Wednesday, 17^th September, 2025

 

The House met at 1430 hours

 

[MADAM SPEAKER in the Chair]

 

NATIONAL ANTHEM

 

PRAYER

 

_______

 

ANNOUNCEMENTS BY MADAM SPEAKER

 

VISITORS FROM NAKAMBALA PRIVATE PRIMARY SCHOOL

 

Madam Speaker: Hon. Members, I wish to recognise the presence, in the Public Gallery, of pupils and teachers from Nakambala Private Primary School in Mazabuka District.

 

Hon. Members: Hear, hear!

 

Madam Speaker: On behalf of the National Assembly of Zambia, I warmly welcome our visitors into our midst.

 

 I thank you.

 

VISITORS FROM ROYGEO CHRISTIAN SCHOOL

 

Madam Speaker: Hon. Members, I wish to recognise the presence, in the Public Gallery, of pupils and teachers from Roygeo Christian School in Lusaka District.

 

Hon. Members: Hear, Hear!

 

Madam Speaker: On behalf of the National Assembly of Zambia, I warmly welcome our visitors into our midst.

 

I thank you.

 

_______

 

RULING BY MADAM SPEAKER

 

REPRIMAND BEFORE THE BAR OF THE HOUSE OF MR F. R. KAPYANGA, MP

 

Madam Speaker: Hon. Members, I order Mr F. R. Kapyanga, hon. Member of Parliament for Mpika Constituency, to go and stand behind the Bar of the House. I also instruct the Serjeant-At-Arms to take the Speaker’s Mace and go and stand behind the hon. Member.

 

Mr F. R. Kapyanga was escorted to the Bar by the Serjeant-At-Arms.

 

Madam Speaker: Hon. Members, I wish to inform the House that on Wednesday, 9^th July, 2025, my office received a letter of complaint from Dr C. Andeleki, hon. Member of Parliament for Katombola Constituency, against Mr F. R. Kapyanga, hon. Member of Parliament for Mpika Constituency, for remarks attributed to Mr F. R. Kapyanga, MP, published in the News Diggers newspaper, Issue No. 2031, dated Friday, 4^th July, 2025, under the headline:

 

“Stand as MP to debate freely, Kapyanga tells Speaker Mutti.”

 

Dr C. Andeleki, MP, asserted that in the detailed article by Mr Mwenya Mofya on page 6 of the paper, Mr F. R. Kapyanga, MP, was, among other things, quoted as accusing my office of bias against the Patriotic Front (PF) party Members of Parliament when presiding over the House. Dr C. Andeleki, MP, stated that Mr F. R. Kapyanga, MP, allegedly cited the following reasons for his assertions against my office:

 

1. I frequently shout at hon. Opposition Members of Parliament, regardless of how constructive or objective their contributions are;

 

1. I often rule hon. Opposition Members out of order or cut them off mid-speech, while allowing even trivial matters raised by ruling party Members to proceed; and

 

1.  I have failed to announce the rightful Leader of the Opposition despite receiving communication from the PF party.

 

Dr C. Andeleki, MP, further averred that Mr F. R. Kapyanga, MP, urged me to stand for election in 2026 so that I could freely participate in parliamentary debates. Dr C. Andeleki, MP, contended that Mr F. R. Kapyanga, MP’s, comments contravened section 19(d) of the National Assembly (Powers and Privileges) Act, Chapter 12 of the Laws of Zambia, and Order No. 220(2)(b) of the National Assembly of Zambia Standing Orders, 2024.

 

In line with parliamentary practice and procedure, and in accordance with the rules of natural justice, on Friday, 18^th July, 2025, the Office of the Clerk wrote to Mr F. R. Kapyanga, MP, to confirm whether the comments in the said article were correctly attributed to him. In response, Mr F. R. Kapyanga, MP, confirmed that the statement published in the News Diggers newspaper dated 4^th July, 2025, was correctly attributed to him. He alleged that he was summoned to my office over the matter earlier in the month, where he unreservedly apologised for his conduct. Further, he stated that he wished to officially extend his apology to me, the House and the nation for the contemptuous comments. On the same day, the Office of the Clerk wrote to the Editor-in-Chief of the News Diggers newspaper requesting the newspaper to confirm whether the statements alleged to have been made by Mr F. R. Kapyanga, MP, were correctly attributed to him. It is noteworthy that all attempts to get a response from News Diggers newspaper proved futile.

 

Hon. Members, the complaint by Dr C. Andeleki, MP, raises the issue of a Member committing contempt of the House by making statements that are disrespectful or reflect on the character or impartiality of the Speaker in the discharge of the Speaker’s duties.

 

In this regard, Section 19(d) and (e) of the National Assembly (Powers and Privileges) Act, Chapter 12 of the Laws of Zambia, provides that:

 

 “19. Any person shall be guilty of an offence who –

 

(d)     shows disrespect in speech or manner towards the Speaker; or

 

(e)     commits any other act of intentional disrespect to or with reference to the proceedings of the Assembly or of a committee of the Assembly or to any person presiding at such proceedings.”

 

Further, Standing Order No. 213(1) and (2) sets out the manner in which Members should conduct themselves, and states as follows:

 

“213. (1) A Member shall, at all times, conduct himself or herself in a manner that upholds the dignity, integrity and decorum of the House.

 

(2) A Member shall not act in a manner that brings the House or other Members generally into disrepute.”

 

Furthermore, Order No. 220(2)(b) of the National Assembly of Zambia Standing Orders, 2024, provides that:

 

“220 (2) In addition to instances under Section nineteen of the National Assembly (Powers and Privileges) Act, the following may constitute contempt of the House:

 

(b) a reflection on the character or impartiality of the Speaker in the discharge of the Speaker's duties;”

 

Additionally, eminent writers on parliamentary practice and procedure, S. L Shakdher and M. N Kaul, in their book entitled Practice and Procedure of Parliament, Seventh Edition, New Delhi, Lok Sabha, 2016, state at page 304, as follows:

 

“It is a breach of privilege and contempt of the House to make speeches, or to print or publish any libels, reflecting on the character or proceedings of the House or its committees. Speeches and writings reflecting on the House or its committees or members are punishable by the House as contempt on the principle that such acts ‘tend to obstruct the House in the performance of their functions by diminishing the respect due to them.’”

 

Further, Erskine May, in his book entitled Parliamentary Practice, Twenty-fourth Edition, at page 263, states:

 

“… reflections on the character of the Speaker or accusations of partiality in the discharge of his duties and similar charges against the Chair of ways and means … have attracted penal powers of the Commons.”

 

From the authorities cited above, it is clear that it is a breach of parliamentary privilege and contempt of the House for a Member to make statements that are demeaning and reflect negatively on the character and the impartiality of the Speaker.

 

Hon. Members, I referred the matter to the Committee on Privileges and Absences for consideration. The Committee met on Tuesday, 29^th July, 2025, to consider the matter. In this regard, three witnesses, namely Dr C. Andeleki, MP, Mr F. R. Kapyanga, MP and Mr Ulanda Nkomesha, Acting News Editor, News Diggers newspaper, appeared before the Committee. The submissions of the witnesses are set out below:

 

1. Dr C Andeleki, MP

 

Dr C. Andeleki, MP, confirmed that he was the author of the complaint against Mr F. R. Kapyanga, MP, filed to my office on 9^th July, 2025. He, therefore, placed reliance on his written complaint.

 

1. Mr Ulanda Nkomesha, Acting News Editor, News Diggers Newspaper

 

On behalf of News Diggers newspaper, Mr Nkomesha confirmed that the publication in the News Diggers newspaper Issue No. 2031, dated 4^th July, 2025, was correctly attributed to Mr F. R. Kapyanga, MP. He added that the publication was based on a recorded interview conducted by Mr Mofya from News Diggers with Mr F. R. Kapyanga, MP.

 

1. Mr F. R. Kapyanga, MP

 

Mr F. R. Kapyanga, MP, confirmed that the statements published in the News Diggers newspaper Issue No. 2031, dated 4^th July, 2025, were correctly attributed to him. He relied on his written submissions as contained in his letter to the Clerk, dated Monday, 21^st July, 2025.

 

Hon. Members, upon evaluating the matter, the Committee made the following observations:

 

1. based on Mr F. R. Kapyanga, MP’s own admission and the substantial evidence before the Committee, the statements published in News Diggers newspaper Issue No. 2031 of Friday, 4^th July, 2025, were correctly attributed to him;

 

1. the statements were disrespectful and impugned on the character and impartiality of the Speaker in the discharge of her duties, therefore, constituting a breach of privilege and contempt of the House; and

 

1. the remarks by Mr F. R. Kapyanga, MP, not only brought disrepute to the dignity of the Speaker, but also to the entire House.

 

In determining the appropriate punishment to be meted out to Mr F. R. Kapyanga, MP, the Committee considered that Mr F. R. Kapyanga, MP:

 

1. readily admitted the charge;

 

1. expressed remorse as evidenced by his unreserved apology; and

 

1. did not waste the Committee’s time.

 

Hon. Members, after deliberating on the aforementioned factors, the Committee resolved to recommend that Mr F. R. Kapyanga, MP, be directed to apologise to the Assembly, in line with Section 28(1)(d) of the National Assembly (Powers and Privileges) Act.

 

I note the Committee’s recommendation that Mr F. R. Kapyanga, MP, should apologise on the Floor of the House because he readily admitted the charge and he did not waste the Committee’s time. However, I also note that Mr F. R. Kapyanga, MP, did not offer any justifiable and reasonable explanation, both in his letter of response to the Clerk and during the Committee’s deliberations, for making remarks that impugned my character and impartiality in the discharge of my duties.

 

Hon. Members, it goes without saying that the hallmark of Speakership is impartiality. Therefore, considering the gravity of the statements made by Mr F. R. Kapyanga, MP, in public through the News Diggers newspaper, his failure to substantiate the statements, and the need to deter other Members from making such atrocious allegations, a stiffer punishment needs to be meted out. In this regard, I am of the considered view that Mr F. R. Kapyanga, MP, should instead be suspended for fourteen days. Therefore, in accordance with Section 28(2) of the National Assembly (Powers and Privileges) Act, I now put the question.

 

Interruptions

 

Madam Speaker: It is time to make the decision. It is the House that makes the decision.

 

Hon. PF Members called for a division.

 

Question that the House accordingly suspends Mr F. R. Kapyanga, MP, for a period of fourteen days with effect from Wednesday, 17^th September, 2025, to Tuesday, 30^th September, 2025, put and the House voted.

 

Ayes – (60)

 

Mr Amutike

Mr Anakoka

Dr Andeleki

Mr Chaatila

Mr J. Chibuye

Mr Chilundika

Mr Chinkuli

Ms Chisangano

Ms Halwiindi

Mr Hamwaata

Mr Kamondo

Mr Kanengo

Mr Kapala

Mr Kapema

Ms Kasanda

Mr Katakwe

Mr Kolala

Eng. Mabenga

Mr Malambo

Mr Mandandi

Mr Mapani

Mrs Masebo

Mr Matambo

Mrs Mazoka

Mr Miyutu

Mr Moyo

Mr Mposha

Mr Mtolo

Mr Mufalali

Mr Mukumbi

Mr Mulaliki

Mr Charles Mulenga

Mr Chipoka Mulenga

Mr Mulunda

Mr Mulusa

Mrs Mulyata

Mr Munsanje

Dr Musokotwane

Mr N. Musonda

Mr Musumali

Mr Mutelo

Mr Mutinta

Mr Mweetwa

Mr Mwene

Dr Nalumango

Mr Ngowani

Mr Nkulukusa

Mr Nyambose

Eng. Nzovu

Mr P. S. Phiri

Mrs Sabao

Mr Siachisumo

Mr Simbao

Mr Simushi

Mr Simuzingili

Mr Sing’ombe

Brig-Gen. Sitwala

Mr Syakalima

Mr Tayengwa

Mr Wamunyima

 

Noes – (26)

 

Mr S. Banda

Mr Chala

Mr Chibombwe

Mr C. Chibuye

Mr Chisopa

Mr Chonde

Mr Kafwaya

Mr Kalobo

Mr Kampampi

Mr Kampyongo

Mr Kasandwe

Mr Katambo

Mr B. Mpundu

Mr Mtayachalo

Mr Mukosa

Mr Mulebwa

Mr Mumba

Mr Mundubile

Mr Mushanga

Mr Elias Musonda

Mr Mutale

Dr Mwale

Dr Mwanza

Mr Mwila

Mr M. Tembo 

Mr Twasa

 

Abstention – (01)

 

Mr Zulu

 

Question accordingly agreed to.

 

Madam Speaker: I now turn to address you, Mr F. R. Kapyanga, MP.

 

Mr F. R. Kapyanga, MP, the statement you made in the article entitled “Stand as MP to debate freely,’ Kapyanga tells Speaker Mutti”, published in the News Diggers newspaper, Issue No. 2031 dated Friday, 4^th July, 2025, was disrespectful and impugned the character and impartiality of my office in the discharge of my duties. The statement did not only bring the dignity of my office into disrepute, but that of the entire House as well. Therefore, the statement constitutes a breach of parliamentary privilege and contempt of the House. The House is, in this regard, displeased with your conduct. It is my sincere hope that you will refrain from such conduct in future.

 

Let me remind you and, by extension, the entire House, that your right to freedom of speech is not absolute, as it does not extend to unlawful speeches made outside the House or any libels published in the print media. I, therefore, urge you to conduct yourself in a manner befitting the dignity and decorum of the House in relation to your freedom of speech.

 

Mr F. R. Kapyanga, MP, before you take the walk of shame, I wish to inform you that in accordance with Section 28(3) of the National Assembly (Powers and Privileges) Act, during the period of your suspension, you shall not:

 

1. enter the precincts of the Assembly, and that extends to the National Assembly Motel;

 

1. participate in an activity of the Assembly or any Committee that you are assigned to in your capacity as Member of Parliament; and

 

1. be paid the salary or allowance that you are entitled to as a Member.

 

It is my earnest hope that this will be the last time you exhibit such undesirable conduct.

 

I now order you, Mr F. R. Kapyanga, MP, to proceed on a fourteen-day suspension with effect from today, Wednesday, 17^th September, 2025, until Tuesday, 30^th September, 2025, as resolved by the House. Wishing you a good rest.

 

Thank you.

 

Mr Kapyanga left the Assembly Chamber.

 

______

 

URGENT MATTERS WITHOUT NOTICE

 

MR NGOMA, HON. MEMBER OF PARLIAMENT FOR LUMEZI, ON HER HONOUR THE VICE-PRESIDENT, DR NALUMANGO, ON HUMAN-ANIMAL CONFLICT IN LUMEZI

 

Mr Ngoma (Lumezi): On an Urgent Matter Without Notice, Madam Speaker.

 

Madam Speaker: An Urgent Matter Without Notice is raised.

 

Mr Ngoma: Madam Speaker, my matter is directed at the hon. Minister of Tourism, but seeing that  he is not in the House,  I direct the matter at Her Honour the Vice-President, and Leader of Government Business in the House.

 

Good afternoon to Her Honour the Vice-President.

 

Madam Speaker, the issue is the human-animal conflict in Lumezi District.

