Wednesday, 5th November, 2025

Wednesday, 5^th November, 2025

The House met at 1430 hours

[MADAM SPEAKER in the Chair]

NATIONAL ANTHEM

PRAYER

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ANNOUNCEMENTS BY MADAM SPEAKER

OFFICERS FROM THE PUBLIC POLICY ACADEMY

Madam Speaker: Hon. Members, I wish to recognise the presence, in the Public Gallery, of officers from the Public Policy Academy in Lusaka District.

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

I thank you.

Hon. Members: Hear, hear!

PUPILS AND TEACHERS FROM REVIVAL CHRISTIAN SCHOOL AND LUSAKA INTERNATIONAL COMMUNITY SCHOOL

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

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

I thank you.

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URGENT MATTERS WITHOUT NOTICE

MR KANG’OMBE, HON. MEMBER OF PARLIAMENT FOR KAMFINSA, ON HER HONOUR THE VICE-PRESIDENT, DR NALUMANGO, ON THE FIRE THAT GUTTED CHIWEMPALA MARKET

Mr Kang’ombe (Kamfinsa): On an Urgent Matter without Notice, Madam Speaker.

Madam Speaker: An Urgent Matter without Notice is raised.

Mr Kang’ombe: Madam Speaker, thank you for giving me the opportunity to raise an Urgent Matter without Notice, directed at Her Honour the Vice-President, whose office is responsible for disaster management and mitigation in our country.

Madam Speaker, we woke up today to very unfortunate news that a fire had swept through one of our biggest markets in Zambia, which is Chiwempala Market in Chingola. You are aware that there are many other markets in Zambia that are in a similar state, in terms of not having proper infrastructure for people to trade in.

Madam Speaker, I am directing this matter at Her Honour the Vice-President, because we have a disaster. I think, we have lost one person in Chingola, and the entire market has been swept by the fire.

Madam Speaker, is Her Honour the Vice-President in order to not come to Parliament, to assure the people of Zambia in many other trading facilities, that the Government is taking steps to provide the correct trading facilities to prevent such fires, which are damaging property that belongs to people who are trying to earn a living? This is a matter that, obviously, has been brought into the public domain as of last evening. Is Her Honour the Vice-President in order to not assure us?

Madam Speaker: The issue of fires, I think, is not a new thing.

Hon. Member for Kamfinsa, when a situation like this happens, I always say that the best option is to approach Her Honour the Vice-President. Her office is open. As you said, she is the one in charge of managing disasters. I recall that the last time there was a fire on the Copperbelt, Her Honour the Vice-President travelled there. It did not take any hon. Member of Parliament asking a question on the Floor of this House to move Her Honour the Vice-President to attend to that situation. So, even in this manner, I am sure measures are being taken. Visitations will be done, and if there is a disaster, it will be attended to. However, if you would like to speak in detail on the issue of fires in marketplaces, I suggest that you file in a question, then the hon. Minister responsible will be able to come to the House and answer that question. As for the disaster that is there, I was not even aware of it. It is news to me now that you have mentioned it. If there was a fire, then that is bad because we do not want anybody to lose property or even life. It is not good. The fact that you have mentioned the disaster means that it is something that has concerned you, but I am sure that the Executive is listening, it has a listening ear, and it will be able to attend to that issue. If there are any challenges, you are encouraged to engage the Office of the Vice-President.

MR MUMBA, HON. MEMBER OF PARLIAMENT FOR KANTANSHI, ON THE HON. MINISTER OF AGRICULTURE, MR MTOLO, ON THE PAYMENTS FOR FARMERS

Mr Mumba (Kantanshi): On an Urgent Matter without Notice, Madam Speaker.

Madam Speaker: An urgent Matter without Notice is raised.

Mr Mumba: Madam Speaker, the Urgent Matter without Notice I am raising is directed at the hon. Minister of Agriculture. As you know, I rarely raise Urgent Matters without Notice because I take the initiative to meet the hon. Minister responsible for whatever area I am trying to seek clarification. However, this matter relates to the payment of farmers.

Madam Speaker, yesterday, the hon. Minister mentioned something in relation to that, and I was listening attentively. After the assurances he made yesterday, in relation to the K2 billion being released today by the Zambia National Commercial Bank (ZANACO), I took an interest. As you know, K5 billion is a substantial amount of money to syndicate in our country. So, banks work together when syndicating such funds. I discovered that about four banks are supposed to put this money together, which is a good initiative by the Government.

Madam Speaker, contrary to what the hon. Minister said, this exercise is far from completion. Therefore, the statement he made, which made our farmers and us hon. Members of Parliament excited and at ease, is not the situation on the ground. The processes are still going on. Those particular banks, which I do not want to mention, apart from ZANACO, which he mentioned yesterday, are still far from completing the necessary processes, including identifying collateral managers to manage the various depots that they will select. So, this exercise might end, maybe, in the last week of November. However, the hon. Minister assured us that the farmers will be paid immediately.

Madam Speaker, as people of Kantanshi, we are concerned. As much as we know that the Government is making these efforts, there is a need for the ministry to provide accurate information. Therefore, I seek your indulgence, if maybe, the hon. Minister of Agriculture can come back and clarify. As you know, farmers have been waiting for their money since the first week of July to this date. If they do not know the accurate date on which they are supposed to collect their money, that does not augur well for their hard work.

Madam Speaker, I seek your indulgence.

Madam Speaker: Hon. Member for Kantanshi, yes, we heard the hon. Minister yesterday say that K2 million was just about to be paid. The hon. Minister of Agriculture stated that, so it amounts to a Government assurance. Instead of asking the hon. Minister to come here and tell us whether the K2 million is ready or not –

Mr Mtolo: Madam Speaker, it is K2 billion.

Madam Speaker: Sorry, instead of asking the hon. Minister to come and tell us whether the K2 billion is ready or not, I am sure we can use other means. What do we do when the Government makes an assurance? We can follow that course, instead of the hon. Minister coming back to make another statement. The hon. Minister of Agriculture is here and I can see him listening.

Hon. Minister, hon. Members here are concerned about the statement that you made yesterday, that K2 billion was just about to be paid. I am sure that farmers were excited that something was going to be done. However, according to the hon. Member for Kantanshi, that process is far from being concluded. So, I urge you, hon. Minister, to take steps to ensure that the process is concluded as soon as possible so that farmers can be paid. I think that is how far I can go for now.

Hon. Member for Kantanshi, again, please, engage the hon. Minister. Make a follow-up and encourage him to do the needful, since he has assured the House and the nation at large that the payment will be made.

I thank you.

MR ZULU, HON. MEMBER FOR NYIMBA, ON THE HON. MINISTER OF WATER DEVELOPMENT AND SANITATION, ENG. NZOVU, ON THE WATER SITUATION IN NYIMBA CENTRAL BUSINESS DISTRICT

Mr Zulu (Nyimba): Madam Speaker, on an Urgent Matter without Notice.

Madam Speaker: An Urgent Matter without Notice is raised.

Mr Zulu: Madam Speaker, my matter is quite urgent. As a district, we have tried to use the Constituency Development Fund (CDF), but the fund is not enough for us to work on the problem we have in Nyimba.

Madam Speaker, ten years ago, Nyimba Constituency received a water system donated by the Swedish Government, one of the European countries. By then, the population in the central business district (CBD) of Nyimba was less than 15,000 people. Today, the population is close to 40,000, meaning that the water tank which stores 500 cu m³ is not enough to supply water to the whole district. The hon. Minister of Water Development and Sanitation is very aware of the problem. Further, there are power cuts in Nyimba and because it is a dry district, there is not enough water to supply our residents. You may wish to note that less than 10 per cent of people are drinking safe and clean water in our district. Even those people whose houses have mechanised water systems, like myself, cannot pump water because there is no power. My 5,000 litres water tank is empty by 0800 hours because there is no power.

Madam Speaker, I need your serious indulgence on this matter. The hon. Minister of Water Development and Sanitation should explain to the people of Nyimba the plans that the ministry has for them. He is very aware of the problem; I had a chat with him yesterday. The people of Nyimba do not want to hear from me; they want to hear from the hon. Minister himself because they know that I have tried my level best at the district level.

Madam Speaker: Thank you very much, hon. Member for Nyimba. I am sure you can file in a question to address that matter. It does not qualify to be raised as an Urgent Matter without Notice. Of course, people need to drink clean water. The hon. Minister is here and he is listening. I think, this is not the first time that the hon. Member for Nyimba has talked about the problem of water shortage in Nyimba. Last week, when we were dealing with another question relating to water, that issue was brought up. So, hon. Member for Nyimba, you have been discussing the matter for some time now. If you would like the hon. Minister to say something on the Floor of the House regarding the issue, you can file in a question and he will be able to address it.

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QUESTIONS FOR ORAL ANSWER

VISA APPLICATIONS BY ZAMBIANS TO THE EUROPEAN UNION AND UNITED KINGDOM

49. Mr Miyutu (Kalabo Central) asked the Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Co-operation:

how many visa applications were made by Zambians from 2022 to 2024, year by year, to the following destinations:

European Union countries; and
United Kingdom;

how many applications were not successful;

how much money was spent on the applications at (b); and

what the cause of the rejection of the applications was.

The Minister of Water Development and Sanitation (Eng. Nzovu) (on behalf of the Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Co-operation (Mr Haimbe, SC.)): Madam Speaker, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Co-operation does not process visa applications made by Zambian citizens to foreign countries. Visa applications for travel to destinations such as European countries and the United Kingdom (UK) are managed directly by the respective embassies and consular offices accredited to Zambia. Zambian missions abroad, on the other hand, process visas for foreign nationals seeking to travel to Zambia, in accordance with the Immigration and Deportation Act No. 18 of 2010 and related Statutory Instruments (SIs).

Madam Speaker, information concerning visa applications made by Zambian citizens to foreign missions is considered consular and diplomatic data that falls within the jurisdiction of the host missions. Such information is treated as confidential under international diplomatic norms and cannot be disclosed to third parties without the consent of the concerned foreign governments. This position is guided by the Vienna Convention on Diplomatic Relations, 1961, and the Vienna Convention on Consular Relations, 1963, which establish the principles of sovereignty, confishedality –

Interruptions

Ms Mulenga: Chizungu.

Laughter

Eng. Nzovu: Loleleni tulande ichisungu naimwe.

Laughter

Eng. Nzovu: That falls under the confidentiality of consular functions and non-interference in the internal affairs of other states.

Madam Speaker, specifically, Article 3(1)(b) of the Vienna Convention on Diplomatic Relations provides that the functions of a diplomatic mission include ascertaining conditions and developments in the receiving state by lawful means, not direct administration of consular processes. Article 5 of the Vienna Convention on Consular Relations limits consular functions to assisting nationals of the sending state and issuing visas for entry into that state, not for other destinations.

Madam Speaker, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Co-operation does not have jurisdiction over the collection or aggregation of visa-related statistics, fees or causes of rejection for Zambian applicants to foreign destinations. These remain the responsibility of the respective foreign missions, which operate under their domestic immigration laws and policies.

Madam Speaker, while general global trends indicate that visa rejections are often due to factors such as incomplete documentation, insufficient financial proof or failure to meet immigration criteria, the ministry has no official access to such detailed records from foreign missions. However, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Co-operation continues to work with foreign embassies and international partners to promote fair and transparent mobility agreements and to enhance awareness among Zambian travellers on visa requirements through pre-travel advisory services.

Madam Speaker, I thank you.

Madam Speaker: Thank you very much.

Any supplementary questions? I do not know if there are any supplementary questions.

Laughter

Mr Miyutu: Madam Speaker, it is a very difficult situation.

Maybe, let me find out further. Regarding all the statutes that the hon. Minister has highlighted, the Government is still aware that a number of Zambians’ visa applications have been rejected. Maybe, let me ask it this way. Is the Government not aware that several visa applications were rejected? Is there no other way the Government could be made aware of the concerns of the Zambians whose applications have been rejected or maybe, it is a matter that the Government cannot pay attention to?

Eng. Nzovu: Madam Speaker, as the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Co-operation, we would like to be as comprehensive as possible in our answer. So, let me repeat what I said.

Madam Speaker, information concerning visa applications made by Zambian citizens to foreign missions is considered consular and diplomatic data that falls within the jurisdiction of the host missions. Such information is considered confidential under international diplomatic norms and cannot be disclosed to third parties without the consent of the concerned foreign nations.

