Thursday, 23^rd June, 2022

The House met at 1430 hours

[MADAM SPEAKER in the Chair]

NATIONAL ANTHEM

PRAYER

_______

MATTERS OF URGENT PUBLIC IMPORTANCE

MR CHANDA, HON. MEMBER FOR KANCHIBIYA, ON MRS MASEBO, THE HON. MINISTER OF HEALTH, ON MONKEYPOX TESTING IN ZAMBIA

Mr Chanda (Kanchibiya): On a matter of urgent public importance, Madam Speaker.

Madam Speaker: A matter of urgent public importance is raised.

Mr Chanda: Madam Speaker, on Monday, 20^th June, 2022, the hon. Minister of Health was quoted in certain sections of the media to have stated that a team of infectious disease specialists was investigating a suspected case of monkey pox in a twenty-three year old female who had travelled to the United States of America (USA) about two weeks ago. In the same statement, the hon. Minister was reported to have confirmed that there were fourteen cases of measles and two rubella cases in Mushindamo District.

Madam Speaker, over the past seventy-two hours or so, the World Health Organisation (WHO) has confirmed 1,900 monkey pox cases in thirty-nine countries across the globe, which includes eight African countries.

Monkey pox cases had previously been reported in six countries in Africa, according to the WHO. There are thirty-six confirmed cases in Nigeria, ten confirmed cases in the DRC, eight confirmed cases in the Central African Republic (CAR), three each in Benin and Cameroun and two in the Republic of Congo.

Madam Speaker, Ghana and Morocco, which have previously not recorded any cases of monkey pox, were reported to have recorded five and one confirmed cases, respectively. Additionally, Ethiopia, Guinea, Liberia, Mozambique, Sierra Leone, Sudan and Uganda, all had no previous incidents of monkey pox, but have also reported suspected cases.

Madam Speaker, against this background, there are, of course, feelings from members of the public to want to understand whether this does present a public health emergency and the Government, through the Ministry of Health, is already testing for monkey pox and a likelihood of another vaccine for treatment of monkey pox, and so on and so forth.

Madam Speaker, is the hon. Minister of Health in order to remain mute on this topical matter, which is an elephant in the room in terms of global public health? This is a matter which is causing anxiety not just at the global level, but is now also being reported in countries near Zambia.

MR J. CHIBUYE, HON. MEMBER FOR ROAN, ON MR SIKUMBA, THE HON. MINISTER OF TOURISM, ON LIONS ROAMING AROUND ISOKA

Mr J. Chibuye (Roan): On a matter of urgent public importance, Madam Speaker.

Madam Speaker: A matter of urgent public importance is raised.

Mr J. Chibuye: Madam Speaker, the matter of urgent public importance I wish to raise is premised on Standing Order 134 and is directed at the hon. Minister of Tourism.

Madam Speaker, on Monday or Tuesday, the Zambia National Broadcasting Corporation (ZNBC), on its 1900 hours main news bulletin, aired a clip where it was reported that a thirty-five year old man was mauled and killed by stray lions in Isoka. These lions have tasted human flesh, which contains some salt, and it is likely that they will go on the prowl to hunt more human beings.

Madam Speaker, what is the ministry doing to ensure that this lion or pride of lions does not kill another human being or, indeed, cows and other living things in Isoka?

Madam Speaker: I will start with the point that was raised by the hon. Member for Kanchibiya. Hon. Members will recall that the hon. Minister of Health delivered a ministerial statement, I think two days ago, on the issue of the outbreak of measles in Mushindamo. When she delivered that statement, I recall her talking about monkey pox. She made some statements related to the disease.

So, if the hon. Member for Kanchibiya wants to have further clarification on this matter, I suggest that he puts in a particular question so that the hon. Minister can handle it in a question and answer session. Therefore, the point raised by the hon. Member for Kanchibiya is not admitted as a matter of urgent public importance. The hon. Member can explore other options through which that matter can be brought to the attention of the hon. Minister of Health.

As regards the matter that was raised by the hon. Member for Roan as a matter of urgent public importance, again, the hon. Minister of Tourism was on the Floor of this House yesterday and delivered a statement relating to lions that are wandering around. The reason he gave for lions wandering around was that it is mating season, and other reasons surrounding that issue. The hon. Member was here listening to the explanation.

So, the point that the hon. Member for Roan raised was not different from the point that the hon. Minister was trying to address yesterday or the day before yesterday in the ministerial statement.

However, if the hon. Member wants to have further clarification on the matter, I suggest that he gets in touch or puts up a question to the hon. Minister of Tourism to see how this matter can be addressed.

From where I am sitting, I believe that the explanation will not change from what was given yesterday, but the hon. Member is at liberty to follow-up. That is just my opinion because I am not an expert on issues of lions and how they roam the streets.

Nonetheless, both are matters of concern and I am sure members of the public will want to have some clarification and direction from the respective hon. Ministers.

I thank you.

_______

MINISTERIAL STATEMENT

MEASURES BEING TAKEN TO PROTECT MOBILE MONEY AGENTS FROM ABDUCTION AND OTHER CRIMINAL ACTIVITIES

The Minister of Home Affairs and Internal Security (Mr Mwiimbu): Madam Speaker, I wish to thank you for this opportunity to issue a ministerial statement on the matter of urgent public importance raised by Mr Anthony C. Mumba, hon. Member of Parliament for Kantanshi Constituency, on measures being taken to protect mobile money agents from abduction and other criminal activities.

Madam Speaker, the Government has noted, with great concern, isolated cases of attacks by criminals allegedly targeting persons operating in the mobile service sub-sector and stealing their property in various parts of the country.

Madam Speaker since the first case of a suspected abduction was reported on 16^th April, 2022, the Zambia Police Service has recorded a total of six reports of suspected abductions. After investigations, four of the reports were identified as false alarms.

Madam Speaker, as I share the details of the specific reports recorded by the Zambia Police Service, I am optimistic that justice will prevail.

Madam Speaker, on 16^th April, 2022, the Zambia Police Service received a report of an alleged abduction involving a twenty-two year old female named Pamela Chisupa. The brief facts of the matter are that on 13^th April, 2022, Pamela Chisupa went missing and is believed to have left her mobile money booth near Shoprite Store along Cairo Road in the Lusaka Central Business District in the company of two men.

Madam Speaker, Ms Chisupa is alleged to have been abducted after her captors demanded money from her relatives for her release. A video went viral on social media showing a lady identified as Pamela Chisupa being hit with what appeared to be a metal rod in her face while she was pleading for her life.

Madam Speaker, this type of crime is alien to our country. The Zambia Police Service immediately instituted investigations and eight suspects were arrested. As investigations were going on, four of the suspects were released as they could not be linked to the alleged crime.

Madam Speaker, among the four suspects, one was charged for theft of the handset that was used to send the first video that went viral showing the victim on 18^th April, 2022. The other two were charged for theft in connection with one of the handsets belonging to Pamela Chisupa believed to have been in her possession at the time of her alleged abduction. The fourth suspect was charged for stealing the handset that was used to send the second video of the victim that went viral on social media. All the suspects are appearing in the courts of law.

Madam Speaker, in another incident on 10^th June, 2022, a twenty-two year old male victim by the name of Mr Emmanuel Nyirenda was found dead. Brief facts of the case are that the victim was allegedly enticed to conduct a transaction away from his booth where he was later killed. The victim’s trading place was located in Dragon area in Chipata District of the Eastern Province. Investigations into the matter have been instituted and two suspects have since been arrested and charged for the offence of murder. The duo will appear in the court of law soon.

Madam Speaker, it is unfortunate that some unscrupulous members of the public have taken advantage of the reported incidences of attacks allegedly targeted at mobile money operators by faking their own abductions.

Madam Speaker, on 27^th April, 2022, a male person of Lusaka reported that his thirty-four year old nephew was travelling from Kashikishi to Lusaka and, along the way, near the Heroes Stadium, was abducted and that the alleged abductors were demanding K5,000 for his release. Upon investigations, it was discovered that the report was false. The Zambia Police Service has since charged the man for giving false information to a public officer.

Madam Speaker, on the same date, another report was lodged that a female student, aged twenty-three years, of Eden University was abducted near the university. It was, however, established that the student was not abducted, but detained at the Lusaka Central Police Station for other offences. She has since been released on police bond.

Madam Speaker, further, a seventy-one year old female person of Lusaka reported on 29^th April, 2022, that her female employee was abducted and robbed of K6,500 by unknown people. Investigations, however, revealed that her employee faked the abduction and stole the money. She has since been charged with theft by servant.

Madam Speaker, on 9^th May, 2022, three women reported to have been robbed and raped while on a bus and later dumped in Chibolya Compound in Lusaka. Their video went viral on social media and was also broadcast on a named television channel. Investigations into the matter, Madam Speaker, revealed that the three women had fabricated their own abduction. They have since been charged with the offence of giving false information to a public officer and are appearing before the courts of law in Lusaka.

Madam Speaker, I wish to warn all those spreading falsehoods, that the law is very clear when it comes to giving false information to a public officer. Giving false information to a public officer is a criminal offence and is punishable by law. The Government will not tolerate people giving false information for the purposes of extorting or alarming the nation.

Madam Speaker, to curb these criminal acts and protect life and property of mobile money agents, the following are some of the measures being implemented by the Zambia Police Service:

      (a)   sensitisation of mobile money operators on timely closure of their businesses;

      (b)   sensitisation of mobile money operators on security alertness;

      (c)  collaboration with the Zambia Information and Communication Technology Authority (ZICTA) and mobile

           money services providers on awareness raising and tracking mechanisms; and

     (d)  enhanced intelligence information gathering.

Madam Speaker, the New Dawn Government is anchored on law and order to foster socio-economic development. Crime has devastating consequences and crime against life violates the sanctity of life and robs the nation of hard working individuals.

Madam Speaker, let me urge the general citizenry to report any suspicious persons to law enforcement agencies. Together we can make Zambia a crime free country.

Madam Speaker, I thank you.

Madam Speaker: Hon. Members are now free to ask questions on points of clarification on the ministerial statement given by the hon. Minister.

Mr Kampyongo (Shiwang’andu): Madam Speaker, I thank you for giving me this opportunity to pose a follow-up question on the ministerial statement made by the hon. Minister of Home Affairs and Internal Security.

Madam Speaker, I will take the hon. Minister back to the issue of Pamela’s abduction. He stated that eight suspects –

Mr Miyutu: On a point of order, Madam.

Madam Speaker: Order!

Sorry, hon. Member, I do not want your question to be swallowed up by the point of order. There is an indication for a point of order from the hon. Member for Mitete.

Madam Speaker: A point of order is raised.

Interruptions

Madam Speaker: The hon. Member for Mitete, are you there?

Mr Mutelo was inaudible.

Madam Speaker: That is what happened even yesterday. I recall this very well.

The hon. Member for Shiwang’andu may proceed.

Mr Kampyongo: Madam Speaker, I now understand why you want us to be in designated areas.

Laughter

Mr Kampyongo: Madam Speaker, I will take the hon. Minister back to Pamela’s abduction. In his statement, he indicated that initially, eight suspects were arrested. Four were released and four others were only charged with theft of gadgets, and some of these gadgets were phones that belonged to Pamela.

Madam Speaker, who then has been charged with the case of abduction in this matter? What is the final fate of Pamela as things stand now?

Mr Mwiimbu: Madam Speaker, I thank the hon. Member for Shiwang’andu for the concise question pertaining to the emotive issue under discussion. I would like to state that as of this morning, no person whatsoever has been charged with the offence of abduction.

Madam Speaker, as regards the suspects whom we arrested, upon investigations, it was realised that they were not directly connected to the offence of abduction, hence the charges that were levelled against them which differed from the intended ones. We charged them with theft and other related matters.

Madam Speaker, the police are still investigating the matter with the support of many institutions and security agencies. We are determined to bring the culprits to book. However, so far, we have not made any serious headway apart from those arrests which I indicated.

Madam Speaker, I thank you.