 

Interruptions

 

Mr Ngoma: Madam Speaker, as it is now, we have a situation whereby elephants from Kasungu National Park have entered the Zambian side, and the people along the border with Kasungu National Park have no peace.

 

Mr B. Mpundu: Question!

 

Mr Ngoma: In the recent past, there have been deaths, Madam Speaker, and there is no movement of people …

 

Mr B. Mpundu: Time up!

 

Mr Ngoma: … because the elephants move even during the day. So, it is a concern for the motorists who drive along the road in the area. For the sake of the record, the elephants were taken from Liwonde National Park to Kasungu National Park, which is close to the Zambian side. My question is: When is the ministry going to take full control of the elephants so that my people can have safe lives and get some relief? We are going into the rainy season during which they will have problems attending to their fields.

 

I seek your indulgence, Madam Speaker.

 

Hon. UPND Members: Hear, hear!

 

Quality!

 

Madam Speaker: Thank you very much, hon. Member for Lumezi. The issue of human-animal conflict is well known to the Government …

 

Mr B. Mpundu: Elyo eshile!

 

Madam Speaker: … and it is a matter that we have debated on the Floor of this House through questions and Ministerial Statements, and I believe that some measures are being taken. For example, a fence is being erected in Livingstone. I know that something is also being done in Chama South. A Committee has also been constituted to look into how we can deal with the issue.

 

The only observation that I have made is that our people also need to be sensitised because they are in the habit of provoking the animals. When an animal is provoked, hit or there is too much noise, it will definitely react. So, maybe, we need a two-pronged approach; to sensitise our people and also ensure that fences are erected, like they are doing in Livingstone, to ensure that the animals do not attack people. It is a problem that has been ongoing. The Government is doing something about it and a Committee is in place. So, the issue that you have raised, hon. Member for Lumezi, does not qualify to be raised as an Urgent Matter Without Notice because it is being attended to.

 

MR MTAYACHALO, HON. MEMBER OF PARLIAMENT FOR CHAMA NORTH, ON MR MTOLO, HON. MINISTER OF AGRICULTURE, ON THE DIRECTIVE TO REMOVE FARMERS FROM THE LIST OF FARMER INPUT SUPPORT PROGRAMME (FISP) BENEFICIARIES WHO DO NOT SELL THE MINIMUM REQUIRED NUMBER OF BAGS OF MAIZE AND RICE TO THE FOOD RESERVE AGENCY (FRA)

 

Mr Mtayachalo (Chama North): On an Urgent Matter Without Notice, Madam Speaker.

 

Madam Speaker: An Urgent Matter Without Notice is raised.

 

Mr Mtayachalo: Madam Speaker, my matter is directed at the hon. Minister of Agriculture. The Permanent Secretary (PS) Technical Services in the Ministry of Agriculture has issued a circular to provincial agricultural co-ordinators throughout the country directing them to remove all bonded farmers from the list of Farmer Input Support Programme (FISP) beneficiaries who do not sell a minimum of 10x50kg bags of maize and 7x40kg bags of paddy rice to the Food Reserve Agency (FRA). The directive has not taken into account areas that were severely affected by the drought and issues of human-animal conflict, which is contrary to the assurance that the hon. Minister gave on the Floor of this House. The situation is so bad that farmers have resorted to getting kaloba, which is credit, to ensure that they buy the ten bags of maize, and that is overburdening them even further. So, there is a lot of fear among our farmers. If the directive is implemented, it is going to affect household and national food security.

 

Madam Speaker, I seek your serious indulgence on this matter. The farmers have no capacity, as there was a severe drought in Chama. Where are they going to get the ten bags of maize to sell to the FRA?

 

Madam Speaker: Hon. Member for Chama North, thank you very much for that matter. Hon. Members, I think issues to do with maize harvest, the Food Reserve Agency (FRA), farmers, the Farmer Input Support Programme (FISP) and credit facilities, affect a number of hon. Members. So, for those issues to be addressed, it is better for the hon. Minister of Agriculture to come and brief the House through a Ministerial Statement on what has happened, and the measures being taken to ensure that farmers are prepared for the next farming season without any issues hanging around their necks. I therefore, direct the hon. Minister of Agriculture to come to the House with a Ministerial Statement on Tuesday, next week, to address that issue.

 

Thank you.

 

DR ANDELEKI, HON. MEMBER FOR KATOMBOLA, ON HER HONOUR THE VICE-PRESIDENT, DR NALUMANGO, ON THE DISTRIBUTION OF RELIEF FOOD IN SOME PARTS OF KATOMBOLA CONSTITUENCY

 

Dr Andeleki (Katombola): On an Urgent Matter without Notice, Madam Speaker.

 

Madam Speaker: An Urgent Matter without Notice is raised.

 

Dr Andeleki: Madam Speaker, thank you for according the voice of Katombola Constituency an opportunity to raise an Urgent Matter without Notice, directed at Her Honour the Vice-President

 

Madam Speaker, before I raise my matter, allow me to congratulate His Excellency the President, Mr Hakainde Hichilema, the Cabinet, and the entire team for a colourful delivery of ambulances to the Republic of Zambia, an unprecedented exercise.

 

Hon. Government Members: Hear, hear!

 

Dr Andeleki: Madam Speaker, the ambulances were bought at a very cheap price of almost US$80,000, while the Patriotic Front (PF) Government bought them at US$250,000.

 

Madam Speaker, the people of Katombola are toasting to the New Dawn Government. However, the urgent matter is that some of our people have not harvested, particularly, in Mukuni area. People there have not harvested any food because of the giants and wildlife in general that are terrorising that area. Parts of Sekute, Musokotwane and Moomba have no food. People in those areas are in need of relief food.

 

Madam Speaker, I want to know when Her Honour the Vice-President will consider distributing relief food because the lives of our people are threatened.

 

Hon. Members: Hear, hear!

 

Madam Speaker: Hon. Member for Katombola, I thought what we do when we have a situation like that is to approach the Office of Her Honour the Vice-President. I guided earlier on that when there is a situation of hunger in any of our constituencies, the best to do is to approach the Office of Her Honour the Vice-President. She is ready and willing to address the concerns of the people. So, hon. Member for Katombola, I suggest you see Her Honour the Vice-President, and see how best that issue can be resolved.  Asking a question here will take some time. People will be hungry for two or three days.  By the time the Government will respond, a week would have passed, and people would have suffered. So, I suggest that you immediately get in touch with the Office of Her Honour the Vice-President to see how that situation can be addressed.

 

That concludes the Urgent Matters without Notice.

 

We make progress.

 

_______

 

QUESTIONS FOR ORAL ANSWER

 

ACCESS TO AGRICULTURAL LOANS 

 

8. Mr Munsanje (Mbabala) asked the Minister of Small and Medium Enterprise Development:

 

1. why farmers in Mbabala Parliamentary Constituency are not able to access agricultural loans under the Citizens’ Economic Empowerment Commission (CEEC); and

 

1. what measures the Government is taking to ensure that the affected farmers benefit from the CEEC loans. 

 

The Minister of Agriculture (Mr Mtolo) (on behalf of the Minister of Small and Medium Enterprises Development (Mr Mubanga)): Madam Speaker, I wish to sincerely thank the hon. Member of Parliament for Mbabala for raising this important matter, which speaks to the heart of stimulating economic growth and agricultural productivity through enhanced rural empowerment activities.

 

Madam Speaker, the Citizens’ Economic Empowerment Commission (CEEC), under the Ministry of Small and Medium Enterprises Development, is mandated by the Citizens’ Economic Empowerment Commission Act No. 9 of 2006, to promote the empowerment of citizens that are, or have been marginalised and disadvantaged, and whose access to economic resources and development capacity has been constrained due to various factors including race, sex, educational backgrounds, status and disability.

 

Madam Speaker, pursuant to the enhanced funding appropriated by this august House since 2022, the CEEC disbursed approximately K7,860,000 to five beneficiaries in Mbabala Parliamentary Constituency under its project loan facility. These facilities, with a five-year repayment period, were specifically targeted at enhancing agricultural ventures such as crop production, irrigation and livestock development.

 

Madam Speaker, additionally, about K331,000 was disbursed under the microloan short-term products to 206 beneficiaries.

 

Madam Speaker, to cushion the impact of severe drought experienced during the 2023/2024 Farming Season, the CEEC further, advertised a special call for applications aimed at mitigating climate-related challenges while sustaining food security and protecting livelihoods. This targeted support that included irrigation systems, agricultural mechanisation through tractors and implements, and energy backup solutions.

 

Madam Speaker, the people of Mbabala Parliamentary Constituency, responded positively to this call, resulting in the funding of four beneficiaries to the tune of K1,370,640. This brings the total to 215 beneficiaries funded by the CEEC with a total value of K9,561,640 as at quarter two of 2025.

 

 Madam Speaker, the CEEC is implementing several interventions to ensure inclusivity, accessibility and sustainability, which include:

 

1. streamlining the loan application and disbursement processes to remove delays and bureaucratic hurdles;

 

1. provision of digital platforms for loan applications, enabling farmers to apply remotely and track their application status;

 

1. localised outreach campaigns;

 

1. enhanced coordination with agricultural extension officers and business development services; and

 

1. stronger monitoring and evaluation systems to reduce loan defaults and ensure that the funds benefit genuine and productive agricultural products in all parts of the country, including Mbabala.

 

I thank you, Madam Speaker.

 

Mr Munsanje: Madam Speaker, thank you so much and I would to thank the hon. Minister for that response. We appreciate for those 231 beneficiaries. However, I have a list of applicants from Mbabala Constituency, who have been pending since 2022, and this list includes even the application from the Loyal Mapanza Chiefdom for a milling plant. I have pursued this list at the Citizens’ Economic Empowerment Commission (CEEC) several times without it being funded. I just collected tracking numbers, because in the Constituency office, we collect tracking numbers for all those who apply for us to try and help them. This is as a result of various complaints we receive, that people are not being responded to. So, we compile these numbers, send them to the CEEC and continue to pursue the matter. For example, the milling plant by the Mapanza Royal Council has not been funded to date. The advertisement that came out last year for loans to help people with the drought situation said that applicants from provincial centres such as Choma were not allowed to apply. Now, Mbabala is a rural area that needs to benefit from these products. We cannot accept to be excluded simply because our town is called a provincial town.

 

Madam Speaker: Is that a question or a statement? The hon. Member for Mbabala is now debating his question. I will give him another opportunity next time.

 

We will go to the hon. Member for Namwala. 

 

Mr Mapani (Namwala): Madam Speaker, may I know whether the hon. Minister is in a position to know how much the Citizens Economic Empowerment Commission (CEEC) has budgeted for the farmer loan programme? If the answer is yes, is there a certain amount allocated to it? How much is the fee at the national level and at the provincial level?

 

Mr Mtolo: Madam Speaker, I might not be able to disaggregate the fees, but I can say that in 2021, the CEEC was given K40 million. In 2022, we appropriated K350 million, in 2023, K362 million, in 2024, K392 million and, in 2025, K392 million. These are compound figures; I did not prepare to disaggregate them.

 

I thank you, Madam Speaker.

 

Madam Speaker: Hon. Member for Mbabala, the other statement was not answered because it was not a question; it was a debate. So, now, you can ask a question.

 

Mr Munsanje: Madam Speaker, my straightforward question is: When is the CEEC going to respond to the various applications, including the one by the Mapanza Royal Council to establish a milling plant in Mbabala Constituency?

 

Mr Mtolo: Madam Speaker, the CEEC has worked on a service charter, which is a document that governs how it should attend to clients. Soon, it is going to be compelled to provide a response, whether negative or positive, within fourteen days of receipt of an application. So, we will see to it that a response to what the hon. Member has asked is issued. I have taken note of the matter and I will take it to the CEEC.

 

Madam Speaker, I thank you.

 

Madam Speaker: Hon. Members, I see more indications for people to ask questions. However, bear in mind that this is a constituency-based question relating to the farmers in Mbabala and how they can access agricultural loans. So, we need to make progress because we have a lot of work before us.

 

We move to the next question.

 

ELECTRICITY INEFFICIENCIES IN POWER GENERATION AND TRANSMISSION

 

9. Ms S. Mwamba (Kasama Central) asked the Minister of Energy:

 

1. how the Government intends to address the current electricity inefficiencies in terms of power generation and transmission, as well as losses during distribution under the existing vertically integrated structure; and

 

1. what measures are being taken to improve ZESCO Limited’s financial stability, transparency and responsiveness to consumer needs.  

 

The Minister of Water Development and Sanitation (Eng. Nzovu) (on behalf of the Minister of Energy (Mr Chikote)): Madam Speaker, in order to address the current inefficiencies in terms of power generation, transmission and distribution, the Government is currently working on the following. In the generation sector, the Government is working to resolve generation deficit challenges through diversification of the energy mix by reducing dependence on hydro-power generation, which is affected by climate change. The New Dawn Government has targeted to install 1 GW by December 2025. So far, we have commissioned the Chisamba 100 MW Solar PV Plant in Chisamba District and Serenje’s Mailo 25 MW Solar PV Plant. Both plants are in Central Province. Further, the solar projects scheduled for completion by December 2025 translate to about 550 MW. Additionally, Maamba Energy’s 300 MW Phase II Power Plant is expected to be completed in 2026.

 

Madam Speaker, the Government has also introduced net metering, which allows citizens who generate electricity through solar installations to feed the surplus electricity into the national grid and become active players in solving the energy deficit. So far, 251 producers who are also consumers are now connected to the grid, translating to 11 MW installed capacity. This clearly shows that citizens have heeded our call to participate in net metering as we transition to clean and reliable energy. Further, the Government has also introduced the Electricity (Open Access) Regulations regime meant to promote power trade as well as to increase investment in the sector by providing for open and non-discriminatory access to transmission and distribution networks.

 

Madam Speaker, with regard to transmission, a number of interconnectors are under construction, while others are still at feasibility stage. Currently, transmission lines in Lusaka are being upgraded. Further, the Government, through ZESCO Limited, is constructing a 330 KV transmission line linking Zambia to Tanzania to increase both imports and exports. To this end, the Government is engaging the Southern African Power Pool (SAPP) to negotiate the transfer capacity on the southern import path. On the distribution side, losses are being managed by installing prepaid meters for all residential and commercial customers. We have also introduced prepaid meters for large power users. Through smart prepaid metering, the losses will reduce.

 

Madam Speaker, in 2023, the Government approved the five-year multi-year tariff framework to cover the years 2023 to 2027, which was effected in May 2023. This is expected to assist ZESCO Limited in achieving financial stability. ZESCO Limited is also contracting high consumer customers to power purchase agreements to secure revenue by hedging against foreign exchange rate losses. The Government, through ZESCO Limited, has also improved revenue collection by installing smart meters that improve billing quality and also reduce administrative and operational costs involved in the billing processes.

 

Madam Speaker, may I now update this august House with regard to transparency. ZESCO Limited is providing online platforms where information relating to customer accounts, statements, bills, power rationing schedules, ZESCO Limited projects in their areas and tracking applications for power connection. These online applications can be accessed through mobile phones and computers. To improve responsiveness, ZESCO Limited has a call centre which operates on a twenty-four-hour service basis and receives complaints and responds in real time.

 

Madam Speaker, I thank you.