Further, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Co-operation does not have jurisdiction over the collection or aggregation of visa-related statistics, fees or causes of rejection for Zambian applicants to foreign destinations.

Madam, as I said, there are various reasons visa applications are rejected. If there are any particular instances, I can only invite our hon. Member of Parliament to visit the office so that behind the scenes, we can advise various applicants on how to push in applications, which would be successful because there are various reasons for unsuccessful visa applications, as I have stated already.

Madam Speaker, in fact, some reasons can be as varied as overstaying in a country or faulty passports, among other reasons than those already stated above.

Madam Speaker, I thank you.

Mr Chibombwe (Bahati): Madam Speaker, thank you so much for the opportunity.

Madam Speaker, I want to find out from the hon. Minister how much our people pay for visa applications. What I know is that Zambians are paying exorbitant amounts when applying for visas to go to the European Union (EU), the United Kingdom (UK) and the United States of America (USA), yet when our counterparts from those countries apply to come here, they just pay minimal amounts. I want to find out from the hon. Minister how much Zambians pay when going to the three States that I have mentioned.

Eng. Nzovu: Madam Speaker, I thank the hon. Member for that specific question. I can only invite the hon. Member of Parliament to visit our offices so that we can give him the schedule.

Madam Speaker, I thank you.

Madam Speaker: I believe there is always a reason behind a question asked. The hon. Member for Kalabo Central has not come to explain why he asked this question. There must be a reason he has asked this question. Hon. Member for Kalabo, what was the reason for asking the question?

Interruptions

Mr Miyutu: Madam Speaker, Okay, and thank you for the opportunity again.

Madam Speaker, I will express it in my own way. Communities exist under mutual understanding. I take the visitations to communities or regions as normal. However, my concern is that Zambian citizens who want to travel to other countries do not merely apply, but pay valuable money raised by the citizens to give them an output. However, when they pay for a visa application, the application is not successful and there is no refund. The money they pay does not go into the ditch. So, this is where the concern is. The money is not drawn into the ditch. It is deposited in viable accounts to perform duties elsewhere. What type of a relationship is this? This is what made me raise this question.

I was questioning what type of relationship this is because these are not just mere applications. So, if we claim to be friends with other countries, then, the friendship is questionable because people work tirelessly for the money. At least, there should be a viable and solid reason for the money to be refunded because we are friends. So, to me, this friendship is questionable.

Eng. Nzovu: Madam Speaker, I said that we took time, as a ministry to respond comprehensively to the Vienna Convention. As I have said already, information concerning visa applications made by Zambian citizens to foreign nations is considered consular and diplomatic data. This position is guided by the Vienna Convention on Diplomatic Relations and the Vienna Convention on Consular Relations, which established the principles of sovereignty, confidentiality of consular functions and non-interference in the internal affairs of other States.

Madam Speaker, when one applies for a visa to go to other countries, there are various rules and regulations peculiar to various countries. So, it is up to a particular country to state whether the individual applying for a visa meets the criterion set by the receiving country. For example, if a Zambian national applies to go to the United Kingdom (UK), it is not up to the Zambian Government to interfere with the receiving country regarding the conditions under which the national would be accepted in that country. It works both ways.

As a sovereign country, when somebody from the UK, for example, applies to come to Zambia, the Government should investigate whether the individual is of good standing or meets the criteria set by us. So, under the Vienna Convention, it remains the duty of the receiving country to check if the applicant meets that criteria. I am not sure whether I have shed more light, but it is a provision in the Vienna Convention.

Madam Speaker, I thank you.

Madam Speaker: Hon. Minister, I think, the hon. Member’s concern is that money is paid, and it is very difficult to get money. When people apply, they get rejected. So, can the Government engage the embassies to find a way for, maybe, some money to be refunded so that somebody does not lose out on the money and the visa? I think, that is the hon. Member’s concern.

Eng. Nzovu: Madam Speaker, we have an answer to that. The application fees are, obviously, non-refundable. What happens is that when you make an application, and you pay a fee, that is the money we use to carry out a search on you to ensure that you meet the criteria. Even if the visa application is rejected, there would have already been an expenditure.

Madam Speaker, I thank you.

Madam Speaker: I am sure the hon. Member for Kalabo Central is satisfied to learn that the fees are non-refundable. So, we go to the next question.

TERMINATION OF EMPLOYEE CONTRACTS IN THE PRIVATE SECTOR

50. Mr Chanda (Kanchibiya) asked the Minister of Labour and Social Security:

whether the Government is aware that some employers in the private sector terminate employees’ contracts without adhering to the grievance procedure in the Employment Code Act No. 3 of 2019;

if so, what measures are being taken to ensure compliance with the law; and

what measures have been put in place to safeguard employees from the following:

unfair dismissals; and
unsafe working conditions.

The Minister of Labour and Social Security (Ms Tambatamba): Madam Speaker, the ministry acknowledges that some employers terminate contracts of employment without adhering to the provisions of the Employment Code Act. To address this issue, the ministry has taken a multifaceted approach to ensure compliance with the law.

Madam Speaker, the ministry conducts regular inspections at workplaces to monitor adherence to the Act. Additionally, awareness campaigns are organised for both employers and employees to educate them on their labour rights and obligations. The ministry also advises employers to provide contracts, policies and codes on dispute handling to their employees, promoting transparency and fairness in the workplace.

Further, the ministry imposes administrative sanctions on employers who fail to comply with the Employment Code Act. The ministry also plays a crucial role in handling labour disputes between employers and employees, providing a platform for resolving conflicts and promoting harmonious industrial relations. Through these measures, the ministry aims to protect the rights of workers, promote compliance with the law, and foster a stable, productive employment environment.

Madam Speaker, the ministry is cognisant of instances where employers terminate contracts of employment without adhering to the provisions of the Employment Code Act, as reviewed through labour inspections and dispute meetings. To ensure compliance, the ministry undertakes various measures, including conducting labour inspections, as mandated by Section 10(1) of the relevant legislation, which empowers the Labour Commissioner to carry out inspections to promote industrial harmony. This section explicitly states that the Labour Commissioner has the authority to conduct inspections and may delegate this power to other officers.

Madam Speaker, for avoidance of doubt, the above-cited section states:

“10(1) The Labour Commissioner may

enter freely at any reasonable time, whether by day or by night to inspect, any premises or conveyance where the Labour Commissioner reasonably believes persons are employed;

enter by day any premises in order to carry out any examination, test or inquiry that the Labour Commissioner considers necessary in order to determine if the provisions of this Act are being complied with;

interview, whether alone or in the presence of a witness, an employer or employee on any matter concerning the application of the provision of this Act;

question a person who the Labour Commissioner considers has useful information, except that the person shall not be required to answer any question that may tend to prejudice or incriminate that person;

require the production for examination of any book, register, account or other document, the keeping of which is prescribed by this Act;

make copies of documents or to take extracts of documents that the Labour Commissioner may consider necessary;

remove a book, register, account or other document that the Labour Commissioner may consider necessary; and

enforce the posting of notices in a place and manner that may be prescribed.”

Madam Speaker, in accordance with the Employment Code Act, employers are required to ensure that all contracts of employment exceeding six months are reduced to writing as stipulated in Section 22. These contracts must capture all essential terms and conditions, including provisions for termination. Furthermore, employers are mandated to develop comprehensive employment policies, including employment policy and procedure, code of conduct, Human Immunodeficiency Virus-Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome (HIV/AIDS) policy, health and wellness policy, harassment policy, performance management policy and grievance procedure. These policies, as outlined in Section 95(1) of the Employment Code Act, are binding on both employers and employees. Employers must adhere to their code of conduct when addressing offences.

Madam Speaker, the ministry also plays a crucial role in handling labour disputes between employers and employees through dispute resolution meetings, aiming to maintain harmonious employment relationships. In cases of non-compliance, the ministry invokes the provisions of the Employment Code Act, which provide for administrative sanctions against errant employers. Specifically, Section 133 of the Act outlines the permissible sanctions for employers who fail to provide contracts and policies, as required by the law, and it states:

“133(1) Subject to other provisions of this Act, where the Labour Commissioner is satisfied, or where a person admits, that the person has contravened a provision of this Act which is not an offence, the Labour Commissioner may impose one or more of the following administrative sanctions:

a caution not to repeat the conduct which led to the non-compliance with the provision of this Act;

a reprimand;

a directive to take remedial action or to make specific arrangements to redress identified non-compliance;

the restriction or suspension of certain specified business activities;

publication of a public notice of any prohibition or requirement imposed by the Labour Commissioner under this part and of any rescission or variation thereof, and the notice may, if the Labour Commissioner considers necessary, include a statement of the reason for the prohibition, requirement, variation or rescission; and

a financial penalty not exceeding 200,000 penalty units.”

Madam Speaker, in instances where an offence under the Employment Code Act does not specify a penalty, Section 135 of the Act applies. This Section prescribes a general penalty of 200,000 penalty units, equivalent to a minimum of K80,000. Section 135 of the Employment Code Act explicitly states that:

“A person who contravenes a provision of the Act for which a specific penalty is not provided in this Act, is liable, on conviction, to a fine not exceeding 200,000 penalty units.”

Madam Speaker, I thank you.

Mr Chanda: Madam Speaker, allow me to thank the hon. Minister for a very comprehensive response to the question.

Madam Speaker, the spirit behind asking the question is that we are seated on rampant worker abuse across the country. There are certain sectors that are leading in recording very high incidences of abuse of our people. We believe that through this question, the hon. Minister will be able to send a very clear message to employers abrogating the law, and also give comfort to our workers.

Madam Speaker, allow me to thank the hon. Minister for adequately citing the law. We agree that the law is adequate but, maybe, the problem is enforcement. Can the hon. Minister clarify what specific enforcement mechanisms or penalties are being applied against employers who repeatedly violate the grievance procedure under the Employment Code Act, and whether any such employers have been sanctioned in the last one year.

Ms Tambatamba: Madam Speaker, the ministry has spoken out relentlessly on the subject matter. I thank the hon. Member for asking that we provide further guidance and send a clear message. The message has been clear, and I am sure our citizens out there in the industry have appreciated the fact that we have been out there in the industry within the limitations of the resources that the ministry has. I want to mention here that out of the 120 districts, we have 178 Labour Inspectors. We are literally at one-to-one labour inspector per district. However, we realise that the industry varies in different regions. There are regions that are relatively more industrialised than others, especially in the rural space. So, the apportionment of the inspectors is dependent on the size and extent of the industry. For example, provinces such as the Copperbelt, Lusaka, Central, the Southern, and the North-Western, which is now coming up, tend to attract more inspectors to go there and adequately support the industry. This includes the Government, the workers and the employers, since we operate using a tripartite system. So, for every resolution that has to be made regarding the issues in the industry, the employer, the Government and the worker must be there. Within those limitations, the hon. Member must be assured that we are doing the very best.

Madam Speaker, I want to let the hon. Member know that undertaking inspections, for instance, is based on the work we did earlier on, when the New Dawn Administration came into office. We did not just start addressing matters without proper evaluation. First and foremost, we undertook assessment exercises. We developed hit maps based on a risk assessment that we undertook to know exactly where the key outstanding issues were, thereby, promoting decent work in the industry as well as harmony. We had to undertake that activity so we could know what area is marked red, yellow, orange and green. We aim to capitalise on the wins, marked green, if any, to move the agenda and ensure that we develop competence in the industry, thereby, helping employers to realise the greatest asset, and that for them to achieve their objectives or visions, profitability is in the worker. The worker is their social partner.

Madam Speaker, we have undertaken quite a few inspections. For example, for the period under review, our target was to undertake about 2,000 inspections. To date, if I get the numbers correctly, we have done more than 75 per cent. So far, in this financial year, we have undertaken 2,545 inspections, covering 35,320 employees. So, it might not be widespread across the whole nation, but within the industrial space, we have been able to undertake those inspections.

Madam Speaker, before we came into office, inspections were scanty. Thousands of inspections would not be undertaken such as the ones we have undertaken. We have clearly demonstrated our commitment, as evidenced by some of the inspections we have undertaken. For example, on the Copperbelt, inspectors led by the Labour Commissioner went out there, not in twos or threes, to undertake joint inspections that are more comprehensive to ensure that we cover the legal instruments in all perspectives, and other supporting Acts like the National Pension Scheme Act, the Zambia Institute of Human Resource Management Act, the Workers’ Compensation Act and the Occupational Health and Safety Act. So, inspectors, including our social partners, the umbrella bodies of workers' representatives, and the federations of employers, all come along to those inspections. By so doing, we do not only hold accountable those employers who are being visited at a given moment, but we also send out a message through the media to other employers that the Government of the UPND is guided by the rule of law. So, as we inspect one entity, we send a message to another entity.

