Friday, 21^st November, 2025

 

The House met at 0900 hours

 

[MADAM FIRST DEPUTY SPEAKER in the Chair]

 

NATIONAL ANTHEM

 

PRAYER

 

_______

 

ANNOUNCEMENT BY MADAM FIRST DEPUTY SPEAKER

 

VISITORS FROM SPRING SPY CHRISTIAN SCHOOL

 

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

 

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

 

I thank you.

 

Hon. Members: Hear, hear!

 

RESEARCH FAIR BY THE RESEARCH DEPARTMENT

 

Madam Speaker: Hon. Members, I wish to inform the House that the Research Department under the Office of the Clerk will conduct a Research Fair from Tuesday, 25^th to Thursday, 27^th November, 2025, at Parliament Buildings under the theme, “Remaining Relevant in the Face of Artificial Intelligence (AI)”. The objective of the Research Fair is to strengthen the effectiveness, relevance and utilisation of parliamentary research services at the National Assembly of Zambia.

 

You may wish to note that in addition to the exhibitions, this year’s Research Fair will include two categories of awards to hon. Members of Parliament as follows:

 

1. awarding of three hon. Members of Parliament during the official opening of the Research Fair for accessing research services and products, which will be granted based on the number of information requests submitted to the Research Department in order of the top three rankings; and

 

1. awarding of hon. Members of Parliament who have demonstrated knowledge and understanding of research services and products through participating in a quiz, which will be conducted daily at the exhibition stands.

 

Hon. Members, I urge you to participate in the Research Fair, which has been organised for you to appreciate the products and services offered by our Research Department so as to encourage you to utilise evidence in your parliamentary work.

 

You are expected to be seated in the Amphitheatre by 0930 hours on Tuesday, 25^th November, 2025, in readiness for the official opening, which I will be officiating. Hon. Members are encouraged to attend this event on a voluntary basis.

 

I thank you.

 

Hon. Members: Hear, hear!

 

Laughter

 

Hon. Members: Question!

_______

 

BUSINESS STATEMENT

 

The Vice-President (Dr Nalumango): Madam Speaker, I wish to inform the House that the House Business Committee met on Thursday, 20^th November, 2025 to determine and schedule Business of the House for the period 25^th November to 5^th December, 2025.

 

Madam Speaker, the House Business Committee resolved to lay before the House Business for consideration in the next two weeks, as set out below:

 

Announcements

 

The Hon. Speaker may make announcements, if there will be any.

 

Rulings

 

The Hon. Speaker will render rulings, if there will be any.

 

Ministerial Statements

 

The Vice-President will render a Ministerial Statement on Measures the Government is putting in place to address challenges associated with the rainy season on 25^th November, 2025.

 

Reports on International Conferences

 

Reports on international conferences will be considered, if there will be any.

 

Bills

 

The Bills listed hereunder will be considered:

 

1. The Independent Broadcasting Authority Bill No. 27 of 2025. This will be at the Second Reading stage and will be considered on 27^th November, 2025;

 

1. The Zambia National Broadcasting Corporation Bill No. 8 of 2025. This will be at the Second Reading stage and will be considered on 27^th November, 2025;

 

1. The Criminal Procedure Code (Amendment) Bill No. 29 of 2025. This will be at the Second Reading stage and will be considered on 27^th November, 2025;

 

1. The Income Tax (Amendment) No. 2 Bill No. 19 of  2025.  This will be at the Second Reading stage and will be considered on 2^nd December, 2025;

 

1. The Customs and Excise (Amendment) No. 2 Bill, No. 20 of, 2025. This will at the Second Reading stage and will be conserved on  2^nd December, 2025;

 

1. The Value Added Tax (Amendment) Bill No. 21 of, 2025. This will be at the Second Reading stage and will be considered on 2^nd December, 2025;

 

1. The Property Transfer Tax (Amendment) Bill No. 23 of 2025. This will be at the Second Reading stage and will be considered on 3^rd December, 2025;

 

1. The Mobile Money Transaction Levy (Amendment) Bill No. 24 of 2025, Second Reading and will be considered on 3^rd December, 2025;

 

1. The Betting Levy Bill No. 31 of 2025. This will be at the Second Reading stage and will be considered on 3^rd December, 2025;

 

1. The Zambia Revenue Authority (Amendment) Bill No. 22 of 2025. This will be at the Second Reading stage and will be considered on 4^th December, 2025; and
2. The Registration of Business Names (Amendment) Bill No. 26 of 2025. This will be at Second Reading stage and will be considered on 4^th December, 2025.

 

Parliamentary Committee Reports

 

The Committee Reports will be considered during the period, if there will be any.

 

Private Members' Motions

 

The following Private Members' Motions will be presented during the period:

 

1. Mr Chinkuli will move a Motion entitled, “Regulate the Conduct of Funerals for Heads of the Three Arms of Government” on 26^th November, 2025;

 

1. Mr Kang'ombe will move a Motion entitled, “Implement Measures to Increase the Crop Yield per Hectare for Farmers under the Farmer Input Support Programme (FISP)” on 27^th November, 2025;

 

1. Ms Halwiindi will move a Motion entitled, “Revise the Jurisdiction of the Local Courts under the Local Courts Act Chapter 29 of the Laws of Zambia” on 28^th November, 2025.

 

Questions

 

Hon. Ministers will respond to about thirty-five questions for Oral Answer and Written Answer. The questions are contained in Appendix I of this statement, which will be circulated to all hon. Members. Further, the details of the questions are contained in the Notice of Questions of Friday, 12^th September, 2025, which has already been circulated to all hon. Members.

 

Hon. Ministers will also respond to Urgent Questions, under Order No. 82, and Grouped Questions, under Order No. 83, of the National Assembly of Zambia Standing Orders, 2024, if there will be any.

 

Questions on Standby.

 

The questions on standby to replace questions that may not be placed on the Order Paper on the designated day due to unforeseen circumstances are contained in Appendix II, which will be circulated to all hon. Members.

 

 Committee of Supply.

 

The House will commence the consideration of individual Heads of Expenditure in the Committee of Supply on Tuesday, 2^nd December, 2025. Details of the Heads of Expenditure are contained in this statement and will be circulated to all hon. Members.

 

Madam Speaker, I thank you.

 

_______

 

URGENT MATTERS WITHOUT NOTICE

 

MR MUKOSA, HON. MEMBER OF PARLIAMENT FOR CHINSALI, ON ENG. NZOVU, HON. MINISTER OF WATER DEVELOPMENT AND SANITATION, ON ERRATIC WATER SUPPLY IN CHINSALI DISTRICT

 

Mr Mukosa (Chinsali): Madam Speaker, on an Urgent Matter without Notice.

 

Madam First Deputy Speaker: An Urgent Matter without Notice is raised.

 

Mr Mukosa: Thank you, Madam Speaker.

 

Madam Speaker, my matter is directed at the hon. Minister of Water Development and Sanitation. In Chinsali, we have been struggling with water. Most areas have had no water for some days. We are now in the rainy season. The Chambeshi Water Supply and Sanitation Company (CWSSC) is our water utility, but it is failing to supply water to the residential areas. Water is a problem in Mulyangolo, Chandamali, Choshi and Mayadi.

 

Madam Speaker, I seek your indulgence on this matter, owing to the fact that if it is not attended to soon, there will be an outbreak of cholera and other waterborne diseases.

 

Madam First Deputy Speaker: Thank you very much, hon. Member for Chinsali.

 

From the way you have presented the matter, it is not new, but urgent. So, file in an urgent question. You can also have a discussion with the hon. Minister of Water Development and Sanitation.

 

MR MTAYACHALO, HON. MEMBER OF PARLIAMENT FOR CHAMA NORTH, ON MR MWIIMBU, SC., HON. MINISTER OF HOME AFFAIRS AND INTERNAL SECURITY, ON RISING POLITICAL VIOLENCE IN THE COUNTRY

 

Mr Mtayachalo (Chama North): Madam Speaker, on an Urgent Matter without Notice.

 

Madam First Deputy Speaker: An Urgent Matter without Notice is raised.

 

Mr Mtayachalo: Thank you, Madam Speaker.

 

Madam Speaker, my matter is directed at the hon. Minister of Home Affairs and Internal Security. The country has witnessed escalating cases of political violence of late, which is worrying several stakeholders. A few weeks ago, unscrupulous individuals threw stones at the President in Chingola, which should be condemned in the strongest possible terms. I hope that such a thing will not happen again. As though that was not enough, suspected United Party for National Development (UPND) cadres attacked the Patriotic Front (PF) secretariat, caused malicious damage to property. They also attacked passers-by and robbed them of their belongings. A few days ago, the acting president of a major Opposition party, Hon. Given Lubinda, was abducted and tortured in Kabwe. He was rescued by the police. The other day, another incident involving a UPND party co-ordinator in Kabwata happened. The UPND cadres disrupted the funeral procession of the late Mr Mulabe. I am worried that if these cases are not brought under control, they may undermine investor confidence in the country. It has become imperative that the hon. Minister of Home Affairs and Internal Security updates this august House on the measures the Government is taking to bring the escalating cases of political violence under control.

 

Madam First Deputy Speaker: Hon. Member for Chama North, the issue that happened in Chingola was already brought to this House and attended to adequately by the Hon. Speaker. On the other issue that you have brought out, regarding the incident in Kabwe, I think, the hon. Minister of Home Affairs and Internal Security issued a brief statement on the same. The reason we bring matters to the House is so that the Government takes immediate action. I believe the police are involved in that case and are already doing their job on the ground. So, this matter is not admissible. You can find another platform, maybe, to engage or Her Honour the Vice-President, but the Government has already taken action regarding that.

 

MR SIMUMBA, HON. MEMBER OF PARLIAMENT FOR NAKONDE, ON ENG. NZOVU, THE HON. MINISTER OF WATER DEVELOPMENT AND SANITATION, ON ERRATIC WATER SUPPLY AT THE UNIVERSITY TEACHING HOSPITAL (UTH)

 

Mr Simumba (Nakonde): Madam Speaker, on an Urgent Matter without Notice.

 

Madam First Deputy Speaker: An Urgent Matter without Notice is raised.

 

Mr Simumba: Madam Speaker, thank you very much.

 

Madam Speaker, my matter is directed at the hon. Minister of Water Development and Sanitation. The University Teaching Hospital (UTH) is the largest referral hospital in the country. Apart from other challenges, like bed spaces, that the hospital faces, it has been hit by a lack of water, specifically in the maternity wing. The facility has had no water supply the past three days, and many people are complaining. I would like to know what the Government is doing to ensure that the essential commodity is available.

 

I seek your serious guidance on this matter, Madam Speaker.

 

Madam First Deputy Speaker: Since the hon. Minister of Health is around, I would like a clarification.

 

Hon. Minister, is that the situation? Is there no water in the maternity ward at the University Teaching Hospital (UTH)?

 

The Minister of Health (Mr Muchima): Madam Speaker, two days ago, I was at the University Teaching Hospital (UTH), it is not completely dry, and I said that the Government had released money for water supply.

 

Madam First Deputy Speaker: Thank you very much for that clarification.

 

So, the matter is already receiving the Government’s attention. As the hon. Minister has said, some funds have been released to address that challenge at the UTH.

 

 We make progress.

_______

 

THE VICE-PRESIDENT’S QUESTION TIME

 

Mr Katakwe (Solwezi East): Thank you, Madam Speaker.

 

 Good morning to Her Honour the Vice-President.

 

Madam Speaker, Her Honour the Vice-President is on record as having been one of the unionists in Zambia. However, there are currently more than sixteen teacher unions, and more are being registered. When it comes to negotiations, it becomes very difficult for teacher unions to negotiate for their conditions of service. What advice can Her Honour the Vice-President give to teacher unions so that they are not fragmented, but can unite and be able to fight for their just cause?

 

The Vice-President (Dr Nalumango): Thank you, Madam Speaker, and I would also like to thank the hon. Member for Solwezi East for the question.

 

Madam Speaker, yes, I admit, I was in a teachers’ union. However, the hon. Member’s concern is the fragmented nature of the teacher unions. He said it robs them of the power to negotiate effectively and then he asked me to advice the teachers.

 

Madam Speaker, my advice is according to what the law states because of the freedom that we have as Zambians. We are all free to belong to different associations. Unless that law is amended, it is difficult for me to stop anyone from belonging to different associations. However, it is the teachers themselves who can initiate that change. They can propose that the law be amended to protect unions from fragmentation. As it were, the freedom of association allows them to belong to different associations, including teacher unions. Yes, I agree to some extent that it robs them of the power to stand strong due to differing opinions. That is an issue that many teachers face today: knowing what to do, even though the law allows them to belong to different unions. So, it is difficult for me to advise teachers what to do. They know what they should do. They can choose to abandon some of the unions and belong to one.