 

Ms S. Mwamba: Madam Speaker, I thank the hon. Minister for his response. It sounds very perfect, but the challenges still remain. Let us be reminded that the challenges we face in power generation are not just technical matters; they directly affect the livelihoods of people, the economy and public confidence.

 

Madam Speaker, considering the response that the hon. Minister has issued, has the Government considered unbundling ZESCO Limited in order to improve efficiency, transparency and accountability in generation, transmission and distribution?

 

Eng. Nzovu: Madam Speaker, I thank the hon. Member for that very important question.

 

Madam Speaker, indeed, as Hon. Mwamba rightly put it, electricity challenges affect economic development and livelihoods of people. However, let us understand that the Government has really been doing everything possible to increases electricity generation, transmission as well as distribution capacities. When we look at ZESCO Limited’s history, the hon. Member will agree with me that there have been remarkable improvements in terms of investments in the energy sector. Further, there have also been a lot of efforts to ensure that various independent power producers come on board. In fact, the main call in this area has been on ZESCO Limited to improve efficiency delivery of its mandate.

 

Madam Speaker, at the moment, I may not be able to comment specifically on the unbundling of ZESCO Limited. The Government’s main thrust right now is to ensure that it improves efficiency, generation capacity and ultimately reduces the electricity deficit, which leads to load-shedding.

 

Madam Speaker, I thank you.

 

Mr Mutale (Chitambo): Madam Speaker, I am very grateful.

 

Madam Speaker, in providing his answers, the hon. Minister mentioned that net metering is one of the initiatives that have been put in place. However, when His Excellency the President came here, he told the hon. Members of Parliament that, “Go and produce power so that you can make money through net metering”. In short, His Excellency the President gave a directive that the ministry must incentivise net metering. Is the ministry considering incentivising net metering by beginning to pay money to those who will supply power to the ministry?

 

Eng. Nzovu: Madam Speaker, I think, all the hon. Members of Parliament listened attentively when His Excellency President Hakainde Hichilema addressed this House. He really emphasised on the improvements in the energy sector. He spent a lot of time on that issue. When we look back and consider the measures that have been put in place, such as net metering, open access and financial support to the energy sector, we will realise that there have been a lot of progress. For instance, when we look at net metering, we will realise that it is also an incentive to give us units because it is equivalent to money. Those who would want to receive cash will have to wait a little bit, but the units translate into money. Net metering is working very well for customers who consume a lot of electricity.

 

Madam Speaker, I thank you.

 

Mr Chibombwe (Bahati): Madam Speaker, I thank the hon. Minister for the statement.

 

Madam Speaker, in his response, the hon. Minister alluded to the fact that ZESCO Limited is now constructing interconnectors. The previous Government initiated a 33 KB power project known as the Zambia-Tanzania-Kenya (ZTK) Interconnector. The previous Government also constructed a power line from Mulungushi Substation to Pensulo Substation and another one from Pensulo Substation to Chishimba Substation in Kasama. What is remaining is just a short leg from Chishimba Substation to somewhere at Tunduma. I would like to find out from the hon. Minister how far we have gone regarding the completion of the ZTK Interconnector. The purpose of that interconnector is to connect Zambia to the biggest hydropower station on the continent through the East African Power Pool in Ethiopia.

 

Eng. Nzovu: Madam Speaker, I thank the hon. Member for that important question. I am glad the hon. Member for Bahati knows what is happening in the energy sector. I wish to agree with him that, indeed, the Zambia-Tanzania-Kenya (ZTK) Interconnector is very important. In fact, last year, there was a huge power surplus in the East African region. Had we completed that interconnector, we would have had a lot of energy coming from that region. However, we are actively looking into that issue. We have invested so much into that project. In fact, for the information of the hon. Member, it is not only the ZTK Interconnector that is under construction. There is also the Zimbabwe-Zambia Interconnector Project.

 

Mr Chibombwe: How far is the project?

 

Eng. Nzovu: I am coming kabili. Tekanya boi.

 

Laughter

 

Eng. Nzovu: Ndeisa. Ni energy iyi.

 

Madam Speaker: Meaning?

 

Eng. Nzovu: It means, “My friend, take it easy”.

 

Madam Speaker, I just want to encourage him to take notes so that we move together. Anyway, that was on a lighter note.

 

Madam Speaker, as I am speaking right now, I am representing my colleague, the hon. Minister of Energy, who has gone out of the country to deal with the same issues of power challenges. The challenge we have right now is that even when we want to import power from Zimbabwe, for instance, or from the northern or southern African regions, the capacity of our transmission lines is limited.

 

Madam Speaker, the hon. Member is asking how far we have gone with completing the interconnector project. We are very far, but we have made significant progress. To tell the hon. Member the exact quantum of works completed, I think, I will need a specific question submitted so that I can gather that information.

 

Madam Speaker, I thank you.

 

Mr Mwambazi (Bwana Mkubwa): Madam Speaker, I would like to thank the Acting hon. Minister of Energy for the answers he is providing.

 

Madam Speaker, my question is on the Electricity (Open Access) Regulations in relation to ZESCO Limited. There has been open access for petroleum products on the use of the pipeline. However, I do not think the guidelines are clear and the policy has not worked to the expectations of players in the industry.

 

Madam Speaker, I am contrasting the question on how to stabilise ZESCO Limited’s financial capacity vis-à-vis the Open Access Policy because it entails that other players can import power through ZESCO Limited’s infrastructure and in turn sell it on the market. What is the role of Kanona Power Company Limited with respect to the Electricity (Open Access) Regulations?

 

Mr Kampyongo: Ema question aya!

 

Mr Chisopa: Iyo Kanona waikatako!

 

Eng. Nzovu: Madam Speaker, the Open Access Policy is working very well. It is among the reforms that His Excellency the President, Mr Hakainde Hichilema, has been talking about. ZESCO Limited’s infrastructure belongs to the country and the Government is trying to invite more players to the energy sector. Obviously, when some private players use  ZESCO Limited’s infrastructure, such as transmission lines, they pay wheeling charges.

 

Madam Speaker, what the hon. Member has asked about Kanona Power Company Limited is specific. Maybe, since it is a specific question, we can have it on the Floor of the House on a different day so that we can provide a specific answer.

 

Madam Speaker, I thank you.

 

Ms S. Mwamba: Madam Speaker, net metering is a preserve of the apa mwambas, also known as the upper class. It is not for the average citizen. The average citizen also wants to see progress in real terms and not just in policy pronouncements. What reforms are underway to ensure that tariffs remain affordable for the average citizen?

 

Eng. Nzovu: Madam Speaker, I am very thankful for the question from the hon. Member.

 

Madam Speaker, any business caters for those in the lower class, who may come together to obviously trade or participate in a particular sector. There are also those we may call, “Apa mwambas”, who may invest individually. However, the Government provides incentives to any investor who wants to invest in any sector of the economy.

 

Madam Speaker, in terms of tariffs, there is a study which is underway at the Ministry of Energy. I am sure that when the substantive hon. Minister comes back, he will provide more details on that matter.

 

Madam Speaker, I thank you.

 

Madam Speaker: Thank you, Acting hon. Minister.

 

 I am checking my time. We do not seem to have a lot of time because we have two Motions to consider. So, I would suggest that the substantive hon. Minister comes to the House with a Ministerial Statement on this issue so that a number of issues can be cleared up, as it might be important because of the interest that the question has generated. So, hon. Members who have indicated, please, bear with me, I will not accommodate you today. Let us wait for the hon. Minister to deliver a Ministerial Statement on this issue so that the House can be briefed on the measures being taken. So, with that, we make progress.

 

RESUMPTION OF WORKS ON THE KASONDE/KOMBO-KOMBO/CHIEF FUBE ROAD IN CHILUBI DISTRICT

 

10. Mr Mukosa (Chinsali) (on behalf of Mr Fube (Chilubi)) asked the Minister of Local Government and Rural Development:

 

1. when the Government will resume the construction works on the Kasonde/Kombo-Kombo/Chief Fube Road in Chilubi District;

 

1. at what percentage of completion the project was as of July 2025;

 

1. how much money had been paid to the contractor as of the date at (b);

 

1. what the estimated cost of the outstanding works is; and 

 

1. whether the Government will maintain the same contractor for the remaining works. 

 

Eng. Nzovu (on behalf of the Minister of Local Government and Rural Development (Mr Sialubalo)): Madam Speaker, I wish to inform the House that the Kasonde/Kombo-Kombo/Chief Fube Road has been planned for rehabilitation as soon as funds are made available. The ministry had started working on the 51.2 km Mwapekalunga, that is, Chief Fube’s area, to Mayuka via Shimumbi and Ndoki stretch, but was terminated before the works could be completed due to the non-availability of funds. At the time of termination, about 35 per cent of the works had been done on the stretch.

 

 Madam Speaker, the contract sum for the road was K63 million, but only K18 million was paid to the contractor for the works done before the project was terminated.

 

Madam Speaker, the outstanding works may have to be re-assessed before the estimated cost is determined, as conditions may have changed on site from the last assessment. As and when funds are available to undertake the remaining works on the road, the Government will have to tender the works using the standard procurement procedures, which will be open to any bidder.

 

Madam Speaker, I thank you.

 

Mr Mukosa: Madam Speaker, can the hon. Minister indicate when the Government thinks the funds will be available for works on the Kasonde/Kombo-Kombo/Chief Fube Road.

 

Eng. Nzovu: Madam Speaker, I can confirm that budgeting for the road has been planned for next year, and I have also been told to inform Hon. Fube that he is invited to the office so that he can have a detailed discussion with the hon. Minister of Local Government and Rural Development.

 

Madam Speaker, I thank you.

 

Madam Speaker: Any other questions? I see no indications. Since Hon. Fube has been invited, I think, he and the hon. Minister will discuss this matter in detail.

 

We make progress.

 

PROVISION OF WATER TRANSPORT ON LAKE KARIBA BETWEEN SIAVONGA AND SINAZONGWE DISTRICTS

 

11. Mr Simuzingili (Gwembe) asked the Minister of Transport and Logistics:

 

1. whether the Government has any plans to provide water transport on Lake Kariba between Siavonga and Sinazongwe districts;

 

1. if so, when the plans will be implemented;

 

1. how many vessels are earmarked for procurement; 

 

1. what the carrying capacity of the vessels at (c) is; and

 

1. what the estimated cost of procuring the vessels is.

 

The Minister of Commerce, Trade and Industry (Mr Chipoka Mulenga) (on behalf of the Minister of Transport and Logistics (Mr Tayali)): Madam Speaker, the Government has plans to provide water transport on Lake Kariba between Siavonga and Sinazongwe districts. However, the initiative will be implemented through private sector participation. While the Government recognises the importance of water transport in those districts, the immediate priority is to develop harbour infrastructure across the country to attract private sector investment in the provision of water transport services between the districts.

 

Madam Speaker, as indicated, the implementation of the initiative will be undertaken through private sector participation. Private parties will be engaged to provide the infrastructure and support equipment to be used in the provision of transport between the two districts using water transportation.

 

Madam Speaker, the number of vessels will be determined and dependent on private sector investment after the harbours have been developed.

 

Madam Speaker, in response to part (d) of the question, it is dependent on the private sector, again, based on the nature of investment that will be made after the harbours have been developed.

 

Madam Speaker, on the estimated cost of procuring the vessels, there are three types of vessels that we looked at that can be procured for use on the water facilities. However, we are not limited to the ones that we will provide information on. Even the private parties may likely conduct due diligence in different areas based on the need. The three that we looked at were a 120-seater vessel costing US$580,000, a 32-seater boat, which may cost US$120,000, and a seven-seater speedboat costing US$50,000.

 

Madam Speaker, I thank you.

 

Interruptions

 

Madam Speaker: Hon. Members, let us tone down as we discuss or consult, and, at the same time, let us follow the proceedings.

 

Mr Simuzingili: Madam Speaker, there are some legacy issues concerning transportation. As you may be aware, when Lake Kariba was constructed, the major mode of transport from Siavonga into Gwembe and then Sinazongwe was through the lake. In 1970, the bottom road became impassable. Up to now, it is still in a dilapidated state such that it cannot be used. So, people in those three districts find it difficult to visit each other or transport goods and services. My question is: What timeline is the hon. Minister looking at having indicated that he will be engaging the private sector?

 

Mr Chipoka Mulenga: Madam Speaker, indeed, over the years, there has been very little attention paid to this facility, but the Government of the UPND has prioritised infrastructure development.  In the 2026 Financial Year, we have budgeted for infrastructure development for these facilities.

 

Madam Speaker, I thank you.

 

Mr Mulunda (Siavonga): Madam Speaker, I have been listening to the responses from the hon. Minister, and he indicated that until the harbours are developed, the ministry will not be able to procure the vessel. My colleague, the hon. Member for Gwembe indicated that we have had vessels in the past and we still have provisional harbours in Siavonga, Gwembe at Chipepo and Sinazongwe. Why do we not use those in the meantime? These three are not the only points along the lake, but we also have other small places where people do a lot of fishing, as it is the mainstay of the people in the Gwembe. Why do we not get the vessel even as the ministry looks at expanding the harbours? That appears to be something that is going to take more time, maybe, five years from now.

 

Mr Chipoka Mulenga: Madam Speaker, it is a valid concern that has been raised by the hon. Member of Parliament for Siavonga. However, going back to the question that was raised by the hon. Member for Gwembe, we need to do something right for the first time, even in the long-term process. There has not been infrastructure development in those areas. The harbours are dilapidated. Therefore, we need to put structures so that when we buy vessels, they will be able to dock properly and at the right harbours. That is why we have had accidents time and again in those areas because of the lack of infrastructure where vessels dock. So, in the year 2026, we have committed as the Government to improve the infrastructure and engage private parties to bring vessels.

 

I thank you, Madam Speaker.

 

Madam Speaker: Hon. Member for Gwembe, do you have any other question?

 

Mr Simuzingili: Nothing, Madam Speaker.

 

Madam Speaker: Okay.

 

Since it is a constituency-based question, I believe we can make progress. I know there is interest from the people of Nyimba and Kantanshi, but we do not have time. We have two Motions to consider. So, please, bear with me.

 

We need to make progress.

 

______

 

MOTION

 

FILM FUND

 

Mr B. Mpundu (Nkana): Madam Speaker, I beg to move that this House urges the Government, in an effort to spur growth of the Film Industry in Zambia, to create a Film Fund.

 

Madam Speaker: Is the Motion seconded?

 

Mr Kafwaya (Lunte): Madam Speaker, I beg to second the Motion.

 

Mr B. Mpundu: Madam Speaker, I sincerely want to thank you for this opportunity. I remember not long ago, I came to this House to ask the hon. Members of this House to support a Motion in which I was asking the Government to monetise social media. This House unanimously accepted and passed a resolution that the Government must monetise social media. Today, I have come with what may be similar to that particular Motion. In this case, I am asking the Government to set up a Film Fund.

 

Madam Speaker, it may interest people who will follow this conversation to understand that a film by definition is a movie or a motion picture, which is a work of visual arts that stimulates experience and otherwise communicates ideas and stories as well as perceptions. Further, it will interest this august House to know that the film industry in Zambia has existed for many years despite having moved almost on autopilot because of the lack of the ingredients, namely the film policy, as well as the necessary financing initiatives.