Madam Speaker, so far, we have been to most of the provinces, even those with fewer industries. There is a due diligence regime at the ministry. I want to assure the hon. Member that worker protection has been enhanced through the systems that we have put in place, such as the call centre. We have gone digital through the Government Service Bus. The Zambia Employment and Labour Management Information System (ZELMIS) provides an opportunity for aggrieved workers, whistleblowers, or employers with issues to be resolved, to communicate with us in a timely manner. Besides the ministry’s portal, we have the citizens’ portal, which has a provision for members of the public to ask questions on subjects they do not fully understand. Workers must be proactive and ask to be guided on labour laws. We also guide employers on grievance procedures and other policies. They have to be proactive, rather than wait for our inspections.

Madam Speaker, I thank you.

Hon. Government Members: Hear, hear!

Madam Speaker: Hon. Members, with that comprehensive answer, should we continue asking questions?

Hon. Members: No.

Madam Speaker: Let us make progress.

Mr Chanda rose.

Madam Speaker: Alright, one more question. Please, we have a lot of work. So, let us be precise.

The hon. Member for Kanchibiya may proceed.

Mr Chanda (Kanchibiya): Madam Speaker, I seek your indulgence because this is a very important matter. One of the reasons we gather here is to speak on behalf of the people who might be voiceless.

Madam Speaker, most of the workers we are talking about are scared and intimidated by their employers. So, they cannot speak. Their unions are toothless and unable to voice out what is happening in the workplace. From the comprehensive inspections that the ministry has undertaken, and I want to commend the hon. Minister for that, what is the general picture obtaining within the sector vis-à-vis the –

Ms Tambatamba: Slow down.

Mr Chanda: I slow down?

Ms Tambatamba: Yes.

Mr Chanda: Madam Speaker, I am saying that the hon. Minister has informed the House that the ministry has undertaken comprehensive inspections. What is the general picture obtaining regarding the welfare of workers, especially in the private sector such as mining, transport and construction?

Ms Tambatamba: Madam Speaker, let me talk about continuous improvement. I want to put it to the nation that we have progressed very well. As the hon. Member for Kanchibiya indicated, when we came into power, many industry workers were timid. Many of them could not report issues to us. Of course, many of them came to the ministry using various mechanisms, but others did not believe that there was someone at the ministry who could help them, because of their own experiences or the way they interacted with the previous Government. The ministry has put in the work. Of course, that is one reason we installed a call centre. Someone can pick up a phone wherever they are and call the call centre. If someone has a computer, they can communicate with the ministry if they cannot go to the ministry. If workers are concerned that they cannot go to the ministry because they may be punished if someone tells on them or if someone sees them, they can pick up the phone and make a phone call. Yes, there are employers who have done very well whom we can say are models. In the mining industry, big mines are better at handling labour issues. If you were to rate them according to nascent, non-developed, expanding and mature mines, you would find that the mining industry has developed and matured in handling labour issues as compared to employers in other sectors. Of course, the financial sector is another sector that is developed and mature. We have seen the mining sector expand. New mines are coming on board, starting from artisanal and medium-scale mines to big mines. So, there is a lot of work to be done. The contractors working for the large mines are also in the nascent and developing stage. They, too, need to do a lot of work.

Madam Speaker, thanks to President Hakainde Hichilema, just when we came into Government in 2022, one of the pieces of legislation we put in place was the Zambia Institute of Human Resource Management Act. What the Act did was to provide a frontline buffer in human resource management staff to complement the role of the Ministry of Labour and Social Security. Human resource staff are expected to help management teams to comply with the law and interpret the law for workers. Human resource staff help us to guide those employers who are still behind regarding labour laws.

Madam Speaker, the inspections we undertake are also another form of education, because we communicate with employers and give them milestones to help them improve on the areas where they are not doing well. For instance, where employers have not provided contracts annotated by the ministry, we give them guidance to address that. We also help them to work on policies and grievance procedures. The hon. Member should be assured that we are reaching out to all industries, large and small.

I thank you, Madam Speaker.

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

Madam Speaker: A point of order is raised.

Mr Chewe: Madam Speaker, I am sorry for interrupting our able hon. Minister of Labour and Social Security.

Madam Speaker, I stand on a serious point of order according to Standing Order No. 71. My hon. Colleague seated next to me, Mr Sunday Chanda, has told this House and the general public that unions are toothless. From the time that the United Party for National Development (UPND) Government came into power, there has been stability and harmony in most mining companies. The Government, employees and unions sit together and because of that engagement, industrial harmony and productivity is encouraged.

Madam Speaker, now my hon. Colleague is telling unions that they are toothless, when they are doing their level best to represent their workers. We have the Zambia Congress of Trade Unions (ZCTU) and other unions working day and night to maintain stability and unity in workplaces.

Madam Speaker, is the hon. Member in order to tell unions that they are toothless, without laying evidence on the Table?

Madam Speaker, I seek your guidance.

Laughter

Madam Speaker: Anyway, the hon. Member for Lubansenshi has sufficiently debated his point of order. We were just listening, and I am sure that the unions are also listening. They have a good representative in the House. So, we can leave it at that.

I think, we have completed the questions.

Mr Mumba rose.

Madam Speaker: Hon. Member for Kantanshi, I wanted to move on because there was so much information given earlier, and we are running late. The hon. Member for Kantanshi will be the last one to ask a question on this subject.

Mr Mumba (Kantanshi): Madam Speaker, just a quick one, you know I come from the mining sector. The hon. Minister has given us quite a comprehensive statement. How I wish she would come here regularly with such information so that we could share it with our people.

Madam Speaker, the hon. Minister talked about artisanal miners. In my constituency, there are miners under Mopani Copper Mines Plc who work for contractors. That is normal in business; it is part of optimising profit. For example, a mining company can give part of the work to contractors and the other part of the work can remain with the mine. Now, the problem I have in my constituency, which is well-known by the Government and the hon. Minister of Mines and Minerals Development, is the wages that miners who work for contractors are paid. They get paid about K1,500 every month. There is no clarity on payments to the Workers Compensation Fund Control Board (WCFCB), the National Health Insurance Management Authority (NHIMA) and the National Pension Scheme Authority (NAPSA). In fact, those workers never received a ngwee of the 20 per cent NAPSA partial withdrawal brought in by the New Dawn Government because their employers never paid for that.

Madam Speaker, I heard that the ministry has been inspecting companies. Can the hon. Minister give us, the people of Kantanshi and Mufulira District, confidence that it will come to the constituency. When are we going to see the ministry ensure that the companies that are benefiting from the Government’s investment in Mopani Copper Mine Plc, after all the hard work that the Government has done, start paying miners better salaries? There is no clarity on the Workers' Compensation Fund, National Health Insurance Management Authority (NHIMA) or the National Pensions Scheme Authority (NAPSA). In fact, they have never received even a Ngwee from the 20 per cent NAPSA partial withdraw, which was brought in by the New Dawn Government because even their employers have not been paying for that.

Madam Speaker, I heard that the ministry has been policing. Give us confidence in Kantanshi and Mufulira District. When are we going to see the ministry and ensure that the companies that are benefiting from your own investment in Mopani Copper Mine after all the hard work that the Government has done will start getting better salaries?

Mr Nkandu: Next week!

Mr Mumba: Next week?

Laughter

Ms Tambatamba: Madam Speaker, I am not the one who has said next week. In case I am quoted, I pray that I will be protected.

Laughter

Ms Tambatamba: Madam Speaker, I would like to thank the hon. Member for Kantanshi for that very good question.

Madam Speaker, in recent times, we have been to one of the provinces, and the North-Western Province in particular, where we specifically went to engage after inspecting the assets, the miners and the owners of the mines at Kantanshi, Lumwana and Kalumbila. We established that most of the grievances that were coming through were like the case the hon. Member has mentioned. They were coming from workers who were employed by the contractors of the mine.

Madam Speaker, I will hold on to the engagement and assure the hon. Member that I will undertake an inspection in Kantanshi and Mufulira, because we are carrying out this exercise district by district. What came through was that the employers who are contractors are not as compliant as the owners. It is incumbent upon the owners of the mines to ensure compliance. on the companies or employers contracting the workers should be the first line of defence. The mine site is theirs. So, any incompliance by a mine or business can injure the credibility or record of the owners of the project or the operators.. Therefore, we were seeking co-operation with the Government and the companies to work together so that we can facilitate more inspections, not only by the Ministry of Labour and Social Security, but also by the human resources officers in the main company. So, in a nutshell, we have seen that. We have heard the hon. Member and we are coming. We will ensure that we deploy officers in the many places where we know there are call-outs on such matters, just like we did in the other operations in another province. So, rest assured, we will make time within the schedule of our calendar to go back to the Copperbelt. We were just there for the transport sector that Hon. Chanda was asking about. So, we were there recently. However, we will be going back to continue with the other sectors that we have not attended to.

However, on the issue of the salaries being too low and what will happen going into the future or whether we are considering supporting the workers in the mining sector, a conversation has started between my ministry and the Ministry of Mines and Minerals Development to see how we can create the bridges to ensure that our people are not taken advantage of.

I thank you, Madam Speaker.

CONSTRUCTION OF BRIDGES IN ISOKA PARLIAMENTARY CONSTITUENCY

51. Ms Nakaponda (Isoka) asked the Minister of Infrastructure, Housing and Urban Development:

whether the Government has any plans to construct bridges at the following sites in Isoka Parliamentary Constituency:

Robert in Luangwa Ward;
Kwama Portal Culvert;
David Portal Culvert;
Mwenikombe Portal Culvert;
Chitunji Portal Culvert; and
Mbao Portal Culvert;

if so, when the plans will be implemented; and

if there are no such plans, why.

The Minister of Infrastructure, Housing and Urban Development (Eng. Milupi): Madam Speaker, the Government has plans to construct bridges at the following sites in Isoka Parliamentary Constituency:

Robert in Luangwa Ward;

Kwama Portal Calvert;

David Portal Calvert;

Mwenikombe Portal Calvert;

Kitunji Portal Calvert; and

Mbao Portal Calvert.

Madam, the construction of the bridges at the sites stated above will be implemented as and when funds are secured by the Treasury.

Madam Speaker, as indicated above, the Government has plans to construct bridges at the stated sites.

I thank you, Madam Speaker.

Madam Speaker: Hon. Member for Isoka, was that clear?

Ms Nakaponda: I did not hear.

Madam Speaker: It was a bit faint.

Ms Nakaponda: Madam Speaker, the hon. Minister has said that the construction of bridges can only be undertaken when funds are made available. When are the funds going to be made available? Further, are there any immediate alternative solutions or temporary solutions that can be put in place as a short-term measure to ensure the safe passage of the people, especially the school-going children, because the crossing points get flooded during the rainy season and become risky?

Eng. Nzovu: Quality!

Hon. Nkandu: Hear, hear!

Eng. Milupi: Madam Speaker, I thank the hon. Member for Isoka for the follow-up question.

Madam Speaker, the hon. Member for Isoka is asking when the funds are going to be available. The short answer to that question is when Parliament votes for these funds. Secondly, the hon. Member wants to know whether there are alternative methods that can be used in view of the importance of some of the crossing points. From the description, I suppose that some of them are culverts. So, some could be attended to by using some of the Constituency Development Fund (CDF). So, I would like to ask the hon. Member, working with the council, to find out where the CDF can be applied.

In fact, just to expand the answer, the hon. Ministry of Local Government and Rural Development requested the local authorities to make submissions of their designs and Bills of Quantity (BoQs) for selected crossing points in the 2025 Annual Work Plan. In December 2024, the Isoka Town Council undertook a survey of selected crossing points, which included David in Luangwa Ward, Kwama Portal Culvert, Mwenikombe Portal Culvert, Chitunji Portal Culvert, Mbao Portal Culvert and Robert-Portal Culvert with the view to prepare BoQs and designs.

The BoQs and designs were submitted to the Ministry of Local Government and Rural Development through the Provincial Local Government Officer for funding. So, work has taken place. We are just waiting for funds to be made available at the Ministry of Local Government and Rural Development. So, I would ask the hon. Member to liaise with the Ministry of Local Government and Rural Development to see where this matter is.