Mr Kapyanga (Mpika): Madam Speaker, thank you for giving the people of Mpika an opportunity to ask the hon. Minister of Home Affairs and Internal Security a follow-up question. I thank the hon. Minister for that elaborate statement.

Madam Speaker, the people who have been arrested have been charged with the offence of stealing Pamela’s gadgets. In the hon. Minister’s statement, the alleged abductors got Pamela from her mobile booth and took her away. At what point did those criminals steal her gadgets? Is it when she was in the booth or when she was got away from the booth?

Laughter

Mr Mwiimbu: Madam Speaker, I did explain the circumstances leading to the arrest of those individuals. Some of those individuals were found with headsets. It was found that those phones were bought by those individuals from other members of the public. One of the phones was picked on the streets in Kanyama. That is what transpired. I do not want to go into detail pertaining to the issues under investigations. I may end up disclosing matters that should not be disclosed.

Madam Speaker, I thank you.

Mr Lusambo (Kabushi) Madam Speaker, the issue of Pamela’s abduction is of public concern and in public interest that it is resolved. Therefore, the answers the hon. Minister is giving are supposed to be precise so that people out there know how police is moving.

Madam Speaker, the hon. Minister told us that the criminals who are now facing charges in the courts of law stole a phone, headsets and other accessories. Who identified those items as Pamela’s?

Madam Speaker: Just a matter to note; we should be careful, hon. Members, as this matter is still under investigations. We should be careful what questions we ask.

 

Mr Mwiimbu: Madam Speaker, we identified the gadgets using the equipment we have as Zambia Police.

Madam Speaker, I thank you.

Mr Wamunyima (Nalolo): Madam Speaker, after Pamela’s abduction, we saw a lot of pledges on social media from members of the public towards the people holding her at ransom. Subsequent to the pledges, the number of fake abductions has gone up.

Madam Speaker, for me, this is tantamount to interfering with police investigations. If people are pledging, it is actually encouraging the perpetration of this offence and, even now, the hon. Minister has read over five cases of fake abduction. What is the ministry doing to prevent this interference with investigative work?

Mr Mwiimbu: Madam Speaker, my hon. Colleague, the hon. Member of Parliament for Nalolo, may have heard me very clearly warn members of the public not to start extorting money from others by faking abductions. We have warned that it is an offence to extort money, fake abductions and also give false reports to public officers. We have also warned members of the public that it is an offence under the Cyber Security Act to distribute fake information that is being purveyed through information technology (IT) platforms. We are warning members of the public to desist from those practices.

Madam Speaker, we have the capacity to trace anyone who makes any allegations and posts those allegations on social media platforms. There is evidence to the effect that we have the capacity, taking into account the number of people whom we have traced and arrested. So, members of the public should stop making false statements and creating fake stories on social media with a view to alarming the public pertaining to the happenings in the country. It is not in the interest of all of us to start such schemes which will cause alarm and panic in the nation.

I thank you, Madam Speaker.

Mr Katakwe (Solwezi East): Madam Speaker, what is it that is making this nation to take so long to do the investigations? Is it a lack of appropriate training of the police, inadequate technology or inadequate funding of the police? If you look at the gassing and burning of vital facilities like the Soweto Market, up to now, no investigations have been adequately done. What is wrong with this country? Where are we going wrong? Is it on the technology or the training?

Mr Mwiimbu: Madam Speaker, I thank the hon. Member for Solwezi East for that important question that he has posed. I would like to state that certain criminal activities are alien to this country. One of the criminal activities that are alien is that of abduction or kidnapping. You will agree with me that this is a new phenomenon. Even in areas where kidnappings and adductions are a common practice, investigations pertaining to such are difficult. I can give an example, without naming the person involved. You will recall that almost fourteen years ago, a toddler in Spain was adducted. To date, investigations are still going on. In Nigeria, school children were abducted more than five years ago and the authorities have not yet concluded investigations. They are quite complex and need thorough investigations.

As I had indicated earlier, some of the gadgets that were used in the case involving Pamela were being dropped on the streets. Criminals used different modes of communication in this scheme of criminal activities. We are working with various institutions in this country to try and trace these criminals, but they are sophisticated criminals, Madam Speaker. However, I have no doubt in my mind that at an appropriate time, we will make headway.

I thank you, Madam Speaker.

Mr B. Mpundu (Nkana): Madam Speaker, I am not sure if I heard the hon. Minister correctly and would like to, perhaps, be clear as to the health status of Pamela. Is she alive or dead?

Madam Speaker: That was not stated, but the hon. Minister is here and I will let him answer for himself.

Mr Mwiimbu: Madam Speaker, according to the information that we have, she is still alive. We are aware that a week ago, there was communication amongst Pamela, the police and the relatives. So, we are still investigating. All we are failing to trace is where she is because the abductors are using different gadgets.

Mr J. Chibuye (Roan): Madam Speaker, I thank the hon. Minister for that information. In his statement, he has outlined measures in terms of the sensitisation that the ministry is carrying out, but I am worried that the buck of these problems will stop at his ministry and yet he is not the one who is creating them. What role is the ministry playing to ensure that the mushrooming of these tu ntemba of mobile money is controlled?

Today, these things are even coming into homes. People are conducting this business in their homes, meaning that they are actually attracting people to go and prey on them. What is the ministry trying to do to ensure that the powers that be, those who give out permits to carry out this business, involve the ministry from the genesis so that it can also play a role to sensitise these people so that they do not just run to the ministry when the time bomb explodes?

Mr Mwiimbu: Madam Speaker, I will not support the idea of restricting mobile phone trading because this is one of the ways of earning a living for our youngsters in the country. All we have to do is to ensure that they are alert and that the places they are operating from are conducive areas where police can easily come in the event of a problem. However, I will refer that matter to my hon. Colleague who is licensing these mobile phone traders to ensure that certain measures are put in place as they trade.

I thank you, Madam Speaker.

Mr Mwila (Mufulira): Madam Speaker, Pamela’s family actually resides in Mufulira Constituency which I do represent and I have been to their home. I share in their pain and grief. In case there are people out there actually doubting the issue surrounding Pamela, it is true that Pamela has disappeared.

Hon. Minister, it is more than two months now since she disappeared. Is the police or the Government not considering offering a bounty over the head or the heads of the suspected abductors to encourage someone somewhere who knows the true story about Pamela to come forward?

Mr Mwiimbu: Madam Speaker, with your permission, I do not want to disclose our next line of action pertaining to this matter because we are still investigating. If we prematurely make certain pronouncements, we may be encouraging these abductors.

I thank you, Madam.

Madam Speaker called upon Mr Michelo but he was not available.

Mr Twasa (Kasenengwa): Madam Speaker, I thank the hon. Minister for a very informative statement. In his statement, he mentioned a number of people who were abducted and those cases which proved to be false abductions. He did not mention how many people were abducted and proved to be real abductions. Before Pamela was abducted, there was also a strong rumour that there was a woman in Kitwe or Chingola who was abducted and has never been found up to now. So, I want to find out how many people have been abducted and have not been found to date.

Mr Mwiimbu: Madam Speaker, according to the reports that we have as the Zambia Police, the only confirmed case of abduction is that of Pamela and that, to date, we have not found her. We have evidence that there has been communication between the purported adductors, the Zambia Police and the family members. So, at least, on that particular one, we have evidence that she was abducted, unless evidence to the contrary is brought.

I also want to inform my colleague from Kasenengwa that I did inform the House of a matter in Chipata where one mobile phone dealer was lured by two criminals who eventually killed him. These individuals are appearing in court in Chipata.

I thank you, Madam Speaker.

Ms Nyirenda (Lundazi): Madam Speaker, thank you for giving me a chance to ask on this very charging and painful occurrence in our country, Zambia.

Madam Speaker, in his statement, the hon. Minister consistently said that “it is alien” meaning that we as Zambians may not be part of the syndicate. Has he consulted with neighbouring countries to try and see if we can bring Pamela back home?

Mr Mwiimbu: Madam Speaker, as I indicated earlier, I do not want to divulge certain measures we have taken pertaining to these investigations. All we can indicate to this House is that we are members of the International Criminal Police Organisation (INTERPOL). We collaborate with a number of institutions and security agencies both within Zambia and outside. I do not want to go further, having said that.

I thank you, Madam Speaker.

_______

QUESTION FOR ORAL ANSWER

REDUCTION OF SATELLITE DEPOTS

339. Mr Kapyanga (Mpika) asked the Minister of Agriculture:

    (a)   whether the reduction in the number of satellite depots, countrywide, will not adversely affect the farmers

           who will have to travel long distances to the nearest depot;

    (b)   if so, what measures are being taken to ensure that farmers transport their produce at affordable cost to

         the nearest satellite depot; and

    (c)   whether the country’s food security will not be compromised due to the reduced number of depots.

The Minister of Fisheries and Livestock (Mr Chikote) (on behalf of the Minister of Agriculture (Mr Mtolo)): Madam Speaker, the initial plan to reduce the number of satellite depots by the Food Reserve Agency (FRA) was due to the reduction in crop production country wide as indicated by the Crop Forecast Survey result for 2022.

Madam Speaker, the Crop Forecast Survey results have shown that there is a reduction in the production of maize by our farmers from 3.6 million metric tonnes in 2021 to 2.7 million metric tonnes in 2022. This reduction implies that there is a likelihood of decrease in disposable or access maize to be sold by our small-scale farmers, hence, the initial intent to reduce the number of satellite depots.

Madam Speaker, the New Dawn Government is a listening Government. Having listened and analysed the situation across the country for our small-scale farmers, the Government has made a decision to maintain the 1,257 satellite depots in the 2022 Crop Marketing Season to allow for farmers to easily transport their produce to satellite depots.

Hon. Government Members: Hear, hear!

Mr Chikote: Madam Speaker, the national food security is top priority for the New Dawn Government. I, therefore, wish to assure the House and the nation at large that as at 12^th May 2022, the country had carried over maize stocks of 1.5 million metric tonnes held by the FRA and the private sector. Further, the country has produced 2.7 million metric tonnes of maize during the 2021/2022 agricultural season, bringing the total available to 4.2 million metric tonnes.

After netting of the national requirement for human consumption and industrial processing, which is 3.1 metric tonnes, the country has a net supply of 1.2 million metric tonnes, implying that the country is food secure. In addition, the Government is further urging farmers to sell only what is excess and return what is sufficient for household food security.

Madam Speaker, I thank you.

Mr Kapyanga (Mpika): Madam Speaker, I am sure the people of Mpika are very happy that the Government has u-turned on its earlier decision to reduce the number of satellite depots by 600.

Madam Speaker, let me, first of all, thank the hon. Minister for that statement. The people of Mpika still want this Government to listen to them regarding the maize floor price. People out there are crying that K160 per 50kg bag is way too low and is not going to sustain them as the prices of farming inputs, especially fertiliser, have gone up. I submit that the hon. Minister considers increasing the floor price of maize from K160 to, at least, K250. I submit.

Interruptions

Madam Speaker: Hon. Member of Parliament for Mpika, now you are adding other issues. The question did not relate to the floor price of maize. That is definitely not a supplementary question. However, you have another opportunity to ask one more question. In the meantime, I will call upon the hon. Member for Chilubi.

Mr Fube was not available.

Mr Mutale (Chitambo): Madam Speaker, I am most grateful. Now that the hon. Minister has u-turned and indicated that he already has almost what is required to feed this nation, would he kindly assure farmers that in the extra depots that he has opened, he will be able to buy the maize and pay them promptly?

Mr Chikote: Madam Speaker, I thank the hon. Member of Parliament for the question. I assure hon. Members of Parliament in this House that the New Dawn Government realises the important role that our farmers are playing. On the issue of whether farmers are going to be paid in time, that is our priority as the New Dawn Government. As soon as we collect their produce, farmers are assured that they are going to be paid on time.

Hon. Government Members: Hear, hear!

Mr Chikote: So, this Government knows the important role that our farmers are playing in the economy of this country.