 

This, however, Madam Speaker, has not deterred industry players who, over the years, have dedicated their time and efforts, and have done a fantastic job to ensure that the film industry thrives amidst all these challenges. That is why today, we are now able to see local productions being aired across the borders in popular soap operas like Mpali and others.

 

Madam Speaker, it must be noted that a well-funded local film industry can create thousands of jobs. Here, we must note that the film industry is an equal employer. It employs both babies as well as old people. You have obviously watched movies where babies as well as old people have acted. So, at a time like this when countries like Zambia are faced with challenges of unemployment, this move we are making today is one of those that try to respond to that. Madam Speaker, you will be interested to note that amongst the jobs that the film industry can promote include those around actors, writers, directors, technicians, caterers, drivers, as well as designers.

 

Madam Speaker, the film industry can also elevate other associated industries if well-funded, like the tourism industry, advertising, fashion, music, as well as hospitality.

 

Madam Speaker, it must further be noted that a well-financed film industry can attract foreign investment and cooperation.  I have in mind other countries where our friends have partnered with big stars across Hollywood. I remember when we were still growing up, we used to watch movies like Sarafina, that depicted the South African struggle for independence. These are movies that attracted renowned actors across the globe. You may wish to know that movies like that rake in billions of Dollar because one actor in such a movie would walk away with not less than US$50 million as a pay cheque.

 

Madam Speaker, it must further be noted that films that are shot locally serve as tourism attractions showcasing Zambia’s landscape, wildlife and culture. I watched a movie many years ago, the famous Jack Chang, which was shot in Livingstone. Imagine how much tourism will be spurred by many other stories being shot in local sites within Zambia. Remember, we watched a movie called The Black Panther. Just a mere fact that there was mention that one of the sites shot was around Livingstone at the Victoria Falls spurred a lot of stories. Imagine how Zambia was marketed just at the mention that one of the Zambian actors was engaged in ‘The Black Panther’.

 

Madam Speaker, let me give you some industry perspectives. Basic practice from global leaders like India, China, Nigeria, and most recently Tanzania, proves that strategic investment in the local film sector delivers dividends that span employment creation, cultural heritage preservation, tourism inflow, and national revenue. For example, India’s 40 per cent film projection rebate fuelled a projected US$3 billion in film-induced tourism by 2025, while Tanzania’s Presidential Documentary, which was called the ‘Royal Tour’, sparked a 41 per cent surge in arrivals and unlocked investment commitments exceeding US$5 billion all within a year of its release.

 

Madam Speaker, furthermore, it may interest you to know that in China, public investment of around 2 billion yuan per year in film was matched by an increase of 18 per cent in heritage site visitation, demonstrating the direct correlation between film visibility and increased domestic and international tourism. These are some of the things that we may have to look at as we attempt to see what can be done to resuscitate the ailing film industry, which has basically been uplifted by resilient film actors, amid so many challenges.

 

Madam Speaker, it may interest you to know that the film industry is a billion-dollar industry or economy, if you want to call it that. Over the years, the creative arts have simply been an afterthought. They have been moved from one ministry to another. At one time, they used to be under the Ministry of Local Government and Rural Development and the Ministry of Tourism. Now, they are under the Ministry of Youth, Sport and Arts. A billion-dollar sector cannot be left to chance; it requires a very well-defined arrangement. In this case, I propose that there must be a commission to anchor this industry because of the potential it has to create employment for young people who are not employed. It has the potential to create billionaires and to rake in the much-needed revenue for our country that has an ailing economy.

 

Madam Speaker, what I am asking this august House to do today is basically to urge the Government to create an incentive to fuel this industry. Without support, this industry has demonstrated that it can spur growth, create employment, and rake in revenue for the Government. Would it be too much to ask the Government to set aside funds for this industry? Other countries have Hollywood, Nollywood and Bollywood. Our neighbour, South Africa, has set up a huge fund which local actors can tap into when they want to tell stories. I am saying that Zambia has reached a point where we need to tell our stories. Imagine telling the Kaunda story. Imagine telling the Mushala story.

 

Madam Speaker: Order!

 

The hon. Member’s time expired.

 

Madam Speaker: Hon. Member, your time is up. Please, wind up.

 

Mr B. Mpundu: Imagine telling all those beautiful stories through film.

 

Madam Speaker, what I am saying is that the time has come for the Government to incentivise the film industry by setting aside a film fund.

 

I thank you, Madam Speaker.

 

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

 

Ms Mulenga: Later.

 

Mr Kafwaya: Now, Madam Speaker.

 

Madam Speaker, thank you so much for according me this opportunity to second the Motion moved by my young brother, the hon. Member of Parliament for Nkana.

 

Madam Speaker, the Member of Parliament for Nkana has done justice to the Motion by justifying why the Government should support this Motion. I think, I just want to support him with very few words. I would like to consider this Motion from a financial perspective. Maybe, let me start with a few qualitative issues.

 

Madam Speaker, there is no contest that Zambia has talent. The talent that we have in the film industry is actually yearning for finances. People are not able to produce high-quality movies and entertainment because of a lack of funding. Therefore, the creation of a fund which people in the film industry can run to will ensure that their ideas transition to high-quality movies very easily because we would have prepared a fund. Through this process, we will create jobs, there is no question about that. We will create business value systems. We will be able to create high-quality entertainment and wealth for all the players in the process. When we do that, we will be able to earn more taxes for the Government, which taxes can be channelled to social sectors like health services, educational services or social cash transfers aimed at easing the troubles of vulnerable groups in our society.

 

Madam Speaker, funding the film industry will bring resources. It will not just do that; it will also bring about the development of infrastructure. Obviously, when we avail resources to players in the film industry, they are going to employ skilled human resources. Let me be clear. The technicians who sit behind computers to edit films will be skilled technicians. The editors will be skilled editors. The cameramen who are going to capture the ideas presented in scripts are going to be very skilled. When we combine highly skilled people in the film industry, we are going to come up with high-quality productions which will generate interest from people in the region and globally. So, we can grow the industry in that fashion.

 

Madam Speaker, what about infrastructure? I mean, availability of resources is the only sure way of making infrastructure available not only for film production but also for all other sectors, including tourism.

 

Madam Speaker, in Zambia, we have the Lusaka Playhouse in Ridgeway and Kitwe Little Theatre in Nkana East. Now, we cannot be a country which can host film awards and Government programmes only at Mulungushi International Conference Centre (MICC). If one took an event to the Lusaka Playhouse, a Minister would not even go there. The President would not go there. Even you, Madam Speaker, would not go there. So, we want proper infrastructure. As a visitor, I have been to places where when there are three meetings, those meetings will not take place in one building. For example, when you go to Washington, D.C. for a meeting, you will find that if the meeting is for three days, the guys there will make sure that your first meeting is in James Madison Memorial Building. The following day, your next meeting will be at Kimpton Hotel Monaco Washington D.C., and on the third day, your meeting will be at Capitol Hill. Why do they do that? They do so to promote their culture and development, as well as to motivate those who have gone there. When you go back home, you should be able to translate what you learned to development. I thank God for such Motions. Even a visit to the Lincoln Memorial is able to give one morale and stimulate something in him.

 

Madam Speaker, let me conclude my support for this Motion. The film industry is a struggling industry. So, injecting funding into it will give life to this struggling industry. Injecting money into this industry will foster talent and innovation, idea generation and the translation of ideas to screens, as I said earlier. That is what we are looking at. It will also encourage production designs that will be admirable. You know, there will be quality productions in the process, and then we will all be happy. Availability of finances will also facilitate benchmarking. We want actors in Zambia to be exposed to global standards. For that to happen, we must have benchmarking programmes within the industry.

 

Madam Speaker, you can imagine what would happen if we took our people to the United States of America (USA), Los Angeles in particular, to go and witness what happens in Hollywood. We can then fly them across the country to the east coast and take them to New York so that they see what goes on in the Bronx, Queens and Manhattan. They would come back home with ideas.

 

 Laughter

 

Mr Kafwaya: Madam Speaker, we would have a situation in which our film industry creates so much wealth that the hon. Minister of Finance and National Planning would never say, “I have no money for road construction”. There would be so much revenue from taxes. The taxes will ensure that the hon. Minister of Finance and National Planning never denies the hon. Minister of Energy money to import power so as to reduce load-shedding.

 

 Madam Speaker, my young man did so well to project that the film industry is a multi-billion-dollar industry. Therefore, it is time to tap into that industry. It is time for us to support ideas that would enable our actors to become wealthy so that the Government can also tap into that revenue base.

 

Madam Speaker, I wish to support my young man. Thank you so much.

 

Hon. PF Members: Hear, hear!

 

Mr Katakwe (Solwezi East): Madam Speaker, I thank you for according me this opportunity to just react to the Motion on the Floor of the House. In as much as it sounds articulate and a beautiful idea, I am not supporting the proposal that the Government should set up a film fund for the reasons that I am going to state.

 

Madam Speaker, indeed, film funds, like the World Cinema Fund, provide financial support for film projects, often focusing on less-represented countries or regions and independent filmmakers. Just as my hon. Colleagues have stated, film funds also contribute to people’s livelihood as well as to the gross domestic product (GDP) of various countries.

 

Madam Speaker, just last Friday, His Excellency the President was in the House addressing us, hon. Members of Parliament, and the rest of the nation on the state of the Zambian economy. He stated that we are just recovering from the debt that the country accrued and the shock of climate change, which led to the drought we had recently. Due to the good policies of the Government and the visionary leadership of His Excellency the President, we have seen that 90 per cent of the national debt has been restructured, resulting in economic growth of, at least, 5.2 per cent between 2021 and 2024. Between 2017 and 2020, our economy was just growing by 1.5 per cent.

 

 Madam Speaker, there are many platforms in this world where individuals intending to venture into the film industry can access free money or grants, as opposed to the Government creating a fund.

 

Madam Speaker, ukwishiba utuntu is very important.

 

Mr B. Mpundu interjected.

 

Mr Katakwe: Tekanya. Let me just respond.

 

Madam Speaker: Order!

 

Interruptions

 

Mr Katakwe: Madam Speaker, what I mean is –

 

Madam Speaker: Order, hon. Members!

 

 Hon. Member for Solwezi East, as you debate, please, address the Chair. Hon. Member for Nkana, give an opportunity to the people who are either supporting you or not to express themselves. They gave you an opportunity when you were debating. They were quiet and listening. So, you should also listen to your hon. Colleagues so that you can be able to respond to them adequately when your time comes.

 

Mr Katakwe: Madam Speaker, I thank you very much.

 

Madam Speaker, I was saying ukwishiba utuntu, or just knowing things, is very important. Knowledge is power.

 

 Madam Speaker, I just want to give consolation to my hon. Colleague that he can utilise platforms that already exist. There are a number of grants around the world. This is free money and grants. I want to provide a list of a few examples of grants that are available worldwide for individuals, companies and organisations to access. All they need is to write proposals, access the money and venture into the film industry. For example, there are international film grants of up to  US$35,000 to individuals annually. There is also the talent development programme in Berlin. There is also the World Short Film Competition as well as grants for under-represented filmmakers, sports and trial running, female journalists with ambitious projects, features, episodic documentaries worldwide, the fund for investigative documentaries worldwide, fund for environmental documentaries, documentary marketing for female filmmakers, the Environmental Hope, Positive Projects Worldwide, Post-Production Fund for Documentaries and the Human Rights Feature Film Fund. Those are just fifteen examples. There are many platforms that already exist. All that is free money. So, why should the Government set up a film fund and use money that is supposed to go to Mushindamo and Solwezi East to construct the Solwezi/Kipushi Road, which is an economic road? We need to allocate more money to the Constituency Development Fund (CDF) so that we are able to support local communities, rural electrification and many aspects that have been articulated here.

 

Madam Speaker, there is free money. So, if there are people listening to this debate and want to venture into the film industry, let them just get records or go online to find where grants are available worldwide. Let them tap into free money and they will be able to grow the film industry. They will be able to entertain and enable themselves to live better. The money is out there. So, why should the Government set up a film industry fund? That is unattainable because we need every coin for other important ventures in this country. There is free money. Ukwishiba utuntu is very important.

 

Madam Speaker, I do not support the Motion for the reasons that I have stated. There is free money in terms of grants. No one is paying that money back. It is all over the world. So, people should just go and google.

 

Interruptions

 

Mr Katakwe: Yes, there is no need. Based on what I have debated, anyone who wants to debate in support of the Motion should just withdraw.

 

I support it. Thank you, Madam.

 

Mr B. Mpundu: Bushe eba doctor aba?

 

Interruptions

 

 Madam Speaker: Order, hon. Member for Nkana!

 

 I thought you should be encouraging people to support you. Now, if you start saying eba doctor aba, what are you saying? It is not good. We are not supposed to start evaluating each other. Can we have order!

 

Laughter

 

Interruptions

 

Mr Mutale (Chitambo): Madam Speaker, thank you for the opportunity to –

 

Madam Speaker: Sorry, sorry, it is supposed to be the hon. Member for Kamfinsa. I thought it was the hon. Member for Kantanshi. Sorry, hon. Member for Chitambo. The next is the hon. Member for Kamfinsa.

 

Mr Mutale: Madam Speaker, that one is my junior. He can even debate after me.

 

Laughter

 

Madam Speaker: No, it was my mistake. Sorry.

 

Mr Kang’ombe (Kamfinsa): Madam Speaker, allow me, once again, to thank your office for admitting this Motion for debate. This is an important Motion. I will not waste your time to begin explaining why this Motion is important. In my submission, however, I will try to simplify this Motion.

 

Madam Speaker, in my four years of being here, one of the things I have learnt is that if you do not simplify a Motion, it is possible that others may not buy into the idea. This is why I want to simplify what the people of Nkana have submitted.

 

 Madam Speaker, from the outset, I wish to state that the people of Kamfinsa support the proposal to set up a film fund. I will give very practical examples. We recently approved a law here in Parliament to set up what is called an artisanal mining fund.

 

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

 

Madam Speaker: Sorry, hon. Member for Kamfinsa. There is an indication for a point of order from the hon. Member for Kalabo Central. What is the point of order?

 

Mr Miyutu: Madam Speaker, on relevance; Standing Order No. 71, the hon. Member for Kamfinsa used the term “simplify” in his statement. The context of the word is that of not understanding, meaning that hon. Members in this House cannot understand the actual meaning of the Motion that is on the Floor of this House. Is he in order, therefore, to lower the standing of this House?

 

Laughter

 

Mr Miyutu: Madam Speaker, when we are in the representative House, we should be mindful of who we are. It is not good to assume fake or untruthful thinking and lowering everybody in this House by saying that they cannot match the Motion. Are the words “fund” and “film” so complex that people cannot understand the Motion? Is the hon. Member in order, therefore, to lower the standing of this House by insinuating that we cannot understand the Motion that is on the Floor of the House?

 

Madam Speaker: I think, it was the choice of words in the context they were used. Maybe, hon. Member for Kamfinsa, put it in a better and acceptable manner instead of using the word “simplify”. As the hon. Member for Kalabo Central has said, when you say “simplify”, you are assuming that people do not understand. Use another word that means the same.