I thank you, Madam Speaker.

Ms Nakaponda: Madam Speaker, I thank the hon. Minister for that answer. However, I am a bit worried because at one of the crossing points, Kawama, about three people died. Otherwise, I will go and sit down with the local authorities to see what we can do about the crossing points.

I thank you, Madam Speaker.

Madam Speaker: It was more of a comment and reassurance to follow the advice given by the hon. Minister.

STALLED CONSTRUCTION OF INFRASTRUCTURE IN SIAVONGA DISTRICT

52. Mr Mulunda (Siavonga) asked the Minister of Infrastructure, Housing and Urban Development:

why the construction of the following infrastructure in Siavonga District has stalled:

district administration;
post office; and
staff houses;

when the project will resume;

what the timeframe for the completion of the project is; and

what the total cost of the project is.

The Minister of Infrastructure, Housing and Urban Development (Eng. Milupi): Madam Speaker, construction of the district administration office block, post office and staff houses in Siavonga has stalled due to fiscal constraints. Obviously, the project will resume when the funds are secured.

Madam Speaker, the project will be completed within twelve months from the time of procuring a contractor.

Madam Speaker, the total cost of the project will be established once the works are procured.

Madam Speaker, in the interest of time, without waiting for follow-up questions, I can give more detailed information on the projects. Completion of stalled projects is being undertaken in phases, starting with projects that are 80 per cent complete, and implementation is dependent on the availability of funds. So, with regards to the construction of the district administration block, the initial contract was awarded to Antiochy Noble Limited at the cost of K5,897,230. The project commenced in 2015, and was supposed to be completed in 2016. The project stalled at 30 per cent completion, and the works executed comprised the substructure and a part of the superstructure. The contract was terminated due to non-performance by the contractor, and the process of procuring a replacement contractor will commence once funds are secured from the Treasury. The funds required to complete the outstanding works will be ascertained once the new contractor is finally engaged.

Madam Speaker, the initial contract for the construction of the post office was awarded to Contech Engineering Company Limited at a contract sum of K2,203,505. The project commenced in 2015, and was supposed to be completed in the same year. The project stalled at 35 per cent completion, which comprised the substructure, superstructure and part of internal and external plastering. The contract was terminated due to non-performance by the contractor, and the process of procuring a replacement contractor will commence once funds are available.

Madam Speaker, the contract for the construction of twenty low-cost houses was awarded to Mixjar General Dealers Limited at a contract sum of K10,307,092.12. The work commenced in 2015, and was supposed to be completed in 2016. The project stalled at 30 per cent completion, and works done comprised the substructures, part of the superstructure and some of the houses were roofed. The contract was terminated due to non-performance by the contractor, and a new contract will be procured once funds are secured.

Madam Speaker, construction of ten medium-cost houses was awarded to Netweb Investments Limited at a contract sum of K8,244,725. The works commenced in 2015, and were supposed to be completed in 2016. The project stalled at 25 per cent completion and, again, the contract was terminated due to non-performance by the contractor.

Madam Speaker, the hon. Member has been actively following up on projects in his constituency to the extent that he visited my office recently. In addition to what was discussed on the roads, I would like to ask him to continue engaging us on the stalled projects so that in 2016, we can undertake some of the work that is involved in this question.

I thank you, Madam Speaker.

Madam Speaker: Hon. Minister, 2016? Are we going backwards?

Eng. Milupi: 2026.

Madam Speaker: 2026? Okay.

Thank you very much.

We make progress.

REPLACEMENT OF NON-FUNCTIONAL MORTUARY EQUIPMENT AT MACHA MISSION HOSPITAL IN MBABALA

53. Mr Munsanje (Mbabala) asked the Minister of Health:

whether the Government has any plans to replace the non-functional mortuary equipment at Macha Mission Hospital in Mbabala Parliamentary Constituency;

if so, when the plans will be implemented; and

if there are no such plans, why.

The Minister of Health (Mr Muchima): Madam Speaker, the Government is aware that the mortuary unit at Macha Mission Hospital is old and requires replacement. It is functional, but prone to frequent breakdowns. The ministry is procuring mortuary units in a phased manner, and Macha Mission Hospital is among the beneficiaries. The plans for Macha Mission Hospital will be implemented in the first quarter of 2026.

Madam Speaker, the Government has plans; therefore, part (c) of the question falls off.

Madam Speaker, I thank you.

Mr Munsanje: Madam Speaker, on behalf of the people of Mbabala, I am delighted by the hon. Minister of Health’s response and commitment to the purchase and installation of new mortuary equipment in the first quarter of 2026, at the Macha Mission Hospital. I appreciate that, and job well done to him.

Hon. Government Members: Hear, hear!

PLANS TO CONNECT AREAS IN MUCHINGA TO THE NATIONAL ELECTRICITY GRID

54. Mr E. Banda (Muchinga) asked the Minister of Energy:

whether the Government has any plans to connect the following areas in Muchinga Parliamentary Constituency to the national electricity grid:

Kundalumwasha;
Kaseba;
Moyenda;
Kamena;
Chintakwa;
Miswema;
Mukopa; and
Masase;

if so, when the plans will be implemented; and

if there are no such plans, why.

The Minister of Energy (Mr Chikote): Madam Speaker, the Government has plans to electrify the following areas in Muchinga Parliamentary Constituency:

Kundalumwasha;

Kaseba;

Moyenda;

Kamena;

Chintakwa;

Mukopa; and

Masase.

Madam Speaker, according to the updated and revised electrification master plan, the facilities mentioned are scheduled to be electrified starting in 2026. The Rural Electrification Authority (REA) is currently undertaking feasibility studies in the named areas. However, the subsequent electrification of the areas mentioned will be done in a phased approach, starting with Masase, subject to the availability of funds.

Madam Speaker, the areas mentioned above shall be electrified.

I thank you, Madam Speaker.

Mr E. Banda: Madam Speaker, last time when the hon. Minister was answering questions about Masase, he was confident. However, today he started giving explanations about the availability of funds. I do not think that there is any hon. Member of Parliament or constituents who like that term. So, the hon. Minister should find a better term because we believe that funds are there. He just has to prioritise an area and it will be done.

Madam Speaker, before I ask my question, I would like to inform the hon. Minister that in Kamena, there is a day secondary school. Where there is a secondary school, most of the activities that need to be undertaken need power, including health facilities and primary schools. Therefore, when he says the area will be electrified “subject to the availability of funds,” it worries us.

Madam Speaker, the hon. Minister said that the named areas will be considered for electrification in a phased manner in 2026. Can he tell the people of Muchinga how the areas have been prioritised? Which areas will be electrified first, and which areas will follow? How long will the entire process take? Will it all be completed within 2026, or will it extend beyond that year?

Interruptions

Madam Speaker: Order, hon. Members!

You are talking and not following up on the questions. If I were to point at one of you, hon. Members, to tell us what the question was, you will have challenges. So, let us listen and follow the proceedings.

Mr Chikote: Thank you, Madam Speaker, and I thank the hon. Member for that question.

Madam Speaker, in my submission, I said that we will start with Masase. I said that we will electrify those areas in a phased manner because this is dependent on the availability of funds. When the feasibility studies are concluded, we will know the areas that need to be prioritised, of course, by engaging the hon. Member of Parliament. There are facilities that need power like the secondary school the hon. Member mentioned. Definitely, as the Government, we understand that we need to support our education and health facilities. However, we depend on the hon. Member of Parliament who represents the good people of Muchinga to suggest the priority areas, as we plan for those areas. Most importantly, we need to ensure that we allow feasibility studies to be concluded and we will know which area to prioritise. Masase is one area where we are very sure that things have advanced, and that is why I stated that we are going to start with Masase in 2026. We want to ensure that by 2030, people access electricity.

I thank you, Madam Speaker.

Mr Mutale (Chitambo): Madam Speaker, the constituency in question is my neighbour. You may wish to note that there is a substation near that constituency, called Pensulo, which generates electricity for the country at Lukusiwasi.

Madam Speaker, the people of that constituency just watch electricity being transmitted in the air. Every day, the electricity passes over their area, but they are not connected to the national grid, and the hon. Minister said that the area will be electrified when funds are made available. He also mentioned that the Rural Electrification Authority (REA) is in the area doing something.

Madam Speaker, I am not satisfied with that answer. That hon. Member of Parliament seated there (pointed at Mr E. Banda) and I have K1 million each sitting at REA. So, the availability of funds is not an issue. Why can the hon. Minister not tell us when they are going to utilise those funds sitting in his office, the K1 million, so the people of Masase can be connected to the national grid, because we know that even Chieftainess Serenje lives somewhere there?

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

Madam Speaker, the K1 million that hon. Members of Parliament have been talking about –

Ms Nakaponda: Including you.

Mr Chikote: Yes, including me.

Laughter

Mr Chikote: Madam Speaker, initially, I mentioned to the hon. Members of Parliament that this was meant for technical support.

Hon. Members: Question!

Mr Chikote: That is what I mentioned.

Hon. Members: Question!

Mr Chikote: Madam Speaker, the networks that are needed to electrify those areas that have been mentioned in Muchinga Constituency require more than K1 million. K1 million is just a drop in the ocean. These are just supportive factors that this Government was thinking would push for feasibility studies and other technical aspects that will enable it put up those networks in those areas.

Madam Speaker, hon. Members expressed doubt about what I just mentioned. The hon. Member for Muchinga Constituency is aware of what REA is doing in that constituency. We are progressing very well so far. I believe that by next year, we will be able to start connecting those areas.

I thank you, Madam Speaker.

Madam Speaker: It looks like the hon. Member for Muchinga still has a question.

Mr E. Banda: Yes, Madam Speaker.

Madam Speaker: Okay, we can have the last question from you.

Mr E. Banda: Thank you very much, Madam Speaker.

Madam Speaker, I am sure, the hon. Minister knows what he is talking about when he says that they are progressing well. Of course, with the K1 million that we kept to be utilised –

Mr Mutale: On a Point of Order, Madam Speaker.

Madam Speaker: A Point of Order is raised.

Mr Mutale: Madam Speaker, my Point of Order is pursuant to Standing Order No.71. In a quest to know whether what the hon. Minister stated here is the correct position regarding what we were told by the hon. Minister of Local Government and Rural Development in relation to the deduction of the K1 million from the Constituency Development Fund (CDF) –

Madam Speaker, we were even told to indicate which areas we wanted electrified because this money was sufficient to electrify those areas. Is the hon. Minister in order to tell this august House that the K1 million was just meant for feasibility studies and is just a drop in an ocean when all hon. Members of Parliament in this House are expecting something to happen to those monies that were deposited in the account of the Ministry of Local Government and Rural Development?

Madam Speaker: The hon. Member for Chitambo is saying that there is a contradiction between what the hon. Minister of Energy has just stated and what the hon. Minister of Local Government and Rural Development had stated earlier, or what he had assured hon. Members of Parliament. The two hon. Ministers, please, can you put your act together and advise hon. Members. The K1 million, what was it for?

Hon. Members: Hear, hear!

Madam Speaker: Was it meant to electrify whole areas or it was just for feasibility studies? Further, was it a drop in the ocean?

Hon. Members: Hear, hear!

Madam Speaker: Hon. Ministers, please, as we come to the House, let us be consistent with our answers so that we do not mislead hon. Members and members of the public. Now, members of the public are expecting power in their various constituencies, but power is not coming forth. That is not going to reflect well on the Executive.

So, thank you for that point of order, hon. Member.

The two hon. Ministers, please, you are put on notice to correct that position.

Mr J. Chibuye: Munwine pamo tea lelo!

Mr E. Banda: Madam Speaker, I remember that last time when there was a question regarding that K1 million, the hon. Minister told us that the K1 million was not enough. Speaking for the people of Muchinga, we had to look for some extra funds, in addition to the K1 million. That is why I was saying that when the hon. Minister says that we are progressing well, he knows what he is saying. In the case of Muchinga, we have utilised the K1 million because we found an extra amount of money so that we can be connected to the electricity grid, since that was our priority.

Madam Speaker, I just want to encourage the hon. Minister to consider Kamena after connecting Masase and other areas to electricity. I know the challenges that are in Kamena. It has a secondary school which needs electricity. We should also consider electrifying Mukopa, a place that has many people, so that people can benefit from electricity. I know that when Kamena is connected to electricity, Kundalumwasha will be connected to electricity as well. This is because the power line will have to pass through Kundalumwasha, Kaseba and Moyenda to reach Kamena. Once Kamena is connected to electricity, then I know that the rest of the surrounding areas will also be catered for. I would also like the hon. Minister to consider Mukopa.

