Tuesday, 9th December, 2025

Tuesday, 9^th December, 2025

The House met at 1430 hours

[MADAM SPEAKER in the Chair]

NATIONAL ANTHEM

PRAYER

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ANNOUNCEMENTS BY MADAM SPEAKER

ACTING LEADER OF GOVERNMENT BUSINESS IN THE HOUSE

Madam Speaker: Hon. Members, I have received communication to the effect that in the absence of Her Honour the Vice-President, who is attending to other Government Business, the Minister of Defence, Hon. Ambrose L. Lufuma, MP, has been appointed Acting Leader of Government Business in the House from today, Tuesday, 9^th December, 2025, until further notice.

I thank you.

PUPILS AND TEACHERS FROM ST. VINCENT PALLOTI CATHOLIC SCHOOL

Madam Speaker: Hon. Members, I wish to recognise the presence, in the Public Gallery, of pupils and teachers from St. Vincent Palloti Catholic 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 B. MPUNDU, MEMBER OF PARLIAMENT FOR NKANA, ON THE ACTING LEADER OF GOVERNMENT BUSINESS IN THE HOUSE AND MINISTER OF DEFENCE, HON. LUFUMA, ON HOUSES DEMOLISHED IN KASOMPE

Mr B. Mpundu (Nkana): On an Urgent Matter without Notice, Madam Speaker.

Madam Speaker: An Urgent Matter without Notice is raised.

Mr B. Mpundu: Madam Speaker, I rise on an Urgent Matter without Notice, which matter I wish to direct at the Acting Leader of Government Business in the House.

Madam Speaker, the rainy season is such a time when even animals look for shelter. The United Party for National Development (UPND) Government has found it convenient to demolish people’s houses in Kasompe, Chingola, during the rainy season. Interestingly, this exercise was conducted by army officers. We all know that army officers are not trained to handle civilians. In the process of this exercise, families were beaten and disturbed by this action. As we speak, some people are fighting for their lives in hospitals.

Madam Speaker, is the Leader of Government Business in the House in order to sit in this august House and not inform the nation why the Government has found it convenient to carry out this exercise now, when all along it watched those people build houses? The Government has demolished those people’s houses in the rainy season. Worse, it used army officers to conduct that exercise, who ended up beating people mercilessly.

Madam Speaker, I seek your indulgence.

Madam Speaker: Thank you very much, hon. Member for Nkana. I suggest that you file an urgent question or a question, so that it can be handled by the Acting Leader of Government Business in the House. The Clerks-at-the-Table will decide whether it qualifies to be an urgent or just an ordinary question. After the question regarding visas was raised, I now have to be very cautious in admitting some statements because I do not have any evidence or proof of what exactly happened.

So, the matter is not admitted. The hon. Member is advised to find other ways and means of bringing that issue to the Floor of the House.

MR CHISOPA, MEMBER OF PARLIAMENT FOR MKUSHI SOUTH, ON THE HON. MINISTER OF COMMERCE, TRADE AND INDUSTRY, ON THE NEW SYSTEM AT THE ZAMBIA REVENUE AUTHORITY

Mr Chisopa (Mkushi South): On an Urgent Matter without Notice, Madam Speaker.

Madam Speaker: An Urgent Matter without Notice is raised.

Mr Chisopa: Madam Speaker, my matter is directed at the hon. Minister of Finance and National Planning, but I cannot see him in the House. The hon. Minister of Commerce, Trade and Industry is also not in the House. The Leader of Government Business –

Madam Speaker: Order!

Hon. Member, just indicate which hon. Minister you want to direct the matter at, and then it will be tackled accordingly.

Mr Chisopa: Madam Speaker, I will direct it at the hon. Minister of Commerce, Trade and Industry.

Madam Speaker, the survival of the Government or the economy is dependent on the revenue collected by the Zambia Revenue Authority (ZRA) through taxes. One of the taxes that ZRA collects is duty paid on imports.

Madam Speaker, ZRA has introduced a new system to collect duty. That system is causing serious congestion at all borders, thereby, reducing tax collection and causing clients to pay extra charges.

Madam Speaker, is the hon. Minister of Commerce, Trade and Industry in order to not come to this House and tell us about the new system that ZRA has introduced? Instead of having a new system, ZRA could have had two parallel systems, that is, the old and the new, to facilitate the movement of goods and services.

Madam Speaker, I seek your serious indulgence.

Madam Speaker: Hon. Member for Mkushi South, please, file a question because you are not even clear what systems are being used; you have not named them. So, it is difficult for me to conclude what systems are being used. You have not named them. Probably, you will be clearer if you file a question. So, the matter is not admitted.

We make progress.

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MINISTERIAL STATEMENT

THE CONFERENCE OF THE PARTIES ON CLIMATE CHANGE

The Minister of Green Economy and Environment (Mr Mposha): Madam Speaker, I wish to thank you for according me this opportunity to update this House and the nation at large on the proceedings and the outcomes of the Thirteenth Session of the Conference of the Parties (COP) on Climate Change.

Madam Speaker, allow me to begin by giving a brief background on COP meetings. The COP is the supreme decision-making body of the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC), and is made up of countries that are state parties to the Convention. The House may wish to note that Zambia is a party to the UNFCCC and its subsidiary instruments, including the Kyoto Protocol and the Paris Agreement. The main objective of the UNFCCC is to stabilise greenhouse gas concentrations to prevent dangerous human interface with the climate system. This goal is pursued by enabling ecosystems to adapt naturally to climate change, ensuring that food production is not threatened and allowing for sustainable economic development. It is important to note that COP meets annually to review implementation of the provisions of the Convention by all countries and to give policy guidance for the coming year.

Madam Speaker, the COP30 meeting took place in Belem, Brazil, in the Amazonia region from 10^th to 21^st November, 2025. The conference was preceded by a World Leader Summit convened by the President of Brazil, His Excellency Luiz Ignacio Lula de Silva, from 6^th to 7^th November, 2025.

Madam Speaker, this summit was attended by fifty-six Presidents and Heads of State and Government. I was privileged to lead the Zambian delegation and also represented His Excellency President Hakainde Hichilema at both the leaders’ summit and the conference. The COP30 meeting was multifaceted. The session also built on the outcomes of earlier COPs whilst trying to catalyse a new phase of action, implementation and global mobilisation. Specifically, COP30 was aimed at strengthening global climate ambition by guiding countries as they prepare enhanced 2035 Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs).

Madam Speaker, the conference was also intended to translate the first global stocktake into concrete actions to bridge the identified gaps on mitigation, finance and resilience building. The host country, Brazil, characterised COP30 as an implementation COP and wanted to launch a decisive decade of implementation, shifting from commitments to measurable, accelerated delivery of climate action.