 

Laughter

 

Mr Kang’ombe: Madam Speaker, the opportunity I have been accorded today is to enable people beyond those who are seated in this House to follow the conversation. One of my mandates, as a Member of Parliament, is to enable the message to reach the wider majority, and that is what I am going to do.

 

Hon. Government Members: Withdraw!

 

Mr Kang’ombe: Madam Speaker, I will explain what this Motion is trying to achieve. You may be aware that this Parliament approved a law to establish what is called an Artisanal and Small-Scale Mining Fund. It was approved so that people can undertake business in the artisanal mining space. The Government has to provide the money for that category. This same Parliament also approved the establishment of the Tourism Development Fund, as it was needed to support those who would like to venture into tourism. There are people who are good in that regard and would like to work in the tourism space. If funds have been created for artisanal miners and for those who have set up tourism facilities, the Government has to move a step further because the people in the business of making films may not want to venture into mining or tourism development. Those who want to raise the quality of our movies would rather set up a studio to make movies of good quality. That is what the Motion is stating. So, I support the Motion that has been moved by my hon. Colleague, and I suggest that we move a step further. Let us go beyond mining, tourism and other key sectors that the Government has identified.

 

Madam Speaker, I expected the Motion to not have opposing views because it aligns with what the President said. Let us create jobs in different sectors. We must not only create employment in limited sectors, such as mining, tourism and agriculture. We must go a step further by providing funds for those who want to venture into acting. Tourism has created jobs for the people of Zambia. The President said that many tourists are coming to Zambia. The Government gave out licences in Mufumbwe last week and a fund has been provided to support artisanal mining. The people of Kamfinsa are asking the people of Zambezi West and Solwezi East to support this Motion for the simple reason that jobs will be created. If the quality of our film production improves, we will create employment.

 

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

 

Madam Speaker, I am confident that the people of Chimwemwe support this Motion and the people of Kasenengwa want jobs to be created.

 

Madam Speaker: Sorry, hon. Member for Kamfinsa!

 

There is an indication for a point of order.

 

Mr B. Mpundu: Achifuma muku debater uyu!

 

Mr Kang’ombe: Madam Speaker, you should have just allowed me to finish. He has already debated.

 

Madam Speaker: Order, hon. Member!

 

He is raising a point of order. Let me hear him out, then, I will make a ruling.

 

Mr Katakwe: Madam Speaker, order and manner of speech. I articulated my thoughts and highlighted the platforms that already exist.

 

Mr B. Mpundu: Awe takwaba!

 

Mr Katakwe: Madam Speaker, we have more than fifteen grant-based platforms.

 

Mr Kang’ombe: What is the point of order?

 

Mr Katakwe: So, the people of Solwezi East do not need the fund. We already have a list for free, Madam Speaker, ...

 

Madam Speaker: Order, hon. Member for –

 

Mr Katakwe: Is he in order to say that the ...

 

Mr Kang’ombe: You have wasted our time!

 

Mr Katakwe: ... people of Solwezi East should support the Motion when there is already a fund that is established?

 

Madam Speaker: Order!

 

The hon. Member for Solwezi East has already debated and expressed his views. The hon. Member for Kamfinsa could have referred to him to support the Motion. Maybe, he was just urging him. It was a manner of speech. He is just debating. Other hon. Members who are opposing will also express themselves. Let us allow the hon. Member for Kamfinsa to continue.

 

Mr B. Mpundu: Hammer, hammer boi, hammer!

 

Ulichaume iwe!

 

Mr Kang’ombe: Madam Speaker, thank you for your guidance. In the few minutes that are remaining, I would like to emphasise that each sector has to contribute to our gross domestic product (GDP). Zambia's current GDP is US$27 billion. The Information and Communications Technology (ICT) space is required to contribute to the GDP. For us to achieve a GDP of more than US$27 billion, it demands that mining contributes. It also demands that those who want to create good-quality firms are also supported so that they can contribute to our GDP.

 

Madam Speaker, this is a harmless proposal because it will not cause any harm. If the proposed fund is set up, it will enable young men and women who are good at acting and who have travelled the globe to do what others are doing. Through this Motion, we will create millionaires who are ready to act and give us the quality that we deserve. I am confident that each one of us believes that we need to create jobs for our people. We cannot create jobs only for those who have to be formally employed. Let us also consider sectors with huge potential.

 

Madam Speaker, this Motion does not require me to start reading and picking out details because that has been done by the mover and the seconder. We should support the Government. The agenda of every Government from Independence todate is to create jobs for its people. How can we fail to support a Motion that will present opportunities for our people? I speak with a passion because I know there are young people in my constituency who have been asking me about when we are going to support those who would like to go into the performing arts. Filmmaking is part of the performing arts. If someone has the skill but lacks exposure to education, this is an opportunity to give them money to buy equipment and create good-quality content.

 

Madam Speaker, my appeal to the Government is that if its position is not to support this Motion, it should reconsider it. This move is going to create jobs for its people, our people, and the people of Zambia.

 

Madam Speaker, the people of Kamfinsa support the proposal that we set up a Film Fund to support the growth of our industry.

 

Madam Speaker, I thank you.

 

Mr Kambita (Zambezi East):  Madam Speaker, I sincerely thank you for the opportunity to debate this Private Member's Motion, which is on the Floor of the House.

 

Madam Speaker, at the outset, I wish to state that I do not support the Motion because there are systems and regulations that already exist, which support avenues like the film industry.  Players can tap into and benefit from those already established systems, grants, and funds both internationally and locally. I will itemise a few in my discourse.

 

Madam Speaker, what is being proposed by the mover of the Motion falls under the Intellectual Property Law, which is regulated by Cap 406 of the Laws of Zambia. I am referring to Intellectual Property Law because when one comes up with an idea of a film, one owns the copyright of it. In Zambia, this is regulated by Cap 406 of the Laws of Zambia. Section 2 of the same Act actually defines even the film issues, which are referred to as the audiovisual works. So, the audiovisual works are covered by that Act. However, here is what we need to know. The hon. Member is proposing a film fund.   It means that people will have to borrow money from somewhere to progress.  First of all, the law has provided incentives for would-be players in this industry by allowing them to own copyrights. That is one incentive that people need to understand, and it is already in place.

 

Secondly, there is another incentive that is provided, but it cuts across all sectors.  That is why they even have the audacity of mentioning things such as artisanal licenses because it cuts across all sectors. The same Constituency Development Fund (CDF), which they are despising today, can be tapped by artists. I can give a case in point. In Zambezi, we are on our way to building a structure, which will be a radio station. It will have an annex for a studio, which can be used by the youths and many other players for recording, and we will provide funds to put in equipment.

 

Hon. Opposition Members: Question!

 

Mr Kambita: That is allowed, using the CDF. They can check the purpose of the CDF and they will find it. So, there are avenues which are already in existence. They can do that and propagate it in Nkana or Kamfinsa constituencies.  This is one of the avenues. 

 

Madam Speaker, the Citizens Economic Empowerment Commission Act No. 9 of 2006, which was enacted by this same House, gives an avenue for citizens to tap into that fund. It is a fund that exists. So, what stops those people who have the hunger to go into the film industry from tapping into that fund? What stops them from doing that? By putting up a good proposal, they can get the equipment, record and make money. As long as the proposal makes sense, they can tap into that fund. What is difficult about doing that? Hon. Members can even use their own CDF. So, how many youths in Nkana East has the hon. Member empowered so far using the CDF? He should show us an example here.

 

Madam Speaker, it just comes to that. Before we get to these wild suggestions which we make in order to try and please the youths out there, and look like we are speaking on their behalf –

 

Madam Speaker: Order, hon. Member for Zambezi East.

 

I think the use of the word “wild” is not parliamentary.  You can withdraw it and maybe, use another term.

 

Mr Kambita: Madam Speaker, I sincerely apologise. When I get into that realm, I sometimes hit over-the-bar. I would like to withdraw the word “wild” and replace it with ‘unsubstantiate.’ They have substantiated suggestions which are broadly concocted just to get some political mileage out there.

 

Laughter

 

Madam Speaker: Now, you are making it worse by using the word “concocted” please.

 

Mr Kambita: Madam Speaker, I could not find any better replacement for the word, “wild.” However, what I am trying to do is to simply point out that we have systems and laws in place. I am referring to these laws because they incentivise people to get into such an industry. Copyright is intellectual property, is it not? Hon. Mung’andu agrees with me here because he is a scholar of law, and he understands what copyright is all about. 

 

Mr Amutike: Hear, hear!

 

Mr Kambita: What they are doing is regulated by that piece of legislation. So, we must understand it starting from there, then we bring it down to other laws that bring in this fund. I have heard all of the proponents of this Motion debate the fund. Now, what are the modalities of forming this fund? When we wanted to bring in the CDF, we presented a Bill here and today there is the Constituency Development Fund Act, which regulates how people can access and utilise the funds. So, how does the hon. Member want us to manage and utilise the fund he is proposing He needs to be very clear in his mind of what he is proposing because he could be duplicating something that already exists. Some of the artisanal miners and youths 0may access the fund through the CEEC, which is regulated by an Act of Parliament, Act No. 9, of 2006.

 

Madam Speaker, the other avenue I am suggesting is the CDF. Actually, I am trying to dwell more on the local scene to supplement what my hon.  Colleague, Member for Solwezi East debated, another avenue which I might not even know about. Right now, I am talking about local practical avenues, which people can access. The problem is, first of all, we are in denial of the fact that the CEEC is accessible. We are in denial that the empowerment funds under the CDF are accessible and we will support the same suggested avenues. So, what else remains? If we are in denial of the little things that are already in place, why should we then go out there and start proposing bigger things, which we do not even have a structured way of implementing them?

 

Madam Speaker, I thought contributing in this way would help enlighten others to understand the avenues that already exist. Simple ones, as they may seem, but this is what we are doing. I have given a clear practical example of Zambezi East, where we are putting up a building, which will house a radio station and a studio, and the youth can access that facility.  Next year, we will give them the CDF to buy equipment for recording their music. Those who want to do films can also do the same.

 

Madam Speaker, I thank you.

 

Mr Mutale (Chitambo): Thank you very much, Madam Speaker.

 

 Madam Speaker, may I begin by thanking the mover of this Motion –

 

Madam Speaker: Order!

 

Business was suspended from 1640 hours until 1700 hours. 

 

[MR SECOND DEPUTY SPEAKER in the Chair]

 

Mr Mutale: Mr Speaker, thank you very much for giving me the opportunity to add a few words to the debate on this very important Motion.

 

Mr Speaker, one thing that we must all note is that there are certain industries that need support. From the time I became a Member of Parliament, I do not remember any hon. Member rising here to propose something about this industry. You may wish to note that, there are a few questions I need to ask and answer about the film industry. For example, is the film industry strategic? My answer is yes. It is a strategic industry because it can bring revenue to the economy. You may also wish to note that if the film industry is assisted with a fund, Zambia will harness talent locally instead of people going out of the country to go and develop other nations at the expense of bringing revenue to this country. The funds we are talking about here will not go to waste; they will be regained by the Government.

 

Mr Mwene: Are you sure?

 

Mr Mutale: When film producers start promoting our culture, people, the so-called tourists, will start coming to watch Zambian culture because of the film industry.

 

Mr Speaker, there must be something which compelled me to debate this Motion. The President came here last Friday and told us to bring ideas to the table that will grow the economy.

 

Mr B. Mpundu: Hear, hear!

 

Mr Mutale: He told us to bring ideas that will change the narrative. These are some of the ideas that we must harness or invest money in …

 

Mr B. Mpundu: But ba doctor balekana!

 

Mr Mutale: … to grow the film industry.

 

Mr Speaker, one thing you might need to ask those opposing the Motion is: What is wrong with the film industry having a fund when the tourism industry has one?

 

Mr B. Mpundu: Hm!

 

Mr Mutale: What wrong have our artists done to deserve no funds? Where have they gone wrong? If there is an industry suffering right now, it is the film industry …

 

Mr B. Mpundu: That is right.

 

Mr Mutale: … because no one is looking at it.

 

Mr Speaker, we have not supported the industry in any way. Today, it is under the Ministry of Youth, Sport and Arts, meaning that we are trying to attract youths to venture into the film industry.

 

Mr Speaker, we need to look at serious issues here. The President is trying to promote entrepreneurship. The people in the film industry are entrepreneurs. No economy in the world can develop without entrepreneurship. One thing we must respect about the film industry is that the people involved in it are all innovators. Innovation is not a cheap thing to find. If you just look at the equipment they use to produce a movie of high quality, you will see that they do not need something cheap.

 

Mr B. Mpundu: Ati CDF!

 

Mr Mutale: The people in the film industry do not need to be paraded elsewhere; they need their own fund in order to grow. I know that they will feel very bad should this Motion fail because this was their hope for the industry to grow.

 

Mr Speaker, I know you were there at the time of bene Sauzande. You saw what they could do.

 

Mr J. Chibuye: Danny Kanengoki!

 

Mr Mutale: You saw the Maximo of this world. They were there and they have left it here.

 

Mr Speaker, why can this Parliament not bring change by assisting the film industry, so that we can grow productions like Mpali, which people watch every day? Give it a fund. We are not the first ones to think about this. South Africa already has a fund for people in the film industry, and the fund is running very well; the people are happy. It is not good to expect ourselves –

 

Mr Amutike: Which fund?

 

Mr Mutale: It is there. It is called the National Film and Video Foundation. In Nigeria, it is also there. If you go to many houses today, you will find people watching Nigerian movies. They cannot watch our own movies because the quality of our films is low.

 

Mr Speaker, we need to help entrepreneurs in the film industry.

 

Mr B. Mpundu: That is right!

 

Mr Mutale: Those people are Zambians. No one will come and develop Zambia if we do not develop it ourselves. We can only develop Zambia by empowering our own people. Somehow, we are developing and assisting others whilst neglecting ourselves. Let us pull them together. Let us assist them. Let us give them this fund. We are not saying that when people get money from the film fund, they will mismanage it. The fund will bring a lot of revenue to the industry. The hon. Minister of Finance and National Planning is always looking for means of getting revenue. The film industry is one I would call a sleeping giant. So, please, let us assist the players in that industry.

 

Mr Speaker, there is nothing wrong with creating a film fund. If artisanal miners can be given a fund, the same can also be done for the film industry, although our hon. Colleagues are saying that there is a lot of money or grants elsewhere. So, let us help the film industry.

 

Mr Speaker, my last words are that it is rare to find a nation where  entrepreneurs who need assistance are denied that assistance. So, can we give players in the film industry the funds that they deserve.

 

Mr Speaker, I thank you

 

Mr Amutike (Mongu Central): Mr Speaker, I thank you very much.

 

Mr Speaker, I want to put it on record that this is a brought in dead (BID) Motion.

 

Hon. Government Members: Hear, hear!

 

 Mr Amutike: Mr Speaker, I say so because it seems that both the mover and the seconder of the Motion do not seem to understand the movie industry.

 

Laughter

 

Mr Amutike: Mr Speaker, the people who produce movies are not the actors we see on the screen. There are producers who work with production companies and hire directors. The directors hire the actors we see on the screens. It is not the Maximos we see on the screen who make the movies. It is very important to note that there are business people behind the film industry. Every business person knows how to raise money from the market. You do not even need to be an actor to raise money to produce a movie. That is what we need to be thinking about.