Madam Speaker, I just hope that the hon. Minister will continue working hard so the people of Muchinga are connected to electricity.

Madam Speaker: Hon. Minister of Energy, do you have any comment?

Mr Chikote: Madam Speaker, no. I only want to say thank you very much. The hon. Member is representing his constituency very well.

Honk. PF Members: Awe!

Mr Chikote: We will continue looking at the K2 million he has mentioned as we engage ZESCO Limited and REA to make sure that the constituency is attended to very well.

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

Hon. Members: Ah!

Madam Speaker: You know, I had timed my work, and I am behind time now. However, what is the point of order, hon. Member for Nyimba?

Mr Zulu: Madam Speaker, the point of order is pursuant to Standing Order No. 71. Is the hon. Minister of Energy in order to tell us that there is K2 million for that project? This circular (waved a mobile phone in his hand) is from the Ministry of Local Government and Rural Development and it is instructing all the 156 Constituency Development Fund (CDF) committees across the country to utilise that money to install rooftop solar systems. In the case of Nyimba, all projects come with a rooftop solar system. We have been instructed to write to the Ministry of Local Government and Rural Development to electrify projects that we have already been electrified using the same money. So, is the hon. Minister in order to tell us about the K2 million when he knows very well that the amount is K3 million now?

Madam Speaker: Hon. Member for Nyimba, the hon. Minister was talking about the K2 million in reference to what the hon. Member for Muchinga was saying. You may recall that the hon. Member for Muchinga made a number of comments and the hon. Minister just appreciated the appreciation that came from the hon. Member for Muchinga.

So, the point of order is not admitted.

Let us make progress.

_______

MOTIONS

REPORT OF THE ZAMBIAN DELEGATION TO THE 54^TH COMMONWEALTH PARLIAMENTARY ASSOCIATION AFRICA REGION CONFERENCE

Mr Nyambose (Chasefu): Madam Speaker, I beg to move that this House adopts the Report of the Zambian Delegation to the 54^th Commonwealth Parliamentary Association (CPA) Africa Region Conference held in Banjul, the Gambia, from 10^th to 16^th August, 2025, for the Fifth Session of the Thirteenth National Assembly, laid on the Table of the House on Thursday, 30^th October, 2025.

Madam Speaker: Is the Motion seconded?

Mr Sing’ombe (Dundumwezi): Madam Speaker, I beg to second the Motion.

Mr Nyambose: Madam Speaker, pursuant to Order No. 154 of the National Assembly Standing Orders, 2024, I wish to present a report on the activities of the 54^th CPA Africa Region Conference and Annual General Meeting (AGM), highlighting the key recommendations made in the report.

Madam Speaker, the 54^th CPA Africa Region Conference and AGM was convened under the theme, “Strengthening Democratic Governance and Resilience in Africa: Tackling Conflicts, Economic Shocks and Climate Risks”. The theme was intended to enhance legislative and policy solutions on matters affecting the development of member states, including climate financing, graft, access to health, artificial intelligence (AI) and disability to create a more stable, prosperous and resilient Africa, where citizens can thrive and reach their full potential.

Madam Speaker, the 54^th Africa Region Conference was officially opened by His Excellency, Mr Adama Barrow, President of the Republic of the Gambia. In his address, Mr Adama Barrow noted that the theme of the conference accurately reflected Africa’s shared aspirations and formidable challenges and called for collective action to decisively address instability, economic shocks and climate-related threats. He drew attention to Africa’s acute economic vulnerabilities, including rising inflation, unsustainable debt burdens and global supply chain disruptions, all of which were severely exacerbated by climate change impacts, such as droughts, floods, sea level rise, resource scarcity and associated migration pressures.

Madam Speaker, I believe that hon. Members have read the report of the delegation. I will therefore, only highlight some key resolutions made by the general meeting.

Madam Speaker, the Annual General Meeting (AGM) encouraged African Parliaments to enforce the Polluter Pays Principle, incorporating specific provisions targeting large industries operating within their jurisdictions and requiring them to bear the full cost of environmental damage and that such provisions should include the imposition of environmental levies, mandatory recommendations and restoration obligations, penalties for non-compliance and contribution to environmental trust funds to support affected communities and ecosystems.

Further, African Parliaments were encouraged to mandate the integration of climate change education into national curricula from an early age ensuring that learners acquire the awareness, knowledge and practical skills necessary to address climate-related challenges and actively contribute to sustainable development throughout their lives.

Madam Speaker, on fighting graft, the AGM urged African Parliaments to take measures to compel their respective Governments to maintain comprehensive and up-to-date case logs for courts and corruption investigations, ensure such records were made accessible to the public and take effective steps to expedite the hearing and determination of pending corruption cases. Therefore, promoting transparency, accountability and the timely delivery of justice in Africa. Further, the conference advised African Parliaments to enact comprehensive asset disclosure statutes requiring annual public declaration by officials with protected channels for whistle-blowers.

Madam Speaker, in order to boost industrialisation through value addition and local manufacturing, African Parliaments were called upon to enshrine local content requirements in agriculture, mining and manufacturing, supported by fiscal incentives for value addition enterprises. The AGM also encouraged African Governments to designate special economic zones and vocational training hubs to support industry growth and to foster collaboration with the private sector, academia and research institutions to stimulate innovation, enhance skills development and promote knowledge transfer in manufacturing.

Madam Speaker, as regards inclusion and empowerment of persons with disabilities, the AGM appealed to African Governments to ratify or domesticate the United Nations (UN) Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities, embed mandatory accessibility standards in legislation, and mandate the collection and maintenance of aggregated up-to-date data of persons with disabilities, recognising that effective policy formulation and programme management require accurate qualifications and evidence-based decision making.

Madam Speaker, to attain accessible and affordable healthcare in the context of universal health coverage, African Parliaments were requested to enact laws that firmly entrench health rights, guaranteeing access to quality, affordable and equitable healthcare for all citizens, ensuring …

Madam Speaker: Order, hon. Member!

The hon. Member’s time expired.

Madam Speaker: Kindly, wind up your debate. Your time is up.

Mr Nyambose: Madam Speaker, I am almost there.

… accountability for the Government’s delivery in the health sector, in this regard. The AGM advised Governments to study and adopt best practices from successful models such as Rwanda’s community health initiatives, legislating policies that strengthen primary healthcare, expanding community-based health services and ensuring inclusive access by all citizens.

Madam Speaker, on leveraging on Artificial Intelligence (AI) in parliamentary processes and legislative oversight, African Parliaments were urged to adopt a code of practice for the use of AI, ensuring transparency, data privacy and ethical safeguards, and enacting comprehensive regulations that define risk, tyre, risk safeguards, and establish penalties for misuse, and promote responsible, accountable and innovative applications of AI. The AGM encouraged African Parliaments to digitalise parliamentary infrastructure by adopting modern information and communication technologies that enhance efficiency in legislative work, improve record management and promote transparency and accessibility of parliamentary proceedings to the public.

Madam Speaker, as I wind up, let me report that the AGM resolved to place on record that the 54^th Conference of the Commonwealth Parliamentary Association (CPA) formally endorsed the candidature of Hon. Nontembeko Nonthemba Boyce, MP, KwaZulu-Natal, as the sole candidate or sole nominee for the position of the Commonwealth Women Parliamentarians (CWP)-International Chairperson for the election that is scheduled – or it took place. This is overtaken by events. The election took place.

Madam Speaker, in conclusion, I wish to express profound gratitude, on behalf of the delegation, to you, Madam, for the opportunity to participate in the 54^th Conference.

Madam Speaker, I beg to move.

Hon. Members: Hear, hear!

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

Mr Sing’ombe: Now, Madam Speaker.

Mr Sing’ombe: Madam Speaker, may I thank you for according me this opportunity to second the Motion ably moved by the able Member of Parliament for Chasefu.

Madam Speaker, I want to state that the Zambian Delegation that you sent to Banjul, the Gambia from10^th to 16^th August, 2025 did attend and participated in all the programmes that were arranged. Allow me to also thank the secretariat that accompanied us for doing a commendable job. It led us through everything well.

Madam Speaker, the mover of the Motion has indicated some of the topics that we deliberated on, which were governance deficits, artificial intelligence (AI) and climate change. Zambia was spotlighted to some extent as having done a number of good things. During our side meetings, a number of delegates from other states were thrilled to hear about how Zambia managed to organise resources, especially in the health sector. When we presented our case on how our Government managed to procure 156 land cruisers for our constituencies, a number of delegates from other Commonwealth Parliamentary Association (CPA) member states did not believe. Further, when we brought out the fact that the Government had also procured 156 vehicles for Constituency Development Fund (CDF) activities, and how the CDF was assisting in a number of developmental projects in our constituencies, many of our hon. Colleagues wanted to know how we did it. A number of colleagues from other member states wanted to know where our Government had found money. We told them that the Government had put in place many measures to reduce corruption, and through that, it accumulated all the resources. Further, we said that the Government had also appointed a responsible Cabinet in various ministries, which had helped us reach this point. Since your delegation travelled to the Gambia, Madam Speaker, you will probably see many Parliaments visiting this country to learn how we are able to raise resources.

Madam Speaker, the conference created a very important platform. We also learned about how other jurisdictions are managing developments. The mover gave an example of how Rwanda is managing the information and communication technology (ICT) sector. I think, as a country, we need to learn how Rwanda has reached that far. Once we do that, this country will be destined for greatness.

Madam Speaker, allow me to also just pick out one issue that came out strongly, which is governance deficit. It is clear that this country is on its way to achieving a desirable democracy. We can interact freely at this point in time. I think, many delegates were happy to hear about the milestone that this country has reached, and they are desirous to learn from this country.

Madam Speaker, I now ask the entire House to support the Motion, and adopt our report.

I thank you, Madam Speaker.

Mr Kafwaya (Lunte): Madam Speaker, I support the demand for this august House to adopt this report. Any suggestion to improve governance and democracy in our country, as it stands, is a matter that I would welcome because I sense that we are in dire need of improvement. The mover made reference to strengthening legislative and policy solutions to enhance democracy and good governance. The fact that this was deliberated at the Commonwealth Parliamentary Association (CPA) conference demonstrates the importance of democracy and good governance. So, I am motivated to speak about this subject due to its importance. In making this contribution, I would like to say that if you undertake a benchmarking expedition and fail to bring recommendations to your country, then, that expedition is a waste of public resources. I am happy this particular report will be adopted today. That means that the benchmarking lessons that this delegation brought back must be applied to our country.

Madam Speaker, on the strengthening of legislative solutions in our democracy, let us look at the legislation we have formulated and passed through this Assembly, assented to by the President, and delivered to the people of Zambia. We told the people about the cyber laws that we have passed to make democracy better. Those cyber laws are terrible for democracy. They cannot enhance democracy because they stifle people's contribution to the democratic process. Therefore, as we look at this important delegation’s report, we must introspect. We must even think about what we are trying to do now. We, as a nation, are trying to amend the Constitution. What provisions are contained in the Constitution of Zambia (Amendment) Bill No. 7 of 2025, (Bill No. 7), that we can say will improve our democratic standing as a nation?

Mr Nkandu: Question!

Mr Kafwaya: Madam Speaker, I would comfortably and confidently stand on the Floor of this House, and say that there are none. Those provisions will take our country fifty years backwards. That is why I have rejected to offer my support to the contents of Bill No. 7.

Interruptions

Mr Nkandu: Question!

Madam Speaker: Order!

Hon. Member for Lunte, the Constitution of Zambia (Amendment) Bill No. 7 of 2025, (Bill No. 7), that you are discussing is not even before this House. So, please, do not discuss a matter that is not before the House. When the matter is brought to the House, then, you will be free to debate as you please but within context. Be patient.

You may proceed as guided.

Mr Kafwaya: Madam Speaker, the policy environment should be strengthened to improve governance. What policies have we seen? What have we seen even with regards to the corruption which my brother, Hon. Sing’ombe mentioned? The Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC) has been mentioned in this particular report. The ACC appeared before your Committee at the National Assembly of Zambia and said that it would not tell us the names of the hon. Ministers who are under investigation because their integrity is at stake. What type of good governance is that?

Hon. UPND Member: You are bitter!