 

Madam Speaker, the hon. Member may recall where we came from. During my time, there was only one union. I am sure, teachers in here know the history. The second one was later formed because secondary school teachers had no representation. They felt they were not adequately represented and, unfortunately, the leadership was all from the other side.  However, for people to do that, it is because of the freedom of association. For miners, there was only the Mineworkers Union of Zambia (MUZ) and, now, there are many unions. I believe freedom is still freedom, be it in politics or in unions. That is the freedom that people have chosen to embrace.

 

I thank you, Madam Speaker.

 

 Mr Chewe (Lubansenshi): Madam Speaker, thank you so much.

 

 Her Honour the Vice-President, good morning, kaili mwashibukeni mukwai.

 

Interruptions

 

Madam First Deputy Speaker: What does that mean, hon. Member?

 

Mr Chewe: Madam Speaker, meaning the people of Lubansenshi are greeting Her Honour the Vice-President.

 

Madam First Deputy Speaker: You may continue.

 

 Mr Chewe: Madam Speaker, the farmers who are on the Farmer Input Support Programme (FISP) are about 1,425,000, and these are the people who are benefiting from FISP. Now the rest of the farmers are buying fertiliser, and the cost of fertiliser is still high. What measures is the Government putting in place to ensure that the cost of fertiliser is reduced so that the people, who are underprivileged, can also manage to buy fertiliser, knowing fully well that a bag of fertiliser is fetching around K1,000 to K1,200, and very few people can afford to buy it? What measures is the Government putting in place to ensure that a common citizen can afford to buy fertiliser?

 

The Vice-President: Madam Speaker, indeed, good morning to the hon. Member and the people of Lubansenshi. I do not know whether I can repeat what he said. Mwashibukeni mukwai. That is good morning. So, it is a double greeting from the hon. Member, because good morning and mwashibukeni mean exactly the same.

 

Madam Speaker, I hope I followed. For some reason, my mind was not really – The hon.  Member talked of the farmers on the Farmer Input Support Programme (FISP) and acquiring of inputs, is it not? I think hon. Members acknowledge that, currently, the farmers on FISP can get inputs from the agro-dealers using a receipt, is it not so? That is what I know. Then the hon. Member talked of other vulnerable farmers who are not on FISP, and the cost of fertiliser. I hope I understood that and, I think, the hon. Member’s question was that what is the Government doing to help the vulnerable but viable farmers in the community. I hope you have captured that in your thought pattern.

 

Madam Speaker, those farmers are helped in the community. They are also provided with inputs because of their level. Then the others who may not fall under this category can benefit from the Sustainable Agriculture Facility (SAF), which is not meant to only benefit a particular group. This is the other measure that the Government has put in place, where people can actually borrow through the banks. The banks have a relationship with the Government, and they guide any farmer who wants to borrow. Different banks in different parts of the country are participating, to enable farmers to borrow, and I find this a little more helpful.

 

Madam Speaker, when people are given free things, they just use those things and, tomorrow, they will go back and ask for those things. However, SAF is a kind of loan, and because the money becomes the farmers’ money, they take care. I see people on SAF improving and getting even better in agriculture because what they will produce will be theirs. As they pay back, they continuously improve. This facility is working for those who may not have the capacity to get the farm inputs on their own. At least the start off can be the loan, through SAF. I hope I have answered the question. The hon. Minister is giving me –

 

The Vice-President conversed with Mr Mtolo.

 

The Vice-President: Sorry, I am consulting loudly, Madam, because the hon. Member also spoke of the prices of fertiliser.

 

Interruptions

 

Madam First Deputy Speaker: Hon. Member for Mufulira, and that group there, your consultations are too loud. You are disturbing Her Honour the Vice-President. You can walk out or just lower your voices.

 

 Her Honour the Vice-President, you may continue.

 

The Vice-President: Madam Speaker, thank you for that guidance. Mr Mtayachalo should be sent out or be resettled in Kaputa.

 

 Madam Speaker, the hon. Member spoke of the cost of fertiliser. I think, it is important at this point for all of us to acknowledge the good that has happened in our land because fertiliser was previously K1,050 in the outlets. Today, it is K750.

 

Hon. UPND Members: Hear, hear!

 

The Vice-President:  I think, it is something to acknowledge. At one point, the price of fertiliser was high but, today, it is K750.

 

Interruptions

 

The Vice-President:  They are asking which outlets. We will tell them. They should come and ask us after this.

 

I thank you, Madam Speaker.

 

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

 

Mr Charles Mulenga (Kwacha): Good morning to Her Honour the Vice-President.

 

Madam Speaker, every five years, this country holds elections. Next year, we are expected to have tripartite elections. Each time we have elections, ballot papers are printed outside the country and huge sums of money are spent. We are talking about millions of United States (US) Dollars, yet we have the Government Printers Department. I would like to know whether any preparations are being made to recapitalise the Government Printers Department so that we can print ballot papers within the country and avoid wastage of resources through paying companies outside the country.

 

The Vice-President: Madam Speaker, I would like to thank the hon. Member for Kwacha for that concern. His concern is that the expenditure for printing ballot papers outside the country is too high. He said that we could use the Government Printers Department to print ballot papers right here in this country and that would reduce the cost and allow money to remain in circulation in our country. That is important. That is an issue to look at and we will continue to do that. So, we thank him for the proposal.

 

Madam Speaker, we have to be sure of the security of the ballots. They are such a sensitive matter. Yes, there has to be integrity in the process and the product. That is an important issue to look at, but we must bear in mind that the kind of paper used for ballots is not to be played with. We want to be sure that there is integrity in the process and protection of the actual product when it comes to the material for ballot papers. However, I thank the hon. Member for the proposal.

 

I thank you, Madam Speaker.

 

Mr Wamunyima (Nalolo): Your Honour the Vice-President, good morning.

 

Madam Speaker, on 18^th February, 2025, Sino Metals Leach Zambia Limited in Chambishi polluted the environment. I am aware that the public has expressed concern that there is no work being done to clean up the spillage, and the rainy season is here. Is Her Honour the Vice-President able to update the nation on what is being done to clean up the spillage and stop pollution from spreading?

 

The Vice-President: Madam Speaker, I thank the hon. Member for Nalolo.  Muzuhile cwani?

 

Madam Speaker, today, we are speaking our language. So, I am asking the hon. Member, “How are you today?”

 

Hon. Government Members: Hear, hear!

 

The Vice-President: Madam Speaker, I appreciate this question because it gives me an opportunity to say something brief. If there is a need for a full statement, it will come because we are expecting a report from the assessor this weekend.

 

Madam Speaker, I think, to say that nothing is being done is to make a malicious statement. I am sorry to use that word. If you say that the work is not complete, that is a different matter. How can you say that nothing is being done when reports have been presented in this House? I remember that a Ministerial Statement was presented on the matter. We even went to have Committee meetings. When the Speaker reconvened the House, a Ministerial Statement was issued by the hon. Minister of Green Economy and Environment in which he gave more details on the subject.

 

Madam Speaker, I can tell the hon. Member that the work at Sino Metals Leach Zambia Limited is going on well. It is literally complete. I can tell him about some of the things that have been done. I was kind of prepared for this question because I am concerned. Regarding what happened with that spillage which contaminated rivers, today, there is construction of a tailings dam. Tailings Dam No. 15 collapsed and the runoff water contaminated surrounding areas. The Tailings Dam No. 15 is being reconstructed. I saw it when I visited the site. So, a correction has been done on that part. There has also been stabilisation of the dam itself with a view to decommissioning the old Tailings Dam No. 15. A new tailings dam has been constructed. The old one, which was damaged and brought about these issues, is going to be decommissioned.

 

Madam Speaker, there is also the work of deslagging. You will remember that when we discussed the matter here, we said that there was a point in the Chambeshi River that had slag. When lime was dumped in the area to reduce the acidity in the water, a big chunk of slag blocked the stream. That is what slag is like; it is like mud. Deslagging has been done. That has been taken care of and the stream has been cleaned. Water is flowing naturally. The affected tailings have also been cleaned. So, we cannot say that work is not being done. 

 

Madam Speaker, we were concerned about the issue of secondary pollution. That has been taken care of using – what do you call them? They are trap-dams; I will call them my own name. They have been created so that nothing can go back into streams or rivers. So, the work is almost done. Before the assessor came, I think that we mentioned that work had begun by Sino Metals Leach Zambia Limited itself, but there was a need to have an assessor. The assessor went on the spot and was giving reports and recommending action to be taken, and Sino Metals Leach Zambia Limited was following through. So, as the report comes, we are saying that a lot of work has been done. If there are any gaps, the report will speak to that. Work has been done. So, the hon. Member should not fear.

 

Madam Speaker, I wish the hon. Member for Kalulushi were here. Probably, she is listening. She can attest to that progress. We are ensuring that pollution does not continue. It is not pollution from only Sino Metals Leach Zambia Limited being addressed. We are also looking comprehensively at how other mines are working to ensure that pollution does not continue. If we have to close some of them, I am saying this here, we may have to close them. When the date which they have been given by which to address pollution comes, they will be closed if they have not done so. They cannot continue to pollute if they have been polluting. Sino Metals Leach Zambia Limited has been working very well with us.

 

I thank you, Madam Speaker.

 

Mr Mtayachalo (Chama North): Good morning to Her Honour the Vice-President.

 

Madam Speaker, the mining industry is the lifeblood of the Zambian economy. I am reliably informed that Konkola Copper Mines (KCM) in Chingola is facing serious operational challenges, ranging from failure by the company to replace tools and spares, which are very critical in running the mines, to a critical shortage of labour, as workers who retired or workers who died or were dismissed are not being replaced. This is affecting productivity, especially that we want to attain 3 million metric tonnes of copper production by 2031. Is the Government aware of these shortcomings at KCM? If yes, what measures is it putting in place to ensure that KCM does the right thing?

 

Madam First Deputy Speaker: Hon. Members, let us stick to asking one question.

 

The Vice-President: Madam Speaker, I want to thank the hon. Minister of Infrastructure, Housing and Urban Development for the additional information.

 

Madam Speaker, I do not have the report indicating that Konkola Copper Mines (KCM) is literally failing in its operations because of – its equipment being obsolete, there being no workers and the failure by the mine to replace workers and so on and so forth.

 

Madam Speaker, the hon. Minister is here, but the little I know about the operations of the mines is that it works with contractors. That is why we talk of contractors. So, is the hon. Member saying that those who are being contracted are failing to operate because they cannot maintain their equipment? I would love to find out about that, but as far as I know, the indicator in any industry is also the production. Is the mine failing to produce?

 

Madam Speaker, what I am told is that KCM is improving in its production. Whether it is the issue of productivity, I do not know. However, going by the mine’s level of productivity, there has been an improvement in the output from 40,000 metric tonnes to about 150,000 metric tonnes. So, if what the hon. Member has said is what is happening, then, I do not know what it means. If my response is confusing, I will still go and find out a little further. However, if there is an improvement in the output, that means operations are normal.

 

I thank you, Madam Speaker.

 

 Hon. Government Members: Hear, hear!

 

Mr Mwila (Mufulira): Madam Speaker, thank you, and good morning to Her Honour the Vice-President.

 

Madam Speaker, the Office of the Auditor-General is a very important watchdog institution in the governance of this country. For many years now, we have not had an Auditor-General. The term of office of this Government is coming to an end without having a confirmed Auditor-General in that office., For that office to gain credibility and confidence, the person sitting in that office must have security of tenure. There are many Zambians, including myself, who qualify to be confirmed in the Office of the Auditor-General.

 

Madam First Deputy Speaker: Order!

 

Hon. Member, please, do not include Her Honour the Vice-President in your debate. Just go straight to the question without mentioning her.

 

Mr Mwila: Madam Speaker, I said myself, and not Her Honour the Vice-President.

 

Laughter

 

Mr Mwila: Madam Speaker, given that there are many Zambians who qualify, both by experience and constitutionally to be confirmed in that office, why has the Government failed to bring the name of a person, for confirmation, to occupy the Office of the Auditor-General?

 

Hon. PF Members: Hear, hear!

 

The Vice-President (pointed at Hon. Chewe): Madam Speaker, I see smiles there.

 

Well, we hear his concern, but for now, really, what is the actual concern? We have heard him, and we are working on that concern. I can tell him that …

 

Interruptions

 

The Vice-President: … the job is being done. The Public Accounts Committee (PAC) is working on the reports from the Auditor-General.

 

I thank you, Madam Speaker.

 

Hon. Government Members: Hear, hear!

 

Laughter

 

Madam First Deputy Speaker: The hon. Member for Kabwe Central, you may have the Floor before the hon. Member for Shiwang’andu.