Madam Speaker, COP30 culminated into the Belem package, which prioritises the most vulnerable populations in climate policy. Further, a new fund for protecting tropical rainforests called the Tropical Forest Forever Facility was set up. The fund received pledges of over US$5 billion at the conference.

Madam Speaker, let me now share some of the specific outcomes from COP30 as contained in the Belem package.

Madam Speaker, adaptation finance is funding that helps countries to cope with climate impacts already unfolding such as building flood-resilient roads and improving water storage during droughts. Adaptation finance also includes expanding early warning systems. At the COP30, countries decided that adaptation finance should increase threefold to around US$120 billion per year by 2035. While this is not yet a binding commitment, it is a major political signal.

Madam Speaker, the current funding levels for adaptation estimated to be around US$40 billion per year fall far short of what vulnerable countries need and impacts are accelerating quickly. A clear expectation to scale up resources over the next decade gives international institutions and national Governments direction even as the details of contributions still need to be negotiated.

Madam Speaker, the House may wish to note that the current NDCs, while providing progress if implemented, are falling short of reaching the mitigation necessary to avoid exceeding 1.5 ºC in warming. In an effort to bridge the gap between current climate targets and the 1.5 ºC goal, COP established two initiatives designed to support nations in strengthening and achieving their commitments. The Belem mission of achieving the 1.5 ºC goal aims to encourage high ambition in national climate plans by fostering dialogue on the necessary international co-operation and investment. This is complemented by the global implementation accelerator, a voluntary and co-operative platform, intended to assist countries in moving from planning to action, facilitating the practical delivery of mitigation and adaptation measures needed to meet these goals.

Madam Speaker, a just transition mechanism was established to support countries as they transition towards low-carbon development. In line with Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), a just transition refers to the idea that climate action should not leave anyone behind. In particular, a just transition pays special attention to countries, communities and workers whose livelihoods depend on fossil fuels or carbon-intensive sectors. It also means giving developing countries support, including funding, because they need to grow their economies in cleaner and more resilient ways.

Madam Speaker, the new Belem Action Mechanism will serve as a platform to co-ordinate assistance, share best practices, mobilise resources and track progress. Its establishment means that fairness in the global shift towards sustainable economies is no longer only a political slogan, but now has a formal home within the United Nations (UN) climate system.

Madam Speaker, countries agreed on indicators for the global goal on adaptation. For years, parties have been trying to define how to measure global progress on adaptation, which is a very difficult task considering that climate resilience looks different from one country to another and even from place to place within each country.

Madam Speaker, COP30 finally produced an agreed set of indicators for the global goal on adaptation. These will help evaluate improvements in areas such as water security, food systems, infrastructure resilience, strengthening of early warning systems, as well as access to adaptation finance. It must be noted that negotiations on this issue were very difficult and many Governments stressed that the indicators will need further refinement, leaving significant work for coming COPs. However, having a first version in place gives countries a common framework to assess whether adaptation efforts are on track.

Madam Speaker, the outcome of phasing out fossil fuels could not be reached, but the momentum may build elsewhere as many Governments and civil society groups arrived in Belem calling for a clear commitment to phase out fossil fuels. Together, these outcomes show both movement and limitations. The COP30 delivered new tools, clearer expectations and new co-operative spaces, but also highlighted where global ambition still lags behind what climate science demands. The year ahead will determine whether countries can turn these outcomes into meaningful action before COP31.

Madam Speaker, let me now highlight some of the strides Zambia made at COP30.

Madam Speaker, I had bilateral engagements with various countries, notable among these were countries with which we are co-operating with on various issues, including climate change. In addition, we also engaged with new potential bilateral partners. The key highlight of these engagements was the signing of a bilateral agreement of co-operation with Switzerland on Article 6 of the Paris Agreement on 20^th November, 2025. Under this agreement, Switzerland will be one of the off-takers of carbon credits generated from projects implemented in our country. I need to indicate here, that Switzerland joins countries such as Norway and Sweden, which have already signed such agreements with Zambia.

In addition, a similar bilateral agreement negotiation with Singapore has reached an advanced stage. These agreements demonstrate Zambia’s position on the carbon market and will translate into tangible benefits, including the creation of jobs and income opportunities for the country, and most importantly, for our communities.

Madam Speaker, engagements were also undertaken with multilateral and international organisations. These included the Climate Investment Fund (CIF) of the World Bank, the African Development Bank (AfDB), the Executive Director of the Fund for Responding to Loss and Damage (FRLD) and the Nationally Determined Contribution (NDC) Partnership, to mention a few. Zambia is scheduled to host a meeting of the board of the FRLD in April, 2026. So, my meeting with the Executive Director was intended to compare notes on the preparations for hosting that event. I can confirm that we are more than ready to host the event, as the first African country to do so since the establishment of the fund. The House may also recall that in August this year, Zambia hosted the Global Expo on National Adaptation Plans (NAP Expo), indicating the country’s growing influence in the multilateral climate change process, as these events are competitive among member states.

Madam Speaker, I would be failing in delivering my statement if I did not take the time to thank His Excellency the President of the Republic of Zambia, Mr Hakainde Hichilema, for always encouraging us to look out for opportunities to host international conferences, which obviously have far-reaching benefits for our economy.

Madam Speaker, I would like to conclude by indicating that Zambia remains a respected and influential party to the climate change process. Our contributions both in the negotiation process and hosting of important and competitive events are a clear testimony to that. The country will remain committed to the global climate response, while strengthening its climate response at home.

Madam Speaker, once again, I thank you for this opportunity you gave me to render this Ministerial Statement.

Eng. Nzovu: Well done!

Madam Speaker: Hon. Members are now free to ask questions on points of clarification on the Ministerial Statement presented by the hon. Minister of Green Economy and Environment.

Mr Charles Mulenga (Kwacha): Thank you, Madam Speaker, for this opportunity you have given me to ask a question on a point of clarification.

Madam Speaker, I would also like to thank the hon. Minister for having attended that important global meeting where leaders from various countries come together to share ideas on how to protect our environment. However, I would like to know if there are clear benefits that African countries get from such engagements, considering that many similar engagements were held in the past, and yet the environment in most countries in Africa is deteriorating to the advantage of European activities. I would cite an example of charcoal burning, which is on the increase despite the fact that each time such engagements or conferences are held, millions of United States (US) Dollars are pledged to curb and reduce charcoal burning so that our environment can be sustained. Are such engagements yielding any positive results?