Mr Kafwaya: I hear one hon. Minister, who may be on that list, calling me bitter. Madam Speaker, let me tell you, there is nothing to be happy about concerning what the ACC told us in the Committee. We needed to be aware –

Madam Speaker: Order, hon. Member for Lunte!

Please, control your emotions. Address the Chair when debating. Do not concentrate on the other hon. Members. They will distract you, and you will fail to make your points. So, be in control of your emotions.

You may continue as guided.

Mr Kafwaya: Madam Speaker, what policy has been put in place to forestall, curtail and stop illicit financial flows? Does it bother the United Party for National Development (UPND) that in four years, over US$10 billion has been flown out of the country? Sixty billion Kwacha, K34.5 billion, US$2.8 billion and US$3.5 billion have been flown out of the country because the UPND does not care. Yet, when I stand here, looking at you directly, one hon. Minister will say, I am bitter. How can I not be bitter? Over US$10 billion has been flown out of this country, and people in the hospitals do not have medicine. There are bad roads in our country and people are suffering because of the high cost of living. Money is being taken out of the country, yet one or two hon. Ministers were even proud to say, “These guys are bitter.”

Madam Speaker: Order, hon. Member!

Are we debating the adoption of the Report of the Delegation to the 54^thCommonwealth Parliamentary Association (CPA), or is it a general debate on the state of the nation and what one feels or views to be the status of the nation? Let us concentrate on the report.

Hon. Members, if you have any other concerns, you have the right to move a Motion, then come and debate, and express yourselves. Do not mask your debates in innocent reports about how we can improve the democratic process in our country.

May the hon. Member continue.

Mr Kafwaya: Madam Speaker, thank you so much. I was talking about strengthening the policy framework, and I sensed that the seconder articulated how Land Cruisers bought using the Constituency Development Fund (CDF) were admired by their colleagues.

Madam Speaker, I am happy that 2.3 per cent of the National Budget can be taken to the Commonwealth Parliamentary Association (CPA), and the CPA admires it.

Interruptions

Mr Kafwaya: Madam Speaker, this to me, is amazing. That is the level we have come to as a country. We are aggrandising 2 per cent of our Budget, leaving 98 per cent. That should worry everybody. That is a policy issue that must worry every Zambian.

Madam Speaker, can you imagine, if the Members of the CPA were able –

Mr Miyutu: On a Point of Order, Madam Speaker.

Madam Speaker: A Point of Order is raised.

Mr Miyutu: Thank you, Madam Speaker.

Madam Speaker, the hon. Member for Lunte is talking about 2 per cent.

Mr Kafwaya: 2.3!

Mr Miyutu: No, you said 2 per cent.

Mr Kafwaya: 2.3!

Mr Miyutu: Whether it is 2.3 or 2 per cent, it is still 2.

Mr Kafwaya: Yes!

Laughter

Mr Miyutu: Madam Speaker, my Point of Order is pursuant to Standing Order No.71 on relevance.

Madam Speaker, in 2025, 2 per cent of the Budget was used to facilitate the distribution of 116 ambulances. Hon. Kafwaya, the former Minister, served under a regime where there was also a provision of 2 per cent of the Budget.

Madam Speaker, is Hon. Kafwaya in order to not know that during the previous Government, they failed to distribute 116 ambulances across the country, yet there was a provision of 2 per cent for that? Is he in order to not state this?

Madam Speaker, I need your serious ruling.

Hon. Government Members: Hear, hear!

Madam Speaker: Order, hon. Members!

That is why I said that let us concentrate on the report. Bringing out issues on money being taken out of the country, and the 2 per cent, without proof being laid on the Table of the House –

Hon. Member for Lunte, you knew you would debate this report today. If you intended to mention the figures and percentages you mentioned, you should have brought the evidence here. Remember, our rules require us to be factual, and the facts should be verifiable. It will not be sufficient for you to just mention figures that are not verifiable. In any event, the report does not talk about how much money was taken out of the country. Of course, the procurement of ambulances and the Constituency Development Fund (CDF) vehicles was just used as an example. So, we should not use that as a basis for our debate. The debate is about the adoption of the report. Do not go into specific issues that are not mentioned in the report.

You may continue as you wind up, so that we make progress.

Mr Kafwaya: Yes, Madam Speaker, let me wind up by consolidating my support for the adoption of the report, as I remind the former hon. Deputy Minister who served under the Patriotic Front (PF), in whose constituency I commissioned a telecommunication tower.

Interruptions

Madam Speaker: Order!

Hon. Member, the issue of the tower and what was done is not in the report.

Mr Kafwaya: No, I am just –

Madam Speaker: Observe relevance and stick to the report so that we make progress. Otherwise, we are not adding value to the process that we are undertaking at the moment.

Hon. Member for Lunte, please, conclude.

Mr Kafwaya: Madam Speaker, on page 15, the report states that:

“Review and eliminate outdated laws, ensuring that legal frameworks adequately protect the rights of persons with disability and promote their integration across all policies and programs.”

Madam Speaker, I want to be present on that day when this country will promote policies and laws to ensure that persons with disabilities are included at every level of governance in every arm of the Government, …

Hon. Government Members: Bill 7!

Mr Kafwaya: … starting with Presiding Officers in an Assembly like this one, where we are. I want to see legislation that will ensure persons with disabilities participate in governance. That is why I miss Hon. Chilangwa, who used to sit just behind me. He was the only person with a disability in this Assembly, but he is now incarcerated.

Madam Speaker, I would like to see the same in the Judiciary.

Madam Speaker: Order!

Hon. Member for Lunte, …

Mr Kafwaya: Yes, Madam.

Madam Speaker: … you are also wearing spectacles. Is that not a sign of disability?

Hon. Members: Hear, hear!

Mr Kafwaya removed his spectacles.

Madam Speaker: We are all disabled in a way.

Laughter

Madam Speaker: Okay, please, wind up.

Mr Kafwaya: I remember how you praised the hon. Minister of Finance and National Planning, for reading without glasses. Madam, I am also able to read without glasses.

Madam Speaker, even in the Executive, I would like to see District Commissioners (DCs) who are disabled.

Madam Speaker: Order!

The hon. Member’s time expired.

Hon. Government Members: Time up!

Mr Kafwaya: Madam Speaker, I want – Anyway, I can sense.

Madam Speaker, I support the adoption of this report.

Madam Speaker: Thank you very much.

Mr Zulu (Nyimba): Madam Speaker, I will focus on four issues.

Madam Speaker: Order, before you focus!

Business was suspended from 1640 hours until 1700 hours.

[MR SECOND DEPUTY SPEAKER in the Chair]

Mr Zulu: Mr Speaker, I just want to look at adaptation in the fight against climate change and how Africa is doing today in that regard.

Mr Speaker, Africa has been relying on the western world to finance its climate change programmes. We all know that nothing can come from the western world to help Africa without special interest. If you look at our country today, you will see that since 1990, we have had the Movement for Multi-party Democracy (MMD) Government, the Patriotic Front (PF) Government and now we have the United Party for National Development (UPND) Government. All these Governments have been collecting money to finance climate change adaptation programmes. However, today, if you asked the hon. Minister of Finance and National Planning how much of that money is being spent on climate change adaptation programmes, you would find that no money from the Treasury is used to fund such programmes. We are still asking the Western world to finance climate change adaptation programmes. Meanwhile, the Government is taxing every car owner in this country. All of us here know that we pay a carbon levy or tax. The question is: Where is the money for carbon tax going? What amount is ploughed back into fighting climate change?

Mr Speaker, yes, I know that in Africa, we produce very small amounts of carbon, about 0.2 per cent or 0.4 per cent of the global average. Nigeria and South Africa produce half of that. However, the people affected are Zambians. So, my plea to the Executive is that the carbon tax collected should be invested back into our country, rather than waiting for the Western world to support us.

Mr Speaker, let me speak on artificial intelligence (AI). Who is the owner of the data we are using? Are we able to develop a system which we can keep in Zambia? For example, the Commonwealth Parliamentary Association (CPA) has asked Parliaments to embrace and develop AI tools. We have a unit in the Zambian Parliament for that. However, the question is on privacy and content. Who owns the data? We have technicians and engineers out there, but are they able to design data systems? Are they the ones designing our data systems? Are we copying and pasting when it comes to software development? These are the questions we should be asking ourselves. Are we developing software on our own? Are we asking others to develop software for our use? If that is what we are doing, then that does not add up. The people out there in the Western world are as educated as we are. A good number of them are technicians, not PhD holders. The biggest problem in this country is that a good number of those who are highly educated sit in offices, instead of being innovative.

Mr Speaker, if I am not mistaken, page 14 of your Committee’s report is talking about boosting industrialisation through value addition and local manufacturing. I am not debating the hon. Minister of Infrastructure, Housing and Urban Development, but he will tell you that in the olden days, we had the International Telephone and Telegraph (ITT) in Livingstone and Nova Zambia and Leyland in Ndola. We had a good number of manufacturing companies within our country. The question is: How many graduates did we have then, and how many do we have today? In the past, we had very few graduates, but we did more wonders. What has gone wrong? We need to start asking ourselves questions like, “Are we going to promote this?” For us to industrialise, we need to start doing something. We need to start manufacturing. We need to start building things.

Mr Speaker, you may wish to note that Zambia is now a country that produces innovators. If you go to Australia today, you will find that among every hundred innovators, one or two are Zambians. Why is it that they left this country? We are not putting much resources into research. How much money are we investing in our research institutions in Zambia? Today, if you look at our Budget, you find that a minimal allocation or zero goes to research institutions. So, for us to start industrialisation, we need to support those schools that are able to train people. A boy from Chipata Trades Training Institute built an electric vehicle. A boy from the Northern Technical College (NORTECH) also built an electric vehicle. How much support was given to those innovators? None. Do you know where those innovators are now? They are in Australia and being helped by the Government in that country. Can we start helping such people? It is time for the Ministry of Technology and Science to invest in such people. Let us not just look at those who are going to have PhDs in law or business administration. The people we really need in this country now are innovators. We have educated men and women out there, but do we have innovators? No. We have professors just publishing books here and there, without giving us tangible things. If we want to industrialise, we need the Government to push money into schools and institutions that can help us to build industries. It is not going to take somebody from America or Harvard University to come and tell us about innovation; we should innovate on our own. That is what the CPA is saying.

Mr Speaker, here is the problem. Our CPA and Inter-Parliamentary Union (IPU) members attend meetings without a problem. However, we do not attend meetings where actual African problems like climate change and agriculture are discussed. Today, Africa is coming up with a model law on agriculture or soil management, but Zambia is missing from the scene because we cannot sponsor hon. Members of Parliament to go to the Pan-African Parliament (PAP). We can only sponsor those going to attend meetings at the CPA and the IPU.

I thank you, Mr Speaker.

Mr Kapyanga (Mpika): Mr Speaker, thank you so much for this opportunity given to me to add my voice on behalf of the people of Mpika to this very important subject.

Mr Speaker, as I support the adoption of this report, whose theme is “Strengthening Democratic Governance and Resilience in Africa, Tackling Conflicts, Economic Shocks and Climate Risks,” I want to focus on good governance.

Eng. Nzovu: It is focus!

Mr Kapyanga: You failed to pronounce confidentiality this afternoon.

laughter

Mr Kapyanga: Mr Speaker, good governance refers to the effective, transparent, accountable and equitable management of a country's affairs, institutions and resources in a way that responds to the needs and rights of citizens. It is the key foundation for democracy.

Mr Speaker, our country is a multi-party democracy. Political parties have to exist to offer credible checks and balances to the party in power so that the party in power can deliver to the expectations of the citizens. However, in our case, from 2023 to date, the largest Opposition political party was taken over by State actors …

Hon. UPND Members: Question!

Mr Kapyanga: … thereby –

Mr Second Deputy Speaker: Order, hon. Member!

May you resume your seat.

Mr Kapyanga resumed his seat.

Eng. Nzovu: Kick him out!

Mr Second Deputy Speaker: Hon. Member, you need to be very factual in whatever you say. Time without number, on the Floor of the House, especially when I am presiding, I have guided that you do not bring the misunderstandings …

Hon. UPND Members: Hear, hear!

Mr Second Deputy Speaker: … in your political party to the Floor of the House. Further, you do not have any evidence to prove that the State is involved. You know very well that the current president of the Patriotic Front (PF) is also a PF member.

Hon. PF Member: Who is it?