I thank you, Madam Speaker.

Madam Speaker: The hon. Member for Chilubi.

Mr Fube (Chilubi): Madam Speaker, I was not being unmuted by the officers from the Information and Communication Technology (ICT) Department. That is why I failed to ask a follow-up question.

Madam Speaker, it is good that the hon. Minister has assured the nation that the Government will maintain all satellite depots, but there is already uncertainty in many areas. For instance, many residents in Luwingu District have been told that the depots have been reduced from thirty-two to thirteen. Now, my question is: What are some of the measures the Government has put in place to deal with the uncertainty that has already spread widely, in this case?

Madam Speaker: I am not sure if the question is clear. Hon. Member for Chilubi, can you be precise with your question. It is not clear.

Mr Fube: Madam Speaker, what I was saying –

Can you get me, Madam Speaker?

Madam Speaker: Yes, we can get you. Just be clear and precise in your question.

Mr Fube: Madam Speaker, what I meant is that information about the reduction of satellite depots has already spread and has caused uncertainty such that people are panicking. There is consideration, to go further, of twining with briefcase businessmen. I gave an example of the people of Luwingu District who were informed that the depots had been reduced from thirty-two to thirteen and were already panicking. Now that there is a change of policy on that issue and the hon. Minister has assured the nation that the depots will still be maintained, what measures is the Government taking to pacify the uncertainty in the nation which has already spread?

Madam Speaker: I still did not get some parts of the question.

Mr Chikote: Madam Speaker, to start with, the hon. Member who has asked that question is part and parcel of the Government and he should help give information and assurance to the people he is representing.

Hon. UPND Members: Hear, hear!

Mr Chikote: So, for the people in Luwingu District that he mentioned, we have representation there. Our hon. Colleagues in the House are part and parcel of the Government and should relay information. That is why they represent people from different areas. So, I believe the hon. Member will help comfort our farmers in Luwingu.

Madam Speaker, there is also no need for them to panic. That is why this Government is on the helm of governing this country. We are going to address all the challenges that our farmers are facing. So, I urge all our farmers across the country not to panic. What is going to be purchased from them will be done correctly.

I thank you, Madam Speaker.

Mr Kampyongo (Shiwang’andu): Madam Speaker, I appreciate the assurances coming from the Acting hon. Minister of Agriculture.

We warned you last year that this –

Hon. UPND Members: Ah! Question!

Madam Speaker: Order, hon. Members! Let us avoid –

Mr Kampyongo: We had warned you last year –

Madam Speaker: Order!

Hon. Members, let us avoid being confrontational. Let us just ask questions directly to the point.

Hon. Member for Shiwang’andu, you may proceed.

Mr Kampyongo: Madam Speaker, we are talking about food. The hon. Minister has just acknowledged that the nation will record a reduction in the production of maize from 3.6 million metric tonnes to 2.7 million metric tonnes, which will translate into a 25 per cent reduction in production, and yet he is assuring us of food security.

Madam Speaker, the substantive hon. Minister of Agriculture told the House that he would pay farmers who were owed money by the Food Reserve Agency (FRA) from the current Budget which was approved this year, in January. The Acting hon. Minister of Agriculture has assured us that farmers will be paid promptly. What is going to attract our poor farmers to take maize to the FRA when the last increment in the price was a K50, and this year, it is K10 in the midst of high cost of transportation as a result of fuel price increases? What is going to attract farmers to take maize to the depots that the government has opened, rescinding the decision to close them, which we appreciate?

Mr Chikote: Madam Speaker, first of all, the hon. Member must understand that the New Dawn Government is making efforts to construct what was destroyed.

Mr Kampyongo: Question!

Hon. UPND Members: Hear, hear!

Mr Chikote: This Government is a listening Government hence, it has decided to maintain the depots where our farmers are going to sell their produce. It is very easy to destroy…

Mr Kampyongo: Question!                              

Hon. UPND Members: Hear, hear!

Mr Chikote: … like some people destroyed public things.

Hon. UPND Members: Hear, hear!

Mr Chikote: To build, it requires time.

Hon. UPND Members: Hear, hear!

Mr Chikote: The confidence that small-scale farmers in Zambia have is that they are very sure that this Government is concerned about them. That is the confidence they have and that is what is going to attract them to take their maize to the FRA. They have already seen our direction in terms of agriculture. So, our farmers are going to be attracted by the way we are conducting the affairs of this country. That is the most apparent attraction; they have confidence in this Government. I assure the hon. Member that this Government is doing its best to bring back all that was lost.

I thank you, Madam Speaker.

Mr Chonde (Milenge): Madam Speaker, in his statement, the hon. Minister clearly indicated that the reason the Government is not buying a lot of produce this year is because it is relying on the ex-stock, which maize that was produced last year. Now, I just want an assurance from him on what sort of maize we going to consume this year? Some of the maize in rural areas is stored in tarpaulins? By implication, the hon. Minister is telling us that they will be giving us maize which will be two years old. What sort of maize, in terms of quality, are we going to have this year on the Zambian market?

Madam Speaker: We are now drifting into other areas. The question does not relate to the issue of maize and how we are buying it. However, I will give the hon. Member a benefit of doubt and ask the Acting hon. Minister to answer.

Mr Chikote: Madam Speaker, like you have stated, the question is outside the initial question, but for the benefit of the hon. Member, farmers and the people of this nation will get quality maize on the market.

I thank you, Madam Speaker.

Mr Chitotela: On a point of order, Madam Speaker.

Madam Speaker: A point of order is raised.

Mr Chitotela: Madam Speaker, my point of order is on the hon. Minister. It relates to Standing Order No. 65, which states that the information that an hon. Member provides to the House must be factual and verifiable.

Madam Speaker: I do not understand. Are you stating that the hon. Minister did not give factual information?

Mr Chitotela: Yes, Madam Speaker, there is a contradiction. You do remember, Madam Speaker, that you ordered the substantive hon. Minister of Agriculture to issue a statement in relation to the non-payment of the farmers who supplied maize last year. He issued a statement in this august House that he was waiting for the Budget to be approved. Again, in February, he came and said that all the farmers were cleared from the money that was allocated for crop purchasing this year. He clearly stated that they had used the money from the budget that was allocated for this year to clear all the farmers who supplied maize last year.

Today, Madam Speaker, the Acting hon. Minister contradicted the substantive hon. Minister by saying that the money is available and that immediately the maize suppliers deliver, they will be paid promptly, without the hon. Minister of Finance and National Planning bringing a supplementary budget. How are they going to spend money that has not been approved by this august House for expenditure? Going by the statement of the substantive hon. Minister, the money that was approved was used to pay for maize that was supplied last year.

I seek your serious guidance, Madam Speaker.

Madam Speaker: Hon. Member for Pambashe, the point of order you have raised is not within the ambit of the question asked by the hon. Member for Mpika. We are bringing in different issues about payment of farmers. So, that point of order is not admitted.

When you see repetitions, it means a matter has been exhausted. So, let us make progress.

________

MOTION

REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE ON CABINET AFFAIRS

Mr Shakafuswa (Mandevu) Madam Speaker, I beg to move that this House do adopt the Report of the Committee on Cabinet Affairs for the First Session of the Thirteenth National Assembly, laid on the Table of the House on Tuesday, 14^th June, 2022.

Madam Speaker: Is the Motion seconded?

Mr Mandandi (Sioma): Madam Speaker, I beg to second the Motion.

Mr Shakafuswa: Madam Speaker, in accordance with its terms of reference as contained in the National Assembly of Zambia Standing Orders of 2021, your Committee undertook a study on the management and operations of the Zambia Police Service Commission and the Zambia Correctional Service Commission vis-a-vis the welfare of staff.

Madam Speaker, your Committee interacted with several stakeholders who tendered both written and oral submissions. Your Committee also took local tours to Copperbelt Province and the Eastern Province in order to establish what was obtaining on the ground. Your Committee also undertook a benchmarking tour to Malawi.

In pursuance of the above, Madam Speaker, I believe hon. Members have read the report. Therefore, I will only highlight the salient issues that caught the attention of your Committee during its deliberations.

Madam Speaker, your Committee observes that Government funding of the two commissions is inconsistent. This has resulted in the two commissions lacking financial resources to enable them execute their mandates to the fullest. For instance, the commissions have not been able to undertake operational tours. This has resulted in the accumulation of pending cases with regard to promotions, confirmations on acting appointments and disciplinary cases in divisions and correctional centres.

Madam Speaker, in this regard, your Committee recommends that the Treasury should be engaged to ensure timely release and consistent funding to the Zambia Correctional Service Commission and the Zambia Police Service Commission. This will enable the commissions to carry out their functions efficiently and effectively. Further, the Government should ensure that the commissions undertake annual tours to appreciate the environment and challenges encountered by officers at divisions and correctional centres, and attend to grievances in order to prevent accumulation of pending cases.

Madam Speaker, your Committee observes that the Zambia Police Service Commission has not been devolved to be easily and locally accessed by officers. The commission is domiciled in Lusaka, while the majority of officers are based outside Lusaka. For instance, officers have to travel to the commission offices in Lusaka in order to access vacation leave payments and repatriation payments.

Madam Speaker, your Committee recommends that the Treasury should create fiscal space for the decentralisation of human resource functions through the implementation of human resource management reforms. Furthermore, the establishment of Human Resource Management Committees must be expedited in order to improve service delivery and enhance the overall provision of the strategic and policy direction of the commission.

Madam Speaker, I wish to conclude by thanking you for the guidance provided to your Committee during the session. I further thank all the stakeholders who appeared before your Committee. Gratitude also goes to the Office of the Clerk of the National Assembly for the support rendered to your Committee.

Madam Speaker, I beg to move.

Madam Speaker: Does the seconder wish to speak now or later?

Mr Mandandi: Now, Madam Speaker.

Madam Speaker, it feels so good to be back in the main House after what appears to be almost permanent membership in the Amphitheatre.

Madam Speaker, I thank you for giving me this opportunity to second the Motion on the Floor of the House. In seconding the Motion, I will briefly comment on a few salient issues contained therein.

Madam Speaker, your Committee observes that the Zambia Police Service Commission and the Zambia Correctional Service Commission are currently housed on the second and third floors of the old Bank of Zambia (BoZ) offices, respectively, and have been issued with eviction notices. This is a very disturbing scenario. As things stand now, it is like the welfare of our officers is at the mercy of landlords who can decide to do whatever they wishwith the reports and the files that are there, should they decide to evict the two commissions.

In this regard, Madam Speaker, your Committee recommends that the Government should ensure that office space is secured for the commissions as opposed to them renting and risking being evicted in cases where unpaid rental bills accumulate.

Madam Speaker, your Committee further observes that there is a lack of computerised human resource management systems at the Zambia Police Service Commission and that this continues to pose a challenge in the maintenance, referencing and retrieval of personal information for decision making. Your Committee, therefore, recommends that the Government procures computers for Information and Communication Technology (ICT) optimisation in order to improve record management and storage of information. This will enhance stakeholder co-operation.

Madam Speaker, the other issue that your Committee stumbled upon during its interaction with the witnesses is the issue of discrepancies in ranks. Your Committee observes that the regional commanding officer for the Copperbelt region is a deputy commissioner whilst the regional commanding officer for the eastern region is a senior assistant commissioner. This implies that there is a discrepancy in the ranking of regional commanding officers in the two provinces. Your Committee recommends that all regional headquarters countrywide should be headed by deputy commissioners. This will ensure that there is uniformity in the ranking of regional commanding officers in all provinces.

Madam Speaker, your Committee further observes that the long serving officers at the Zambia Correctional Service receive the same salary as newly employed officers holding the same ranks. This is attributed to the absence of the notch system in the salary structure of officers. Your Committee, therefore, recommends that the Government should introduce the notch system through the submission of annual confidential forms. This will ensure that long serving officers do not receive the same salaries as newly employed officers.