 

Ms Halwiindi (Kabwe Central): Madam Speaker, thank you, and good morning to Her Honour the Vice-President.

 

Madam Speaker, in the past few weeks, there have been reports of cases of violence, where the United Party for National Development (UPND) is accused of being violent. For example, there was an incident that happened in Kabwe, and I understand that there was also a report of some thugs who attacked the Patriotic Front (PF) Secretariat. The major one is where our President was stoned, something that has never happened in the history of Zambia.

 

Hon. Government Members: Hear, hear!

 

Ms Halwiindi: Madam Speaker, during the past ten years of the Patriotic Front (PF) regime, there were many cases of violence, where even people were killed. Further, during that time, we did not see many people holding press briefings or conferences condemning the violence that was being experienced in Zambia. However, in the past few days, we have seen many people strongly condemning what recently happened, including some churches holding press briefings over just one or two incidents that have happened.

 

Madam Speaker, what message does Her Honour the Vice-President have for the people of Zambia and the church to ensure that they also address cases of violence that have been happening before and now? With regard to unity, what message does she have for the people of Zambia and the church that will ensure we do not become divided over one incident that has happened that even the leaders are not aware of, but they are able to handle when such a thing happens?

 

 The Vice President: Madam Speaker, I would like to thank the hon. Member for her concern over the violence we have witnessed in the last, maybe, two weeks or so, which violence happened in Lusaka, Kabwe and Chingola, including on our President. Further, she has called on the church to work and unify the country rather than divide it.  The hon. Member has also referred to the previous Administration and the kind of violence that may have been experienced then.

 

Madam Speaker, violence must be condemned by any well-meaning Zambian.

 

Hon. PF Members: Question!

 

The Vice-President: That is a fact. That is a fact. If I say something else here, I will be lying.

Zambians do not like violence.

 

Mr Mwiimbu: No!

 

The Vice-President: That is the gist of the matter. It does not matter which side of the aisle you are on. They do not like violence. When this Government came into office, it condemned violence. The President pronounced that there would be no cadreism. Hon. Colleagues, this kind of violence is a crime. So, any well-meaning Zambian must condemn violence. – It may have been done that way or we are doing it this way, all of us in this House, Madam Speaker, must condemn violence. Just as my hon. Minister of Home Affairs and Internal Security said, there is no sacred cow in investigating the perpetrators of this crime. That is the only way we will curb it.

 

Rev. Katuta: We will help you.

 

Laughter

 

Madam First Deputy Speaker: Order, hon. Member for Chienge!

 

Her Honour the Vice-President did not ask for your help.

 

Laughter

 

The Vice-President: I do not even need it. She can find out the definition of perpetrator; who is involved in that violence. Therefore, hon. Member, we must all condemn this.

 

Madam Speaker, no matter how angry one gets, one cannot pick a stone and throw it at the Head of State. It is never done. If you threw a tomato, I think that would your way of expressing disappointment, but not picking and throwing a stone. A stone is a weapon. It is not an ordinary missile. I have read one important book where a giant was killed by a stone. So, a stone is meant to kill.

 

That should not happen. All of us must condemn it. We must all condemn what happened in Kabwe. I am saying this to all of us because what happened can happen to any of us sitting in this House. Is that how we want to treat one another? No!

 

Hon. Government Members: No!

 

The Vice-President: No, we cannot! ­

 

Mr Twasa: Arrest them, kabili!

 

Mr Chisopa: Arrest them!

 

Madam First Deputy Speaker: Order, Hon. Members!

 

Interruptions

 

The Vice-President: Do you even have the capacity to arrest? (pointed at Hon. Chisopa)

 

Madam Speaker, through this Government’s work, truly, individuals have been identified in Chingola, and some of them have been arrested. The hon. Minister made a sincere call in Kabwe to have those individuals arrested. I know the hon. Member comes from Kabwe. It does not matter who they are. The fact is that they have one thing in common, which is criminality, not a political. We should not continuously say, “Political, political!” Let us say what they have done without looking at the attire that they wear. They have one thing in common, and we are sincere about it. There are investigations being carried out in Kabwe.  You do not just say that they will be arrested. Maybe, as we are talking, some have already been arrested. I am saying this to the entire country, including my United Party for National Development (UPND) members and their other names, because there are too many names there. (pointed at Hon. PF Members)

 

Laughter

 

The Vice-President: Is it TONSE Alliance, the Patriotic Front (PF) or the United Kwacha Alliance (UKA)? Whatever it is, I am speaking to the Zambians. Zambia has been a peaceful country. Other than the disruptive ten years of allowing cadreism, we will not allow it even at this moment. That is why we are saying that those individuals must be arrested. There will be no sacred cows.

 

Rev. Katuta: Arrest them, even those who are in this House, Madam.

 

Hon. UPND Members: Question!

 

 The Vice-President: If you have evidence, go and make a report.

 

Madam Speaker, this House cannot arrest anybody.  I have heard that she has declared herself President also (pointed at Rev. Katuta). We do not have the capacity to start arresting one another in this House. If she has evidence, she should give it to the police, and they will make the arrest. Otherwise, here, we have hon. Members of Parliament.

 

Madam Speaker, we should not allow cadreism. Do not allow it in your heart, your mouth or your actions because it is such a dangerous vulnerability that if it grew, we could have a blowout conflict in the nation. We should not do that. We are too intelligent to fail to argue our political stance, and use violence, as other people may have tried. Even when they tried, did they succeed? I hope you are listening to me, Madam. Even when people use violence, they still fail. They still lose. So, we have learned from the previous Government that violence just makes you lose. We will not follow that route. That is why my President, Hakainde Hichilema, has said that there should be no cadreism. It must end. So, they will be arrested.

 

Madam Speaker, I thank you.

 

Interruptions

 

Mr Chisopa: Mulibakaele!

 

Mr Kampyongo (Shiwang’andu): Thank you very, Madam Speaker.

 

Good morning to Her Honour the Vice-President.

 

Madam Speaker, I think, it would be important for Her Honour the Vice-President to elaborate more on the new price of fertiliser that the Government announced because farmers are very excited.

 

Madam Speaker, however, my question is slightly different from that topic. Zambia, indeed, is a sovereign State and is free to forge bilateral ties with any other like-minded state. Zambia recently forged bilateral ties with the State of Israel, which should be okay. However, in as much as we are forging this new relationship, we, as Zambia, are also close to the Republic of South Africa, a fellow member of the Southern African Development Community (SADC) and the African Union (AU), and we have that strong bond dating back to the days of the liberation struggle. The Republic of South Africa dragged the State of Israel to the International Criminal Court (ICC), and the State of Israel was found wanting to the extent that if the leaders who hold executive powers, for example, the ceremonial President who visited Zambia, were not being compliant to the ICC, an arrest could have been effected because the warrants of arrest from the ICC for some of the leaders are still in force. How are we striking a balance given these dynamics? The South African bilateral trade arrangement is one of the best in the region. The products in most of our shops–

 

Madam First Deputy Speaker: Hon. Member, please, do not debate your question.

 

Mr Kampyongo: Madam Speaker, how are we striking a balance between the bilateral relations with the two nations I have mentioned?

 

Interruptions

 

Mr Chisopa: Iyo, be careful. Mwasuke bwino!

 

Laughter

 

The Vice-President: Good morning to the hon. Member for Shiwang’andu, who wanted to sneak in the fertiliser issue. He should go to the United Capital Fertiliser Company Limited (UCF), and buy it.

 

Madam Speaker, the hon. Member started with a very important statement about Zambia being a sovereign State. That is the very good principle. It is a Sovereign State. Therefore, my general statement on this matter is that we have friends, and based on our decisions, we have bilateral relationships, as we are part of the United Nations (UN) and the Southern African Development Community (SADC).  We cannot say that the relationships that Zambia has are dependent on other relationships with another country, not even when it is, for example, the State of Israel. The hon. Member has said that the President is ceremonial. Therefore, I do not know what the hon. Member would have wanted this country to do. Is it to hand over the Ceremonial President? Is he on the list of those cited? No.

 

Madam Speaker, let us go back to the fact that even among close neighbours in the Middle East, some of them are friends. They have wonderful bilateral relations. So, why should it be us, honestly? We have a very good relationship with South Africa, with the entire SADC region, and they also understand. My President has said this, and it is a statement that is echoed world over. He said that insecurity somewhere is insecurity everywhere. That is the principle he stands on. Whether it is the President of the State of Israel who came, the language did not change. We should appreciate some of the things that this man does without allowing any other mind. The President still stands for that. He is, maybe, helping to bring peace in the Middle East. It is very important, hon. Colleagues. If the hon. Member is my friend, although he is my son, and he sees that I have a problem with Mtayachalo, he should not take sides immediately. He should also create friendship with Mtayachalo.

 

Laughter

 

 The Vice-President: Oh, sorry. I mean a Mtayachalo in Chama, not the hon. Member.

 

Laughter

 

The Vice-President: I hope the hon. Members are getting what I am trying to say. When you create a relationship, it will be easy for you to mediate. It becomes difficult if there is suspicion on one side.

 

I think that the President is doing a good job. He declared that diplomatic relations be based on economic development, and you are seeing the results today. Therefore, the hon. Member should be very happy to have a President like the one he has today, who is able to silently and subtly mediate and help bring peace to the globe. That is a fact!

 

Madam Speaker, for me, the relationship we have with the Republic of Israel does not dent our relationship with South Africa, which is the hon. Member’s concern. South Africa has its own sovereign decisions. We also have our sovereign decisions, and there is no conflict between us as countries. In fact, the President says he prefers peace to war. Whether the war is in Ukraine, Russia, Israel, Palestine, or in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), that is his position. So, as Zambians, we should use the same language when an opportunity presents itself to interact with colleagues who are in conflict or at war. No offence was committed, and no international law was offended. We are doing well.

 

I thank you, Madam Speaker.

 

Madam First Deputy Speaker: Thank you.

 

The Vice-President: Sorry, Madam Speaker, just one more thing.

 

Madam First Deputy Speaker: You may go ahead.

 

The Vice-President: Madam Speaker, maybe, I did not get the hon. Member right, on the establishment of the relationship between Israel and Zambia. Remember, we had a relationship, but it was broken during the First Republic. During the Second Republic in 1991, the relationship was restored. I do not think the Patriotic Front (PF) Government broke it during its time.

 

Hon. Member: No!

 

The Vice-President: It was maintained. So, there is nothing new. The Government also has a relationship with Palestine. I think, the hon. Member understands. The previous Government left that relationship.

 

Interruptions

 

The Vice-President: Madam Speaker, they are all talking here.

 

I thank you, Madam Speaker.

 

Mr Mulunda (Siavonga): Thank you very much, Madam Speaker.

 

Madam Speaker, of late, we have seen many global leaders come to this country. I am aware that they came as a result of the chief marketer, His Excellency the President, and because of the renewed confidence that they have in this country. What message does Her Honour the Vice-President have for the people who were saying that the President was moving a lot, he was global-trotting, yet we have seen the reasons he was moving here and there? Even after restructuring the debt, people are finding Zambia attractive. What message does Her Honour the Vice-President have for those people who have been complaining that the President’s trips will not yield anything?

 

Hon. Government Members: Hear, hear!

 

The Vice-President: Ema question aya.

 

Laughter

 

Madam First Deputy Speaker: Meaning?

 

The Vice-President: These are the right questions for this House, Madam.

 

Hon. Government Members: Hear, hear!

 

The Vice-President: Madam Speaker, I thank the hon. Member for Siavonga for that very important question. In fact, it is not just a question; I think, he gave the answer to the question.

 

Madam Speaker, we have seen a number of global leaders come to this country for political and economic reasons. The hon. Member said it is because of the confidence they have in Zambia. Zambia, ku calo! Zambia has been noted by the entire world. It is known today.

 

Madam Speaker, yes, there was an issue of global trotting. People complained that the President was travelling too much. He was not travelling for fun. Any one of us can agree. He is not a man who goes shopping when he travels. He does not go on a cruise. He does not have dinner dances. He does not do all that. In fact, one would not wish to travel with him because he works throughout, even on the aeroplane. We give honour where it is due. That is how the President has been working.

 

Madam Speaker, on the economy, I have said you cannot fault the President. I know we have challenges, but the President has worked on addressing them. The people we see are coming to bring solutions according to the relationship that has been developed between the President and them. The trotting he made, was to find friends and fix the things that were broken. Today, we have the issue of power deficit. I think, among the visitors he has had in the last ten days, were those with interest in building infrastructure and generating electricity, which is one of the most serious challenges the country faces today. Challenges are not only at the household level, but also in the industry. The President is working with the people who are coming to bring development. That is what is going on.

