and soil near the road were taken at different depths at the site between the bifurcations of the airport road and Kasenga. Analyses focused on total levels of lead (Pb) and zinc (Zn). The dosage of TM was performed using an atomic absorption spectrometer and measurement pH of soil performed using a pH meter. The results obtained showed that the pH values ​​found (between 5.82 to 7.68) allowed good adsorption and the Zn concentrations were higher than those of the Netherlands standard. However, these levels decreased away from the roadway. Similarly, depending on the depth, the Zn contents were 38.46% (5/13 results) higher than the value of the same standard. However, 38.46% of the values ​​of Pb and 53.85 % Zn (7/13 results) values ​​were higher than those of the standard agricultural soil set by France. These results support the hypothesis that the dust on the floor and close to soils are rich in TM because of contributions due to road traffic.

This study aims to evaluate the metal pollution levels after water from the underground mine Kipushi located south of the Democratic Republic of Congo in the Kafubu River. To achieve this, the waters were sampled at three sampling campaigns (February, March and April of 2012) from the drain into the Katapula Kafubu River downstream of the confluence with the river Kipushi. It has been shown that cadmium and zinc values at 83.3% and 66.7% respectively were higher than those of the standard set by the European Union and 16.7%, 66.7% are higher as the Mining Regulations of the Democratic Republic of Congo for liquid effluents. Moreover, these high levels could pose health risks to the local population of Kafubu River. Our results serve as a warning bell to national environmental policies to protect the people living in a mining environment.