Madam, last, but not least, during our interaction with witnesses, stakeholders submitted and raised the issue of political interference at the Zambia Police Service Commission as one of the major challenges. It was observed that from past experience, some officers were unfairly treated or handled by the Zambia Police Service Commission because of political interference which led the commission to promote, dismiss or transfer officers on political reasons or innuendos.

Madam Speaker, I commend the New Dawn Government for espousing a more radical break with past tradition which almost became Government policy where promotions in the Zambia Police Service were through political patronage.

Madam, it was very disturbing that not too long ago – memories are still fresh – officers performed professionally in trying to protect the integrity of the institution and the service tried to repel a would-be invasion by the Patriotic Front (PF) cadres in Sesheke. That was a very disturbing scenario where cadres from the then Ruling Party attempted to beat up police officers at a police station in Sesheke. When that attack was repelled by the police, instead of the powers that be rewarding the then police officers with promotions, the police officers were, unfortunately, hounded out of service. This was very unfortunate and this is how uncaring the PF Government was towards officers.

Madam Speaker, in conclusion, let me thank you for the guidance rendered to your Committee during its deliberations. Let me also take this opportunity to thank the mover of the Motion for ably moving it on the Floor of the House. Lastly, let me extend my gratitude to the Office of the Clerk of the National Assembly for the services rendered during the Committee’s deliberations.

Madam Speaker, with these few remarks, I beg to second.

Hon. Government Members: Hear, hear!

Mr Mwila (Mufulira): Madam Speaker, thank you very much for this opportunity to contribute to the debate on the Motion on the Floor. Let me begin by thanking the mover and seconder of the Motion and, indeed, your Committee for the job it has done.

Madam Speaker, the witnesses who appeared before your Committee were concerned about the working conditions of service for both the Zambia Police Service and the Zambia Correctional Services.

Madam Speaker, conditions of service are very important for any person in employment in any particular establishment because they either motivate or de-motive.

Madam Speaker, the community, generally, has a tag about the police in terms of how professionally they do their job. You would meet people talking about the police being corrupt and unresponsive to the needs of communities. While that may not be entirely true, the work of the Zambia Police Service and the Zambia Correctional Services is affected by the working conditions that these men and women in uniform, who safeguard our internal security, go through. Therefore, the cry from this report is that both these commissions require a lot of funding in order to execute the functions that they are mandated. They require the support of all of us and that of the Treasury.

Madam, the police, like employees in the education and health sectors, are found in every corner of this country, from towns to remotest parts of this country. Therefore, conditions for a police officer operating in Lusaka should be the same for the one operating in Kaputa or Shangombo. Therefore, funding to these commissions would ensure that they decentralise and take their services closer to where the police are operating. If the office is in Lusaka, it is very difficult for one to move from Nakonde, all the way to Lusaka, to come and push for their promotion, retirement or confirmation in an acting position. So, funding is required to ensure that the commissions are able to execute their functions as expected by the police. It is, indeed, a requirement because that will motivate the police and help the community understand their operations.

Madam Speaker, the previous Government did its part to improve the conditions of service for the police and it is there for everyone to see. We saw the construction of police stations and police houses across the country. My constituency is a beneficiary of the accommodation improvement that was done for the police and we hope to see that continue even in this Government.

Madam, the days of the police living in the police camps that were left by colonial officers should be gone. In Mufulira, we have a police camp called Sikalangwe where the toilet is five or ten meters from the house. Those days should be gone and that is why the previous Government embarked on the construction of accommodation for police officers. I am urging and encouraging the current Government to continue on that trajectory so that the police have decent accommodation. Even when they are leaving their families; children, wives; and husbands to go and work, they will be left in comfort.

Madam Speaker, conditions of service are wholesome. You can talk about accommodation like I have done, but you also have to talk about the office environment. In some police stations, you would find furniture that is not even worth to be sat on. The tables, chairs and benches are outdated. So, we need to improve the working conditions even in the offices in order to motivate these men and women.

Madam Speaker, transport is also one of the issues that affect the working conditions of police officers. When they are called to an incident, they ask the community to contribute or provide money for fuel, provide a vehicle or simply not respond. This is not because they do not want to do their part, but because their work is impeded by the lack of transport. Those are the issues that need to be looked into so that the working conditions, generally, of the police, are improved.

Madam Speaker, one of the things that affect those who are serving in the Zambia Police Service and the Zambia Correctional Service is the issue of promotions and ranks. If the commissions are properly funded, they will look into those who deserve promotions and those who deserve confirmations in the positions they are acting in and they will attend to them as soon as possible.

Madam, if we are to fight the tag and improve the perception of the police and the correctional services in the eyes of Zambians, we must work on improving their conditions of service both at work and also in terms of accommodation and transport.

Madam Speaker, with those words, I wish to support this Motion.

I thank you, Madam.

Ms Nyirenda (Lundazi): Madam Speaker, I want to appreciate the mover and the seconder of this very important Motion. Firstly, having grown up as a child of a police officer, it is painful for me to see, in my constituency, a police officer moving around in a uniform that is not smart or clean.

Madam Speaker, as we look at conditions of service, I feel it is important that the Zambia Police Service or the Ministry of Home Affairs considers giving rural police officers proper uniforms so that they can stand out and look presentable.

Madam Speaker, I also want to talk about the issue of prison warders, especially females. The law which was passed is very good. The police is no longer a force, but a service that is trying to reform prisoners. However, when some convicts come out of prison, they marry officers from the service. When female officers get married to an ex-convict, they are stigmatised and are even chased from the service.

Madam Speaker, I want to find out if at all these people are being reformed or they are still being stigmatised even after they have left prison. So far, three female officers have been chased just because they got married to former prisoners.

Madam Speaker, I want to re-echo the issue of transport. I come from Lundazi. We share one vehicle amongst Chasefu, Lumezi and Lundazi. What crime can be fought in a border area where three constituencies share one old land cruiser, a finished one for that matter? When looking at conditions of service, we must ensure the places of work for these officers are conducive. When it comes to accommodation or the houses where these officers live, especially female officers, they are not even fit to be called homes. Most police officers, especially in Lundazi, do not even live in those houses. They are all over and, as a result, there is no security.

Madam Speaker, in supporting this report, I hope officers who have worked for more than ten years, by the discretion of the commissioner, can be given tuntepe tung’ono chabe. There is nothing wrong with that.

Madam Speaker, what I mean is that officers need to be motivated. There is no way you can work for ten years and hold the same rank. Officers in rural areas are forever constables. They die as constables. If they retire, all their money just expended on transport costs.

Madam Speaker, members of your Committee even went to Lundazi and saw for themselves that there are no houses there. For this, I am looking to the hon. Minister and asking him to look at my people there and give them what they deserve. The report is here, so, there is nothing to argue about.

Madam Speaker, I support the Motion.

Madam Speaker: Thank you for being so efficient.

Mr Kampyongo (Shiwang’andu): Madam Speaker, thank you for giving me an opportunity to make a few comments on your report which was ably moved by the Chairperson. From the outset, I would like to appreciate the submissions from the seconder except that he should have stuck to the report. It is standard practice here that we do not bring matters that are not highlighted in the report. I have gone through the report, which was very thoroughly done. We do not dilute these reports with things that we have on our minds.

Madam Speaker, I appreciate the effort of your Committee, which undertook a benchmarking visit to the Republic of Malawi where the members learnt on how the sittings are done by the service commissions.

Madam Speaker, I think we have also made a lot of progress. What is key now is to also capacitate our local commissions. You may recall that in the past, the Police Service Commission used to do work for both the Zambia Police Service and the Zambia Correctional Service, and that was a huge task which left many cases of promotions, confirmations and disciplinary matters pending. Issues of discipline are what make any uniform formation a success. Therefore, if disciplinary matters are not being disposed of timely, the performance of the service is affected.

Madam Speaker, the hon. Minister must try and make sure that the service commissions also tap into training programs so that they can monitor the progression of officers at various ranks, be it the in the Police Service or the Correctional Service. That way, the progression of officers is determined by officers’ performance, qualifications, discipline and other factors. These should inform either the Police Service Commission or the Correctional Service Commission on how to consider the officers’ progression.

Indeed, it has been a challenge and I agree with the hon. Member of Parliament for Lundazi that most of our officers are disadvantaged because of what would seem like a non-functional system which is slightly different from that of the defence forces where the progression of officers is very well established.

Madam Speaker, it would be important for both the Police Service Commission and the Correctional Service Commission establish systems that should identify officers from the point of entry. If someone enters as a constable, how do they progress from that rank to that of sergeant. At what period, what sort of training are they supposed to be subjected to in order for them to progress? Without that, it will be still a challenge and many of our officers will remain de-motivated because as they increase in number, if there is no functional system to identify them, even at senior level, it will be difficult and most of the officers will be working, but will be de-motivated.

Madam Speaker, I think the other thing the Government could probably consider is the aspect of decentralising the human resource management because, as it is now, most of our officers have to travel long distances, as we have heard in the report, to just come and claim for their leave days and other related matters.

The in-service training programs that were initiated for both senior and junior officers must be encouraged so that they form a basis for identification in terms of progression. Yes, indeed, the issues of conditions of service are wholesome. It is not just about what someone goes with in the pockets, and so, it is important that we continue from where we left in terms of improving the conditions of service. What sort of uniforms should our officers have? I assure the hon. Minister that it is not easy, but he must take it upon himself to ensure this is done. Sometimes, we look forward to the services of our men and women in uniform and yet we do not invest appropriately in order to make them functional and dignified. Many times you hear people complaining about our officers being corrupt without looking at the root causes of such conduct.

So, I think you have a mammoth task of ensuring that we continue investing in systems that should improve the performance of our men and women in uniform.

Madam Speaker, the Zambia Correctional Service is now a different service, as I say, from the punitive to the correctional system of management of offenders. So, it needs to be realigned. It can only be realigned by ensuring that new training programmes are put in place. Its work environment also needs to be improved. We did our part.

Madam Speaker, I think you have seen some of the facilities that we have in Mwembeshi. We could improve on the new ones that are going to be opened so that people who go through the walls of the correctional facilities go there to get rehabilitated and come back as law abiding citizens.

Madam Speaker, with those few remarks, I thank you and beg to support the adoption of the report.

Mr Andeleki (Katombola): Madam Speaker, I would like to thank you for allowing the people of Katombola to add their voice onto this very important subject.

Madam Speaker, the issues about the police and the commissions are very dear to my heart, being a former policeman trained by the Zambia Police, and I feel that we should add a voice, as a people of Katombola.

Madam Speaker, the Zambia Police is a very important sector of the institutions of governance that we have today. The peace that we have today is because of the Zambia Police. Sadly, as I stand here, the police are not looked after very well. I can confirm that not less than 1,000 police officers, as we speak today, are seated at home for various reasons, but are earning a salary.

Madam Speaker, police officers work under very extreme conditions and the Zambia Police Service Commission will do well to up its game. Most officers who are serving have served for as long as twenty-five years and remained at the same rank. That has promoted indiscipline and what I can describe as a lack of professionalism in the police.

Madam Speaker, the issue about promotions is very serious. Today, we have police officers who have acquired qualifications as high as doctorate degree level, but are still police constables. I hope that the hon. Minister of Home Affairs and Internal Security, working together with the commission, will consider issues to deal with the upgrading of police officers. I was lucky to have been upgraded after being trained at the university by the police.

Madam Speaker, the issue of poor conditions of service for the Zambia Police Service is a source of great concern for me and the people of Zambia. You cannot expect a de-motivated policeman who has not eaten to guard you. The issue of conditions of service, including risk allowance, for our officers, who sometimes die on duty, is urgent and needs to be resolved as early as ‘yesterday’.

Madam Speaker, the Zambia Police Service Commission, in the past, was so robust, but today, I do not know what has gone wrong. It used to look at grievances of police officers on matters of transfers, promotions and others of such nature. Today, however, I am sad to stand here and say it has not been what I saw under the Movement for Multi-party Democracy (MMD) Government. It was so robust that any grievance could be resolved within no time. It was there to also protect unnecessary transfers of officers which were vindictive. Transfers and retirement in national interest are a source of great concern for most hard working police officers who actually try to be professional and only end up being retired in national interest.