 

Madam Speaker, we can politic, but on certain national matters, it is time to acknowledge and admit that, yes, challenges are here, but we are headed in the right direction because of the things that the President has done. For example, yesterday, there was a meeting about the rehabilitation of the Tanzania-Zambia Railway Authority (TAZARA). Who can question that? Is that not good for the people? The President had to go to China. That is one of the issues that was discussed in China. So, the trip was not in futility. It was a trip to bring something.

 

Madam Speaker, the other dignitary who visited Zambia was from Tanzania. I will not say much. Today, Tanzania is cooling. Our President was in Tanzania as part of the cooling process, and Tanzania Vice-President was in Zambia yesterday. I think that is good.

 

Madam Speaker, we have achieved something very good through the President’s travels and interactions.  The President even had a conversation with the United States Secretary of State, Mr Rubio. Not only that, but money has been offered by the U.S. Government.  People laughed and made jokes about the withdrawal of the United States Agency for International Development (USAID), yet the offer is a direct budget support, eh? The Ministry of Finance and National Planning is not depending on civil society organisations (CSOs). That is something very important.

 

Madam Speaker, some doomsayers said that there was a bad relationship between Zambia and Zimbabwe. Ah! Not under Mr Hakainde, we are friends and brothers.

 

Hon. Government Members: Hear, hear!

 

The Vice-President: Let us continue to harness diplomatic relations with whoever is available to us.

 

Madam Speaker, I thank the hon. Member for taking note of such things. I can go on explaining, but my time has expired.

 

I thank you, Madam Speaker.

 

Hon. Government Members: Hear, hear!

 

_______

 

GOVERNMENT’S PREPAREDNESS TO PREVENT THE SPREAD OF CHOLERA COUNTRYWIDE

 

The Minister of Health (Mr Muchima): Madam Speaker, I wish to thank you for giving me this opportunity to update this august House on an important matter of public health, which is the Government’s preparedness to stop and prevent the spread of cholera across the country. I would also like to re-affirm the Government’s unwavering commitment to protecting the health of all Zambians by ensuring that adequate measures are put in place to avoid further spread of the disease and possible deaths.

 

Madam Speaker, as you directed, we have to respond accordingly. The Northern Province was the epicentre of the initial outbreak, which was first detected on 5^th August, 2025. Through a robust and targeted response, including a vaccination campaign, the Government achieved over 99 per cent coverage in the most affected areas, thereby successfully containing the disease. This is a testament to the effectiveness of our public health measures and the co-operation of the community.

 

Madam Speaker, this august House may wish to note that the country is also experiencing a localised outbreak in Monze District of the Southern Province, which has, to date, recorded thirty-five cases in total. The situation in Monze is under control and I would like to assure the honourable House that a dedicated team is on the ground actively working to contain this cluster and prevent further transmissions.

 

Madam Speaker, since the start of the outbreak, we have recorded a total number of 569 cases, with four patients currently under admission; two in Monze and two in Mpulungu. I am proud to report that our dedicated health teams have successfully treated and discharged 556 individuals. As of yesterday morning, only one patient remained in care across the entire country. Regrettably, we have recorded a total of nine deaths since the outbreak began. I, therefore, would like to extend my deepest condolences to the bereaved families through this august House for losing their beloved ones to cholera. The loss of loved ones is the reason for strengthening our efforts and commitment to ensuring that adequate measures are put in place to prevent further outbreaks of diseases and protecting the public from further infections and preventing further losses.

 

Madam Speaker, the focus of our efforts to prevent further spread of the disease is a targeted vaccination campaign, an intervention that has been crucial in limiting the scale and spread of the outbreak within and across communities and locations. To date, a total of 225,858 people have been vaccinated in hotspot districts. I further wish to inform the nation through this august House that vaccinations are in short supply globally. However, to manage and contain the situation, the Government, through the Ministry of Health, has requested 156,000 doses of cholera vaccines through the World Health Organisation (WHO) mechanism. I would like to stress, therefore, that the shortage of such essential drugs is a call for the country to work towards local manufacturing of commodities, including cholera vaccines. To this effect, the Government, through the Industrial Development Corporation (IDC), is working towards signing an agreement for setting up a local manufacturing plant, with the purpose of improving access to quality and effective drugs and vaccines by the people of Zambia. This will be done in a modular approach, starting with what we call fill and finish, to be followed by end-to-end manufacturing over a three to four-year period.

 

Madam Speaker, community participation is more crucial now than ever. I implore all citizens, especially in the Northern Province and Southern Province to pay particular attention to adhere to the following life-saving measures:

 

1. drinking safe water that has been boiled or properly treated with chlorine;

 

1. practicing good hygiene by washing hands with soap and clean water frequently, particularly after using the toilet and before handling food;

 

1. eating safe food by ensuring that all food is cooked thoroughly, eating it while it is still hot and avoiding raw foods whenever possible; and

 

1. seeking early treatment. If you or anyone in your family experiences symptoms like severe watery diarrhea and vomiting, please, seek immediate medical help at the nearest health facility.

 

Madam Speaker, our national strategy is robust and multi-sectoral, guided by the 2025 National Cholera Contingency Plan. The National Public Health Emergency Operations Centre, managed by the Zambia National Public Health Institute (ZNPHI), co-ordinates a unified and data-driven response across all Government levels, ensuring that we are prepared to act decisively.

 

Madam Speaker, in terms of national preparedness, we have the following:

 

 Proactive Surveillance and Early Warning System

 

Madam Speaker, our integrated disease surveillance and response system actively monitors high-risk districts daily. This surveillance system is further supported by a network of community-based health workers, who act as our eyes and ears on the ground, ensuring that any potential threat is detected and reported early for a swift and decisive response.

 

Clinical and Logistical Readiness

 

Madam Speaker, the Government has procured essential medical supplies, which include test kits, treatments and oral rehydration salts in all hotspot areas. This is further supported by real-time monitoring of the supply chain system to ensure constant availability of essential commodities and stocks.

 

Training Healthcare Professionals on the Latest Cholera Case Management Protocols

 

Madam Speaker, training has been done to ensure adequate and advanced skills in case management.

 

Empowering Communities

 

Madam Speaker, through our risk communication and community engagement strategy, the Government is delivering vital health information directly to the people through various platforms, sharing clear, actionable guidelines on hygiene, safe water and the importance of seeking immediate medical care at the first sign of symptoms.

 

Strengthened Partnership and Co-operation with Partners

 

Madam Speaker, the Government has been accelerating the installation of new water points. We are testing boreholes and decommissioning unsafe wells while ensuring that public water is consistently chlorinated. Furthermore, efforts have been strengthened towards enforcing public health laws related to food, safety and waste management to prevent possible outbreaks.

 

Madam Speaker, cholera is a multi-faceted challenge and it calls for a multi-sectoral response in the fight against the disease. While emphasising the crucial role played by the Ministry of Water Development and Sanitation, the Ministry of Local Government and Rural Development and the Disaster Management and Mitigation Unit (DMMU), I would like to further call upon all stakeholders to heighten their efforts to stop the spread of the disease.

 

Madam Speaker, in conclusion, I would like to reassure the nation of the Government’s commitment to ensuring the health of citizens, which will contribute to the overall socio-economic development of the country. I wish to state that our system for detecting and treating cases is built on speed and effectiveness, presenting a clear and efficient pathway to ensure our citizens affected by cholera receive prompt, high-quality care to prevent further transmission and possible death.

 

I would further wish to express my profound gratitude to our health care workers, our partners and the resilient people of Zambia for the vigilance and efforts to contain the disease so far. I am confident that with the multi-layered strategy, proactive surveillance, combined with technical readiness, clinical and logistical readiness, strengthened partnership and community involvement, ensures our nation remains resilient against further cholera outbreaks.

 

I thank you, Madam Speaker

 

Hon. UPND Members: Hear, hear!

 

Madam First Deputy Speaker: Hon. Members are now free to ask questions on points of clarification on the Ministerial Statement presented by the hon. Minister of Health.

 

Mr C. Mulenga (Kwacha): Madam Speaker, I thank you for the opportunity given to me to ask the hon. Minister of Health a question on a point of clarification.

 

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

 

Mr C. Mulenga: Madam Speaker, the fact of the matter is that cholera is a contagious disease, which is quite deadly. The cause of the disease is dirtiness. That is the fact. If went around many towns, we would discover that our cities are quite dirty, whether it is on the Copperbelt, Lusaka or elsewhere. Is the Ministry of Health, in collaboration with other relevant ministries like the Ministry of Local Government and Rural Development, putting in place any measures to try and work out modalities on how we can make our cities clean so that we can deal with prevention rather than cure?

 

Madam First Deputy Speaker: Maybe, before the hon. Minister comes in, there is an indication for a point of order.

 

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

 

Madam Speaker, for the past four years, I have never risen on a point of order in the House. This is my first time. I am compelled to raise this point of order pursuant to Standing Order No. 71. Some statement was made during Her Honour the Vice-President’s Question Time that Konkola Copper Mines (KCM) is failing.

 

Madam Speaker, I would like the hon. Member –

 

Mr Mtayachalo: You are on the Floor!

 

Mr Kabuswe: Yes, this is the Floor of the House. So, this matter has gone out there.

 

Madam Speaker, I would like to find out if the hon. Member for Chama South – is it Chama South?

 

Hon. UPND Members: North!

 

Mr Kabuswe: Was the hon. Member for Chama North in order to insinuate and mislead the House, himself and the general public by saying that KCM is failing when in fact, in 2024, KCM’s productivity was at zero, but it has risen to 120,000 metric tonnes. This year, KCM may give us 120,000 metric tonnes. In fact, its target is 142,000 metric tonnes, but it produced 120,000 metric tonnes.

 

Madam Speaker, from the time that we resuscitated KCM, it has employed in excess of 2,000 people, well above the 10,000 people that were in the mine at the time of resuscitation. As we speak, miners are getting mining and production bonuses. It means that the mine is alive.  Was he in order to mislead himself, the House and the whole country by insinuating that the mine is going down, yet it is on the rise. Does increase in productivity show that the mine is going down? 2,000 more people have been employed well above the 10,000 who were there at the time of resuscitation? Suppliers and contractors were paid. Right now, KCM is undertaking million corporate social responsibility (CSR) programmes worth US $20 million in Chililabombwe, Chingola, Nampundwe and Kitwe. Was he in order to mislead the whole country?

 

 I seek your serious ruling, Madam Speaker.

 

Hon. UPND Members: Hear, hear!

 

Madam First Deputy Speaker: The point of order has been debated. All I can say is thank you, hon. Minister for bringing that clarification. The hon. Member for Chama North, you were out of order. I remember clearly, in your question, you said that no workers have been employed, so many other things, but they have since been attended to by the hon. Minister of Mines and Minerals Development.

 

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

 

Interruptions

 

Madam First Deputy Speaker: We make progress.

 

Mr Kafwaya: I have raised a point of order, Madam Speaker.

 

Hon. UPND Members: Ah!

 

Madam First Deputy Speaker: I will use my discretion. I cannot take it now because there is a question pending to be answered. I will get back to you shortly.

 

Hon. Minister of Health, you may respond.

 

Mr Muchima: Madam Speaker, that is a good question from the hon. Member for Kwacha.

 

Madam Speaker, prevention is always cheaper than a cure. It was last year when Hon. Kabuswe and my other colleagues from other ministries went to Chililabombwe and Kasumbalesa in particular to look at the situation there. We are collaborating, as ministries. In fact, we want to heighten our efforts together with the Ministry of Local Government and Rural Development, which …

 

Mr Sialubalo: Yes!

 

Mr Muchima: … should play a major role. Cholera is a disease of the mindset. If you go to villages, especially the village where I come from, you will never hear about cholera. Why? We observe hygiene. In the past, Lambas used to call Kaluvales as “nyamazai” because we were associated with cleanliness. We do not want to see dirt nearby. For example, you cannot have a well here and a toilet nearby. A well should be somewhere far. That is the traditional way we used to live when I was a child. Cases of cholera would never be there.

 

Madam Speaker, the problem is in the compounds where you find that there is a well here and a toilet there, especially in Kasumbalesa. That is why this able Government of Hakainde Hichilema has mobilised money for us to deal with the water situation. We would have decommissioned most of the toilets and wells, but we wanted to put up alternatives. So, we had chlorinated the wells, but since there is money, we are putting up toilets and there will be water supply. So, we are going to commission to old facilities. We are not going to allow anybody in that area to put up a pit latrine without authority.

 

Mr Muchima (pointed at Mr Sialubalo): My colleague here is going to come up with by-laws …

 

Mr Sialubalo: Yes!

 

Mr Muchima: Whoever will be doing that should be punished so that we bring sanity in the compounds. Kasumbalesa is overpopulated. There are 19,000 people. Nakonde and Kanyama are equally the same.