Mr Mposha: Madam Speaker, the benefits of attending such conferences are many. I take note of the hon. Member’s concern that the levels of deforestation are increasing. As I indicated in my Ministerial Statement, one of the key outcomes of COP30 is the facility that Brazil has established, which is meant to protect tropical forests, and Zambia has taken an interest. I mentioned that pledges of more than US$5 billion were made and Zambia registered its interest in that facility. Again, such a gathering is an opportunity to meet various co-operating partners. Some of the outcomes of COP29, which preceded COP30, such as the agreements we signed in Baku, are already yielding results. The Government is about to sign financing agreements with one of the countries we signed an agreement with at COP29. So, clearly, from that, you can see that the benefits are many.

Madam Speaker, I would also like to state that our engagements with various financing agents have, in the past, yielded many results and continue to do so in terms of Zambia receiving grants towards the fight against deforestation and our green growth agenda. So, the benefits are many. They might not be seen immediately, but as we go on, we will continue seeing the benefits of attending such meetings.

Madam Speaker, it is important to note, as I mentioned, that Zambia is party to the United Nations (UN) system, in which each member state sits at the table where key decisions are made on adaptation, mitigation and adaptation finance, and key reviews for the NDC, and adds its voice. Zambia was one of the eight African countries that met Mr Antonio Guterres, the UN Secretary-General, and had input on the African stance on many decisions that formed part of the key outcomes of COP30. So, indeed, such gatherings yield results, and will continue to do so.

I thank you, Madam Speaker.

Mr Mtayachalo (Chama North): Madam Speaker, thank you for giving me this opportunity to ask a question on a point of clarification. I would also like to thank the hon. Minister for the Ministerial Statement.

Madam Speaker, developed countries are the major culprits in terms of global warming. During the meeting of the Paris Club, developed countries committed about US$100 billion towards developing countries for climate change mitigation and adaptation. So, I would like to know how far they have gone to meet that commitment.

Mr Mposha: Madam Speaker, indeed, there was an undertaking to the effect that developed countries must contribute to dealing with the problem by financing climate change resilience building, adaptation and mitigation to the tune of US$3 billion per year. I agree with the question on the fact that least developed countries or, indeed, African countries, have contributed less to the problem of climate change. Our contribution to greenhouse gas emissions is less than 4 per cent. Developed countries have contributed more.

Madam Speaker, in terms of how far we have progressed on the US$3 billion pledge, I want to say that this is still an ongoing undertaking. There have not been key disbursements so far, but it remains an ongoing undertaking.

Madam Speaker, I thank you.

Madam Speaker: Hon. Minister of Green Economy and Environment.

Mr Mposha: I have finished answering the question, Madam Speaker.

Madam Speaker: Oh, he has finished. Sorry, I am lost.

Mr Kasandwe (Bangweulu): Madam Speaker, mine is just a concern. I attended the 30^thConference of the Parties to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (COP30) in Brazil. It is at such platforms that international agreements are born. I noticed during my interactions with other hon. Members of Parliament that several countries include hon. Members of Parliament in their delegations. The reason is simple. When international agreements are born from such engagements, they are ratified by Parliament. It is important that hon. Members of Parliament, once in a while, are part of this delegation so that when treaties are brought before the House for ratification, a number of them would have attended such engagements. It is very important.

Madam Speaker, I want to find out from the hon. Minister why Zambia is the only country that continuously leaves out hon. Members of Parliament from its delegations. I know that we have a Committee on International Agreements, a Committee on Lands and Natural Resources, and a Caucus on Climate Change. So, why are hon. Members of Parliament continuously left out on such delegations? At the end of the day, we are the ones who come to the House to ratify these international agreements.

Mr Mposha: Thank you, Madam Speaker, and I would like to also thank Hon. Kasandwe, Member of Parliament for Bangweulu, for that question or concern.

Madam Speaker, I take note of his concern and also accept the fact that it would be very good to carry along hon. Members of Parliament to such conferences, and we will consider this and ensure that we make improvements going forward.

I thank you, Madam Speaker.

Mr Mung’andu (Chama South): Madam Speaker, the United States (US) Government has been a major sponsor of many mitigation programmes. I know that in Chama South, the Frankfurt Zoological Society, which is involved in the conservation of both the environment and wildlife, has in the past received funding from the United States Agency for International Development (USAID). Now that the United States of America (USA) has indicated that it will not be funding any non-governmental organizations (NGOs) or agencies, did the 24^th Conference of the Parties to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (COP24), which the hon. Minister attended, discuss alternative funding for climate change to bridge the funding gap that the US Government is likely to create? I know that we, in third-world countries, will be the worst hit by this vacuum. Was there any such debate so that we can rest assured that, as a country, we are going to benefit from his engagement?

Mr Mposha: Madam Speaker, I thank Hon. Mung’andu for that question.

Madam Speaker, following the announcement by the US Government to cut funding, from COP29 in Baku, there have been discussions on how to enhance financing for adaptation, mitigation, and various interventions, given the US Government's announcement to reduce funding for these activities. Discussions have continued from COP29 to COP30, and we hope that the measures other developed countries have taken, in terms of pledges and funding agencies, will help fill the funding gap. As I said, Zambia will host the board meeting of the fund responsible for responding to loss and damage in April 2026. I am happy to mention that, for the first time since the establishment of this fund, it will now be looking at financing projects that will assist in the fight against climate change. So, the meeting here in Zambia, in April, will focus on projects submitted by various countries, particularly those in Africa that are most affected, and financing will be granted to the deserving countries. So, this kind of funding is also coming in to bridge the gap that has been created, and we are also looking at the broader perspective of various financing agencies to ensure that they bridge this gap.

I thank you, Madam Speaker.

Mr Katambo (Masaiti): Madam Speaker, the Brazilian President, Lula da Silva –.

Mr Mwiimbu, SC.: On a point of order, Madam Speaker.

Madam Speaker: A point of order is raised.

Mr Mwiimbu, SC.: Thank you, Madam Speaker. I rise on a very serious constitutional point of order, pursuant to Article 76 of the Constitution of Zambia and Standing Order No. 212.

Madam Speaker, you may not be aware that all of your hon. Members here, in this august House, including yourself, have been summoned to the Constitutional Court for contempt. This summons is by one Makebi Zulu and Company in the case of one convict Munir Zulu and another, vs the Attorney General.

Madam Speaker, to show that the matter is real and that hon. Members have been cited, I have in my hand a letter from MESSRS Makebi Zulu Advocates to Hon. Misheck Nyambose. For reference, it reads as follows:

“Munir Zulu and Another vs the Attorney General 2025/ CCZ/ 009.