Madam Speaker, allow me to touch on the issue of arbitrary detentions on the part of the police. What we have seen before should never happen again, whether in this New Dawn Government or any other government. We have seen people get detained and the Government pay colossal sums of money in form of reparations to compensate persons who have been arbitrarily detained at the hands of the Zambia Police. By ‘the Zambia Police’, I mean the Drug Enforcement Commission (DEC), the Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC), the Zambia Police Service and all other law enforcement agencies. The Government today is paying colossal sums of money, billions, to compensate successful litigants against arbitrary actions of law enforcement agencies.

Madam Speaker, on that basis, the people of Katombola are asking that the Zambia Police Service be extended to rural areas. Today, most rural areas, such as Katombola Constituency, have no police stations. People are still being killed by armed men who just target them on suspicion of witchcraft or any other reason. For that reason, the people of Katombola and other rural constituencies are demanding a fair share from the national cake in the provision of national security from our officers.

Madam Speaker, allow me to end by requesting the Government of the day to look very favourably on the conditions of service for our police officers, including promotions and risk allowance and that no officer should die on duty while executing the national mandate.

Madam Speaker, on that note, allow me to thank the mover of the Motion and support the seconder as I indicate that the people of Katombola are in support.

Madam Speaker, I thank you.

Mr Kampampi (Mwansabombwe): Madam Speaker, thank you very much for giving me this opportunity to add my voice to the debate on the Motion which is on the Floor of the House. Let me start by thanking the mover and seconder of the Motion.

Madam Speaker, we are looking at management and operation of the Zambia Police Service Commission and the Zambia Correctional Service Commission. These are very important aspects of the governance of the country.

First of all, if you look at the challenges these commissions face such as the lack of established secretariats, adequate transport and office space and the inconsistency in terms of funding, they clearly tell that these are the reasons which are making them fail to perform their duties.

Madam Speaker, if you look at page 21 and 22, on the Police Service, you find that there is so much delay in the handling of cases from the police by the commission. You will see that promotions and confirmation of those acting in positions is not done on time and this leads to the de-motivation of officers. They are not able to do their jobs effectively.

Madam Speaker, I also want to refer to my constituency, it being rural. If you look at the welfare of police officers, they do not live in very conducive environments. Here is a police officer who is living in a thatched house, his life is at risk. You know, at times, people in rural set-ups can be funny. They can easily light up the house of a police officer. This is why the commission should make sure that the welfare of officers is well attended to.

Madam Speaker, how the commission is supposed to look at the welfare of the police officers when it comes to emoluments and allowances is not clearly cut. All these other legislations are ok, but when it comes to emoluments, there is no clarity. This is the critical point. These officers we are looking at cannot join any trade union or be in any association which can push for their conditions of service.

It should be made clear whether the commission is mandated to look into the welfare of officers. Your report, Madam Speaker, is very clear that the commission is not mandated to look into this aspect for officers. It is for this reason that I urge the Government to make it clear so that the welfare of officers is looked into. It is only when their conditions of service are worked on well can they be motivated to do their jobs in an effective manner.

Madam Speaker, one other issue I would also like to touch on is the difference in terms of ranking. As some of the speakers stated, you find that someone who just joins the service is promoted within two years over someone who has worked for twenty years. All these things de-motivate officers as they do their job. So, I urge the Government to look into the plight of these commissions in terms of funding so that they can do their jobs effectively. It is only when they are properly funded will we see them even executing their jobs in the rightful manner.

With these few words, Madam Speaker, I would like to support the Motion.

I thank you, Madam.

The Minister of Home Affairs and Internal Security (Mr Mwiimbu): Thank you, Madam Speaker, for giving me this opportunity to respond to issues that have been raised by my hon. Colleagues and your Committee.

Madam Speaker, first and foremost, I thank your Committee for a well-written report, and take note of its recommendations.

Madam Speaker, the Office of the Vice-President shall look at the various recommendations that have been made and also direct the hon. Minister of Home Affairs and Internal Security to look at issues that affect the ministry. You may not be aware, hon. Colleagues, but this report relates to the Zambia Correctional Service and the Zambia Police Service commissions. These commissions do not fall under the Ministry of Home Affairs and Internal Security; they fall under the Office of the President.

The various debates which were brought on the Floor of this House, it appears, were at cross purposes. Some of them were hinging on the operations of the Zambia Police Service and the Zambia Correctional Service, per se. The Zambia Police Service and the Zambia Correctional Service have their own conditions of service and have a way they are managed by the Government.

The Constitution of the Republic of Zambia, Madam Speaker, under Article 221 relating to Article 225 and Article 226, is very instructive. The Zambia Police Service and the Zambia Correctional Service have no mandate to determine the conditions of service for the Zambia Police Service officers and the Zambia Correctional Service officers.

Madam Speaker, I am happy to note that your Committee has noted this and made a recommendation that in future, and at an appropriate time, amendments be made to the law to allow the two commissions to determine the conditions of service. However, it should also be noted that all other service commissions that fall under the Government do not determine conditions of service, Madam Speaker. That should be noted. However, having heard my hon. Colleagues and the comments that were made by the Committee, I would like to respond as follows: We are aware of the deplorable office space that is being occupied by the two commissions, Madam Speaker. The Government of the Republic of Zambia is looking into this issue. In due course, suitable accommodation will be found.

Madam Speaker, the Treasury has been engaged to look at adequate funding pertaining to the operations of the two service commissions. We are also aware that the two commissions do not have vehicles. In the interim, however, the Zambia Police Service and the Zambia Correctional Service have made some gestures where they have provided transport for the two commissions.

The Zambia Correctional Service Secretariat, Madam Speaker, will be fully functional once Treasury authority is obtained. As you are aware, this Zambia Correctional Service Commission was part of the Zambia Police Service Commission. It is a recently established service commission.

Madam Speaker, we have noted the recommendations that have been made pertaining to the rankings of officers in various provinces. These are within the domain of the service commissions themselves. They will be able to determine and resolve them.

Madam Speaker, we have also been informed about the issue of Information Technology (IT) situations in the two commissions. I wish to inform this House that computers were purchased for the use of the two service commissions. We are also devolving the functions of the two service commissions to districts. I am aware that the two service commissions have made tours to provinces and have started establishing committees at district level to look at the plight of officers who have been complaining for a long time that they are not considered for promotion.

Madam Speaker, with those few remarks, I would like to assure this august House that the Office of the hon. Minister of Home Affairs and Internal Security will look at these issues thoroughly and make a comprehensive response to your Committee in the Action-Taken Report.

Madam Speaker, I would like to urge my hon. Colleagues to support the report of your Committee.

I thank you, Madam Speaker.

Hon. Government Members: Hear, hear!

Mr Shakafuswa: Thank you, Madam Speaker. On behalf of your Committee and, indeed, on my own behalf, I wish to thank all hon. Members who have debated in support of your Committee’s report. Allow me to acknowledge Hon. Golden Mwila, Hon. Brenda Nyirenda, Hon. Stephen Kampyongo, Hon. Clement Andeleki and Hon. Kabaso Kampampi for raising very critical issues which cannot be overemphasised.

Madam Speaker, I also wish to thank the Acting Leader of Government Business in the House, Hon. Jack Mwiimbu, for acknowledging the work of your Committee and the contents of your report. The timely implementation of the recommendations made by your Committee will lead to a dedicated and motivated force of our men and women in uniform.

I thank you, Madam Speaker.

Question put and agreed to.

COMMITTEE ON HEALTH, COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT AND SOCIAL SERVICES

Dr Kalila (Lukulu East): Madam Speaker, I beg to move that the House now do adopt the report of the Committee of Health, Community Develop and Social Services for the First Session of the Thirteenth National Assembly which was laid on the Table of the House on 16^th June, 2022.

Madam Speaker: Is the Motion seconded?

Mr Chibombwe (Bahati): Madam Speaker, I beg to second the Motion.

Dr Kalila: Madam Speaker, in accordance with the terms of reference that govern the operations of these committees, the Committee on Health, Community Development and Social Services, for this session did consider a topical issue, namely Pharmaceutical Manufacturing in Zambia: Challenges and Opportunities. To put it very simply, we looked at the subject matter of manufacturing or making medicines ourselves in this country.

Madam Speaker, the background to this inquiry is that the local pharmaceutical manufacturing industry in Zambia is very small, accounting only for about 1.5 per cent of all the medicines that are consumed in Zambia. In other words, there are roughly around 8,154 medical products on the Zambian market and out of these, only 123 are made in Zambia, as of June 2022. So, this means that the bulk of the medicine that is consumed in Zambia is imported mainly from India, South Africa, Europe and East Africa.

Madam Speaker, the implication of this sad state of affairs is that the bulk of our drug budget will be spent on importing medicines from outside Zambia. Our budget currently is estimated by the Ministry of Health at K2.6 billion for the year 2022. If we add K700, it comes to K3.3 billion, as the hon. Minister can confirm later. As you are aware, we already approved the budget.

Madam Speaker, the need for a home grown pharmaceutical industry cannot be over emphasised. The case in point is the difficulty that the world experienced at the height of the Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) Pandemic. We are all aware that the lockdowns and the severe restrictions in movement, including in the manufacturing hubs of India and China, impacted negatively on the global supply chain of essential medicines and, of course, Zambia was not an exception. As a result, many countries of the world, Zambia included, faced disruptions in the supply chain of commodities and vaccines. This is what underscores the importance, therefore, of having a thriving locally or home grown pharmaceutical industry. Not only that, but it also shortens the lead time that it takes for medicines to arrive in the country. You could be aware that up until now, we are still waiting for some of the medicines, particularly the health centre kits, which are yet to arrive and will do a lot to improve the situation.

Madam Speaker, premised on the above, your Committee interacted with several stakeholders who tendered both oral and written submissions before it in the quest to appreciate the challenges that players in this industry face, as well as the quality and availability of medicines and medical supplies in public health institutions.

Madam Speaker, your Committee toured selected pharmaceutical companies in this country and also some selected public health institutions in Lusaka Province, the Central Province and Copperbelt Province. The Committee further took a foreign tour to the Republic of Tanzania in order to bench mark what was happening there and here with the view of learning some best practices and sharing experiences on the challenges and opportunities faced in local manufacturing.

Madam Speaker, your Committee’s findings are outlined in the report, which I assume hon. Members have read. Therefore, I will just highlight a few points by way of recommendations and observations.

Observations

The Committee observes with concern that the National Drug Policy of 1999 is out of date and does not take into account modern trends in the local manufacturing industry. There is, therefore, need to review this policy. We urge the Executive to review it in order to enhance the provisions supporting local manufacturing as well as ensure that they are responsive to the current and future local manufacturing needs.

Madam Speaker, the Committee also observes with concern that the development of the local pharmaceutical manufacturing sector is undermined by high taxes which are charged on pharmaceutical raw materials. It is actually cheaper to import a tin of Panadol than to make it locally. If you make it locally, it is more expensive than that which is imported. It means that it makes sense for people not to enter this industry. They would rather sit back and just import the products. So, we are recommending that the Government takes some steps to reduce duty or do away with them, particularly on active pharmaceutical ingredients, which is the practice in many other countries.

Your Committee, is, therefore, concerned also that the pricing of the end product of the locally manufactured pharmaceutical products is higher than imported products, forcing pharmaceutical companies to import and distribute pharmaceutical products rather than make them locally as this proves to be cost effective. It is in this regard that your Committee urges the Government to provide incentives such as Value Added Tax (VAT) waivers and exemptions on duty on inputs for the local manufacturing industry in order to ensure that we have products that are safe, of quality and are affordable.