 

Mr Muchima (pointed at Mr Sialubalo): The Government is collaborating with our colleagues and my friend here. I will be the most excited person to hear that we have no cholera. This time around, cholera has broken out in Monze through contact. These are issues on which we need to put our efforts together. Yes, we are working together with the Ministry of Local Government and Rural Development and the Ministry of Water Development and Sanitation. As we speak, the University Teaching Hospitals (UTH), the Government has released money. Your Government is very active and aware. I wonder why people always say this Government has done nothing when this Government has done extremely well ...

 

Hon. UPND Members: Hear, hear!

 

Mr Muchima: … especially in a situation where it has been difficult, coming from the drought. The Government finds the money to attend to issues of health all the time. We are doing well, and we are containing the situation.

 

I thank you, Madam Speaker.

 

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

 

Madam First Deputy Speaker: A point of order is raised.

 

Mr Kafwaya: Madam Speaker, the culture, precedence and standards set in the conduct of business in this House are clear. When you allow us, Backbenchers, to seek policy direction on various issues during the Vice-President’s Question Time, it is the role of hon. Ministers, who care for their Government, to provide answers or supplement Her Honour the Vice-President’s answers so that Her Honour the Vice-President can give meaningful and accurate answers. Is the hon. Minister of Mines and Minerals Development in order to ridicule Her Honour the Vice-President in that manner, whereby, he comes to show dissatisfaction with the answer that she ably gave to the hon. Member for Chama North? Is this the level of ridicule that this House is willing to accept?  Is the hon. Minister who should have supported Her Honour the Vice-President in order to come and say all those things in form of a point of order and conduct himself in that manner?

 

Ms Mulenga: Teti asule ba Vice-President mu musango uyu.

 

Interruptions

 

Madam First Deputy Speaker: Order!

 

Standing Order No. 140(2)(a), states,

 

“(2) A Member shall not raise a Point of Order –

 

(a) on another Point of Order.”

 

You cannot raise a point of order on a point of order that was raised on the same issue. That is not allowed.

 

Hon. Member for Chifubu, you may proceed.

 

Mr Lubozha (Chifubu): Madam Speaker, thank you for giving me this opportunity, on behalf of the people of Chifubu, to ask a question.

 

Madam Speaker, the Zambian Government adopted a comprehensive approach to fight and eliminate cholera, which was driven by the 2019-2025 Multi-Sectoral Cholera Elimination Plan, ahead of the global task force on Cholera Control 2030 target. Can the hon. Minister share with this House how the master plan has performed from 2019 to 2025, if we are still talking about cholera today?

 

Mr Muchima: Madam Speaker, cholera cases have been reduced and the surveillance mechanism is in place. Cholera is not only found in Zambia, but also in neighbouring countries. It is contracted through body contact and drinking dirty water. We cannot control what is happening in other countries; we just need to co-ordinate with other countries. Zambia has put its plan into effect, except that, as long as we do not coordinate and synergise with other countries, cholera will be there.  If we drink untreated dirty water, cholera will always be there. So, we need to educate our masses. We also need to liaise with our neighbours. Otherwise, Zambia has done extremely well. The plan is in effect.

 

Interruptions

 

Mr Muchima: They are saying that I should look at the Hon. Speaker. Let me also face you (he pointed at Mr Lubozha). It is in effect.

 

I thank you, Madam Speaker.

 

Laughter

 

Mr Mwila (Mufulira): Madam Speaker, the hon. Minister talked about the multi-sectoral approach, and, indeed, prevention is better than cure. One of the things that contribute to cholera outbreaks is a lack of access to clean water, and poor sanitation. For example, currently in Mufulira, there is a critical shortage of water. Having blockage of sewerage pipes is the order of the day. Using that multi-sectoral approach, how is the ministry collaborating with the water utility companies so that, firstly, they attend to reports of blocked sewerage lines to prevent cholera and, secondly, supply water so that people have access to clean water? How is the ministry collaborating with the water utility companies and, maybe, the Ministry of Water Development and Sanitation so that the situation is tackled?

 

Mr Muchima: Madam Speaker, it is true that cholera is caused by a lack of access to water. The water utilities are facing challenges with fiscal space and also payment of bills. I will not answer on behalf of my colleague, the hon. Minister of Water Development and Sanitation, but the water utility companies are owed a lot of money. At the moment, they do not have the capacity to attend to these issues. That is why my ministry had to collaborate with the Ministry of Local Government and Rural Development, and the Ministry of Water Development and Sanitation to go to Chililabombwe. Otherwise, on their own, the water utilities cannot do that.

 

Madam Speaker, I think, we will be moving stage by stage so that we can find means and ways to attend to the situation.  With money available, we can also attend to issues in Mufulira. The hotspot areas are Nakonde, Chililabombwe, Kasumbalesa and Kanyama. However, we have heard the hon. Member. When we find the resources, we will be able to attend to those issues so that people can have access to clean water.

 

I thank you, Madam Speaker.

 

Mr Kampyongo (Shiwang’andu): Madam Speaker, before I pose the question, allow me to express my concern by saying that our hon. Colleagues in the Executive must abide by the dictates of collective responsibility. It is not correct for the hon. Minister to clarify matters addressed by another member of the Executive, especially one who is superior.

 

Mr Kabuswe interjected.

 

Madam First Deputy Speaker: Hon. Member, go straight to the point.

 

Mr Kampyongo: Madam Speaker, the question to the hon. Minister is–

­

Interruptions

 

Mr Kampyongo: We know these things. When we are coaching you, you must listen.

 

Madam First Deputy Speaker: Hon. Member, go straight to the question.

 

Mr Kampyongo: Madam Speaker, the biggest challenge leading to cholera outbreak is people having no access to clean water. The hon. Member for Chinsali lamented the challenges that the provincial headquarters of Muchinga is facing due to the power outages. The long hours of load-shedding have equally affected the water supply. I would like to know what multi-sectoral approach measures are in place to deal with this situation.

 

Madam First Deputy Speaker: Order!

 

Business was suspended from 1040 hours until 1100 hours.

 

[MADAM FIRST DEPUTY SPEAKER in the Chair]

 

Mr Kampyongo: Madam Speaker, thank you for allowing me to repeat the question I had posed before business was suspended.

 

Madam Speaker, the Government has reported cholera cases in Monze and other areas. If it does not respond in a multisectoral approach, other areas such as Chinsali, which is the Provincial Headquarters of Muchinga Province – The hon. Minister heard the hon. Member for the area complain about areas that are lacking water. Water is a critical aspect of disease prevention apart from keeping the environment clean, insofar as cholera prevention is concerned. I talked of a multisectoral approach, because one of the major challenges that water utility companies are facing is power shortages, as such, they are failing to supply clean water to the residents. I see the hon. Minister of Energy looking at me.

                       

Madam Speaker, the protracted hours of load-shedding have affected water supply in many areas. If you go into communities, even here in Lusaka, you will find people queuing up in the early hours of the morning and evening trying to access water. Therefore, what steps is the Government taking in a multisectoral approach to ensure that these areas, which are not yet affected, knowing this is the rainy season, are supplied with clean water, just as the hon. Minister did at the University Teaching Hospital (UTH), where he gave some money?

 

Mr Muchima: Madam Speaker, it is quite a loaded question, but I will respond accordingly.

 

Madam Speaker, first and foremost, the hon. Member talked about load-shedding, which is not permanent, and water is not pumped every minute. When there is electricity, water is pumped into tanks and is distributed. For his own information, according to my colleagues in the Ministry of Energy, they do not load-shed where there are water pumps.

 

Madam Speaker, talking about multisectoral coverage, we have an active Epidemic Preparedness Committee at national, provincial and district levels, comprising all key ministries. During meetings, challenges of access to safe water are discussed. The ministries and institutions have put in place appropriate measures.

 

Madam Speaker, let me also explain what I meant when I said that there is no capacity. I did not mean human capacity or technical capacity, but I meant fiscal capacity, which is money, to address these issues all at once. Let me repeat: utility companies are owed a lot of money, such that they do not have money to address the issues of blockage, pumping or buying certain items. That is what I meant when I said they have no capacity. I meant fiscal space was limited, but with money, these issues will be addressed.

 

Madam Speaker, the Government has put in place several measures like monitoring of chlorine levels in the water supplied by utility companies everywhere, rehabilitation and drilling of boreholes in cholera hotspots, provision of temporary water points in affected districts, monitoring of enhanced food safety measures, including inspections of food premises, and also community sensitisation. These are the multisectoral issues we are discussing in the council, with the Ministry of Health and the Ministry of Water Development and Sanitation, especially given that we are now collaborating even more than before. The one thing that I will repeat concerns the fiscal space. We are currently dealing with the University Teaching Hospital (UTH) and Kasumbalesa. Once those areas are completed, we will move on to other areas. With the fiscal space, we will address everything. This Government is up to speed in addressing issues affecting its people.

 

I thank you, Madam Speaker.

 

Ms S. Mwamba (Kasama Central): Madam Speaker, the hon. Minister raised the point concerning fiscal space, and the Northern Province is also a hotspot of cholera.  Figures are rising every single day.  The water and sanitation facilities and infrastructure at Chambeshi Water Supply and Sanitation Company are a bit old and not in such a good state.

 

Madam Speaker, we are looking at preparedness. We appreciate that the fiscal space is tight, but the cholera issue is also an emergency because there is death involved. There are two types of households. There are those that are supplied water by the water utility plant, while others still get water from wells, rivers and other sources. Is the ministry assisting water utility companies in the provision of water purification chemicals? This is because the hon. Minister has stated that there are issues there. The fiscal space is really tight. Is there also a provision for those who get water from other sources to be given chlorine per household so that it also alleviates the issue of clean water?

 

Mr Muchima:  Madam Speaker, indeed, like in Kasumbalesa, we had to chlorinate most of the wells. Chlorine is available in most areas, especially those that we feel are likely to be affected. I am aware of Kasama, and the hon. Member of Kasama Central and I have been talking. I have informed the public that after the UTH, I am going to Kasama. I inspected the areas and I know what is happening in Kasama, Solwezi and the Eastern Province, especially in the big hospitals. We will address the issues. However, if people in those areas feel that there is a need for chlorine, we will address that issue, but we cannot just give chlorine to every Jim and Jack. We give chlorine to people in areas that we feel are threatened by a cholera epidemic. Chlorine is always available. Further, there are multisectoral committees that assess areas and they are found everywhere, in every district. So, they can advise us which areas are in need, and we shall be on the spot.

 

Madam Speaker, I thank you.

 

Mr Mapani (Namwala): Madam Speaker, the hon. Minister has agreed that sensitisation is one of the vital measures to ensure that people are aware of that deadly disease. May I know how soon the Government will execute the sensitisation programme through radio? If money is available, how much has been allocated towards the programme for sensitisation so that people are aware of the disease, particularly in rural areas?

 

Mr Muchima: Madam Speaker, I thank the hon. Member for Namwala for that question.

 

Madam Speaker, as a starting point, all community radio stations should work with council public health officers. Some money from the Constituency Development Fund (CDF) can be set aside for that. Let us sensitise our people together. Let us not just wait for the ministry headquarters to sensitise the people. Let us work together, as we are part of the councils. That is why there is a proposal to amend the Constitution so that hon. Members can become part of councils and effect some of the decisions we make.

 

Madam Speaker, sensitisation is a costly venture. However, we can help to reduce the cost.  Sensitisation requires the participation of people at all levels, that is national, provincial, district and village levels. As a ministry, we have staff in all health centres. Together with councils, I think that we can achieve sensitisation. Maybe, we have to write a memorandum to all councils indicating that we need to scale up sensitisation on cholera.

 

I thank you, Madam Speaker.

 

Mr Chanda (Kanchibiya): Madam Speaker, I thank the hon. Minister for his Ministerial Statement.

 

Madam Speaker, what interventions is the ministry taking regarding the Munali Nickel Mine workers in Chikankata? The information that has come to me is that workers do not have resources to buy chlorine. Is the Government looking at tailored interventions for communities where the threat of a cholera outbreak is high? As a matter of urgency, would the Ministry of Health cater for communities without the means to acquire chlorine?

 

Mr Muchima: Madam Speaker, I thank the hon. Member of Parliament for Kanchibiya for that question.

 

Madam Speaker, I do not think we have a shortage of chlorine. In any case, chlorine is provided in hotspots. Granular chlorine is provided for pit latrines. All those interventions are simple. If the hon. Member is aware of a community lacking preventive materials, that information should be brought to us, and the materials will be provided. I do not think we have a problem with the provision of chlorine. We are able to provide that.

 

I thank you, Madam Speaker.