The above-captured matter refers, kindly find enclosed herein by way of service upon yourselves the following documents:

amended summons to commence contempt and committal of proceeding with the retainable date of 9^th December, 2025 at 0900 hours before Hon. Justice J. Z. Mulongoti; and

affidavit in support of summons to commence contempt and committal of proceedings.

Please, acknowledge safe receipt of this letter”.

Madam Speaker: Hon. Member for Nakonde, you know very well that there can never be a point of order on another point of order. So, please, do not try to do my work. I will do my work at the right time. As you have heard, I have reserved my ruling. So, please, allow me to also do my work. Do not pre-empt. Do you have another point of order?

Laughter

Madam Speaker: Let us proceed.

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QUESTIONS FOR ORAL ANSWER

CONSTRUCTION OF A DUAL CARRIAGEWAY ON MUNGWI ROAD

117. Mr Hlazo (Chilanga) asked the Minister of Infrastructure, Housing and Urban Development:

whether the Government has any plans to construct a dual carriageway on Mungwi Road, from “70/70” road intersection to Mondengwa area in Chilanga District in order to decongest traffic;

if so, when the plans will be implemented; and

if there are no such plans, why.

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

Madam Speaker: Hon. Members, at the rate we are going, we will not be able to complete the business on the Order Paper. Today is the last day for the Committee of Supply. So, if you keep raising points of order, we will not move. We will just delay. This will be the last point of order that I am going to allow.

Hon. Member for Shiwang’andu, what is the point of order?

Mr Kampyongo: Madam Speaker, the point of order I am raising is pursuant to Standing Orders 57 and 82 respectively.

Madam Speaker, at this juncture, I should have utilised these two Standing Orders to pose a question, which was already processed and appeared on the Order Paper, where I was seeking to know the status of the draft Bill and the report that was submitted to His Excellency the President of the Republic of Zambia regarding the Constitution of Zambia (Amendment) Bill No. 7, which has now been resuscitated.

Madam Speaker, the question was processed and it was on the Order Paper up to the time I was going to attend the Committee sitting. I did not see the Order Paper that was circulated, but I am surprised that my question is not on the current Order Paper, and I was not notified about this in writing because I applied for that question in writing.

I seek your serious guidance on this matter.

Interruptions

Madam Speaker: Order, hon. Members!

Hon. Member for Shiwang’andu, that is an administrative matter. You cannot raise it as a point of order. Whom are you raising it on? It is an administrative matter and I am sure you were engaged and informed of why the question was removed. So, I do not want to discuss that matter on the Floor of this House. If you want any discussion, you can come to my chambers.

The Minister of Infrastructure, Housing and Urban Development (Eng. Milupi): Madam Speaker, the Government has plans to construct a dual carriageway on Mungwi Road from 70/70 Road intersection to Mondengwa area in Chilanga District in order to decongest traffic.

Madam Speaker, the plans will be implemented once funds have been secured from the Treasury.

Madam Speaker, as indicated above, the Government has plans to decongest traffic by building a dual carriageway on Mungwi Road from the 70/70 intersection to Mondengwa area in Chilanga District.

I thank you, Madam Speaker.

Mr Hlazo: Madam Speaker, when is the Government going to undertake a feasibility study to warrant the upgrading of this road?

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

Madam Speaker, the Government is aware of the traffic congestion being caused by the increase in industrial activities in Chilanga District. Accordingly, the Road Development Agency (RDA), working with Chilanga Town Council, will carry out an assessment of the said road to determine the best intervention, especially in 2026. Based on the results of the assessment, the road will be constructed into a dual carriageway subject to the availability of funds. However, I must make it clear that the congestion in that area is during peak hours between 0600 hours to 0800 hours, 1200 hours to 1400 hours and 1600 hours to 1800 hours. In the meantime, the Zambia Police Service can help reduce congestion through traffic control and management during the peak hours.

I thank you, Madam Speaker.

Mr J. Chibuye (Roan): Madam Speaker, I would like to thank the hon. Minister for the response.

Madam Speaker, since the hon. Minister talked about congestion, allow me to state that the road from Ndola to Lusaka is gradually getting into shape. As of yesterday, –

Madam Speaker: Order, hon. Member!

Let us stick to the question. We do not have much time. This is a constituency-based question.

Mr J. Chibuye: Madam Speaker, thank you very much for your guidance.

Madam Speaker, the hon. Minister said that the road will be worked on once funds are available. Does the ministry know the stretch, in terms of kilometres, that will be worked on and approximately, how much will it cost to construct the dual carriageway?

Eng. Milupi: Madam Speaker, I thank the hon. Member for Roan, especially for the first part, where I was going to be praised for having cleared the congestion between six miles and ten miles. However, –

Mr J. Chibuye: Congratulations, hon. Minister!

Eng. Milupi: Thank you for that.

Madam Speaker, the feasibility study that will be undertaken by Chilanga Town Council is what will determine exactly which parts need the dual carriageway. So, that has to wait until the study is completed.

I thank you, Madam Speaker.

Madam Speaker: Sorry, hon. Member for Roan. You can congratulate the hon. Minister outside. For now, we are doing serious business. We need to move.

Laughter

Mr Charles Mulenga (Kwacha): Madam Speaker, I am grateful for the opportunity you have given me.

Madam Speaker, once funds are available to undertake this project, will the Government be in a position –

Mr Mtolo interjected.

Mr Charles Mulenga: Madam Speaker, can I be protected from the hon. Minister of Agriculture, who is trying to do something that I cannot understand?

Madam Speaker: If you cannot understand, why are you scared? Please, proceed.

Laughter

Mr Charles Mulenga: Madam Speaker, as the Government looks for funds to undertake this particular programme, does it have plans to put up a toll gate along that stretch just like it did in Shimabala and ten miles in Lusaka?

Laughter

Madam Speaker: Let us proceed.

_______

QUESTIONS FOR ORAL ANSWER

CONSTRUCTION OF A DUAL CARRIAGEWAY ON MUNGWI ROAD

117. Mr Hlazo (Chilanga) asked the Minister of Infrastructure, Housing and Urban Development:

whether the Government has any plans to construct a dual carriageway on Mungwi Road, from “70/70” road intersection to Mondengwa area in Chilanga District in order to decongest traffic;

if so, when the plans will be implemented; and

if there are no such plans, why.

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

Hon. Member for Shiwang’andu, what is the point of order?

Mr Kampyongo: Madam Speaker, the point of order I am raising is pursuant to Standing Orders 57 and 82 respectively.

I seek your serious guidance on this matter.