 

Mr Speaker, if we are talking about creating incentives for those involved in the film industry, then we on the right will agree. If we are talking about incentives for those buying big cameras so that they produce good movies, us on the right side would agree with our hon. Colleagues. However, if they come here and they do not seem to understand how the movie industry works, then we are definitely on different pages.

 

Mr Speaker, free education must have come much earlier so that people can bring Motions which can easily be debated.

 

Hon. Government Members: Hear, hear!

 

Mr Amutike: Mr Speaker, the money we are talking about here –

 

Mr Chala: On a point of order, Mr Speaker.

 

Mr Second Deputy Speaker: A point of order is raised.

 

Mr B. Mpundu: Mr Speaker, I rise –

 

Mr Second Deputy Speaker: Order!

 

It is the hon. Member for Chipili on the Floor.

 

Mr Chala: Mr Speaker, is the hon. Member debating in order to insinuate that the person who has brought this Motion is ignorant and that he does not understand the issue? Is he in order to insinuate that the hon. Member does not understand the Motion before this august House when he has the right to bring a Motion? Anyone has the right to bring any Motion. It is either we support or not. So, is the hon. Member in order to make such insults to the person who has moved the Motion?

 

Mr Speaker, I seek your guidance. My point of order is pursuant to Standing Order No. 71.

 

Interruptions

 

Mr Second Deputy Speaker: I know that the hon. Member for Chipili has not spoken in a long time.

 

Laughter

 

Mr Second Deputy Speaker: However, let us ensure that as we debate on the Floor, we are candid with each other. Let us stop injecting tempers into our debates.

 

You may proceed, hon. Member for Mongu Central.

 

Mr Amutike: Mr Speaker, thank you very much.

 

Mr Speaker, I was just simply saying that the people behind the movies we see on the screens are businessmen and women who invest their money in production companies. That is what we should be talking about here so that we encourage young people who have talent in business, not necessarily in films only. Let us encourage young men and women who have interest in making movies to invest in that. So, the Motion we expected from our hon. Colleagues on your left is one about creating incentives or tax relief for businessmen and women who want to invest in the movie industry. That is what we on your right want to be debating.

 

Mr Speaker, Zambia has a free market economy. Anybody is free to raise capital anywhere. It is not only the Citizens Economic Empowerment Commission (CEEC) that we can raise money from. My hon. Colleague, the Member for Zambezi East, talked about the CEEC. Money for the film industry can even be raised from the private sector. One can even raise money from Standard Chartered Bank, Absa Bank Zambia Plc or any other local bank. Maybe, Parliament needs to come up with laws or incentives for banks that are going to support the film industry to be given tax relief. That is how you can raise money and support the film industry.

 

Mr Speaker, when His Excellency the President came here, he said we should come up with ideas on how our economy can grow. He did not say that we should bring any idea that we dream about which does not work. That is not what the President meant. People should bring ideas that add to our economic and create jobs. Do not just go and – If those are the kind of ideas of our hon. Colleagues, they should just keep them to themselves. They cannot bring an idea about the Government getting involved in businesses in this time and era. They should have brought those ideas before Parliament of the 1970’s, not this kind of Parliament. Here, we need ideas that are well thought through and speak to economics and make business sense. Anybody anywhere, even hon. Members of Parliament, can come up with ideas that make business sense. You can develop a business plan and go to any bank for funding. So, businessmen and women do not need to run to the Government every time. The Government is already overburdened with a lot of things.

 

 Mr Speaker, we want to use the little resources that we have or are raising to add value for our people, instead of trying to help business people. We removed the fuel subsidy because we were subsidising businessmen and women who are running the mines. So, our hon. Colleagues want us to go back to doing the same thing by suggesting that the United Party for National Development (UPND) Government must subsidise businessmen and women. No, we want to subsidise the poor; those who really need the help of the Government. We are increasing the Constituency Development Fund (CDF) so that it can cushion those who really need help, not business people. People in the film industry are businessmen and women. So, that is what we need to be doing. Those are the kind of ideas we want.  

 

Mr Speaker, I do not want to belabour this point because, as I said earlier, this is a BID Motion. We want to encourage our friends to take note that we now have free education. They should learn about certain things through the CDF programmes. They can make a programme and learn about how the film industry works. As I said earlier, it is not the Kabanana actors like Jason who make movies, but the producers and business people behind the scenes. That is why we see that all the actors leave their jobs because they are hired by the directors.

 

Mr Speaker, with those few words, I wish to state that we are not supporting this Motion because it is not well thought out.

 

I thank you, Mr Speaker.

 

Hon. Government Members: Hear, hear!

 

Mr Kafwaya: On a point of order, Mr Speaker.

 

Mr Chisanga rose.

 

Mr Second Deputy Speaker: You may resume your seat, Hon. Chisanga.

 

A point of order is raised by the hon. Member for Lunte.

 

Mr Kafwaya: Mr Speaker, thank you for according me this opportunity to raise a point of order on the hon. Member who has just finished making his submission.

 

Mr Speaker, you may be aware that Hon. Fube and Hon. Binwell Mpundu were ruled out of order for screaming into the microphones.

 

Laughter

 

Mr Kafwaya: Mr Speaker, my point of order is: How does contempt of the House appear, if it fails to appear in the manner it has been projected by the – 

 

Mr Second Deputy Speaker: Hon. Member for Lunte, …

 

Mr Kafwaya: Yes, Sir!

 

Mr Second Deputy Speaker: … you rose on a point of order.

 

Mr Kafwaya: Yes!

 

Mr Second Deputy Speaker: The one thing you should have stated is the breach that has occurred and cited the necessary Standing Orders.

 

Mr Kafwaya: It is contempt, Mr Speaker.

 

Mr Second Deputy Speaker: Under which Standing Order?

 

Mr Kafwaya: Standing Order No. 71, Mr Speaker.

 

 Mr Second Deputy Speaker: Hon. Member, do you know what constitutes contempt on the Floor of this House?

 

Mr Kafwaya: Yes!

 

Tell me, Sir.

 

Mr Second Deputy Speaker: Do not misguide yourself. Do you know what constitutes something contemptuous on the Floor of this House?

 

Mr Kafwaya: Let me finish.

 

Mr Second Deputy Speaker: You merely tried to cite a breach. You should have mentioned the Standing Orders that had been breached, not saying contempt. I am the only umpire here, in this House, who understands what is happening.

 

Laughter

 

Mr Kafwaya: Let me finish. As I recognise and appreciate your counsel, the Motion under discussion, Mr Speaker, was approved by your office, not by the mover.

 

Mr Second Deputy Speaker: Resume your seat, hon. Member. I have given you guidance, but you are not ready.

 

Hon. Member for Nyimba, you may proceed.

 

Mr Kafwaya: Ah!

 

Interruptions

 

Mr Zulu (Nyimba): Thank you, Mr Speaker.

 

Mr Speaker, I think, I have given guidance to young ones in the course of my life. I have been a leader for the young ones. When I see that the young ones are not up to the task, I get worried. We say that we need to leave this country to be managed by the young ones. For a film industry to succeed, it needs a strong economy because, at the end of the day, when movies are produced, we need to have a cadre of youths or elders who have enough resources to pay for those movies. I wish we had people who could come up with proposals to find money or allocate funds for people who could go into research, manufacturing or come up with innovations to ensure that agriculture is moving at a better rate. If you ask, no one is against the movie industry, everyone supports it. I do not want anyone to misquote me. I am one of the lovers of local productions, which are funded by corporate companies. The issue we have in this country, and why we do not move as African countries, is that all our ideas rely on Government funds. Today, we need to be talking about whether there is a film industry policy or not.

 

Mr Speaker, I still manage young ones …

 

Mr Mweetwa: On a point of order, Mr Speaker.

 

Mr Zulu: … and I have realised that a film policy was introduced this year. You may wish to know that the Act on the –

 

Mr Mweetwa: On a point of order, Mr Speaker.

 

Mr Second Deputy Speaker: A point of order is raised.

 

Mr Mweetwa: Mr Speaker, thank you for giving me this occasion.

 

 Allow me, Mr Speaker, with your greatest indulgence, to welcome you and the hon. Members to this last Session of our five-year mandate. It has been a great and humbling honour to serve the people of Zambia at this high level.

 

 Mr Speaker, I rise on a serious point of order anchored on the traditions and conventions of this House.

 

Mr Second Deputy Speaker: Hon. Minister, state the breach that has occurred.

 

Mr Mweetwa: With your guidance, Mr Speaker, I am proceeding to do just that but, before I do that, Mr Speaker, allow me –

 

Mr Second Deputy Speaker: Order, hon. Minister!

 

 You should also state the Standing Order under which the breach has occurred.

 

Mr Mweetwa: Mr Speaker, before I proceed to state the Standing Order under which the breach has occurred, …

 

Interruptions

 

Mr Mweetwa: … allow me to join the hon. Member for Katombola in commending the hon. Members of this House for allowing the Government to purchase ambulances through the Constituency Development Fund (CDF). That is a huge milestone.

 

Interruptions

 

Mr B. Mpundu: No. Which Standing Order?

 

Mr Mweetwa: Mr Speaker, just five years ago, ambulances –

 

Interruptions

 

Mr Mweetwa: Mr Speaker, I need your protection.

 

Mr Second Deputy Speaker: Hon. B. Mpundu, you are debating whilst seated. The hon. Minister has the Floor. . I am the only one who can withdraw that right. So, when he is debating, he has all the privileges and the right to debate or state his point of order. Let him continue. I will not concentrate, if you keep talking, and then I will let him talk as much as he can.

 

Hon. Minister, you may continue.

 

Interruptions

 

Mr Mweetwa: Mr Speaker, thank you for your guidance. You know these are serious matters. Some of us are here, in this House, for serious business.

 

Mr Speaker, the milestone that has been achieved today by the purchase of 156 ambulances is one that should go into the annals of history, …

 

Hon. PF Member: Question!

 

Mr Mweetwa: … that once upon a time, there was a President who cared for the people.

 

Mr Speaker, just five years ago, the same ambulances cost US$250,000.

 

Interruptions

 

Mr Mweetwa: Now they cost only US$89,500, Mr Speaker. I commend hon. Members for making that possible under the leadership of President Hakainde Hichilema.

 

Interruptions

 

Mr Kampyongo: (rose from his seat) Mr Speaker, in all fairness, what is this?

 

Interruptions 

 

Mr Kampyongo: On a point of order, Mr Speaker.

 

Mr Mweetwa: My point order, Mr Speaker –

 

Mr Kampyongo: In all fairness, Mr Speaker, let us have some order.

 

Interruptions

 

Mr Mweetwa: Mr Speaker, you can see the disorder that my hon. Colleagues –

 

Interruptions

 

 Mr Mweetwa: They want to bring the disorder that is in their political party into this House, Mr Speaker. Please, I need your guidance.

 

Interruptions

 

Mr Second Deputy Speaker: Order!

 

Hon. Member for Nyimba, you may continue.

 

Mr Kampyongo resumed his seat.

 

Mr Zulu: Mr Speaker, my duty is to interact with the young ones and see to it that what is needed for them is available. I know that the Government removed Value Added Tax (VAT) on all film equipment that is purchased outside this country. Those are the incentives needed for the film industry. However, I oppose the setting up of a fund for the film industry in the sense that we import even a wheelbarrow in this country. If you ask the hon. Minister of Technology and Science, he will tell you that his ministry needs money for the young people who are coming up with innovative ideas to see to it that good products come out of our tertiary schools. We have young boys at Chipata Trades Training Institute and Northern Technical College (NORTEC) who need funds more than the other industry because they have ideas for superb products. They have no backup from the corporate world. Today, any movie shown on the Digital Satellite Television (DSTV) or national television is backed by corporate entities. What more do we need?

 

Mr Speaker, I become so confused …

 

Mr B. Mpundu: Yeah, you are confused!  

 

Mr Zulu: … when people say that we should allow the young people to lead this country. This is in the sense that they can come up with ideas which will not provide jobs for the youths. Today, we have some youths from trade schools who were sponsored by the Constituency Development Fund (CDF). Do we have plans for the youths who are graduating from tertiary schools or colleges? Before we even start talking about the film industry, have we, as hon., Members planned anything for them? I challenge those supporting the creation of a Film Fund to rise and tell the nation that they have set up film industries, and it is helping the young people in their constituencies.

 

Mr Speaker, it is not in my nature to politick. I believe in calling a spade a spade. We are on the wrong track if we start supporting the industry which is already highly funded. Companies such as Trade Kings Group, Mobile Telephone Network (MTN), and DSTV fund movies. So, what do those supporting this Motion want?

 

Mr Speaker, most arts projects in my constituency are supported by the CDF.  What is so special about the film industry? Why only pick one aspect of art out of so many? Is the film industry the only one that exists? Do hon. Members who are supporting this Motion have a special interest in the film industry? What about musicians? Why do we not bring them on board? Let us not discuss matters that will not add value to our youths. What we need is money for the youths to engage into innovative skills. We need to support what is good for the nation. The film industry is perfect, but the proposal has come at the wrong time. We need to build up proper industries. Countries like Germany, Japan, and Spain are where they are today because they developed the artisanal sector. Even Zimbabwe did the same. The artisans we have in this country are coming from Zimbabwe. Are we not ashamed of ourselves? These are the things we should be looking at.

 

Mr Speaker, it is my prayer that from today onwards, we support every sector that can strengthen our economy to the level where we will be able to support the art industry. Currently, we are not able to support the film industry. If the Government has the money, I pray that it is allocated to artisanal miners. That way, we will create employment through artisanal mining. Empowering one graduate in metal fabrication at the Northern Technical College (NORTEC) will, in turn, create employment for twenty people. What am I saying? Let us allocate money where it will be valued most, rather than where it is already saturated. For me, the film industry has enough funds, and what the Government is already doing is enough. The equipment used in the film industry is tax-free. There is a tax holiday on everything. What more do we want? Let us research more. Let us visit the Ministry of Youth, Sport, and Arts and find out what the Government is doing and what it is not.

 

The hon. Member’s time expired.

 

Mr Second Deputy Speaker: Order!

 

Your time is up, hon. Member.

 

Mr Zulu: Mr Speaker, let me end here.

 

I thank you, Mr Speaker.

 

Mr Second Deputy Speaker: Two hon. Ministers will respond to the Motion. The first will be the hon. Minister of Commerce, Trade and Industry and later, the hon. Minister of Water Development and Sanitation.

 

The Minister of Commerce, Trade and Industry (Mr Chipoka Mulenga): Mr Speaker, allow me to thank the mover of the Motion, Hon. Binwell Mpundu, the Member of Parliament for Nkana. Before I proceed, let me thank His Excellency the President, and congratulate him, the hon. Minister of Local Government and Rural Development, and the hon. Minister of Health, on the delivery of ambulances that will service e our communities in all the constituencies in our country. The Zambian public has been waiting for that delivery exercise which will touch their lives meaningfully.

 

Mr Speaker, the Motion at hand is a good one. It shows concern about actors in our country. However, it draws my attention.  The Government is very much alive to the reality of the plight and the contribution to the economy of the actors in our country. It is for this reason that the Government, for the first time, has come up with a film policy to structure something for them to meaningfully contribute to the growth of their sector, livelihoods, and the economy.