 

Mr Chisanga (Lukashya): Madam Speaker, Mpulungu is known as a town from which most cholera outbreaks start. It is the same thing every rainy season. From a public health perspective, what steps has the Government taken this year to prevent that? Cholera starts from one spot and spreads to the rest of the nation.

 

Mr Muchima: Madam Speaker, I am aware of the situation in Mpulungu. In Mpulungu, cholera spreads through contact because of fishing. The time when we ban fishing in Zambia, fishing goes on in other countries. Zambians used to go to Chipwa, Tanzania and people from Tanzania used to go to Mpulungu. That is why I am saying that we need to sensitise people on the dangers of cholera. The sanitation aspect in fishing camps is quite saddening. We need to sensitise our people who are trading on the dangers of cholera, especially those trading from neighbouring countries. I know Mpulungu very well. Cholera spreads there because people are not paying attention to sanitation when trading. We should sensitise or vaccinate the people in Mpulungu or in hotspots. I think that will help us to contain the situation.

 

I thank you, Madam Speaker.

 

Mr Munsanje (Mbabala): Madam Speaker, I thank the hon. Minister of Health for the comprehensive Ministerial Statement.

 

Madam Speaker, how many quantities of vaccine do we have as a country for the prevention of cholera in high-risk areas? For example, in my constituency, Mbabala Township is a potential high-risk area. It is highly congested, and garbage management is poor. Garbage, of course, needs to be collected through the council. Are vaccines available to cater for all potential high-risk areas in the country?

 

Mr Muchima: Madam Speaker, I think that my hon. Colleague, the Member of Parliament for Mbabala, was not in the House earlier. I said that the ministry has run out of vaccines, but we have ordered 156,000 doses. The vaccines are controlled by the WHO. Each time there is an outbreak, the Government requests vaccines from the WHO. The WHO supplies us the vaccines.

 

I thank you, Madam Speaker.

 

Mr Simumba (Nakonde): Madam Speaker, Nakonde is a border town between Tanzania and Zambia. Nakonde is affected, more so because it has no safe water. Water supply is erratic. Sometimes, you will find that the Zambian Government institutes measures to prevent cholera, yet our neighbours in Tanzania do not. I would like to know what the Government is doing to ensure that the neighbouring country places the same measures that the Zambian Government institutes when there is an outbreak.

 

Mr Muchima: Madam Speaker, I thank my hon. Colleague, the Member of Parliament for Nakonde, for the question. On a lighter note, he should shift from Lusaka to Nakonde so that he can know what goes on in Nakonde.

 

Madam Speaker, there is a liaison committee led by the District Commissioner (DC) in Nakonde. We have meetings with our colleagues in Tanzania and we liaise on surveillance. That is why the vicious outbreak was contained. Yes, we are aware of the water and sanitation issue. When we finish with Kasumbalesa, we are going to Nakonde. I mentioned three places: Kasumbalesa, Nakonde and Kanyama. If money will be available, together with the Ministry of Local Government and Rural Development, we will sort out the issues in Nakonde so that we do not have cholera anymore.

 

I thank you, Madam Speaker.

 

Mr Chinkuli (Kanyama): Madam Speaker, I thank you for this opportunity you have given  me.

 

Madam Speaker, indeed, Kanyama is prone to cholera outbreaks, and I want to echo what the hon. Minister said.  He mentioned that it is not right to construct a pit latrine near a well for drinking water. Last year, or the year before, there was a directive that shallow wells should buried, but nothing much was done. However, my concern is that the hon. Minister said something about placing something in the well in a situation whereby a shallow well and a pit latrine are close to each other. Now, I do not know what that something is, but I believe it should be chlorine. How readily available is the chlorine in the event that an emergency arises?

 

Mr Muchima: Madam Speaker, I thank my hon. Colleague, the hon. Member of Parliament for Kanyama for the question.

 

Madam Speaker, his constituency is densely populated, and I know the problem is big. We have been discussing that. The problem is mainly the underground water which is contaminated.  If you ask any scientists, they will explain to  you the flow of water. So, we are trying to see what we can do. However, as a temporary measure, we shall chlorinate most of the places, just as we are doing in Kasumbalesa. We are just trying to look at resources and how we can approach it. Really, we need to control the supply of clean water in Kanyama mostly, and also put community toilets. This is the model we are putting up there. 

 

So, we are trying to mobilise money. We are talking to the World Bank and other co-operating partners so that they can help us resolve the issue which we are facing in Kanyama. Actually, it is a concern. You cannot blame or fault anybody. The population is too big. They tell those Kaondes to go back to Kasempa, Lundas to go back where they come from, and you Tongas go back across the Kafue River so that we de-cooperate Kanyama. It is too much. The population is too big. My friends, tell your relatives to go back. Kanyama is heavily populated and that is what is causing problems there, but, we are trying to look at a permanent solution. Maybe, the temporary solution will be to chlorinate most of the places. Eventually, we shall decommission the pit latrines.

 

I thank you, Madam Speaker.

 

 Hon. UPND Members: Hear, hear!

 

FEASIBILITY STUDY ON MAJOR RIVERS

 

92.  Mr Miyutu (Kalabo Central) asked the Minister of Energy whether the Government has conducted a feasibility study on major rivers to ascertain their viability for hydropower generation.

 

The Minister of Energy (Mr Chikote): Madam Speaker, I wish to inform the House that the Government has undertaken feasibility studies on major rivers in the country. The following are the water bodies on which the feasibility studies have been undertaken by the Government and the private sector:

 

 Zambezi River

 

 Madam Speaker, Batoka Gorge feasibility studies of the 2,400 MW were completed in 2021. The project is spearheaded by the two Governments of Zambia and Zimbabwe through the Zambezi River Authority (ZRA). The estimated cost of the project is US$5 billion.

 

The Davos Gorge

 

Madam Speaker, the feasibility study of a 1,000 MW plant is in progress, and various sites are being assessed. The plant which is similar to Batoka Gorge is being co-planned by Zimbabwe and Zambia and is located downstream of Batoka sites and upstream of Lake Kariba.

 

 Ngonye Falls

 

 Madam Speaker, pre-feasibility studies of a180 MW power plant were completed in 2018. The studies were done by Western Power, an independent power producer, and the estimated cost of the project is US$500 million.

 

Chavuma Falls Hydropower Project

 

Madam Speaker, feasibility studies of 30 MW plant were completed in 2012 by the Government. The estimated cost of the project is US$156.5 million.

 

The Luapula River

 

Madam Speaker, pre-feasibility studies were completed for the two sites at Mambilima Falls and one site at the Mombututa Falls, with an estimated 789 MW capacity. The project is being spearheaded by two countries; Zambia and the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC).

 

 The Kalungwishi River

 

 Madam Speaker, feasibility studies were completed for the development of the 244MW Kabwelume and Kundawika Falls. The studies were undertaken by ZESCO Limited in 2022.

 

Kabompo River

 

Madam Speaker, feasibility studies of the 40 MW Kabompo hydropower project were completed in 2015. Studies were undertaken by Copperbelt Energy Corporation (CEC).

 

Madam Speaker, in conclusion, the Government, through the Ministry of Energy, continues to facilitate the undertaking of feasibility studies on several rivers across the country to address the growing demand for electricity.

 

I thank you, Madam Speaker.

 

Mr Miyutu: Madam Speaker, I want to thank the hon. Minister for a very good response.

 

Madam Speaker, the question was on the feasibility study, which means this is the outcome. So, we are placing surities on the findings. From the findings, is there an expression of desire to seriously – I am using the word seriously – undertake a project on one of them? I am using the word seriously. Is the Government desiring to undertake a project on one of the findings?

 

Mr Chikote: Madam Speaker, I thank the hon.  Member for the question.

 

 Madam Speaker, the answer is yes. A number of feasibility studies have been undertaken using the information which is here. Further, there is a lot of progress.  For instance, there are some works that are going on at the Batoka Gorge to make sure that we develop that site.  Apart from that, there is also some works that are going on at Ngonye Falls. Since this allows for private sector participation, we believe that we are going to see some positive results on that site.   

 

The process at Kalungwishi River is on going.  We are looking forward to positive results from the sites I have just mentioned.  For the other sites, we are looking for resources to start the implementation process.

 

I thank you, Madam Speaker.

 

Mr Kang’ombe (Kamfinsa): Madam Speaker, thank you for giving me this opportunity to ask a supplementary question to the hon. Minister of Energy.

 

Madam Speaker, in his response, the hon. Minister literally listed all the sites that the Government has undertaken pre-feasibility studies on. After they undertake a pre-feasibility study, that means they need to undertake the actual feasibility study. The design, costing of the project and recommendations on how the money will be raised to develop a site into a hydropower plant are drawn up in the feasibility study. I would like the hon. Minister to be clear. Will the Government hand over the sites that the hon. Minister has mentioned to the private sector, or will ZESCO Limited, as the entity that currently generates most of the power from hydropower plants, be asked to look for money to partner with the private sector?  We do not want to lose the opportunity that will allow ZESCO Limited to continue participating in the energy space. Are the hydropower plants that the Government wants to develop, for the private sector or for ZESCO Limited? I think, this is an important question that requires clarification.

 

Mr Chikote: Madam Speaker, as I have stated, ZESCO Limited will partner with other developers to implement the projects at some of the sites. Other projects, like Ngonye Falls, are solely under the private sector. So, ZESCO Limited will partner with other developers on some projects, while others will be developed by the private sector.

 

I thank you, Madam Speaker.

 

Madam First Deputy Speaker gave the floor to Mr Miyutu.

 

Mr Miyutu indicated dissent.

 

Madam First Deputy Speaker: If you are satisfied, it is okay.

 

Mr Chibombwe (Bahati): Thank you, Madam Speaker.

 

Madam Speaker, I would like to thank the hon. Minister for the statement.

 

Madam Speaker, in the statement, the hon. Minister alluded to the fact that a pre-feasibility study on the Mumbotuta Falls, which is on the Luapula River in Milenge District, has been undertaken, and a full feasibility study has been undertaken on the Kalungwishi River, which is in Kawambwa. I would like to know whether the ministry has handed over the Mumbotuta and Kalungwishi to independent power producers (IPP).

 

Mr Chikote: Madam Speaker, discussions on the sites are underway between ZESCO Limited and private players.

 

I thank you, Madam Speaker.

 

Mr Mtayachalo (Chama North): Madam Speaker, thank you for giving me this opportunity to ask a supplementary question.

 

Madam Speaker, I would also like to thank the hon. Minister for his answers.

 

Madam Speaker, the hon. Minister has outlined quite a number of proposed sites for hydropower generation, which I believe is a step in the right direction because hydro power remains a reliable source of energy. Most of our hydro power projects are situated in the southern part of this country, which is a drought-prone area.  The hon. Minister has mentioned feasibility studies on the Luapula River. Does he have a specific timeframe for prioritising investment in the northern circuit, where we have abundant rainfall?

 

Mr Chikote: Madam Speaker, like the hon. Member has heard from my submission, the northern region has already been prioritised. Hence, the works that are on-going. We are aware that, currently, most major hydropower plants are in the southern part of the country. Despite the climate change effects, we realise that the northern circuit of this country continues to receive favourable rainfall. So, in our strategic planning, we are prioritising the northern circuit for hydropower plants to ensure that we balance the equation going forward.

 

I thank you, Madam Speaker.

 

Mr Mapani (Namwala): Thank you very, Madam Speaker.

 

Madam Speaker, from the feasibility studies that the hon. Minister has mentioned, I would like to know how much power we would immediately get from the projects so that our current problem can be alleviated.

 

Mr Chikote: Madam Speaker, those are long-term projects. They are not earmarked for the immediate term. Of course, in terms of the projected power that we are looking forward to generating from the sites, in my submission, I stated that Batoka Gorge Hydropower Project is 2,400 MW, Davis Gorge Hydro Project is 1,000 MW, Ngonye Falls Hydroelectricity Project is 180 MW, Chavuma Falls Hydroelectricity Project is 30 MW. On the Luapula River, the Mambilima and Mumbotuta hydropower projects are 789 MW, Kalungwishi Hydropower Project is 244 MW and the Kabompo River Hydropower Project is 40 MW.

 

I thank you, Madam Speaker.

 

Dr Mwanza (Kaumbwe): Thank you, Madam Speaker.

 

Madam Speaker, looking at the potential of power generation using hydro, we are earmarked for energy exports, if we implement all the projects. My question is: Does the Government have intentions to fund any of the projects, or is it solely dependent on private funding? If the Government intends to fund the sites through the National Budget, which of the sites are earmarked for funding?

 

Mr Chikote: Madam Speaker, that question is similar to what the other hon. Member asked. I said that some sites will be purely funded by the private sector, while ZESCO Limited will raise money and partner with other developers to implement the other projects. So, that is how we will implement the projects on the sites that I have mentioned.