Interruptions

Madam Speaker: Order, hon. Members!

Madam Speaker, the plans will be implemented once funds have been secured from the Treasury.

Madam Speaker, as indicated above, the Government has plans to decongest traffic by building a dual carriageway on Mungwi Road from the 70/70 intersection to Mondengwa area in Chilanga District.

I thank you, Madam Speaker.

Mr Hlazo: Madam Speaker, when is the Government going to undertake a feasibility study to warrant the upgrading of this road?

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

I thank you, Madam Speaker.

Mr J. Chibuye (Roan): Madam Speaker, I would like to thank the hon. Minister for the response.

Madam Speaker, since the hon. Minister talked about congestion, allow me to state that the road from Ndola to Lusaka is gradually getting into shape. As of yesterday, –

Madam Speaker: Order, hon. Member!

Let us stick to the question. We do not have much time. This is a constituency-based question.

Mr J. Chibuye: Madam Speaker, thank you very much for your guidance.

Mr J. Chibuye: Congratulations, hon. Minister!

Eng. Milupi: Thank you for that.

I thank you, Madam Speaker.

Madam Speaker: Sorry, hon. Member for Roan. You can congratulate the hon. Minister outside. For now, we are doing serious business. We need to move.

Laughter

Mr Charles Mulenga (Kwacha): Madam Speaker, I am grateful for the opportunity you have given me.

Madam Speaker, once funds are available to undertake this project, will the Government be in a position –

Mr Mtolo interjected.

Mr Charles Mulenga: Madam Speaker, can I be protected from the hon. Minister of Agriculture, who is trying to do something that I cannot understand?

Madam Speaker: If you cannot understand, why are you scared? Please, proceed.

Laughter

Eng. Milupi: Madam Speaker, I think, the hon. Member’s question relates to the installation of a toll plaza on a particular section of the road. There are conditions that determine where tollgates can be installed, such as the length of travel for the payments that motorists make. As of now, it has not been seen as prudent or suitable to install a toll plaza on such a short stretch of road. That might change in the future, as the Government works out further measures to decongest many of our urban areas, especially Lusaka.

I thank you, Madam Speaker.

Mr Chibombwe interjected.

Madam Speaker: Hon. Member for Bahati, that was a late indication. I closed the chance for indications.

Hon. Member for Chilanga, do you have another question?

Mr Hlazo indicated dissent.

Madam Speaker: You are done? You are satisfied?

Mr Hlazo indicated assent.

Madam Speaker: So, we make progress.

I am looking at the time, hon. Members. If you want to ask questions, please, indicate in good time.

CONSTRUCTION OF MBASWA DAM IN SERENJE

118. Mr Kandafula (Serenje) asked the Minister of Water Development and Sanitation:

when the Government will resume the construction of Mbaswa Dam in Serenje Parliamentary Constituency;

at what percentage of completion the project was as of August, 2025;

what the cause of the delay in completing the project is;

what the cost of the outstanding works is; and

when the project will be completed.

The Minister of Water Development and Sanitation (Eng. Nzovu): Madam Speaker, the Government will resume the construction of the Mbaswa Dam, hopefully, during the second quarter of 2026.

Madam Speaker, the percentage of completion still stands at 10 per cent as of August, 2025, following the termination of the contract.

Madam Speaker, the delay in completing the works is due to the poor performance of the contractor, which led to the termination of the contract.

Madam Speaker, the cost of the outstanding works at the time of termination of the contract was estimated at K12 million.

Madam Speaker, the project is estimated to be completed one year after signing of a new contract.

Madam Speaker, I thank you.

Mr Kandafula: Madam Speaker, I would like to thank the hon. Minister for the good answers he has given.

Madam Speaker, I think, I will subtract one answer out of the five he has given for a simple reason. The hon. Minister has told us that the project will be completed in the second quarter of 2026. I think, the money for the project was sourced. So, it was just a question of terminating the contract and then starting to put up the structure with another contractor. I am envisaging that as we are facing the problem of climate change, we can take advantage of the heavy rainfall currently being experienced in Serenje, in case we do not get good rainfall in the coming years. What urgent measures can the Government put in place so that the people of Serenje can access the nice water that they are waiting for?

Eng. Nzovu: Madam Speaker, I would like to thank the hon. Member of Parliament for that very important question.

Madam Speaker, I am aware that the people of Serenje need water from the Mbaswa Dam. The hon. Member and I have had discussions on this matter for a very long time. Following the termination of the contract, the Government tried to recover the funds. The matter was even taken to court. The matter has since been taken out of court and the Government is discussing with the contractor to see how an amicable settlement can be reached. That is why I estimated that construction would resume in the second quarter of 2026. The second quarter is the starting period, not the end period for the project. So, we are hoping that the project will resume next year.

Madam Speaker, as the hon. Member has stated, the money was already sourced. There is a budget line for the Mbaswa Dam, but construction will only resume following the conclusion of various issues surrounding the project. I would like to assure the people of Serenje that the Government will do everything possible to ensure that the dam is constructed in time.

Madam Speaker, I thank you.

Mr Chala (Chipili): Thank you, Madam Speaker.

Madam Speaker, does the Government have a timeframe for when the new contractor will be given the contract to be on site?

Eng. Nzovu: Madam Speaker, I have stated clearly that the Government hopes that the construction of the dam will resume in the second quarter of 2026. The estimate is that it will take one year to complete the construction works, which means that it is expected to be completed in the second quarter of 2027.

Madam Speaker, I thank you.

Mr Kandafula: Madam Speaker, since there will be a delay of a year plus, does the Government have plans currently to create a distribution system so that the people of Serenje can be connected immediately after the completion of the dam?

Eng. Nzovu: Madam Speaker, the Government has a comprehensive plan. We believe that the Mbaswa Dam will serve the people of Serenje well. On several occasions, the hon. Member and I have discussed the protection of the aquifer where the underground water is being sourced. We also know that the ministry has funded the Lukanga Water Supply and Sanitation Company (LgWSC) to ensure that the water distribution system is expanded. So, the distribution system will be expanded.

Madam Speaker, at the same time, let me state to the hon. Member that the aquifer is important to Serenje. The Government is protecting it to ensure that there is no encroachment on it, as it is the most reliable source of water at present. So, the short answer is yes, the Government is ready to roll out the plans as soon as the dam is constructed.

Madam Speaker, I thank you.