 

The Ministry of Sports, Youth and Art, where that component falls, has many players, whom we refer to as artists. Yes, we are talking about the actors, but we should also be concerned about the singers and poets. In this vein, while we discuss one area, we appreciate what the mover has done because it now allows us to holistically look at many other players on how we can sit in an indaba or caucus to support everyone. If we focus on one aspect, many more will come. This Motion gives us the opportunity to see how we can bring all the artists together. We appreciate this. Even in my constituency, we have young filmmakers such as Marshall the Filmmaker, Chingola Choir, and many others. Yes, we also have singers in this country, such as Yo Maps, Starface, and others, whom we should bring together. Collectively, we can look at the artists as the Ministry of Sports, Youth and Art is trying to bring them together. The film policy is a step in the right direction. This is where the Government has shown concern for all the players. Collectively, the artistes should not be left behind.

 

Mr Speaker, it is my view as a Member of Parliament and as a servant in the Cabinet that we look at this issue holistically instead of looking at one area. For that cause, I say, in as much as setting up a Film Fund is a good proposal, I do not support it in the single way it has been proposed. Therefore, let us look at it in a broader perspective. The hon. Member of Parliament who moved the Motion would also be part of the indaba where we can look at the singers, actors, and other artistes at large.

 

Mr Speaker, I thank you.

 

The Minister of Water Development and Sanitation (Eng. Nzovu) (on behalf of the Minister of Youth, Sport and Arts (Mr Nkandu)) Mr Speaker, let me rise to express my sincere appreciation to Hon. Binwell Mpundu, who has tabled this timely and thoughtful Motion regarding the establishment of a Film Fund. Indeed, film is a powerful art form as it captures our heritage. It tells our stories, and it amplifies our identity, our national values and principles on both national and global platforms. Its value to the development of this country is unquestionable. Every debater said on the Floor of the House that it is a billion-dollar industry, and it must be supported, and the Government agrees.

 

Mr Speaker, the film sector in Zambia operates under a structured framework involving various stakeholders at different levels. At the ministry level, the Ministry of Youth, Sport, and Arts, through the Arts Department, is responsible for film policy development, infrastructure, regulation, and facilitation of incentives such as reduced or zero tax on film equipment importation.

 

Mr Speaker, nationally, the Government, through the National Arts Council of Zambia, the statutory body under the ministry, plays a key role in licensing film promoters, registering film enterprises, promoting films through festivals, and providing oversight on film associations. To this effect, sector associations, particularly the National Association for Media Arts (NAMA), acts as the umbrella body for film-makers, co-ordinating with other emerging associations and aligning with the National Arts Council. Additionally, distributors, cinemas, and television stations play a crucial role in ensuring that the film industry continues to grow through a sector network. A co-ordinated approach involving both the Government and the private sector is, therefore, essential to foster growth, strengthen collaboration and address industry needs effectively.

 

Mr Speaker, however, at this historical juncture, my ministry is considering a more transformative approach, which is the creation of a Creative Arts Industries Fund, where the film fund will sit. This alternative is not a dismissal of the film sector, but rather an elevation, placing film where it rightly belongs, that is, within the rich embroidery of our creative economy. Let me explain this, and I hope Hon. B. Mpundu is listening. Art is defined as a diverse human creative expression used to communicate ideas, emotions and experiences through various media, including visual arts like painting and sculpture, and performing arts like music, theatre and literature.

 

Mr Kapala: Free education iyo.

 

Eng. Nzovu: Mr Speaker, what this means is that, as the Ministry of Youth, Sport and Arts, we will not cherry-pick. The film industry is very important, but so is the music industry. What we are proposing is a Creative Arts Industries Fund. We are with Hon. B. Mpundu. This industry needs support, just like other industries need support. By the way, if you look at the other part of this ministry, you see that it has sports. Hon. Nkandu came to the Floor of the House and discussed various sports disciplines. There was football and rugby. Indeed, there is a fund under the sports fund and it caters for all sports because other sports are as important as football. Gone are the days when the Government would put money only in football. So, we are with the hon. Member, except we want to broaden the fund.

 

Mr Speaker, let me quickly articulate the proposed mechanisms of funding the Creative Arts Industries Fund, including the film industry. I hope that filmmakers are listening and the people in the music and painting industry are listening. Actually, where I come from, there are various arts. I do not know whether you know something about kuyabila. That is an art, also. There are people who are in the music industry. There are also people who play guitars. Basically, what I am saying is that we need all these people. It is just like the Government saying, “Let us support churches using the Constituency Development Fund (CDF).” It is not only the Catholic Church or the Seventh Day Adventist Church (SDA) Church that need support, it is all churches.  

 

Mr Speaker, I was privileged to run the Ministry of Green Economy and Environment, and it had a forest fund. It was not a mukula fund or a eucalyptus fund. Let us look at the matter holistically. It was a forest fund for various species of trees.

 

Mr Speaker, the proposed Creative Arts Industries Fund will need a multi-sectoral approach, which will include the Zambia Revenue Authority (ZRA). To this effect, my ministry proposes a K1 levy on arts and film equipment to be paid up front. This entails that arts and film equipment devices and electronics imported into the country will need to be levied at the point of entry. Thus, the collected levy will be shared accordingly as agreed upon. Further, the Creative Industries Fund will be collected at the point of selling tickets for any creative events through developing Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) with companies such as Computickets.

 

Mr Speaker, the establishment of the Creative Arts Industries Fund will have the following impact:

 

1. Broader Impact and Opportunities

 

The creative economy comprises industries such as music. Where I come from, dance, theatre, comedy, fashion, animation, creative writing, crafts, and yes, very, very important, yes, Hon. Mpundu, very important, film. My ministry believes that when we invest in a holistic Creative Arts Industries Fund, we will open the door for thousands of young people whose talents lie across these diverse artistic fields and promote innovation across industries and encourage interdisciplinary collaboration, as the chairlady listens to me, like film scoring by local musicians, costume design by Zambian fashion houses, or animation by our growing digital sector, artificial intelligence (AI);

 

1. Economic Diversification and Youth Employment

 

Based on the Eighth National Development Plan (8NDP), our ministry seeks to contribute to diversifying our country's economic base and reduce youth unemployment. The creative industries have demonstrated their potential to create jobs quickly and sustainably. A 2023 United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation (UNESCO) study estimates that creative sectors globally generate over 30 million jobs. Therefore, Zambia must harness this momentum by empowering all creators, not just filmmakers;

 

(c)     Equity, Inclusion and Accessibility

 

We must ensure that women, youths, persons with disabilities and artists from rural communities can access support. A narrowly defined film fund risks exclusion, whilst a Creative Arts Industries Fund offers a more inclusive financial architecture and capacity building support to democratise opportunities for all Zambians; and

 

1. Sustainable Sector Growth and Export Potential

 

As the debaters clearly stated, and I agree with the hon. Member, a Creative Arts Industries Fund can enable a revolving financing model and ecosystem development that benefits multiple sectors simultaneously, allowing us to build infrastructure, grow export markets and generate Foreign Direct Investment (FDI). It is in this regard that the Government remains committed to growing the creative sector to enable it to contribute to the development of our great nation. To this effect, the ministry revised the National Film Policy and its Implementation Plan and developed the first ever National Arts Policy and its Implementation Plan in order to provide the legal framework and policy direction to guide the development of the arts and film sectors. Additionally, the ministry has begun the process of repealing and replacing legislation in the creative arts sector that were neglected for a long time, including the National Arts Council of Zambia Act No. 31 of 1994 and the Theatre and Cinematography Exhibition Act No. 54 of 1929.

 

The ministry is also actively involved in reviewing other pieces of legislation that are central to the existence of a thriving arts value chain, such as the Independent Broadcasting Authority (IBA) Act No. 18 of 2017, the Copyright and Performance Rights Act No. 25 of 2010, to mention a few.

 

Mr Speaker, let us be bold. Let us be visionary. Let us create a framework that nurtures not only filmmakers, but the entire collection of Zambian creativity by establishing a Creative Arts Industries Fund. We will be ensuring that every young Zambian with a story to tell, a beat to drop, a brush to paint, or a stage to command has a chance to thrive and build a future not only for themselves but for their country.

 

Mr Speaker, let it be recorded correctly. We support the idea that Hon. B. Mpundu has brought, but we just want to broaden it to include others.

 

Mr Speaker, I thank you.

 

Hon. Government Members: Hear, hear!

 

Mr B. Mpundu: Mr Speaker, first of all, I want to thank the Government through the hon. Minister of Water Development and Sanitation for supporting my Motion. How I wish that the hon. Minister had sat down with all those who opposed this Motion to lecture them.

 

Mr Speaker, I also want to thank all the hon. Members who debated; those who supported and those who opposed the Motion. Many times, we have come here to advance the interests of politicians. Today, I came here to advance the interests of young people who are innovative and creative. Today, I came here to advance the cause of an industry that has so much potential.

 

Mr Speaker, in 1988, the Nigerians came to Lusaka Play House to learn about movies in Zambia. When they went back, they set up a university and a film fund. The Nigerian movie industry today gives the Government not less than US$1.4 billion as a contribution to the gross domestic product (GDP). That is the potential the film industry has. Now, there is one thing that must be corrected. The term ‘film industry’ is not an invention. It is not new.

 

Mr Speaker, in all the countries where all the facets of art exist, it is because of a film fund that has supported the growth of the film industry in those countries. Our friends in neighbouring countries like South Africa have gone miles ahead because of a film fund. They have produced movies that have won Oscars like Tsotsi. The Yellow Card produced in Zimbabwe brought in millions of United States (US) Dollars because of  support from the Government through the creation of a film fund. The proposal for the introduction of a film fund is not new. It is not a new invention. It has happened in other countries. It has supported industries across the globe.

 

In other countries, Mr Speaker, musicians and other artists exist, but their Governments have created a special fund. That is why I came to this august House with this Motion. In this august House, we have supported other sectors and created funding for them. I do not think that it would be strange to create one for the film industry. We must never have a narrow view of the film industry to suggest to a very sad point that the film industry can be supported through the Constituency Development Fund (CDF).

 

Mr Kasandwe: Imagine!

 

Mr B. Mpundu: Mr Speaker, to produce a blockbuster movie requires billions, but such ventures bring huge revenue to the Government. The movie industry has made billionaires across the world. That is the broader view we must look at in creating a film fund. We must not have a narrow view that you can draw a K1,000 from the CDF and think that you can support such a very lucrative industry.

 

Interruptions

 

Mr B. Mpundu: As I wind up, Mr Speaker, I must put it to my hon. Colleagues that let us take time to research, learn and understand things. It does not matter where we come from. Just because I come from Nkana, where we do not watch movies, then I must restrict my thinking to Nkana? We must broaden our thinking. That is why Parliament exposes us. We travel so that we can learn best practices. When we come here with proposals, we are basically saying that we have an ailing economy that can be supported by exploiting industries that have potential like the movie industry.

 

Mr Speaker, when I brought this Motion, I did not say that let us incentivise actors. I said that let us incentivise the film industry, which has various players, including filmmakers, writers, actors and make-up artists. In the end, setting up a film fund can unlock other industries, such as tourism, clothing and design, or whatever it is called, and the hospitality industry. Such a fund has the potential to put this country on the world map. It can have a triple effect, which is the broadened view that hon. Members of Parliament in this modern era must be looking at. We should look at issues like that and not have a narrow view of thinking that the CDF is heaven on earth. The CDF can be used for little things like 1 x 3 classroom blocks, not to make a movie.

 

Interruptions

 

Hon. UPND Members: Question!

 

Mr B. Mpundu: I thank you, Mr Speaker, and all the hon. Members who have supported this initiative.

 

Hon. Opposition Members: Hear, hear!

 

Ms Mulenga: CDF blockbuster!

 

Interruptions

 

Mr Second Deputy Speaker: Hon. Member for Kalulushi, what are you saying about the Constituency Development Fund (CDF)?

 

Hon. PF Members: Ah!

 

Mr Chisopa: 1 x 3 classroom block.

 

Mr Second Deputy Speaker: If you talked like that in Luangeni, you would not come out alive ...

 

Laughter

 

Mr Kampyongo: Question!

 

Mr Second Deputy Speaker: … because in the last four years, about fourteen clinics have been built.

 

Interruptions

 

Mr Second Deputy Speaker: In the past sixty years, there were only ten clinics.

 

Hon. UPND Members: Hear, hear!

 

Interruptions

 

Mr Second Deputy Speaker: Order, hon. Members!

 

Question that in order to promote the growth of the film industry in Zambia, this House urges the Government to set up a film fund put and negatived.

 

______

 

BILL

 

THE CLOSED-CIRCUIT TELEVISION PUBLIC PROTECTION BILL, 2025

 

MESSAGE FROM THE PRESIDENT

 

The Deputy Clerk-Procedure (Mr Kawimbe): The reconsideration of the Closed-Circuit Television Public Protection Bill No. 1 of 2025:

 

State House

Lusaka

Republic of Zambia

 

The Speaker of the National Assembly

Parliament Buildings

Lusaka

 

Pursuant to the powers vested in me under Article 66 (1)(b), I hereby refer the Bill back to the National Assembly for reconsideration for the following reasons:

 

1. Invasion of privacy

 

The Bill does not provide safeguards on how CCTV footage will be collected, …

 

Mr Kampyongo: We told you!

 

The Deputy Clerk-Procedure: … used or protected. The omission risks intrusion into the private lives of citizens and constitutes a potential breach of fundamental rights guaranteed under the Constitution.

 

Interruptions

 

Mr Second Deputy Speaker: Hon. Members, let us be orderly. Hon. Member for Kalulushi and the hon. Member close to Hon. Kasandwe, let us avoid debating whilst seated. I will give you days to rest.

 

Laughter

 

Mr Second Deputy Speaker: We just resumed meeting on Friday.

 

May the Clerk continue.

 

The Deputy Clerk-Procedure:

 

1. Excessive bureaucracy

 

The proposed licensing process is lengthy and inconsistent with the Government policy direction to reduce red tape.

 

1. Unclear costs

 

Reference to a prescribed fee without clarity may place an undue burden on citizens and small businesses.

 

1. Transparency and abuse

 

The absence of clear approval mechanisms raises risks of politicisation, corruption and selective enforcement.

 

1. Scope and overreach

 

The vague definition of public premises and restrictive licensing provisions open the door to overregulation and undue intrusion into citizens’ freedoms. Existing laws and institutions already provide avenues to ensure public safety. Any new legislation must, therefore, restrict the constitutional balance between security and the right to privacy.

 

Signed: Hakainde Hichilema (President of the Republic of Zambia)

 

Hon. Opposition Members: Hear, hear!

 

Mr Kampyongo: Twalemweba!

 

Mr Second Deputy Speaker: The Bill, together with the Message from the President, stands referred to the Committee on National Security and Foreign Affairs. The Committee is required to submit its report on the Bill to the House in due course. Hon. Members who wish to make submissions on the Bill are free to do so within the programme of work of the Committee.

 

_______

 

MOTION OF THANKS

 

(Debate resumed)

 

Mr Mtayachalo (Chama North): Mr Speaker, thank you for according me this opportunity to contribute to the debate on the Motion of Thanks on the President’s Speech, which was delivered to this House last week on Friday.