 

I thank you, Madam Speaker.

 

Mr Chala (Chipili): Madam Speaker, though the question is similar to what my hon. Colleague asked, I may twist it a bit. The hon. Minister has not come before this august House to state the position on hydropower. He only talks about solar power. Why is it so?

 

Madam First Deputy Speaker: The hon. Minister of Energy will respond, although the question departs from the main question on feasibility studies.

 

Mr Chikote: Madam Speaker, indeed, I have been talking about solar power plants. Maybe, like the hon. Member has said, I talk about very few hydropower plants, because of the crisis we are going through which is arising from climate change. We realise that hydropower plants have been seriously affected. Hence, in the medium-term interventions, we were concentrating on solar power plants. That is more reason the hon. Member was receiving more information on solar power plants.

 

I thank you, Madam Speaker.

 

GOVERNMENT MEASURES TO IMPLEMENT PROVISIONS OF THE ABUJA PROTOCOL ON HEALTH FINANCING

 

93. Mr Munsanje (Mbabala) asked the Minister of Finance and National Planning what measures the Government is taking to implement the provisions of the Abuja Protocol on health financing.

 

The Minister of Finance and National Planning (Dr Musokotwane): Madam Speaker, as the House may be aware, the pledge made by African Governments to allocate at least 15 per cent of their annual budgets to the health sector is what is referred to as the Abuja Declaration.

 

 Madam Speaker, this Government, in its quest to meet the Abuja Declaration, is implementing the following measures:

 

1. prioritised budgetary allocation to the health sector; and

 

1. continued engagement with development partners to enhance financing to the sector.

 

Madam Speaker, based on the outlined measures, the budget allocation to the health sector has steadily increased from K9.65 billion in 2021 to K23.17 billion in 2025, representing a percentage increase from 1.8 per cent to 10.7 per cent, respectively, of the total budget.

 

Madam Speaker, I thank you.

 

Mr Munsanje: Madam Speaker, the increase in the health sector under the United Party for National Development (UPND), New Dawn Government, has been ably visible, from an average 9 per cent during the previous regime to now 10.7 per cent under the New Dawn Administration, almost reaching 11 per cent.

 

Madam Speaker, the country also spends finances on health in the military, local Government, and many other sectors. Is the ministry considering working with the Zambia Statistics Agency (ZamStats), which is under it, to amalgamate all this expenditure into the health expense to meet the 15 per cent Abuja Protocol?

 

Dr Musokotwane: Madam Speaker, indeed, Hon. Munsanje is correct, because the figures that I read out are specifically those that are under the Votes of the Ministry of Health. What is not included in those numbers, as he says, are the amounts that are appropriated to institutions like the military and other security wings.

 

Madam Speaker, there is also something that the hon. Member has referred to, which I need to elaborate. Many of us here spend much of the Constituency Development Fund (CDF), allocated under the Ministry of Local Government and Rural Development, on health-related projects, because we are constructing clinics, maternity wings and rehabilitating old medical facilities. So, if you were to consolidate all these various elements, certainly the amount that is going to the health sector would be quite big.

 

Madam Speaker, I would like to correct an error I mentioned earlier. I said the percentage share of health in 2021 was 1.8 percent. In fact, I transposed the numbers. It is 8.1 per cent, and in 2025, it is 10.7 per cent. So, there is still definitely a big increase from 2021 to where we are today.

 

I thank you, Madam Speaker. 

 

Mr Lubozha (Chifubu): Madam Speaker, the Abuja Declaration, indeed, reaffirms the demand of the African Union (AU) member states to allocate 15 per cent of their National Budgets towards the health sector. We appreciate that the current Government has made a tremendous improvement from 9 per cent to about 10.5 per cent.

 

Hon. Government Members: Hear, hear!

 

Mr Lubozha: Madam Speaker, what effect does the current pulling out of co-operating partners, such as the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) have on the Abuja Declaration as a country?

 

Dr Musokotwane: Madam Speaker, to start with, I want to explain that, yes, the Abuja Declaration states that 15 per cent of the Budget must go to the health sector. However, I also want to say that some of these agreements that cover so many countries, good as they are, sometimes do not take into account the specific situations of countries. Why do I say so? I think that we all know that health is not just determined by the interventions that we do in the health sector. The state of health is also determined by what we do in other sectors. For example, it has been stated many times before that providing interventions in the water sector and education sector so that mothers know how to better care for their children, actually affects the health sector.

 

Madam Speaker, if you are a country that is making significant efforts to provide preventive interventions in the health sector, then perhaps you do not necessarily need 15 per cent of your Budget to go towards the health sector, because you are already preventing many problems. So, what I am saying is that Africa as a whole agreed that 15 per cent of the Budget goes towards the health sector, which is fine, but we cannot necessarily be very prescriptive to say it be so without noting that other countries do not need to go that far, because they are putting in place interventions and other preventive measures. Nevertheless, you would agree with me that the withdrawal of co-operating partners, basically one, could have jeopardised the Abuja Declaration, but it was only a few days ago when we announced that the withdrawal has been reversed. The US$1.5 billion is coming back to Zambia.

 

Hon. Government Members: Hear, hear!

 

Dr Musokotwane: Madam Speaker, at least in the foreseeable future, this should not really be a concern, as long as we keep understanding each other, with those co-operating partners.

 

I thank you, Madam Speaker.

 

Mr Kafwaya (Lunte): Madam Speaker, the hon. Minister of Finance and National Planning has confused me with the answer he has just tendered. He has given the reason it should not be important to attain the 15 per cent allocation for health. He said that it is because different factors affect countries.  

 

Madam Speaker, as the hon. Minister responded to the question initially, he highlighted the measures that are being taken to attain the 15 per cent allocation for health. He said that the Government is prioritising allocations in the Budget and that it is continuing engagement with stakeholders. I think, that is where the K1.5 billion comes in. I did a quick check in the 2026-2028 Medium Term Budget Plan. The qualitative text is on pages 16 and 17. The hon. Minister made no mention of those two interventions. If you go to page 41, where the numbers are, you will see the numbers on health. In 2025, 10.7 per cent of the Budget was allocated to health, in 2026 it is projected to be 9.9 per cent, 11.2 per cent in 2027 and 11 per cent in 2028. These numbers do not show that we are gravitating towards achieving 15 per cent allocation for health. In fact, the very last number for 2028 has reduced, as compared to the number for 2027. How can he reconcile the priorities, the factors that he has just mentioned and the allocations in the 2025-2027 Medium Term Budget Plan? I find this very confusing. The hon. Minister has really confused me. I had a good question for him.

 

Dr Musokotwane: Madam Speaker, I will explain. If I heard the hon. Member correctly, he said that the ratio is dropping in 2026 and 2027. This is because at the time when that document was written, the information we had was that some donors had pulled back. So, it would take time for us to get back the momentum we had gained. With that position of a co-operating partner reversing their decision, certainly, I think we should see increments in those projections. The numbers he is talking about are projections. With the information that has come through, I think that we should be able to reverse that and get back on our trajectory. I hope that has removed the confusion.

 

Madam Speaker, I thank you.

 

Mr Chinkuli (Kanyama): Madam Speaker, among the ways in which the Government can enhance health funding is manufacturing drugs locally, coupled with staffing levels in health institutions. Now, if you look at the way the Government has performed, you will see that it has been promoting manufacturing of drugs locally to reduce the cost of importing drugs. Further, the Government has actually employed a number of health personnel in the health sector. Are these two aspects not helping to achieve the 15 per cent allocation for health required by the Abuja Declaration?

 

 Dr Musokotwane: Madam Speaker, what the hon. Member is saying, basically, is that the recruitment of health personnel is helping the health sector. Therefore, the number we are spending on recruitment in the health sector should be reflected. He is also saying that the fact that we are buying drugs locally, hopefully at a cheaper price, should be considered.

 

Madam Speaker, let me take those two points one by one. On recruitments, the planned recruitment for 2026 in the health sector is not yet reflected in the numbers. The reason is that it is only after recruitment that the salaries of those recruited will become part of the number under the Ministry of Health. Certainly, I can say with confidence that when the planned recruitments take place, and the people recruited are on the payroll of the Ministry of Health, the numbers for the health sector are going to improve.

 

Madam Speaker, on drugs, yes, in fact, this is another reason we have to be careful about the 15 per cent allocation for health. The 15 per cent allocation for health is indicative because in a country where we are trying to do away with waste or minimise it, as we are trying to do, it means that we achieve the same result with less amounts of expenditure because we have cut out wastage. Of course, our intention is to honour the 15 per cent allocation for health commitment with time, but it is also important that the measures being taken to deal with wastage, theft of medicine and corruption are recognised. This is because from the same budget we have today, we are able to do more because we have cut out wastage.

 

Madam Speaker, I thank you.

 

Mr Mung’andu (Chama South): Madam Speaker, let me take this opportunity to thank the hon. Minister and the New Dawn Government for the level of medicine stock in our hospitals. We were commissioning a mini hospital with the hon. Minister for the Eastern Province. Let me report that in almost all the clinics in Chama South, for the first time, we have more than 80 per cent medicine stock. Why am I am saying this? It is because in the past, sorry to say this, we used to struggle. The absence of essential drugs like painkillers or coartem used to be a challenge. For that, I want to thank the hon. Minister. It is important that we put these things on record.

 

Madam Speaker, let me come to my point of clarification. Knowing that the Abuja Declaration requires the Government to allocate 15 per cent of the Budget to health, what measures have been put in place to prevent diseases? I know that we consume drugs because of avoidable illnesses like cholera or dysentery, which have to do with hygiene issues. If we take care of such issues, we will drastically reduce expenditure on procurement of drugs. What measures has the ministry put in place to ensure that preventive measures are implemented in our communities?

 

Dr Musokotwane: Madam Speaker, the hon. Member for Chama South is absolutely correct.

 

 First of all, I would like to thank him for bringing to light the fact that drug availability in health centres has dramatically improved from around 40 per cent when the New Dawn Government assumed office. However, the availability of drugs in most places is around 80 per cent, way above the minimum threshold that international expert bodies recommend.

 

Madam Speaker, on top of that, of course, drugs may be available, but if professionals to administer the drugs and health in general are not there, it does not matter how much money is spent, it will not be effective. That is why this Government has recruited a huge number of health staff to deal with that situation precisely.

 

Madam Speaker, regarding the preventive measures, a lot has been done. As I speak right now, I know that things like nutrition is a big preventive measure because when people are malnourished, they become less resistant to disease. The Hon. Member will recall that the Government is implementing a cash transfer system for the vulnerable people in our society through programmes such as the Cash-for-Work. The programme was suspended for a few months to settle certain administrative issues, but it is back on track.

 

The Government has also enhanced the School Feeding programme because when school children are not fed properly, they become vulnerable to illnesses. Year after year, the Government has not only maintained the programme, but also increased its budget.

 

Madam Speaker, let me now turn now to the Constituency Development Fund (CDF). Through the CDF, many of us are doing many things in our constituencies to help prevent illnesses. A significant portion of the CDF is spent on sinking boreholes so that the Government can supply safe and clean water to our communities. This is all happening across the country in all the constituencies. Certainly, these are some of the major interventions that are being implemented to prevent diseases.

 

Madam Speaker, of course, as I said earlier, young mothers-to-be are now allowed to attend school longer. Part of the curriculum teaches them how to keep themselves better. They are taught issue of hygiene and how to be good mothers. So, a lot is happening in terms of measures to prevent illnesses.

 

Madam Speaker, I thank you.

 

Madam First Deputy Speaker: Thank you.

 

My apologies to the remaining three hon. Members who indicated. We are behind time.

 

X-RAY MACHINE FOR KASIYA MINI-HOSPITAL IN PEMBA DISTRICT

 

94. Mr Hamwaata (Pemba) asked the Minister of Health:

 

1. when the Government will procure an x-ray machine for Kasiya Mini Hospital in Pemba District; 

 

1. what the cause of the delay in procuring the machine is; and

 

1. what the estimated cost of the machine is.

 

The Minister of Health (Mr Muchima): Madam Speaker, before I answer this question, allow me to add a smile on the faces of the people of Zambia. I will proudly say that no Level I district hospital will operate without an x-ray machine. Health personnel have a distribution list and many more. So, x-rays are now in al hospitals.

 

His Excellency the President, Mr Hakainde Hichimma directed that all hospitals must have x-ray machines so that people do not cover long distances to seek medical attention. The machines are ready for distribution to Roan Antelope General Hospital and other hospitals that lack x-ray machines. In the coming week, and the other week, I will be distributing x-ray machines. So, the United Party for National Development (UPND) Government under Mr Hakainde Hichilema is on top of things in terms of equipping hospitals.