UPGRADING SELECTED ROADS TO BITUMINOUS STANDARD IN MPIKA

119. Mr Kandafula (on behalf of Mr Kapyanga (Mpika)) asked the Minister of Local Government and Rural Development:

whether the Government has any plans to upgrade, to bituminous standard, the following township roads in Mpika District:

Musakanya/Kombe Drive;
Kalolo/Market Road;
Old Zanaco/Boma Road;
Lake Oil/Musakanya Road;
Market/Mpika Boys Road;
Eco/Tazara Road;
Kamwanya roads; and
Chitulika roads;

if so, when the plans will be implemented; and

if there are no such plans, why.

Eng. Milupi (on behalf of the Minister of Local Government and Rural Development (Mr Sialubalo)): Madam Speaker, the Government has plans to upgrade the following roads in Mpika Parliamentary Constituency to bituminous standard:

Musakanya/Kombe Drive;

Chisanga;

Chitulika;

Kamwanya;

Kalolo;

Kalolo/Trench Town;

Mpika Boys Secondary School/St. Andrew’s Catholic Church;

Musakanya Primary School/Lake Oil Filling Station; and

Mpika Market/Mpika Boys Secondary School.

Madam Speaker, the plans will be implemented as soon as the Government sources funds for the upgrading.

Madam Speaker, plans are there to upgrade the roads. Therefore, part (c) of the question falls off.

I thank you, Madam Speaker.

Mr Mukosa (Chinsali): Madam Speaker, the answer that the hon. Minister has given is very subjective. This habit of hon. Ministers always telling us, Members of Parliament, that they will do the work when the money is available is not acceptable. They need to give us proper timelines so that we can explain to the people, to whom we are answerable. So, the people of Mpika would like to know when exactly the Government intends to upgrade those roads. When will the money be available? The hon. Minister of Finance and National Planning is seated right next to him there. He should ask him so that he can provide the answer to the people of Mpika.

Interruptions

Madam Speaker: Today, it is ‘hot, hot!’

Laughter

Eng. Milupi: Madam Speaker, thank you very much. That is why a certain party went out of the Government, if that is how they were allocating money. They think that because the hon. Minister of Finance and National Planning is close to me, he can just tell me, “Here is the money, go and do it”.

Hon. Government Member: Here is K50,000. How?

Laughter

Eng. Milupi: Hon. Member for Chinsali, that is not how the Government works. The issue really is with township roads and, indeed, any other roads in this country. It is the Government’s plan to make the roads as motorable as possible, and where possible, upgrade them to bituminous standards, especially in townships. People have seen what we do. Where we have big projects passing through particular towns or urban centres, we do allocate some township roads in those areas. So, with respect to the roads that are listed here, they are in the townships of Mpika. However, when we say that work will be done when resources are available, that is a genuine answer. We cannot undertake any project without the availability of resources. If the hon. Member is asking me to state exactly when the work will be done, then we can go into defining what problems we have, what we are doing to improve the economy, and when we think the economy will be in such a state that we can undertake some of this work. However, I do not think that is necessary. Suffice it to say that the Government does have plans to upgrade those roads, like any other roads, and this will be done when the economy can stand and money is made available.

I thank you, Madam Speaker.

Mr Kandafula (Serenje): Madam Speaker, given the country’s coffers, is there another way to work on the nine roads, probably grouping them into three sets so that at least, the first three can be worked on, and the people in Mpika can smile?

Eng. Milupi: Madam Speaker, what is applicable to Mpika is also applicable to Serenje and, indeed, many other towns. The question was specific to upgrading the roads to bituminous standards. In the interim, there are options that can be used to ensure these roads are motorable, such as what has been done through the Constituency Development Fund (CDF); the procurement of yellow machines, which can grade some of these roads. So, the answer to the question the hon. Member for Serenje asked, is that, in the meantime, these are the options that can be used to ensure that our citizens, those serviced by these roads, can at least motor properly whilst waiting for what this question is asking about, which is upgrading the roads to bituminous standards.

I thank you, Madam Speaker.

Mr Kampyongo (Shiwang’andu): Thank you so much, Madam Speaker, for allowing me to ask a question. However, before I do, permit me to place on record the condolences from Shiwang’andu Constituency to the hon. Minister of Local Government and Rural Development, Kasama Municipal Council, the people of Kasama and the Kasama Diocese, over the loss of Her Worship, the Mayor of Kasama, Madam Theresa Mulenga Kolala. May her soul rest in peace.

Madam Speaker, the question asked by the hon. Member of Parliament for Mpika is not new. It has been raised before, and I think that the same assurances were given. That is why the hon. Member of Parliament for Chinsali came out in the manner he did.

Madam Speaker, we are now considering the Budget for the next fiscal year. We have not seen any provision for the roads in question, and the same is true of the proposed provincial budget. Would the hon. Minister be kind enough to just share with the people of Mpika, when he thinks they can be catered for in terms of improving the roads they have spoken about? This is because that part forms the Central Business District (CBD) of Mpika. Some of the roads were done before, but then, the contracts for the remaining road network that was to be done were terminated.

Eng. Milupi: Madam Speaker, I thank the hon. Member for Shiwang’andu for the calm manner in which he has asked the question, compared to the previous one.

Madam Speaker, we are all anxious to see our roads improved to the best possible condition, and so far, the best condition is the bituminous standard. Not every road being worked on is listed in the Yellow Book as such, not even in the hon. Minister of Finance and National Planning’s speech to this House. What is allocated to ministries, including the Ministry of Local Government and Rural Development and the Ministry of Infrastructure, Housing and Urban Development, is the road sector budget. It is within this budget that some of these roads are catered for.

Madam Speaker, I mentioned that where we have major roads passing through townships, we have endeavored, as the Government to ensure that there are some improvements in the township roads along the major road. Currently, we are finalising the procurement process under the World Bank TRACER (Transport Corridors for Economic Resilience) project. Money from the World Bank has been allocated for the Serenje to Mpika Road. Once this is finalised, as we have done elsewhere, there is a strong possibility that similar improvements might be made in the Mpika and Serenje areas, even though the hon. Member of Parliament for Serenje has left the House. This is how our methodical Government works on projects that are sustainable.

I thank you, Madam Speaker.

Mr Chala (Chipili): Madam Speaker, as we are waiting for the money to be available, I would like to know from the hon. Minister whether he has conducted any feasibility studies that would guide him so that when money is available, he can simply look at the feasibility studies already conducted.

Eng. Milupi: Madam Speaker, these are township roads, and I think that for the hon. Member for Mpika to raise this question, it means he has liaised with the local authority within Mpika, which is Mpika Town Council.

Madam Speaker, really, the sort of information he is asking for concerning a full feasibility study does not apply to short roads. When resources are available, either under a variation of a major contract or under direct funding, whatever is required to be done shall be done.

I thank you, Madam Speaker.