Madam Speaker, the House may further wish to note that the pharmaceutical industry also lacks a market guarantee for its finished products as evidenced by the huge amount of money the Government spends on the importation of products such as US$260 million in 2020. Therefore, in order to guarantee the market for locally produced pharmaceutical companies, the Committee urges the Government to:

    (a)    ring fence funds specifically for procurement of local pharmaceutical products and revise the

           implementation of framework contracts to put them in line with the National Drug Policy, which prescribes

           preferential procurement towards local companies;

    (b)   emulate the Republic of Tanzania by putting in place a deliberate policy to ensure that local

          pharmaceutical products that meet the local market demand are protected from imports by way of import

          duty for those that are brought in of a similar standard;

Your Committee also recommends that we make it compulsory for our health centre kits to contain locally manufactured products so as to afford business to local companies.

Madam Speaker, your Committee also dealt with the issue of delayed payments to local pharmaceutical companies. By the way, they are only four of them that are active. In fact, out of these four, only three are actively manufacturing and the other one is just pre-packing.

Madam Speaker, in conclusion, I wish to thank to the Clerk of the National Assembly for the guidance and support that was rendered to the Committee in producing this brief report which was posted on the website and most of the details can be found in this report.

Madam Speaker, I thank you and beg to move.

Madam Speaker: Does the seconder wish to speak now or later?

Mr Chibombwe: Madam Speaker, I wish to speak now.

Madam Speaker, thank you very much for giving the good people of Bahati the opportunity to second the Motion on the Floor of the House.

Madam Speaker, let me begin by thanking the mover of the Motion, Hon. Dr. Christopher Kalila, your Committee Chairperson. I must state that I thank him for his leadership.

Madam Speaker, the mover has ably highlighted the issues that were deliberated upon by your Committee. The mover of the Motion has articulated well the views of your Committee on this Motion. Therefore, allow me to give a few comments on what caught my attention.

Madam Speaker, your Committee observes that the country highly depends on imports of medicines and medical supplies. More than 95 per cent of medicines and medical supplies on the Zambian market are imported.

Madam Speaker, the effect of this is that the country has no control on the quality of drugs and medical supplies that come into the country. I was shocked that when I visited a certain facility. The type of surgical gloves I saw was like those in some restaurants.

Madam Speaker, the continuous importation of drugs into the country has led our people receiving old generic medicines when in other countries there are actually modern generic medicines.

Madam Speaker, the time that it takes to bring in medicines is so long. At times, it takes about six months to ship medicines from abroad into the country. The Ministry of Health issued a statement that the ministry had bought thousands of health kits. These health kits, according to the information from the Zambia Medicines and Medical Supplies Agency (ZAMSA) will be in the country sometime in October. Had these health kits been produced locally, it would have been a different story.

Madam Speaker, your Committee observes that Zambia has much potential, opportunity and a ready market for pharmaceutical products owing to its geographical location. In this regard, your Committee urges the Executive to go into joint ventures with some of these multinational pharmaceutical companies. Your Committee further urges even the Industrial Development Corporation (IDC) to partner or invest and form joint ventures with existing pharmaceutical manufacturing companies. This is actually provided for under the ZAMSA Act No.9 of 2019.

Madam Speaker, allow me to address the issue of human resource development. Your Committee notes with concern that the country lacks skilled personnel in the pharmaceutical manufacturing industry. Pharmaceutical industries that your Committee visited submitted that they are actually importing skilled personnel from abroad or outside the country. Therefore, the Committee urges the Executive to train people in industrial pharmacy, which I think we are not offering at our universities, and other relevant skills. Our citizens also lack strategic management skills in the pharmaceutical industry.

Madam Speaker, your Committee further urges the Executive to facilitate scholarships for those of our citizens who want to study industrial pharmacy as this will help the Executive to set up local pharmaceutical industries.

Madam Speaker, let me quickly address the issue of research and development. The local pharmaceutical manufacturers visited are doing a bit of research and development. However, your Committee notes that there is inadequate capacity for research and development in this country.

Madam Speaker, investment in state-of-the-art laboratory and research facilities continues to lag behind in this country. Your Committee visited the Tropical Diseases Research Centre (TDRC) in Ndola, and urges the Government or actually pleads with the Executive to increase funding to the TDRC and the National Institute for Scientific Research (NISIR), especially concerning home grown formulae.

Madam Speaker, there are a number of our citizens who are coming up with home grown formulae, but there is no funding for those innovations. I have in mind a certain gentleman, a wise man from the east, that had a formula which he claimed could cure HIV/AIDS. I submitted it before the TDRC. The first analysis was good. Sadly, by the time the TDRC mobilised resources, it was discovered that the man had passed away. He had gone with his gold formula to the grave.

Madam Speaker, the TDRC now is looking at the Sondashi 2000 formula. The first clinical trials have been carried out by the TDRC which is waiting to do the second clinical trials.

Madam Speaker, the fear we have is that – the Executive should fund the TDRC. I do not wish Dr Sondashi anything bad, but he is aging. So, we are urging the Executive to, please, quickly fund the TDRC so that it can finalise the clinical trials on the Sondashi 2000 formula.

Madam Speaker, to conclude, allow me to thank you for your good guidance. I also thank the Clerk of the National Assembly and her staff for the invaluable support that was given to this Committee.

Madam Speaker, with these few remarks, I wish to second the Motion.

I thank you, Madam Speaker.

Mr Fube (Chilubi): Madam Speaker, I would like to appreciate the mover and the seconder of this Motion for this elaborate report that includes many parts, apart from just the situation in the country as regards medicine.

Madam Speaker, allow me to state that –

Madam Speaker: Order!

Business was suspended at 1640 hours until 1700 hours.

[MADAM SPEAKER in the chair]

Mr Fube: Madam Speaker, before business was suspended, I was appreciating the report of your Committee on Health, Community Development and Social Services and, in the interest of time, many other factors that come with it.

Madam Speaker, I want to firstly recognise that the National Health Policy promotes an environment for local production of pharmaceutical products. As I recognise that, I want to note what was ably tackled by the mover of the Motion when he gave an array of information on the register of the Zambia Medicine Regulatory Authority (ZMRA) which indicated that out of the registered medicines we have in the country, 8,154 are sourced from outside. We only have control of 123 medicines, which is quite a sad picture as regards pharmaceutical products.

Madam Speaker, I would like to acknowledge that due to such a scenario, we have had a debt burden in terms of imported drugs to a tune of K3 billion. Recently, we saw that from this year’s allocation, the Ministry of Health released about K2 billion towards mitigating the situation and part of it went towards the payments of that debt.

Madam Speaker, I want to indicate that the environment was provided, somehow, by what the previous regime did, especially by replacing the Pharmaceutical Act No. 14 of 2004 with the Medicines and Allied Substances Act No.3 2013. That means an environment had been provided. Alas, that environment has not been utilised. As your Committee reported, from ten companies we now have seven and, out of those, only four are active in terms of manufacturing, which still is an uphill battle.

Madam Speaker, these figures may look so innocent, but they are not because they border on the morbidity and mortality rates for both non-communicable and communicable diseases that we may face as a country.

Madam Speaker, what I am implying is that the shortage of medicines, as a result of not having a robust pharmaceutical local industry, is going to increase the disease and fatality burdens.

Madam Speaker, your Committee rightly put it that one of the reasons for the lack of a robust pharmaceutical industry is the inadequacy of the National Drug Policy. I want to wholeheartedly agree with your Committee that, indeed, whereas the Medicines and Allied Substances Act No. 3 of 2013 has created an environment, the National Drug Policy, as it stands, takes away what the Act has created as a legal framework. Such a scenario has to be addressed if at all we have to be in control of our own pharmaceutical products, especially that we have also just tried to export to the tune of US$140,000, if I am not mistaken. We were expecting to go up to about US$200,000 or more, which is still not a good scenario.

Madam Speaker, your Committee also addressed community aspects, especially the Public Welfare Assistance Scheme (PWAS), women empowerment programmes, and many others, including girls’ education under the Keeping Girls in School (KGS) Programme.

Madam Speaker, before I go further, allow me to say the President has really talked about depoliticising the environment of development in the country. I will do a disservice and be unfair to myself, if I do not acknowledge what the hon. Minister of Community Development and Social Welfare has done, particularly in Chilubi, especially in interfacing. Some of the committees like the Community Welfare Assistance Committees (CWACs) were politicised, specifically by the United Party for National Development (UPND). However, she came in and intervened, although some of our colleagues think that this is a way of political mobilisation. I acknowledge that the hon. Minister did a good thing.

Madam Speaker, when we talk about the Zambia Integrated Social Protection Information System (ZISPIS), it is a system that should spell out social justice issues. This means that everybody who qualifies to be eligible under the vulnerability scale should be captured and in all categories.

Madam Speaker, we have seen that the girl child, especially the vulnerable girl child, deserves more through social safety nets of this country. This is so especially in our boarding schools in rural areas where girls do not have safe houses where they can get some housing of some sort which can keep them away from early pregnancy. When we score in that area, we will be saying the enrolment, retention and progression rates match the rate that we desire as a country. At the end of the day, we want a girl child to become another Speaker and we would appreciate that girl coming from Chilubi; that would be very much appreciated.

Madam Speaker, as I end my debate, I would like to state –

Madam Speaker: Order!

The hon. Member’s time expired.

Mr Kampyongo (Shiwang’andu): Madam Speaker, thank you for giving me this opportunity to make a few comments on this very important report which has been moved for adoption by Hon. Dr Kalila and seconded by his Vice-Chairperson.

Madam Speaker, indeed, the manufacturing of pharmaceutical products is important. However, it is worrisome to see the report of your Committee highlight the number of products that we are importing against those that we manufacture locally. I think the discussion at Southern African Development Community (SADC) level is such that countries encourage investment in the local production of different pharmaceutical products so that across member States, there could be some trade which could then boost the SADC region in terms of the health of our people.

Madam Speaker, I am happy that in your report, a tool called the SADC Pool Procurement Service has been highlighted. This is a very important tool drawing membership, for now, from only three member States which have been highlighted here as being Tanzania, Comoros and Seychelles. These countries have gone ahead because of the investment that has gone into production.

Madam Speaker, your Committee has shared with us how it found a pharmaceutical company in Tanzania manufacturing masks; simple things like this (pointing at his mask) on which we are spending so much money to import. We should start looking inwards. These countries have taken the lead and we have seen that other countries like Botswana, Namibia, Malawi and Mozambique have indicated their willingness to join. They have illustrated –

Interruptions

Madam Speaker: Order!

Your whispers at the back can reach the Chair.

Proceed, hon. Member.

Mr Kampyongo: Madam Speaker, your report has gone on to illustrate how much money is being saved by using this tool in facilitating trade in so far as medical products are concerned. This is where we should be going. These are the recommendations that we should not allow to go to dust, otherwise we will be going around in circles. We need so much in terms of dollars to import drugs, but if we can cut down, that would be the way to go.

Madam Speaker, I am equally saddened by this development that is highlighted at page 20 of your report. Whilst your Committee has bemoaned the lack of investment in the production of pharmaceuticals, we have a few pharmaceutical companies that have invested in production. There should be a deliberate policy to support the survival of these companies.

Madam Speaker, look at the scenario that the Chairperson of this Committee cited, the coming of the Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19). I must confess that it was a nightmare even for us who were in the Government then to think of how we were going to get medicines in hospitals and help our people survive that difficult challenge. So, with such scenarios, it becomes critical that we start to look inwards. When we have a few companies that have invested, we should support them.

Madam Speaker, I would like the hon. Minister to take interest in one particular manufacturing company, which your Committee has reported about in the Central Province. The report says that this company is manufacturing what is called intravenous fluids or drips. I am told it is the only company that is manufacturing these products. At the time your Committee visited this company, it was still owed K260 million by the Government from 2020. What is worse for this company is that it has stocks of these same products which have a shelf life of three years.

Madam Speaker, as if that outstanding debt is not enough, it cannot supply the stock it has. This company is called the International Drug Company and I am meant to believe it employs people who work for it, apart from the very critical products it produces.