Mr Second Deputy Speaker: Hon. Chabinga.

Hon. PF Members: Question!

Interruptions

Mr Second Deputy Speaker: So, let us ensure that you do not bring in the State.

You may proceed.

Interruptions

Mr Chisanga: Which deficiencies, naimwe?

Mr Kapyanga: Mr Speaker, state institutions and institutions of governance exist to serve the Zambian people. In this case, when the Office of the Registrar of Societies decides to change office bearers of a political party –

Mr Second Deputy Speaker: Order, hon. Member!

May you resume your seat.

Mr Kapyanga resumed his seat.

Hon. UPND Members: Send him out!

Mr Chisanga: Just allow him to debate. To where should he be sent?

Mr Second Deputy Speaker: Hon. Member, I think, I have guided you. The Office of the Registrar is not in the House to contribute or argue with you. You have a report. So, ensure that you restrict yourself to what is contained in that report. If you continue on that path, I will curtail you.

You may proceed.

Mr Kapyanga: Mr Speaker, the report in my possession is talking about the role of African Parliaments in fighting graft and promoting good governance. This is where I have trained my mind to focus.. However, I do not want to waste much of your time.

Mr Speaker, the report talks about the promotion of industrialisation. This is very important. Currently, we have high youth unemployment rates in Zambia …

Mr Nkandu: Question!

Mr Kapyanga: … standing at 17.2 per cent as provided for in terms of statistics by the (Zambia Statistics Agency (ZamStats)) Central Statistical Office (CSO). The situation is like this because we lack industries where youths can work.

Mr Nkandu: On a Point of Order, Mr Speaker.

Mr Kapyanga: Mr Speaker, …

Mr Second Deputy Speaker: There is a Point of Order by the hon. Minister.

Mr Nkandu: Mr Speaker, I want to thank you for giving me this opportunity to raise a Point of Order.

Mr Speaker, Standing Order No. 71 talks about relevance, and also that we need to be very factual.

Mr Speaker, the speaker or debater on the Floor, Hon. Kapyanga, is insinuating that unemployment levels in the country are high.

Mr Kampyongo: So, are you refusing?

Mr Nkandu: Mr Speaker, is he in order, especially that he is coming from a regime which made three reckless and bad decisions, one of which is the revision of the retirement age, which was adjusted from 55 years to 65 years, yet people were graduating from higher learning institutions. So, for ten years, we did not have space for the young people to find jobs. As though that was not enough, they again, went further to make another bad and reckless decision; the employment freeze,yet universities and colleges were offloading graduates on the market. As if that was not enough, even after ten years,they started employing people back on contractual basis for two to three years.

Mr Speaker, is Hon. Kapyanga in order to say that the youth unemployment levels in the country are high when this Government has reduced the retirement age from 65 years to 60 years and only engages specialised individuals on contractual basis?

Hon. PF Members: You are now debating!

Mr Nkandu: Mr Speaker, is he in order, especially since he is from the PF party which made all these bad decisions?

I need your serious ruling, Mr Speaker.

Hon. UPND Members: Hear, hear!

Mr Second Deputy Speaker: The hon. Minister has sufficiently debated his Point of Order.

May the hon. Member for Mpika proceed.

Mr Kapyanga: Thank you so much, Mr Speaker.

Mr Speaker, we are talking about industrialisation, which is far from the public sector that the hon. Minister is trying to refer to in his so-called Point of Order.

Mr Speaker, I was saying that there unemployment rate amongst the youth is high, which stands at 17.2 per cent. This is so because we lack industries where these youths can work from. In this case, the report is urging Parliaments to ensure that laws that support industrialisation are formulated in the areas of agriculture, mining and manufacturing.

Mr Speaker, in Muchinga Province, the Northern Province, Luapula Province, part of Central Province, the Eastern Province, the North-Western Province and other provinces, we lack Multi-Facility Economic Zones (MFEZs) where industries are clustered together and youths can find employment in those areas. The UPND, which is in power today, promised the youths that it would create 1 million jobs in five years.

Mr Nkandu: Question!

Mr Kampyongo: Mulekana?

Mr Kapyanga: Mr Speaker, the 1 million jobs have not been created. This is the more reason I support this report because with its adoption, I am sure the UPND will remember that, indeed, they promised the Zambian youths that they would create 1 million jobs when they form Government. On that basis, they were elected to serve the Zambian people.

Mr Speaker, we grow mangoes and tomatoes in Muchinga Province. We grow everything. We have enough raw materials that can be used in the manufacturing sector if the Government facilitates the establishment of industries. All the industries cannot be dotted along the line of rail. That is the reason there is a high unemployment rate in the rural areas. The same youths have no access to farming inputs for them to venture into farming as an alternative.

Mr Kapyanga: Mr Speaker, this report on industrialisation is a well-timed call that must be supported by all of us, especially at a time such as this, when youths who do not have jobs have resorted to vices such as becoming junkies. In an industrialised country, those youths may be employed.

Mr Speaker, when China started its industrialisation agenda, …

Mr Nkandu: Question!

Mr Kapyanga: … it had a five-year plan.

Interruptions

Mr Kapyanga: Mr Speaker, it had a five-year plan that was implemented as the foundation. for serious industrialisation.

Interruptions

Mr Kapyanga: Mr Speaker, I need your protection against the hooligans this side (he gestured to his left), or should I protect myself? I am very capable.

Mr Second Deputy Speaker: You are protected.

Mr Kapyanga: Mr Speaker, thank you very much.

Mr Second Deputy Speaker: You may proceed.

Mr Kapyanga: Mr Speaker, I was saying that China started the industrialisation foundation in a phased manner. In the first five years, it set a strong foundation for industrialisation, and created areas where it needed the industries to be. I am calling upon this Government to ensure that it, at least, comes up with what Ghana has done, which is formulating a district industrialisation policy that will see the establishment of industries in, at least, every district of the country. That kind of policy is helping Ghana establish serious industries across the country, unlike just having industries along the line of the rail.

Mr Speaker, with those few words, I support the Motion to adopt this report.

I thank you, Mr Speaker.

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

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

Mr Mutelo: Mr Speaker, I am totally grateful for this chance you have given me to raise a point of order. Of course, I rise based on Standing Order No. 71. Not too long ago, and we have not forgotten, the hon. Member of Parliament for Mpika called us rats and cockroaches. He asked for forgiveness.

Mr Kampyongo: Have a forgiving heart, iwe!

Mr Kapyanga rose.

Mr Second Deputy Speaker: Hon. Member for Mpika, resume your seat.

Mr Kapyanga interjected.

Mr Second Deputy Speaker: Hon. Member, resume your seat. Even before I give guidance, you are already standing up. That means you want to take my powers.

Laughter

Mr Chisanga interjected.

Mr Second Deputy Speaker: Hon. Chisanga, please, let us avoid debating while seated.

Hon. Member for Mitete, I think, we should heal. Let us avoid opening up the wounds.

Interruptions

Mr Second Deputy Speaker: No. No. No. We know

Interruptions

Mr Second Deputy Speaker: Order!

Hon. Member for Mitete, I know you to be a forgiving Member of Parliament, and two wrongs cannot make a right. You know that at no time since you came to Parliament, even before, have you used such words on anyone. So, I urge you to not repeat what was said. That was quite inhumane. It was said. Now, let us forget about it.

You may proceed. I have given you guidance.

Mr Mutelo: Mr Speaker, that was done and forgiven.

Mr Speaker, today, we here look at him (pointed at Mr Charles Mulenga) and look at the hon. Member for Lumezi are very innocent. Hooligans. No. This is a House of order and respect, as we respect him. Was he in order to call your whole right-side hooligans? That should not be the case. That is my serious point of order. We have healed. He must also change his language. He must also get to know what this House is all about. That is all I am asking of my hon. Brother.

Mr Speaker, we have healed and forgiven for the sake of the nation, progress and development.

Mr Speaker, thank you very much.

Mr Second Deputy Speaker: I think, I will need to have access to the verbatim. So, I reserve my ruling. I will look at it and, thereafter, render my ruling.

We should proceed.

Hon. Member for Chasefu, wind up the debate.

Mr Nyambose: Mr Speaker, in winding up the debate, I would like to appreciate what the hon. Member for Mitete has done to calm down the emotions. The situation is quite unfortunate.

Mr Speaker, I would like to thank the seconder of the Motion, the hon. Member for Dundumwezi. I would also like to thank the hon. Member for Lunte, the hon. Member for Nyimba and the hon. Member for Mpika for their submissions.

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

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

Mr Kampyongo: Mr Speaker, this is a House of order and procedure. My point of order is on procedure. Ordinarily, that report is supposed to be reacted to by the Government through the hon. Minister of Home Affairs and Internal Security. Are they in order, collectively?

Mr Second Deputy Speaker: Hon. Member, resume your seat.

Mr Kampyongo: Are they in order to

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

Let me give guidance. It is not all the reports that are responded to by the Government. I know you have been here, in this House, too long. Maybe, you were not observant.

Laughter

Mr Second Deputy Speaker: It is not all the reports that are–

Interruptions

Mr Second Deputy Speaker: Order!

Hon. Member, I have given you guidance. It is not all the reports that are responded to. It should have been an oversight on your part all these years that you have been in this House.

Hon. Member for Chasefu, you may proceed.

Mr Nyambose: Thank you very much, Mr Speaker, for the guidance.

Mr Speaker, as I wind up debate, hon. Members of this House should note that this report is a regional report and the recommendations are generic. I want to emphasise that these recommendations are not specifically for this country, Zambia. They are recommendations for Africa, generally. So, when we hear debates as if these recommendations are addressing the omissions or shortcomings in Zambia, it is quite unfortunate. We are supposed to give a report on how African regions are progressing in the area of industrialisation. In this area, one will note that over a short period of time, we have done something as a country, and I am giving an objective opinion. We have seen factories coming up. We have seen industries reviving in this country, though we can do better. However, to generalise and come out as if this report is pinpointing that there is nothing happening in our country in the area of industrialisation is not being patriotic to our country.

Mr Speaker, the other issue I want to talk about is that of graft. What is our country, Zambia, doing in the area of graft? We, hon. Members of Parliament who are here, on both sides, should agree that for us to develop, we should fight graft. So, those who are being visited should not be celebrated. Let us clap that they are being incarcerated. However, the moment we sit on their side because they are being visited and you call it persecution, we are not being fair. We are not going to develop our country.

Mr Speaker, we should sober up as hon. Members of Parliament. The tone, vigour and bitterness we displayed when debating an innocent report, is not building this country. We should look at these reports from the Committees objectively, pick sense from them and see how we can move forward as a country. However, when we display bitterness, we are not being patriotic as the names of our parties suggest. We should take Zambia first, but when we examine the debates, it is very unfortunate to note that we are not doing that. It is normal to appreciate even when things are not okay. However, let us put aside our partisan roles and look at what the reports are talking about. What is it that we can pick as Zambia to move forward? This Government is trying its best.

Mr Speaker, as the seconder indicated, we are being appreciated regarding the Constituency Development Fund (CDF). We cannot hide. The whole of Africa is wondering how Zambia is affording to give money to the poor people, so that they can determine their own development. Zambia is a model, and we should look at it as such. This Government came up with such a policy, so let us appreciate it. They are Zambians, that is why they were voted into power. As for us, we failed. So, next time, we should do better. We are moving the country forward.

I thank you, Mr Speaker.

Question put and agreed to.

_______

BILL

SECOND READING

THE COTTON BILL, 2025

The Minister of Agriculture (Mr Mtolo): Mr Speaker, I beg to move that the Bill be now read a second time.

Hon. Members: Hear, hear!

Mr Mtolo: Mr Speaker, allow me to thank the Committee on Agriculture, Lands and Natural Resources for the well-articulated report, which has brought out important issues from our stakeholders. I also wish to thank other hon. Members of the House and, indeed, our stakeholders for their valuable input to shape the Bill.

Mr Speaker, the Ministry of Agriculture is proposing to introduce a Bill, in Parliament, to repeal and replace the Cotton Act No. 21 of 2005. The proposed Bill is aimed at unlocking the sector's full potential, revitalising the local industry as well as improving the livelihoods of thousands of smallholder cotton farmers across the country.