Mr Mwambazi (Bwana Mkubwa): Madam Speaker, my question has been overtaken by events.

I thank you, Madam Speaker.

Ms Chonya (Kafue): Madam Speaker, I just want to be very clear on this matter. I want to get the hon. Minister’s comment again on the current policy on construction of bituminous roads in townships, so that the people of Mpika and indeed the people of Kafue can have an idea when the Government is likely to start working on township roads because they are in a deplorable state.

Madam Speaker: Now you have expanded the question; I do not know if the hon. Minister is ready to answer that.

Eng. Milupi: Madam Speaker, I thank the hon. Member for Kafue for that question.

Madam Speaker, the point we are making is that as we improve the country, there is an ultimate goal to which we want to take it. The ultimate goal, in terms of infrastructure development, is to see all our roads in the best condition possible. However, that has to be alongside the growth and improvement in the economy and the availability of resources. If we had a US$500 billion economy, we could stand here and say that all township roads would be bituminous. However, we are not there yet. As we improve the economy, some of these issues will be tackled.

Madam Speaker, I think, it is the desire of everybody including hon. Members of Parliament and the Government to have the country get as many bituminous roads as possible. This is because bituminous roads have certain advantages; they last longer and require less maintenance, if done properly. They can also help to improve the economy. The factor constraining the construction of bituminous roads will always be the state of the economy. That is why we ask all of us here to always have the desire to do what we can to help grow the economy. The President is working.

I thank you, Madam Speaker.

_______

COMMITTEE OF SUPPLY

[THE DEPUTY CHAIRPERSON OF COMMITTEES in the

Chair]

(Consideration resumed)

VOTE 03 – (National Assembly – K1,581,275,093)

The Minister of Defence and Acting Leader of Government Business in the House (Mr Lufuma): Mr Chairperson, I beg to move that K1,581,275,093 be approved in respect of Vote 03, National Assembly, to meet the expenditure for the year ending the 31^st December, 2026.

I thank you, Mr Chairperson.

The Minister of Infrastructure, Housing and Urban Development (Eng. Milupi) (on behalf of the Minister of Finance and National Planning (Dr Musokotwane)): Mr Chairperson, an additional K74.2 million has been proposed for the 2026 Budget for the National Assembly for enhanced Parliamentary activities in 2026, such as general operations of the National Assembly and its constituency offices. The fund will be used for recruitment, recurrent expenditures as well as capital expenditures for various items.

Mr Chairperson, I beg to move an amendment on Page 33, Table 1: Budget Allocation by Economic Classification.

under item 21: Personal Emoluments; by the deletion of K1,192,076,705 and the substitution therefor of K1,209,276,705;

under item 22: Goods and Services; by the deletion of K329,119,053 and the substitution therefor of K372,023,573; and

under item 31: Assets; by the deletion of K60,079,334 and the substitution therefor of K74,176,134.

Mr Chairperson, the adjustment is most welcome as it will take care of the additional expenses.

I thank you, Mr Chairperson.

Mr Kampyongo (Shiwang’andu): Mr Chairperson, with your indulgence, I would like to make my submissions in camera, because of the nature of the vote.

Mr Chairperson, thank you for this opportunity.

Interruptions

Mr Kampyongo: Mr Chairperson, I am told that there are still strangers.

The Deputy Chairperson: All strangers are advised to leave.

You may proceed, Mr Kampyongo.

Mr Kampyongo: Mr Chairperson, thank you so much for allowing us to debate our matters in camera, and I am happy that the substantive hon. Minister of Finance and National Planning has come back.

Mr Chairperson, I acknowledge the additional funding to the institution that the hon. Minister has announced. However, the funds might not be enough because there are new programmes. There is a new training institution that is going to be operationalised, which will be very critical, as we are going to receive new hon. Members after the general elections. Therefore, the training facility will be critical in ensuring capacity building for new hon. Members.

Mr Chairperson, in the new year, most of us will be retired by our people and it is important –

Hon. UPND Members: Question!

Mr Kampyongo: You can say “Question”. We have seen people come and go.

The Deputy Chairperson: Order!

Mr Kampyongo, avoid general debate. Just stick to the business.

Mr Kampyongo: Mr Chairperson, can an additional sum be considered because there are a number of things that we need to revise. There are personal issues regarding Presiding Officers, who have been left out on a number of issues. Our members of staff need to be motivated. We know that there was an announcement to recruit. It is important to recruit, but we should first take care and look after the members of staff we have before we can recruit. I am even worried that we are talking about additional numbers of electorates –

The Deputy Chairperson: Order, hon. Member!

Since we have a lot of business before us, I can confirm that this amendment means that whatever was projected by the National Assembly for 2026 has been granted.

Mr Kampyongo: Mr Chairperson, you mean it has been catered for.

The Deputy Chairperson: Yes, it has been granted. What we asked for has been granted. So, for any other things that may arise in due course, there is always room for a Supplementary Budget. However, with the inclusion of this amendment, it means that the hon. Minister of Finance and National Planning has done the needful for whatever we asked for, and we need to thank him for that.

Laughter

Mr Kampyongo: Mr Chairperson, with that assurance, I will sit down.

The Deputy Chairperson: Let us make progress.

Mr Kampyongo: Thank you so much.

Vote 03 ordered to stand part of the Estimates.

VOTE 46 – (Ministry of Health – K24,746,318,831)

The Minister of Health (Mr Muchima): Mr Chairperson, I beg to move that Vote K24,746,318,831 be approved in respect of Vote 46 – Minister of Health, to meet the expenditure for the year ending 31^st December, 2026.

I thank you, Mr Chairperson.

The Minister of Finance and National Planning (Dr Musokotwane): Mr Chairperson, I beg to move an amendment on Page 489, Programme Budget Allocation by Economic Classification, Programme 5599, Management and Support Services; Table 4; Programme Budget Allocation by Economic Classification.

Under item 03: Transfers; Sub-item 86: National Health Insurance Management Authority (NHIMA); by the deletion of K2,737,171 and the substitution therefor of K5,237,171.

Under item 04: Assets; Sub-item 01: Non-Financial Assets (Capital Expenditure); by the deletion of K13,532,501 and the substitution therefor of K11,032,501.

Amendment agreed to. Vote amended accordingly.

Vote 46, as amended, ordered to stand part of the Estimates.

VOTE 80 – (Ministry of Education – K30,590,689,212)

The Minister of Education (Mr Syakalima): Mr Chairperson, I beg to move that K30,590,689,212 be approved in respect of Vote 80 – Ministry of Education, to meet the expenditure for the year ending 31^st December, 2026.