Madam Speaker, if such companies are not supported, who is going to be encouraged to start an investment to manufacture other products when they are not guaranteed the market? The only market that will be sustainable for any meaningful manufacturing is the Government. Most of our health facilities are run by the Government. So, the hon. Minister should take keen interest in some of these very important companies and see how she can help them to survive because their investment is life saving.

Madam Speaker, going further in encouraging the hon. Minister to take keen interest in this, she should also see how some of her pharmaceuticals that are in the supply chain and who have been helping her Government can be assisted. There are very few pharmaceutical companies that can give products on credit. So, it is very important that those who she has in the chain that she can keep surviving are made to agree to terms. The Government is a going concern, and so, if the terms that they were engaged on previously have issues, she should deal with those issues so that we do not make companies close down.

Madam Speaker, my dear colleague, who is in charge of the Ministry of Small and Medium Enterprise Development would like to see small-scale companies also go into the these pharmaceutical products. They can only be encouraged if those that are already in existence are supported and are surviving and breaking even.

Madam Speaker, the hon. Minister should look at ways of dealing with the bottlenecks, but also ensure that she supports the local manufacturing industry so that we can eventually end up in this SADC pool where we can be trading with other SADC countries and get our people medical products that are efficacious and effective to heal so many diseases.

I thank you, Madam Speaker.

Mr Mwambazi (Bwana Mkubwa): Madam Speaker, I thank the mover of the Motion, Hon. Dr Kalila, who is also the Chairperson of the Committee.

Madam Speaker, the pharmaceutical industry is a multimillion-dollar industry. As such, it is important that our local pharmaceutical companies participate in it effectively. Let me also make mention that it is very important that we provide adequate incentives to this industry for it to survive. A healthy nation is a productive nation. That entails that if we do not support the pharmaceutical industry, especially the local one in this country, it cannot provide the adequate amount of medicines needed in this country.

Madam Speaker, our nation is a growing nation and the economy is growing, hence, an opportunity for local manufacturing pharmaceutical industries to benefit from the increase in population as well as the economy.

Madam Speaker, we have companies like Melcome Pharmaceutical, Pharmanova and Yash Pharmaceuticals which are some of the local pharmaceutical companies able to produce Panadol and other medicines. Just like other industries are incentivised, it is important that the pharmaceutical industry also has incentives for it to progress and help in the growth of the economy.

Madam Speaker, let me also comment on the issue of the budget increase in the Ministry of Health from KI.2 billion in 2021 to K2.7 billion in 2022. That entails an opportunity for the local manufacturing industry in pharmaceutical products. However, we have seen that most of the medicines are imported. So, it entails that we are not increasing the budget for the locals to benefit, but the outsiders. Even in the midst of a tight fiscal space, the Government spends money on medicines.

Madam Speaker, if we did help the pharmaceutical industry through incentives and the reform of polices such as the National Drug Policy to ensure that they helped, then these funds would be kept within the country and would bring development because our people would benefit.

Madam Speaker, let me also comment on the National Drug Policy and how the pharmaceutical industry can be helped in order to ensure that the locals, in turn, benefit, as we are talking about helping the locals. How do we do that? It is to ensure that we relook at the policy framework for this industry. Let us make it speak to ensuring that our locals are protected because this country belongs to local Zambians.

Madam Speaker, let me also comment on the issue of the long lead time for the importation of drugs. If we import drugs from the United States of America (USA) or India, the lead time for shipping is a bit longer as opposed to buying medicines locally. In the end, the shelve life of some of these medicines is shortened because when the drugs are shipped to Zambia, there is a long lead time. That also has a major impact on the supplies in the sense that when these medicines are distributed again in far flung district hospitals, within a short period of time, some of them tend to expire.

Madam Speaker, the Committee has raised many concerns, some opportunities and deliberate policies which have been put in place by the Government to ensure that local manufacturing pharmaceutical companies are helped. However, these policies are not enough. They can be relooked at to ensure that there is total benefit for local pharmaceutical companies.

Madam Speaker, with those few remarks, I thank you and support the report.

Mr Nkulukusa (Katuba): Madam Speaker, I would like to thank you very much for giving the people of Katuba the opportunity to support the Motion moved by Hon. Dr Kalila, the Chairperson of your Committee, and seconded by Hon. Chibombwe.

Madam Speaker, I would like to look at three things that this report really brings out and that are critical to the growth of the economy. As the New Dawn Government looks at the transformation of the economy, as envisaged in the Eighth National Development Plan (8NDP), you will note that health becomes a critical issue that will steer this developmental agenda.

Madam Speaker, pharmaceutical manufacturing is a triple sword to the economy. Firstly, we have seen how much money is spent on the importation of drugs, and we all know that if these resources were spent inwards, they would tilt the balance of payment and, hence, contribute positively to the economic growth of the country.

Madam Speaker, secondly, this sector has a massive potential to employ a number of people. It is actually one of the greatest employers because it is labour intensive, especially when it comes to the operation of machinery and packaging of pharmaceutical products. 

Madam Speaker, if you look at the issue of how we are going to invest more in the knowledge sector of this area, especially in the production of drugs, many tertiary education institutions are going to invest heavily and more youths will be educated to give the country the competitive advantage so that we can be one of the biggest manufactures of drugs in the region.

Madam Speaker, thirdly, is the strategic positioning that this country has. If we grow this sector of manufacturing drugs, we will be able to export to neighbouring countries and beyond. This becomes a revenue earner and gives the country the needed foreign exchange. However, we need to galvanise and give these incentives that the pharmaceutical industry needs in order for it to become competitive. It is true that, because of the economies of scale, if we look at only supplying some of the drugs in the country with a low population without looking at the region as a whole, it becomes costly because many countries like India and China that are into this sector have huge economies of scale that reduce the cost of production hence, we see that, sometimes, it tends to look cheaper to import than to manufacture. However, if we build capacity and grow the economies of scale, we will see that we will bring the cost of production down and become the net exporter of these pharmaceutical products in the region.

Madam Speaker, last, but not least, I want to look at the deliberate effort that we must put, especially in the field of training. I know that to make this industry blossom and competitive, we need a lot of labour which is supposed to be skilled. So, we need to build this capacity and ensure that we target certain training institutions to graduate a number of skilled people in order to ensure that the industry can employ and continue to produce drugs competitively. Without labour which is cost effective, it will remain costly and we will still struggle to export.

Madam Speaker, in a nutshell, I would like to thank the Chairperson for bringing this report which highlights the challenges and also gives hope. Part of the pillars of economic diversification is to ensure that the country is healthy. One of the strategic agenda items of the New Dawn Government is to ensure a healthy nation that is going to contribute to the growth of the economy.

Madam Speaker, with these few words, I stand to second the Motion.

Mr C. M. Mpundu (Chembe): Madam Speaker, this issue of having local manufacturing pharmaceutical companies cannot be over emphasised. When we talk of industrialisation, these are the areas that we need to look at. You agree with me that though the Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) has come with its own devastating impact on our society, it has also taught us lessons.

Madam Speaker, when certain calamites or epidemics happen, everyone is on their own, to some extent. It is for this reason that industrialisation should focus on this area of health.

Madam Speaker, developing countries like Zambia need industrialisation of the health sector in this manner because, as much as it comes with the technological aspect, it also is labour-intensive. This trickles down to the needed employment for our youths. This could help us have a healthy nation and trickle down to a productive nation. At the same time, it could also trickle down to the reduction of poverty because of those people who could get employed in such avenues.

Madam Speaker, industrialisation turns around things quicker than anything else. If we rely on trading so much, we are killing ourselves. The big issue that we need to underline is that the Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) has taught us lessons. Even now, we are struggling with it. So, I do not need to belabour this point. All I wanted was to remind ourselves, as a country at large, that we should not forget about what happened or what is still happening with the COVID-19.

Madam Speaker, in a nutshell, industrialisation in the pharmaceutical industry is the only way to go because with climate change at play, we do not know what will come tomorrow. We will be running up and down.

I thank you, Madam Speaker.

Madam Speaker: We have not heard from the hon. Member for Mansa for a long time.

Dr Chilufya (Mansa Central): Madam Speaker, thank you very much for the rare privilege to contribute in support of the –

Dr Chilufya was inaudible.

Madam Speaker: You are breaking. I do not know whether it is the network. Are you within –

Laughter

Madam Speaker: I will leave it at that.

Dr Chilufya: Madam Speaker, I appreciate the opportunity to debate in support of the report of the Committee on Health, Community Development and Social Services tabled on the Floor of the House by Hon. Dr Kalila, Chairperson of the Committee on Health, Community Development and Social Services, and seconded by Hon. Chibombwe.

Madam Speaker, the mover highlights among other health system deficits a critical pillar of a resilient health system: The supply chain of medicines and allied medical products.

Madam Speaker, our aspiration as a nation for universal health coverage in pursuit of a healthy nation will amount to nought if we do not fix the supply chain for medicines and allied products. We need to ensure that we address, wholesomely, the aspect of the supply chain of medicines.

Madam Speaker, the highlight that has been picked by the mover, that is, local manufacturing of drugs, is vital for not only economic development, but to ensure that we have health security.

Madam Speaker, the importance of producing drugs locally will be explained as follows: One, you create jobs; two, the management of framework contracts is eased as you can place orders very quickly and get the results very quickly in terms of deliverables and in terms of the drugs; and three, Madam Speaker, you also stem capital flight as you are able to pay suppliers locally and keep the resources within the local economy.

Madam Speaker, promoting local manufacturing of drugs entails that we protect the local manufacturers. We need to safeguard local manufacturers by highlighting a list of medical products and medicines that could be provided or produced locally. We need to ensure that we provide incentives for those suppliers.

Madam Speaker, as I talk about local manufacturing, I emphasise the need for timely placement of orders in order for us to avert stock-outs. The procurement of drugs is done in a manner that entails a number of technical steps and, therefore, we need to ensure that we place the orders timeously and get the products into the supply chain on time.

Madam Speaker, this also summons the Ministry of Finance and National Planning to the imperative of releasing resources timeously. We will not succeed in ensuring that we have drugs on the shelves consistently if we do not manage to pay our suppliers on time. We have accrued a huge debt on drugs, by and large, because you do not suspend procurement of medicines because there are no resources as that would result in the death of pregnant women who require certain medicines during management of labour. It would also entail death of children who require certain medicines as they suffer common ailments. Madam Speaker, it is important that funding to the health sector is not only prioritised, but also enhanced and released on time.

Madam Speaker, I will quickly conclude by emphasising that this critical component of the health system called the supply chain requires that we invest in human capital that is able not only to support manufacturing itself, but also with the ability to manage the logistic supply chain.

Madam Speaker, our universities that we have established now train pharmacists and logisticians locally. It is important to create partnerships with the private sector which does manufacturing of medicines so that industrial pharmacists can be produced locally. We have invested in a number of pharmacists who have trained abroad and are able to train colleagues locally.

So, I urge the Government to continue the management of the supply chain and ensure that pharmacovigilance and pharmacokinetics are also enhanced.

Madam Speaker, the report, on page 16, brings out one critical component where your Committee highlights its satisfaction with the quality of the drugs that it found as it did its rounds. It is fulfilling to note that the medicines that were supplied in health facilities, as picked by your Committee, were of high quality.

Madam Speaker, I support this report and urge the Ministry of Finance and National Planning to release resources timeously for the supply chain of medicines so that we can support the provision of high quality and efficacious drugs to all citizens as we pursue universal health coverage.

Madam Speaker, I thank you.

The Minister of Small and Medium Enterprise Development (Mr Mubanga) (on behalf of the Minister of Finance and National Planning (Dr Musokotwane)): Thank you, Madam Speaker, for giving me, as the Acting hon. Minister of Finance and National Planning, this opportunity.

Madam Speaker, I commend your Committee on Health, Community Development and Social Services for the detailed report that has been tabled before this House for consideration and action. There are challenges that have been highlighted in the report and I will single out the high taxes for local pharmaceutical manufacturing.