Madam Speaker, the current Act, which was operationalised in 2007, has several challenges that have continued to hinder the growth of the cotton sector. The Act provides a limited regulatory scope that ends at the ginning stage of the cotton value chain, exacerbating persistent structural and operational challenges and hindering the Cotton Board of Zambia from effectively overseeing crucial downstream activities such as lint marketing, export regulation and local value addition. Therefore, this proposed Bill aims to transform the Cotton Board of Zambia into a cotton development organisation with an expanded mandate that encompasses the entire value chain from input supply and seed development to processing, marketing, and by-product utilisation. This transformation will ensure that regulatory services are extended to every actor, including those involved in textile manufacturing and other cotton-based industries.

Mr Speaker, the Committee, through its interaction with stakeholders, made some observations and recommendations on the proposed Bill. At this juncture, allow me now to respond to the following observations:

Exclusion of Key Stakeholders

Mr Speaker, we take note of the Committee’s recommendation, and the Bill shall be amended to include any stakeholders as advised.

Composition of The Price Consultative Forum

Mr Speaker, indeed, the Committee’s recommendation is well noted and the composition of the price consultative forum shall be revisited to ensure that the representatives of key industry players are included.

Powers of Law Enforcement Officers

Mr Speaker, the Committee’s recommendation is well noted. Arresting without a warrant in certain circumstances is meant to be a preventative measure to secure goods for evidence and security reasons. However, our legal experts will revisit the clause to advise how best this concern can be taken care of.

Dominance of Private Sector Cotton Growers

Mr Speaker, we take note of the Committee’s observation and recommendation. The Government is already taking concrete steps to improve the cotton production and value chain processes. Bringing this Bill to the House is a testament of the Government's commitment to improving the cotton sector.

Mr Speaker, the Cotton Bill, 2025, is designed to have significant and multifaceted impacts on the cotton sector in Zambia. Its key impacts include:

fair pricing and market transparency;

revitalisation of the local textile industry;

improved seed extension systems; and

enhanced quality and international reputation.

Mr Speaker, overall, the Cotton Bill seeks to transform the sector by making it more equitable, productive, and competitive, both domestically and internationally.

Mr Speaker, I thank you.

Mr Malambo (Magoye): Mr Speaker, in accordance with its terms of reference, as set out under Orders No. 206 (a) and 207 (j) of the National Assembly of Zambia Standing Orders, 2024, the Committee was tasked to scrutinise the Cotton Bill, No. 12 of 2025. In order to appreciate the ramifications of the Bill, the Committee interacted with stakeholders who tendered both written and oral submissions before it.

Mr Speaker, as the House may be aware, the Bill seeks to:

continue the existence of the Cotton Board of Zambia, established under the repealed Act;

reconstitute the board of the Cotton Board of Zambia;

provide for the stages of grading and classification of seed cotton;

establish a price consultative forum;

provide the establishment of the seed production zone; and

repeal and replace the Cotton Act No.21 of 2005.

Mr Speaker, the Cotton Act No. 21 of 2005 was inadequate in addressing the challenges that were faced by ginners and producers of cotton. This severely impacted the growth and sustainability of the cotton sector in the country. The Cotton Act also failed to effectively regulate the production, ginning and marketing of seed cotton by ginners and producers in the cotton sector. As a result, there was poor production and yield of cotton. It has, therefore, become necessary to repeal and replace the Cotton Act No. 21 of 2005 to enhance the regulation and production, ginning and marketing of seed cotton by ginners and producers in the cotton sector, in order to address existing gaps and align with international best practices.

Mr Speaker, allow me to state that all stakeholders who appeared before your Committee were in support of the Bill. However, they raised a few concerns, which have been documented in the report. Your Committee also supports the Bill, but in doing so, it has made some observations and recommendations, which I will now highlight.

Mr Speaker, your Committee observed with great concern that the Bill has excluded several key stakeholders who were part of the Cotton Act No. 21 of 2005. Stakeholders such as the department responsible for marketing and co-operatives under the Ministry of Agriculture, the Zambia Environmental Management Agency (ZEMA), the textile industry and the Ministry of Finance and National Planning. The absence of these stakeholders will weaken market co-ordination, environmental compliance and textile value chain integration and financial oversight.

Mr Speaker, while the introduction of the Price Consultative Forum is progressive and commendable, your Committee observed some gaps in the composition of the forum, as it lacks representation of critical industry players, such as the Ministry of Finance and National Planning, the Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (CCPC) and ZEMA. Your Committee, therefore, recommends that the Price Consultative Forum be expanded to include representatives from the Ministry of Finance and National Planning, the CCPC and ZEMA.

Mr Speaker, your Committee observed with concern that Clause 31 of the Bill empowers law enforcement agencies to make arrests without a warrant under certain circumstances. Your Committee is aware that such provisions may be necessary in order to strengthen enforcement capacity, but fears that the absence of warrant requirements can encourage discriminatory enforcement, harassment and abuse. If that is not addressed, it may create mistrust between regulators, farmers and other stakeholders in the cotton sector. In this regard, your Committee strongly recommends that the Bill should not contain a clause that encourages possible arrests of farmers and other players in the cotton industry without a warrant to avoid creating mistrust among the cotton industry players.

Mr Speaker, in conclusion, allow me to extend my most sincere gratitude to you and the Office of the Clerk of the National Assembly for the guidance and support rendered to your Committee throughout its deliberation. Further, your Committee wishes to thank all stakeholders who made submissions to it during the consideration of the Bill.

Mr Speaker, I thank you.

Mr Mtolo: Mr Speaker, the enactment of the Cotton Bill No. 12 of 2025 embodies the Government’s collective commitment to building a resilient, competitive and inclusive cotton sector. It reflects the values of transparency, empowerment and industrial transformation. I, therefore, call upon the hon. Members of this august House and other stakeholders to continue supporting the proposed legislation, as it is not merely a legal update of the Cotton Act No. 21 of 2005, but also a foundational shift that places Zambia’s cotton farmers, processors and manufacturers at the centre of national development. Let us work together, dear hon. Colleagues, to build a future where Zambia’s cotton industry is not only sustainable, but also a source of pride, prosperity and global recognition.

Mr Speaker, I thank you.

Question put and agreed to and the Bill read a second time.

Committed to a committee of the Whole House.

Committee on Wednesday, 12^th November, 2025.

_______

MOTIONS

MOTION OF SUPPLY

(Debate resumed)

Mr A. Banda (Chimwemwe): Mr Speaker, on behalf of the people of Chimwemwe, I would like to say one or two things on the Motion of Supply.

Mr Speaker, I am considering the Budget with regard to mobilisation of resources or revenue. I know that in 2026, we will finance our Budget from domestic revenue amounting to about K206 billion. If the country wants to mobilise K200 billion, we know that the Zambia Revenue Authority (ZRA) is the one to do that. That is what worries the people of Zambia. The ZRA needs to find that money, so it has started introducing new taxes. For instance, the authority has introduced a tax called Minimum Alternative Tax (MAT). This tax is very detrimental to the growth of small and medium enterprises (SMEs). In this regard, the ZRA has imposed a charge of 1 per cent tax on the annual turnover of businesses. How will Zambian small companies afford to pay 1 per cent tax when they are not making any profits at all? A tax should not be open-ended; it should be selective. I know that the people who do not pay taxes are usually foreign shop owners, mostly in Kamwala, or foreigners who own pharmacies. Even applying that tax to them will not yield any results because businesses in Kamwala do not issue receipts. They want to be paid in cash or through mobile money transactions. The mobile money payments do not go to their company accounts and as a result, the funds cannot be traced.

So, this the 1 per cent now will be borne by the Zambian Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) and Zambian companies that are actually trying to make a living, but they cannot. Let me give a practical example of a filling station. We all know that filling stations rarely make profits, but their turnovers are high. Now, how much will the filling station pay on a 1 per cent at the end of the year because obviously, he is not making any profit?

The Zambia Revenue Authority (ZRA) is in a hurry to make money for the Ministry of Finance and National Planning, but it should find a better way of doing it. The Minimum Alternative Tax (MAT) initiative is wrong for our country and any other country. Very few countries use it. Most of the countries that have used ithave since stopped using it because it has not given them the desired results.

Mr Speaker, let us look at another tax, which is the withholding tax, which the ZRA just discontinued on 1^st August. Why did it discontinue? It was because the mines and the Government were not paying on time. What did it do? It took that huge burden and gave it to SME, which practically has no control over when the Value Added Tax (VAT) is paid. What did the SME do to it? This SME has to pay the penalties because the mines are not paying on time. This is very funny because this is where the ZRA is forcing you to become their new agent to collect money from the old agent, who was failing to pay them simply because the ZRA was not actually refunding them.

So, now, the onus is on these SMEs. It is unfortunate that when the ZRA went to the Copperbelt, the organisations that look after our SMEs and the mine suppliers did not bring up this issue with the ZRA Director-General, neither did they do it with the Ministry of Finance and National Planning.

Mr Speaker, on the Copperbelt, the people who are supplying to the mines are complaining. They are being bombarded by so many penalties because they have not remitted their VAT. It is not that they have used their VAT, but it is because the mines have not paid them on time. So, this is very unfair. For that reason, they cannot even access what you call a tax clearance certificate. Without a tax clearance certificate, they cannot trade, anyway. So, what we are trying to do right now is actually killing their businesses even before they start.

Further than that, let us now look at domestic borrowing. Domestic borrowing is good when the country is borrowing. However, there is also a disadvantage for the companies that need to borrow because the House will agree that once the Government wants to borrow, all banks become excited. After all, they know that they are borrowing from a person or an institution with very good security. So, as a result, next year, more banks will take all their money to the Government and there will be very little money in circulation to give to the SMEs. So, SMEs will have to find alternative areas or financial institutions that will give them loans, obviously, at a higher rate.

So, one wonders what the monetary policy committee at the Bank of Zambia (BoZ) is doing because the hon. Minister gave us an indication that the inflation rate has gone down by 4 per cent or so, if I am not mistaken. We have also noticed that the Kwacha keeps appreciating. However, we have not heard anything about the monetary policy rate because we were expecting that at least, a few hundred basis points could have also been reduced. We know that the Government is trying to control inflation. Yes, it can control inflation, but you cannot force it. What the Government needs to do is relax and look at other businesses. We know that the Government needs money, but as much as it needs money, we also need the companies to survive because these companies are the ones that employ our people, especially for some of us who come from Chimwemwe. At the same time, these are the companies that bring in economic activities in our communities.

Mr Speaker, let me now talk about the water situation. We have not had water in Chimwemwe for a long time, simply because we now understand. We are listening to the hon. Minister's presentation of the Budget, where he said that the cost of producing water is at K18, but the water utilities are selling it at K7.90. The people of Chimwemwe are saying they would rather pay the K18 and have a bit of water because we have not had water in a very long time given the reason above. As long as the Government tries to subsidise this or perhaps just covers it up, we are never going to get our water. We need water.

So, we are saying, let them go ahead and charge us K18. Let the people of Chimwemwe have running water. We are tired of having boreholes. We have sunk so many boreholes and our fear now is that this is affecting the groundwater. Very soon, with the rainy season approaching, there could be contamination. We do not want to have another outbreak of waterborne disease simply because we cannot have water. We know that ZESCO Limited did the same thing. Surprisingly, ZESCO Limited has reduced its tariffs even when we disagreed with it that the tariffs it had introduced were way too high. However, just a few days ago, ZESCO Limited actually reduced its tariffs by 50 per cent. So, one wonders.

First of all, we were complaining about cost-reflective tariffs. We allowed it to go ahead, although we were not happy. Now, it is telling us that it is reducing the tariffs by 50 per cent and giving us a grace period of two years. Why should it do that since we got used to it? Let it just go back to the old tariffs. We do not want to be treated as yoyos. Today, you tell us this, we tighten our belts, get used to the system and then, tomorrow, you tell us that we are reducing it. What are you reducing it for? What is the reason for it to reduce it now? We want to get used to it just like we want the water tariffs to be at K18 so that we can get used to it.

Thank you, Mr Speaker.

Mr Second Deputy Speaker: I am surprised that you are not happy that the tariffs are reduced. Any representative of the people should be happy. I am happy that my people in Luangeni will again access cheaper tariffs. So, every Member of Parliament should be happy and commend the Government for that. Despite the challenges that we are having, tariffs were reduced. We must be happy as opposed to complaining, hon. Member. I will come to Chimwemwe and tell your people that your Member of Parliament is not happy.

ADJOURNMENT

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

Question put and agreed to.

_______

The House adjourned at 1757 hours until 1430 hours on Thursday, 6^th November, 2025.

____________

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