 

Mr Speaker, I will go straight into discussing the energy sector. The sector is key to Zambia’s economic development.  However, it has not been fully exploited despite this country having the potential to exploit it so that it can contribute to the gross domestic product (GDP). In the last fifty years, we have not seen significant investment in both renewable and non-renewable sources of energy. The late Former President Dr Kenneth Kaunda commissioned the Kafue Gorge Upper Hydropower project in 1973, and the Kafue Gorge Lower project was commissioned in 2021. Between 1973 and 2021, there is a fifty years gap.  This country has seen an increase in the population and many economic activities, especially investments in the mining industry. When the United Party for National Development (UPND) came into Government in 2021, it was aware of this country’s current electricity challenges. In the speech that was delivered to this House by the President, I did not hear of any immediate measures that this Government is taking to overcome the current and future electricity challenges.

 

Mr Speaker, much has been said about solar energy, and it is a good source of energy. However, we must be realistic about the fact that solar energy has its own limitations. I do not think solar energy can power industrial development. As a country, we need to ensure that the State continues to play a leading role in investing in power generation alongside the private sector. Countries like Ethiopia have invested heavily in power generation. The Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam is a game-changer. It is the largest hydropower project in Africa with an installed generation capacity of more than 6,000 MW. We can also do that. We must be mindful of the fact that hydropower remains the best source of energy. It is not only environmentally friendly but also reliable. Sources like solar are not reliable because they depend on weather patterns.

 

Mr Speaker, as a country, we have not done well in the transport sector. Most of our roads are in deplorable states more than sixty years after Independence. By this time,  most of our roads should have been  converted into dual carriageways. Sixty years after Independence, we have failed to make the Nakonde Road, which is an economic road, a dual carriageway. By this time, the Lusaka/Livingstone Road should have been converted into a dual carriageway. More needs to be done. The public-private partnership (PPP) model is good, but the State must allocate enough resources in the Budget every year so that we can work on as many roads as possible. If we can work on 100 km of roads in each province each year, I think, in the next few years, we can have better roads.

 

Mr Speaker, coming from the Eastern Province, and I am happy that the Chadiza/Chipata Road is being worked on. Other roads like the Chama/Lundazi Road and the Chama/Matumbo Road should equally be worked on. Every successive Government has talked about those two roads. We are hopeful that the statements that are made on the Floor of this House will be actualised. Before Parliament adjourned recently, the Acting hon. Minister of Infrastructure, Housing and Urban Development then told this august House that the remaining 65 km stretch on the Chama/Matumbo Road was going to be worked on, and that the design and the procurement processes would be done in the last quarter of 2025. So, the people of Chama are hopeful that by 2026, the remaining 65 km stretch from Chief Lundu to Luangwa Bridge will be worked on so that they can also receive a fair share of the national cake.

 

Mr Speaker, the President mentioned that no one has died of hunger as a result of the drought that devastated this country last year. While many areas in this country had good rainfall, Chama had a severe drought. The people are going through many challenges in terms of hunger. I have not seen that before. In my four years of being a Member of Parliament, I travel to my constituency regularly, and people never used to come to my home to ask for food. However, this time, every morning, around 0500 hours, people assemble at my home asking for money to buy tins of maize. This is September. My worry is that as we are heading towards December, our people will be in serious problems.

 

Mr Amutike: Question!

 

Mr Mtayachalo: Mr Speaker, I would like to appeal to the Office of Her Honour the Vice-President to, as quickly as possible, give a bit of food to our people who cannot afford to buy.

 

Mr Speaker, the Cash-for-Work programme is well-intended, as it helps our people have increased household income, but it is being abused. If we are not careful, the programme will de-campaign the Ruling Party  because a few unscrupulous individuals are using it to enrich themselves. They even set up five Subscriber Identity Module (SIM) cards, for example, and money is sent to their mobile money accounts, but they do not work. That is the situation on the ground. That is why I have called for auditors to conduct an audit in Chama North. The people on the ground feel that the programme is not benefiting the majority of our people. It is the same situation with the food security pack, as it is not reaching the intended targets. The poor and aged are not receiving the fertiliser. It is those who are politically connected who receive the fertiliser. The majority of people in Chama feel that the Government has allowed the situation because no action is being taken. To date, even when the police arrest individuals who are found with fertiliser bags in their homes, no action is taken. That is the situation obtaining on the ground. One may think that everything is all right, but the situation is different on the other side.

 

Mr Speaker, with those few remarks, I support the Motion.

 

I thank you, Mr Speaker.

 

Mr Kampyongo: On a point of order, Mr Speaker.

 

Mr Second Deputy Speaker: A point of order is raised.

 

Mr Kampyongo: Mr Speaker, thank you for giving me this opportunity to raise a point of order. However, before I do that, let me place on record my commendation and appreciation to the President for listening to the concerns of hon. Members here and the Zambian citizens over the Closed-Circuit Television Bill, which I sent back. This is as it should be. We lamented here –

 

Mr Second Deputy Speaker: Order, hon. Member!

 

Mr Kampyongo: My point of order, Mr Speaker, is a procedural one.

 

Mr Speaker, the Leader of Government Business in the House, by practice, is the only one who can cut across all the ministries at the same time, despite the fact that hon. Ministers are allowed to act on behalf of other hon. Ministers. However, this afternoon, the hon. Minister of Water Development and Sanitation, not that I doubt his capacity, has represented four ministries. Apart from his ministry, he has represented the Ministry of Energy, the Ministry of Local Government and Rural Development –

 

Mr Second Deputy Speaker: Order! 

 

May you resume your seat, hon. Member.

 

Mr Kampyongo: Mr Speaker, let me finish.

 

Mr Second Deputy Speaker:  Resume your seat, hon. Member.

 

Hon. Members, we are guided by rules in this House. If the Leader of Government Business in the House feels that a particular hon. Minister has to act in another capacity, no hon. Member, whosoever, has the right to question that decision.

 

Mr Kampyongo: Question!

 

Mr Second Deputy Speaker: No, hon. Member, whosoever, has the right to question that decision.

 

Mr Kampyongo: Which rule?

 

Mr Second Deputy Speaker: In our rules. We operate using the Standing Orders. Therefore, any hon. Minister who has been assigned to act in another capacity is as capable as the substantive hon. Minister. So, before you go any further, one of my roles is to ensure that no hon. Member misleads the public using the facilities of the National Assembly. That is why I had to curtail you.

 

So, the hon. Member who was on the Floor before, may proceed with the debate.

 

Mr Simushi (Sikongo): Mr Speaker, thank you for giving the people of Sikongo an opportunity to add a voice to the debate on the President’s Speech.

 

Mr Speaker,the President’s Speech delivered on Friday was not only inspirational but comprehensive. The President tried to cover all the major sectors of the economy, demonstrating how the United Party for National Development (UPND) Administration has delivered or has performed in the past four years of it being in office.

 

Mr Speaker, before I get into the details, allow me to quote from the President’s Speech. In his concluding remarks on page 58, he said:

 

“Madam Speaker, the economy has been resuscitated and is back on a positive growth trajectory. Significant trades in debt restructuring have been registered. International financial credibility has been restored. An unprecedented bumper harvest has been recorded. Increased foreign direct investment in various sectors of our economy is being witnessed in mining, in energy and, indeed, in agriculture.”

 

Mr Speaker, I am a very proud Member of Parliament to serve under President Hakainde Hichilema and the New Dawn Administration, because this is a President who is walking the talk. There is no rhetoric as far as his governance of this country is concerned. When he says that when we inherited this economy, the economy was in bad shape –

 

Mr B. Mpundu: Not “enconomy”. It is economy.

 

Laughter

 

Mr Simushi: I am more educated than you.

 

Interruptions

 

Mr Simushi: It is economy, not “enconomy”, that is for you uneducated people.

 

Ms Sefulo: Do not pay attention to them, just debate.

 

Mr Simushi: Mr Speaker, the economy was in the Intensive Care Unit (ICU). The President and his Administration have managed to bring it out of the ICU.  In demonstrating this particular aspect, the President told us that from 2017 to 2020, our economy was growing at 1.5 per cent.  However, from 2021 to 2024, we have seen the economy growing at an average of 5.2 per cent, which is, indeed, incredible, given the fact that it was in the ICU. The economy was in that state in the sense that our colleagues incurred a huge debt, of about US$20.5 billion, both external and domestic debt combined, which was very serious.

 

However, the President managed to restructure the economy. The debt has been restructured; we are talking about almost 95 per cent debt restructuring. The President said that the economy is now out of danger. The results are being seen, even in places such as Sikongo. The previous Administration had put us on what is called “ku wire,” which means that the economy of Sikongo was dead. There was nothing to show for it. However, today, the people of Sikongo and Shangombo feel that they are now part and parcel of Zambia. In Sikongo, there is a ward called Mumbele. The people in that ward had stopped voting. However, when I was on recess, I visited them and they said, “This time around, we are going to register in numbers because we have now seen a Government that is able to respond to our needs.” All the five zones of Mumbele Ward have received one or two projects. That has never happened before.

 

Mr Speaker, President Hakainde Hichilema and his Administration are a type of leadership that I will describe as one that puts Zambia first. True leadership is demonstrated during times of crisis. I think that President Hakainde Hichilema, in his speech, clearly demonstrated that aspect. When we experienced the crippling drought, under which people could have lost their lives, President Hakainde Hichilema rose to the occasion and inspired the people. He did not drown in the challenges, but rose and inspired the Zambian people. He said, “Each and everyone of you, go out there and plant even a lima of maize,” and Zambians responded. Today, we are talking about a bumper harvest of 3.7 million metric tonnes, something that we have not witnessed in a long time in this country. So, for me, such is the kind of leadership we need to have, a leadership that has endured the challenges that were brought about by the previous Administration.

 

Mr Speaker, today, we are proud to say that the kind of Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) we have seen in this country is unprecedented. The mines are operational. We heard very well the President say that our mines were dead. Today, Luanshya Copper Mine Shaft No. 28 is back on track. Today, Konkola Copper Mines (KCM) is back on track. Today, Mingomba Mining Limited (MML) is back on track. Today, expansion of the old Kansanshi Mine is happening. What else do people want? Lumwana Copper Mine is back on track. The Kwacha is now appreciating as a result of the investment and the good policies. Positive policies are now bearing fruit, and this country is now the envy of the world.

 

Hon. Government Members: Hear, hear!

Mr Simushi: Our currency is the best-performing currency in Africa. What else do people want? Numbers do not lie. That is the kind of leadership we have under the United Party for National Development (UPND) Administration.

Mr Speaker, I want to give practical examples to demonstrate that this Administration has performed. When I say that it has performed, that is not rhetoric, no. I am speaking about things that are on the ground. Today, when you go to Sikongo, you will find that for the first time, we have established five secondary schools.

 

Hon. Government Members: Kwenyu!

 

Mr Simushi: Yes, it is not rhetoric. You go there and see. That is why the people of Sikongo are saying that even holding elections is a waste of time, because the President has already won.

 

Hon. Government Members: Hear, hear!

 

Mr Simushi: Mr Speaker, my message to the people of Zambia is that, when we have such a President, we do not waste time listening to people who failed. They had the opportunity to rule this country but they failed to do so.

 

Interruptions

 

Mr Simushi: They want to come back. They are telling people to put them back in the Government. To come and kill us again? To come and steal our resources again?

 

Hon. Government Members: No!

 

Mr Simushi: We will not allow that.

 

Mr Speaker, as I conclude, I want to say that the President of this Republic, Mr Hakainde Hichilema, should sleep with a peaceful mind because the people of Zambia, everywhere, even in the Northern Province, Muchinga, Luapula, the Western Province and the Southern Province, have all said “kwenyu” to him. They are saying that he is the man they will go for in 2026 and beyond.

 

Interruptions

 

Mr Simushi: For the first time in the history of this country, I think, it is very much applicable to say that that man should get a third term.

 

Mr Mabeta: Correct!

 

Mr Simushi: He rightfully deserves a third term in office.

 

I thank you, Mr Speaker.

 

Mr Mwila (Mufulira): Mr Speaker, thank you very much for this opportunity.

 

Mr Speaker, I want to start by appreciating the President’s comments in his speech when he actually put it expressively clear that when we differ in opinions or ideas, it does not signify enmity, but that we just have different ideas on how to sort out the problems that this country is facing. So, even when I comment on the speech and mention points that I do not agree with, it is not enmity, but that I just have different solutions or ideas on how we can deal with the issues that we are facing.

 

Mr Speaker, I want to start with mining. I come from Mufulira, where the Mopani Copper Mine is. In his speech, His Excellency the President acknowledged the significance that the Mopani Copper Mine has on the economy of Mufulira and the Copperbelt. Therefore, I want to agree with him.

 

Mr Speaker, I have stood here several times to talk on behalf of the miners who are scattered all over Mufulira. Of course, there was a gap in the past when Zambians through the Zambia Consolidated Copper Mines Investment Holdings (ZCCM-IH) had 100 per cent ownership of Mopani Copper Mine. For three years, the miners were promised by this Government that conditions would change and things would get better once an investor was brought in to run the mine. The miners kept that mine safe. They did not vandalise it hoping that conditions would improve once an investor came on board.

 

Mr Speaker, today, we have International Resources Holdings (IRH) running the Mopani Copper Mine, which was stated in the President’s Speech. There are two equations in that situation. Of course, the Government must take care of the interest of the investor that has come on board, but more importantly, the interest of miners must be looked into. There was mention of production at the Mopani Copper Mine going up by 40 per cent. Production has gone up because of the sacrifice and input of miners, but what are they getting in exchange? It is a raw deal. Miners have been short changed in terms of what was promised on the conditions of service.

 

 Mr Speaker, I have noted that the President has been to the Copperbelt several times. My message is that I am inviting His Excellency the President to come back to the Copperbelt and meet with miners in a closed door meeting. Not even hon. Members of Parliament, hon. Ministers or other stakeholders should be in attendance. The President should sit with miners and hear from them.

 

Mr Speaker, when the mine was closed, I was in Mufulira. The shift of the mining section in Mufulira has been changed now. It is an eight-hour shift. Guess what miners are eating on duty. It is nshima with eggs. A miner has a meal of nshima with eggs when working an eight hour shift. That has not been well received. Miners will tell you that because of the change in the conditions of service, they are now working an eight-hour shift. They are receiving salaries they used to receive four years ago. That is a reality. So, the President should come and sit with miners in a closed door meeting without interference. Let him hear what the miners are complaining about in terms of their conditions of service.

 

Ms Mulenga: Hear, hear!

 

 Mr Mwila: I move away from that, Mr Speaker.

 

 Mr Speaker, let me go to the issue of the energy sector. Of course, all of us have been talking about the same crisis. Zambians are wondering what has happened to the solutions that the current Republican President had when he was in the Opposition on sorting out load-shedding.

 

Mr Second Deputy Speaker: Order!

 

 (Debate adjourned)

 

ADJOURNMENT

 

The Vice-President (Dr Nalumango): Mr Speaker, I beg to move that the House do now adjourn.

 

Question put and agreed to.

 

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The House adjourned at 1825 hours until 1430 hours on Thursday, 18^th September, 2025.

 

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