Your Committee has recommended that the Government should provide incentives such as Value Added Tax (VAT) waivers and exemptions on duty on inputs of drugs and packaging materials in order to encourage the local manufacturing of quality, safe and affordable essential medicines.

Madam Speaker, your Committee may wish to note that the Treasury is currently conducting consultations and formulating revenue policies for the 2023 Budget and the 2023-2025 Medium Term Expenditure Framework (MTEF) which will enhance revenue collection while promoting our development agenda. In this regard, the Treasury is in the process of reviewing the already existing taxes on local pharmaceutical manufacturing.

Madam Speaker, I would like to emphasise or rather encourage companies that are in this sector, that at this stage, when the ministry is looking into the next budget and consulting, they must come forward and engage with the Ministry of Finance and National Planning so that we can look at their challenges, table them and look at them so that we can come to an agreement to encourage local manufacturing.

Madam Speaker, in conclusion, the Government takes note of the recommendations highlighted in the report. A detailed update of responses to the recommendations will be availed to the Committee.

I thank you, Madam Speaker.

The Minister of Health (Mrs Masebo): Madam Speaker, from the outset, allow me to thank you for giving me this opportunity to make a few comments on the report of the Committee on Health, Community Development and Social Services. As per established practice and procedure, my ministry will submit a comprehensive Action Taken Report.

Madam Speaker, in general, I agree with the observations and recommendations made by your Committee, which I have taken note of.

Madam Speaker, the objective of the study that was undertaken by your Committee has provided us with a better appreciation of the factors impending the growth of the local pharmaceutical manufacturing industry, and the implementation of the recommendations made by your Committee will enrich the resolve by the Government to provide resilience in our in-country supply chain through the promotion of the local manufacturing industry.

 

Madam Speaker, as indicated in the report, the House may wish to note that there are ten registered pharmaceutical manufacturing companies in Zambia, seven of which are undertaking full manufacturing while three are involved in repackaging of finished pharmaceutical products. The growth of the local pharmaceutical manufacturing sector in Zambia has, indeed, remained stagnant due to a combination of factors such as:

     (a)  access to affordable finance;

     (b)  access to technology; and

     (c)  appropriate policies and incentives

Madam Speaker, allow me to briefly give my specific comments on the recommendations made by your Committee.

Madam Speaker, on the review of policy in order to enhance provisions supporting local manufacturing needs, the Government, through the ministry and with support from partners, has commenced the process of revising the National Drug Policy, the National Health Policy and the National Health Research Policy in order to provide policy measures aimed at addressing some of the concerns which have been raised in your Committee’s report.

Madam Speaker, secondly, regarding provisions of incentives such as Value Added Tax (VAT) waivers and exemptions on duty on inputs for drugs, the Government, through the Ministry of Health and working closely with other line ministries, especially Finance and National Planning, Commerce and Trade and industry and Ministry of Small and Medium Enterprise Development and other key stakeholders, will facilitate the review of the current tariff structures with the objective of improving incentives that relate to local pharmaceutical manufacturing industry. I am grateful to the hon. Minister of Finance and National Planning who gave an assurance to the House that come 2023, some of the concerns regarding VAT will be favourably considered.

As regards ring-fencing funds for the procurement of local pharmaceutical products, the Government has established the Medicines and Medical Supplies Fund under Zambia Medicines and Medical Supplies Agency (ZAMSA), whose purpose is to procure medicines and medical supplies for public health facilities, thereby, creating an opportunity for procurement of locally manufactured medicines and medical supplies. In addition, the National Health Insurance Fund (NHIF) was created under Section 41 of the National Health Insurance Act No. 2 of 2018 to provide for payment for the cost of insured health care services accessed by members of the National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS). This fund also creates another opportunity for health facilities to procure locally manufactured medicines and medical supplies.

Madam Speaker, let me just also use this opportunity, again, to appeal to members of the public to understand that it does pay for them to subscribe to the National Health Insurance Management Authority (NHIMA). They will see that for members of the public who are accredited to NHIMA, even when they go to a hospital or a health facility and it does not have a particular drug, they will get a ... what do you call it?

Hon. UPND Member: Prescription!

Mrs Masebo: They will get a prescription, but that prescription does not necessarily mean that the drugs are not there. It simply means they will not get this particular drug in the internal pharmacy, but they can go to the out pharmacy and still find that drug. For certain diseases they may not find drugs in a particular health facility.

Mr Kampyongo: Question!

Mrs Masebo: So, you will find that sometimes, it does, in fact, not sometimes; it does always assist or help for people to accredit to NHIMA. So, instead of saying ‘question!’, I want to urge hon. Members to encourage their communities to subscribe to NHIMA. It helps and it pays.

Hon. UPND Members: Hear, hear!

Mrs Masebo: All of us in this House are accredited to NHIMA and when we get sick, we get supported. So, why can we also not tell our people and help them to be accredited.

Madam Speaker, on offsetting the huge debt owed to suppliers, the Ministry of Health is actively and systematically dismantling the outstanding debt through the Ministry of Finance and National Planning.

Madam Speaker, I want to say that recently, maybe a month or two weeks ago, the Ministry of Finance and National Planning released a K100 million to the Ministry of Health to help offset some of the debt that is accrued.

Madam Speaker, the recommendation is noted for ZAMRA to streamline the licensing and registration processes. However, the House may wish to note that in 2013, the Government facilitated the repeal of the Pharmaceutical Act No. 14 of 2004 and replaced it with the Medicines and Allied Substances Act No. 3 of 2013. One of the issues the Act aimed to address was the removal, which is streamlining, of unnecessary regulatory requirements so as to make the business environment for the local pharmaceutical industry conducive. In addition, the Act has provided for the period for processing the licences and has set a maximum period of three months after which an applicant is deemed to have been issued with a licence.

Madam Speaker, on the development of skilled human resource for the pharmaceutical sector, the House may wish to note that currently, the University of Zambia has enrolled the first ten Masters Students in Pharmaceutical Science and Manufacturing. This initiative will greatly contribute to closing up the human resource gap for the pharmaceutical industry in the long run.

As regards the enhancement of market access for locally manufactured medicines and medical supplies, the Government, through the Public Procurement Act No. 8, has provided for a structured procurement process that is aimed at supporting local suppliers and manufacturers. Through this provision, local manufacturers have the opportunity to benefit from this initiative.

Madam Speaker, the report by your Committee is timely and progressive and I support it. I thank all the hon. Members of Parliament who have ably contributed to this debate. We take note of what they have also emphasised, which basically was in line with the report.

I thank you, Madam Speaker.

Dr Kalila: Madam Speaker, I thank all hon. Members of Parliament who have participated in this very important discourse. I can see that we are all agreed, basically, in buttressing the point that we need a thriving local manufacturing industry for our medicines. Not only will it provide employment, as somebody already said, but it will also improve the lead time. In any case, as we are surrounded by eight countries, it can also provide an opportunity for exports and deal with some of the challenges we are facing in terms of stock-outs.

Madam Speaker, in summary, our recommendations are basically fourfold. The first one is to deal with the tax incentive because that is the greatest challenge the pharmaceutical industry is facing; it is the uneven or unfriendly environment in which they are operating.

Madam Speaker, the hon. Minister of Finance and National Planning has spoken to this and we are very grateful that he has seen the point and he is inviting the players to a round table discussion, particularly for the fact that the budget call is on now.

The second intervention is basically on market guarantees and preferential treatment. The policy framework is being reviewed; we have been assured, including human resource for health with the University of Zambia having taken the first step in training industrial pharmacists.

So, Madam Speaker, we are very grateful and we call upon all hon. Members of Parliament from now onwards to be advocates of a very strong thriving local pharmaceutical industry.

Thank you very much, Madam Speaker.

Hon. Members: Hear, hear!

Question put and agreed to.

______

BILL

HOUSE IN COMMITTEE

[THE CHAIRPERSON OF COMMITTEES in the

Chair]

THE JUDGES (CONDITIONS OF SERVICE) (Amendment) BILL, 2022

Clause 1 ordered to stand part of the Bill.

CLAUSE 2 – (Amendment of section 2)

Minister of Justice (Mr Haimbe): Madam Chairperson, I beg to move an amendment in clause 2, on page 3, in lines 6 to 9 by the deletion of paragraph (a) and the substitution therefor of the following:

(a)        deletion of the definitions of “emoluments” and “judge” and the susbstitution therefor of the following in the appropriate places in alphabetical order:

            “emoluments” has the meaning assigned to the word in the Constitution;; and

            “judge” has the meaning assigned to the word in the Constitution;

Mr Kafwaya (Lunte): Madam Speaker, I withdraw my intentions.

Amendment agreed to. Clause amended accordingly.

Clause 2, as amended, ordered to stand part of the Bill.

CLAUSE 3 – (Repeal and replacement of section 3)

Mr Haimbe: Madam Chairperson, I beg to move an amendment in clause 3, on page 3, in lines 16 to 18 by the deletion of clause 3 and the substitution therefor of the following:

(3)        There is paid to a judge emoluments that the Emoluments Commission shall, on the recommendation of the minister responsible for finance, determine.

Mr Kampyongo (Shiwang’andu): Madam Chairperson, thank you very much for giving me this opportunity to comment on the amendment which was circulated by the hon. Minister of Justice.

Madam Speaker, we want to place on record that, indeed, in as much as we would have loved to have the Judicial Service Commission (JSC) to be the authority, we appreciate the effort that the hon. Minister of Justice, together with the Government, have taken in heeding your report and the concerns which we raised with them. That is as it should be because we are not here to just oppose Motions without basis. So, we would like this spirit to continue. We can, then, collaborate as people’s representatives and legislators.

Madam Chairperson, I beg to support the amendment.

Mr Kafwaya: Madam Chairperson, I also want to acknowledge the hon. Minister of Justice for doing the right thing, which is to heed the recommendation of your Committee’s report and recommendations which came from various stakeholders who submitted in this process.

Madam Chairperson, the Patriotic Front (PF) Party, sitting on this side of the House, of course, together with several other hon. Members, some of them Independent and others belonging to other political parties, want the Government to listen to the submissions of the public, particularly, when that relates to things that concern them.

Madam Chairperson, I listened to one legal mind who told me that when you touch the two pillars of judicial independence, which are the conditions of service and the security of tenure for those who serve in judiciary, society would normally pay very heavily.

So, I think that was the concern. We thought that the President’s name was sitting inappropriately to be the one recommending compensation for judicial officers. While it is true that even the hon. Minister of Finance and National Planning is not good enough, at least, the hon. Minister’s effort should be commended.

Madam Chairperson, we just wanted to be clear that we appreciate the move that the hon. Minister has taken, even though it is not enough.

I thank you, Madam Chairperson.

Madam Chairperson: From what I heard, those were comments. Does the hon. Minister wish to comment as well?

Mr Haimbe: Madam Chairperson, briefly, again, let me just acknowledge the spirit with which we, the New Dawn Government, want to administer the affairs of the country. We must appreciate that partisan interests are not always the way to go. It is our hope and prayer that both sides of the House will appreciate this. Let me also reiterate that it is never the interest of the New Dawn Government to renege or reduce the provisions that ensure the separation of powers and the independence of the separate arms of the Government. From this point on, we pray that it shall be give and take in the House.

I thank you, Madam Chairperson.

Amendment agreed to. Clause amended accordingly.

Clause 3, as amended, ordered to stand part of the Bill.

Clause 4 ordered to stand part of the Bill

Title agreed to

_______

HOUSE RESUMED

[MADAM SPEAKER in the Chair]

The following Bill was reported to the House as having passed through Committee with amendments:

The Judges (Conditions of Service) (Amendment) Bill, 2022.

Report Stage on Friday, 24^th June, 2022.

_______

MOTION

ADJOURNMENT

The Minister of Home Affairs and Internal Security and Acting Leader of Government Business in the House (Mr Mwiimbu): Madam Speaker, I beg to move that the House do now adjourn.

Question put and agreed to.

_______

The House adjourned at 1807 hours until 0900 hours on Friday, 24^th June 2022.

____________