 

Madam Speaker, I wish to inform the hon. Member that a handheld x-ray machine has already been procured for Kasiya Mini-Hospital. This Government being cognisant of the ever-evolving landscape of medical technology, handheld x-ray machines emerged as a game-changer in health care diagnostics.

 

Madam Speaker, I wish to emphasise that there is no delay. This procurement is fully in line with the equipment plan and the Government's commitment to advancing emerging diagnostic services.

 

Madam Speaker, the estimated cost of a handheld x-ray machine is approximately US$40,000.

 

I thank you, Madam Speaker.

 

Mr Hamwaata: Madam Speaker, today, Friday, 21^st November, 2025, is a good day for me to hear the good news from the hon. Minister.

 

Madam Speaker, a population of over 100,000 has been struggling for a long time by having to take our patients from Pemba to Monze and Choma to have access to services such as an x-ray. So, to hear that Kasiya Mini-Hospital will have an x-ray machine is, indeed, a blessing and a happy day for the people of Pemba.

 

Madam Speaker, I have no further questions.

 

Hon. Members: Hear, hear!

 

Madam First Deputy Speaker: I did not hear any question in that statement.

 

Laughter

 

Madam First Deputy Speaker: Okay.

 

Mr Munsanje (Mbabala): Madam Speaker, we are neighbours with the people of Kasiya in Pemba Constituency. In addition, some of my people along the Mutama River use the facilities at Kasiya.

 

Madam Speaker, is the hon. Minister able to inform this House of the date when the x-ray machine will be installed so that we can assure the people along the Mutama River who travel to Kasiya to seek health services and also celebrate together with the people of Pemba on that day?

 

Hon. UPND Members: Hear, hear!

 

Mr Muchima: Madam Speaker, that is why I pre-empted to the House news about  the equipment that the Government is proudly distributing. It has done very well. If the place the hon. Member is talking about cannot accommodate a big mobile x-ray machine, the ministry can provide another hand-held x-ray machine to that clinic. That I can promise him.

 

The date of commissioning will be announced. For the time being, the ministry is just looking at logistics. The Government is taking care of its citizens everywhere, including in Muyombe and Shangombo. It is taking care of its people everywhere, including in the Eastern Province, the Northern Province and Luapula Province. It is not the way things were during the Patriotic Front (PF) Government when it could only supply to one side of the country. This time, Hakainde –

 

Hon. Government Member: Chilubi!

 

Mr Muchima:  Yes, I am coming.

 

Madam First Deputy Speaker: Order, hon. Minister!

 

Mr Muchima: Including Chilubi Island.

 

Interruptions

 

Mr Muchima: Yes, motor units will be coming.

 

His Excellency the President Mr Hakainde Hichilema has performed more than expected, especially in the health sector. Mr Muchima (waived the paper). Look at this list. I will lay the list on the Table so that it is circulated to hon. Members. The x-ray machines are now everywhere in the whole country. Should somebody say the Government has done nothing? How about these things which we have never had for a long time?

 

Hon. Members will celebrate until the time for elections so that they retain Mr Hakainde Hichilema and his Government to continue with the work.

 

I thank you, Madam Speaker.

 

Hon. Government Members: Hear, hear!

 

STAFF ESTABLISHMENT FOR TEACHERS IN CHILUBI DISTRICT

 

95. Mr Fube (Chilubi) asked the Minister of Education:

 

1. what the staff establishment for teachers in Chilubi District was as of June 2025;

 

1. how many teachers were deployed to the district from January 2022 to July 2025, year by year; 

 

1. how many of the teachers at (b):

 

1. were residents of Chilubi District; and

 

(ii)    had been retained in the district as of July 2025; and

 

1.  what the shortfall of teachers for the district was as of July 2025. 

 

The Minister of Agriculture (Mr Mtolo) (on behalf of the Minister of Education (Mr Syakalima)): Madam Speaker, the approved staff establishment of teachers in Chilubi District stood at 1,256, as of June 2025.

 

Madam Speaker, between January 2022 and July 2025, 269 teachers were deployed to the district. 174 were deployed in 2022, forty-three in 2023, thirty-two in 2024 and ten in 2025. The number of teachers deployed in 2025 is expected to increase once the ongoing recruitment process is concluded.

 

Madam Speaker, as of July 2025, 191 of the deployed teachers were residents of Chilubi District and 253 teachers had been retained in the district.

 

Finally, Madam Speaker, the district had a shortfall of 643 teachers as of July 2025.

 

Madam Speaker, I thank you.

 

Mr Fube: Madam Speaker, I thank you for giving the people of Chilubi an opportunity to ask a question.

 

Madam Speaker, does the hon. Minister know that the teacher exodus is very high in Chilubi? I know that he has talked about the establishment being at 1,256. He also stated that  269 have been deployed and 191 are residents in Chilubi.  Does the hon. Minister know that many of those who were deployed have exited, and have maintained the Payroll Management and Establishment Control (PMEC) points? Now the question is: Will the ministry track those who are using Chilubi PMEC points, whose numbers show that the establishment is  high, as the hon. Minister has said, meanwhile, they are not in Chilubi physically? Will the ministry track them down so that PMEC points can be withdrawn from them, and that redeployment of more teachers to Chilubi is done?

 

Mr Mtolo: Madam Speaker, to recruit is to hire, and to deploy is to assign and post. What the hon. Member is talking about are assumptions. I answered the question according to what he asked, not assumptions about what we will do with those who have gone away.

 

Madam Speaker, I thank you.

 

Mr Mung’andu (Chama South): Madam Speaker, thank you.

 

Madam Speaker, I would like to put it on record that we are grateful for the recruitment of teachers. For the first time, I think, most of our rural primary schools have received teachers.

 

Madam Speaker, just to build on what the hon. Member for Chilubi has said, while the Government is trying to bridge the teacher-pupil ratio, others are working against that drive by transferring teachers from rural areas to urban areas, leaving rural areas without teachers. I want to know whether the ministry is in a position to accept our involvement as hon. Members of Parliament so that we can get the names of the teachers who were posted to our schools in rural areas, and have been removed, but have continued to be paid as teachers occupying places in our rural areas? The pay points will remain, for example, Chilubi and Chama, and yet teachers are not there. Is the ministry in a position to accept working with us so that we bring the names of those teachers, and their names can be removed from our rural community school pay points, and the ministry can be allowed to send teachers who are willing to serve our rural communities?

 

Mr Mtolo: Madam Speaker, what the hon. Member has asked is actually what an hon. Member of Parliament is supposed to do. If members of staff in your area have gone away and yet they are occupying your space, because the payment is made from that pay point, it is your responsibility to inform the Ministry of Education so that the teacher-pupil ratio can be managed. If we do not do that, then, we are making a mistake. The policy is very simple and all hon. Members know it. No teacher refuses to be posted to rural areas. If a teacher does not want to be posted to a rural area, give their name to the ministry so that they can be replaced by others who are willing to be posted to those areas.

 

I thank you, Madam Speaker.

 

Mr Fube: Madam Speaker, I think, I would not be doing the people of Chilubi any good if I did not register the attitude that the hon. Minister has shown. That is not a good attitude when answering questions.

 

Hon. UPND Members: Question!

 

Madam First Deputy Speaker: Which attitude?

 

Order, hon. Member!

 

Mr Fube: Madam Speaker, if you weigh the question that the Chama–

 

Madam First Deputy Speaker: Please, just mind the language. Which attitude?

 

Mr Fube: Madam Speaker, the hon. Minister has discarded my practical experience on the ground as an assumption.

 

Madam First Deputy Speaker: No. Kindly withdraw the word attitude that you used with reference to the hon. Minister. Just go straight into your question.

 

Mr Fube: I withdraw, Madam Speaker, and replace it with laissez-faire.

 

Madam Speaker, I represent people and, I think, I needed to indicate that. What I am talking about is a real problem that should not be treated the way the hon. Minister did.

 

Madam First Deputy Speaker: What is your question?

 

Mr Fube: Those who are listening have taken serious offence to that kind of answer.

 

Madam First Deputy Speaker: What is your question, hon. Member?

 

Mr Fube: Madam Speaker, my question is: I have twenty-four wards. If possible, maybe, the hon. Minister can talk to the District Education Board Secretary (DEBS) next time, to establish the situation so that he comes with proper statistics on the teacher exodus from Chilubi. Based on what I have heard from him, though I am trying to avoid using certain words, whatever I say will be an assumption, I have certain questions–

 

Madam First Deputy Speaker: It would help us if you just went straight into the question so that the hon. Minister can respond.

 

Mr Fube: Okay, Madam Speaker, well guided. It is just that it is very disturbing to be treated that way.

 

Madam Speaker, on those who are missing being 643, when does the ministry intend to replace them so that the number tallies with what is supposed to be the establishment, plus those who have left Chilubi? I am emphasising those who have left Chilubi, as they are somewhere else but enjoying the PMEC space for Chilubi.

 

Mr Mtolo: Madam Speaker, if you heard my answers, I answered the questions that were asked. The hon. Member asked how many teachers were in Chilubi, and I gave an answer to that. He further asked how many teachers were there during a specific period, and I equally answered. However, to assume that the ministry would know the exodus –

 

Interruptions

 

Mr Mtolo: Whichever way he puts it, no offence, that is an assumption. It is difficult to know how many teachers do not want to be in Chilubi for whatever reason, and that was the answer I gave. There was no need to offend the hon. Member, but to let him know that we cannot determine how many teachers will leave Chilubi.

 

Madam Speaker, to answer his question, the staffing deficit of 643 underscores the need for continued and targeted recruitment, particularly in hard-to-reach districts. It is for that reason that the current Government has continuously supported education and health so that the pupil-teacher ratio is reduced. That is why even yesterday, when I was asked how many people the Ministry of Agriculture will employ, I said the current manifesto indicates that we should, first of all, fill in the education and health sectors. That is why, in the next Budget, we will employ more teachers so that we can reduce that deficit of 643 in Chilubi.

 

Madam Speaker, I thank you.

 

Hon. UPND Members: Hear, hear!

 

Mr Kang’ombe (Kamfinsa): Madam Speaker, the area hon. Member of Parliament for Chilubi, in bringing this question to Parliament, is looking for a solution. The hon. Member raised the concern about teachers who are originally assigned to Chilubi, and are unfortunately going to other localities because that is a problem, and I think that he was trying to establish those details. The problem has been defined by the area hon. Member of Parliament, and I am sure, the hon. Minister understands his complaint. What assurance is the hon. Minister giving the people of Chilubi so that as the hon. Member leaves to visit his constituency or communicates to the constituents, the problem relating to those who are shifting from the stations would have been attended to. I think that is the issue the hon. Member of Parliament would want some assurance on.

 

Mr Mtolo: Madam Speaker, definitely, retention incentives are required. Hopefully, together with the hon. Member of Parliament, we should know why people are leaving Chilubi Island.

 

Mr Mapani: Witchcraft!

 

Mr Mtolo: Let us sit down together and see what we can do. It is important for the local authority and the Ministry of Education to sit down and identify what is chasing people from Chilubi.

 

Madam Speaker, I thank you.

 

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

 

Madam First Deputy Speaker: A point of order is raised.

 

Mr Fube: Madam Speaker, I sat here listening attentively to the hon. Minister, then the hon. Member passed a comment that teachers are leaving Chilubi because of witchcraft. Chilubi is over 75 per cent Christian-dominated.

 

Hon. UPND Members: Question!

 

Mr Fube: So, I do not understand why the hon. Member would pass that comment and align it with the people of Chilubi practising witchcraft. I take serious offence at that.

 

Madam First Deputy Speaker: Which hon. Member was that? I did not even hear him. He did not address that to me.

 

Mr Fube: Madam Speaker, I think, it was the hon. Minister of Information and Media.

 

Mr Mweetwa indicated dissent.

 

Mr Fube: That is where the comment came from.

 

Hon. UPND Members: Ah!

 

Madam First Deputy Speaker: Apparently, I had not given the –

 

Mr Fube: It was quite loud, he said, “Witchcraft.”

 

Madam First Deputy Speaker: Okay.

 

Interruptions

 

Mr Fube: No, I am not lying. You even know yourselves.

 

Madam First Deputy Speaker: Order, hon. Members!

 

 I think that was not addressed to me. I did not hear that comment. However, like I guided yesterday, people are not allowed to debate while seated. That is my ruling.

 

______

 

BILL

 

THIRD READING

 

The following Bill was read a third time and passed:

 

The Zambia Institute of Procurement and Supply Bill, 2025.

 

______

 

MOTION

 

ADJOURNMENT

 

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

 

Question put and agreed to.

______

 

The House adjourned at 1226 hours until 1430 hours on Tuesday, 25^th November, 2025.

 

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