I thank you, Mr Chairperson.

The Minister of Finance and National Planning (Dr Musokotwane): Mr Chairperson, I beg to move an amendment on Page 652, Programme 5503: Secondary Education, Table 4: Budget Allocation by Economic Classification:

Under item 03: Transfers, sub-item 26: School Feeding (Drought Response); by the deletion of 99, 960, 327.

Under item 03: Transfers, sub-item 29: Production Unit Grant; by the deletion of 5, 865, 327 and the substitution therefor of 105, 825, 654.

Amendment agreed to. Vote amended accordingly.

Vote 80, as amended, ordered to stand part of the Estimates.

VOTE 89 – (Ministry of Agriculture – K13,226,349,106)

The Minister of Agriculture (Mr Mtolo): Mr Chairperson, I beg to move that K13,142,147,086 be approved in respect of Vote 89 – Ministry of Agriculture, in line with the programmes as outlined in the Yellow Book for the year ending 31^st December, 2026.

The Deputy Chairperson: Excuse me, hon. Minister, I think you should repeat the figures. We are approving the Budget.

Mr Mtolo: Mr Chairperson, K13,152,147,786 –

The Deputy Chairperson: Hon. Minister, get another script. That figure is a bit different.

Mr Mtolo: Mr Chairperson, I beg to move that K13,226,349,106 be approved in respect of Vote 89 – Ministry of Agriculture, in line with the programmes as outlined in the Yellow Book for the year ending 31^st December, 2026.

I thank you, Mr Chairperson.

Dr Musokotwane: Mr Chairperson, I beg to move the following amendment on page 728, Table 3: Budget Allocation by Programme and Sub-Programme:

Under Programme 2141: Agriculture Development and Productivity, Sub-Programme 7001: Farmer Input Support; by the deletion of K9,153,616,198 and the substitution therefor of K9,079,414,878.

Mr Chairperson, I thank you.

Amendment agreed to. Vote amended accordingly.

Vote 89, as amended, ordered to stand part of the Estimates.

VOTE 88 – (Office of the President – Muchinga Province – K118,274,424)

The Minister of Defence and Acting Leader of Government Business in the House (Mr Lufuma): Mr Chairperson, I beg to move that K118,274,424 be approved in respect of Vote 88 – Office of the President – Muchinga Province, in line with the programmes as outlined in the Yellow Book for the year ending 31^st December, 2026.

Mr Chairperson, I thank you.

Vote 88 ordered to stand part of the Estimates.

VOTE 90 – (Office of the President – Lusaka Province – K183,940,240)

The Minister for Lusaka Province (Mrs Mulyata): Mr Chairperson, I beg to move that K183,940,240 be approved in respect of Vote 90 – Office of the President – Lusaka Province, in line with the programmes as outlined in the Yellow Book for the year ending 31^stDecember, 2026.

Mr Chairperson, I thank you.

Vote 90 ordered to stand part of the Estimates.

VOTE 91 – (Office of the President – Copperbelt Province – K165,162,802)

The Minister for Copperbelt Province (Mr Matambo): Mr Chairperson, I beg to move that K165,162,802 be approved in respect of Vote 91 – Office of the President – Copperbelt Province, in line with the programmes as outlined in the Yellow Book for the year ending 31^st December, 2026.

Mr Chairperson, I thank you.

Vote 91 ordered to stand part of the Estimates.

VOTE 92 – (Office of the President – Central Province – K156,744,485)

The Minister of Defence and Acting Leader of Government Business in the House (Mr Lufuma) (on behalf of the Minister for Central Province (Mr Nkulukusa)): Mr Chairperson, I beg to move that K156,744,485 be approved in respect of Vote 92 – Office of the President – Central Province, to meet the expenditure for the year ending 31^st December, 2026.

I thank you, Mr Chairperson.

Vote 92 ordered to stand part of the Estimates.

VOTE 93 – (Office of the President – Northern Province – K149,986,865)

Mr Lufuma (on behalf of the Minister for Northern Province (Mr Mbao)): Mr Chairperson, I beg to move that K149,986,865 be approved in respect of Vote 93 – Office of the President – Northern Province, to meet the expenditure for the year ending 31^st December, 2026.

I thank you, Mr Chairperson.

Vote 93 ordered to stand part of the Estimates.

VOTE 94 – (Office of the President – Western Province – K167,245,939)

The Minister for Western Province (Mr Mbangweta): Mr Chairperson, I beg to move that K167,245,939 be approved in respect of Vote 94 – Office of the President – Western Province, to meet the expenditure for the year ending 31^st December, 2026.

I thank you, Mr Chairperson.

Vote 94 ordered to stand part of the Estimates.

VOTE 95 – (Office of the President – Eastern Province – K168,120,624)

The Minister for Eastern Province (Mr P. S. Phiri): Mr Chairperson, I beg to move that K168,120,624 be approved in respect of Vote 95 – Office of the President – Eastern Province, to meet the expenditure for the year ending 31^st December, 2026.

I thank you, Mr Chairperson.

Vote 95 ordered to stand part of the Estimates.

VOTE 96 – (Office of the President – Luapula Province – K152,894,911)

The Minister for Luapula Province (Mr N. Musonda): Mr Chairperson, I beg to move that K152,894,911 be approved in respect of Vote 96 – Office of the President – Luapula Province, to meet the expenditure for the year ending 31^st December, 2026.

I thank you, Mr Chairperson.

Vote 96 ordered to stand part of the Estimates.

VOTE 97 – (Office of the President – North-Western Province – K146,473,217)

The Minister for North-Western Province (Mr Lihefu): Mr Chairperson, I beg to move that K146,473,217 be approved in respect of Vote 97 – Office of the President – North-Western Province to meet the expenditure for the year ending 31^st December, 2026.

I thank you, Mr Chairperson.

Vote 97 ordered to stand part of the Estimates.

VOTE 98 – (Office of the President – Southern Province – K169,446,266)

The Minister for the Southern Province (Mr Nanjuwa): Mr Chairperson, I beg to move that K169,446,266 be approved in respect of vote 98 – Office of the President – Southern Province to meet the expenditure for the year ending 31^st December, 2026.

I thank you, Mr Chairperson.

Vote 98 ordered to stand part of the Estimates.

VOTE 99 – (Constitutional and Statutory Expenditure – Ministry of Finance and National Planning – K73,667,021,466)

The Minister of Finance and National Planning (Dr Musokotwane): Mr Chairperson, I beg to move that K73,667,021,466 be approved in respect of Vote 99 - Constitutional and Statutory Expenditure to meet the expenditure for the year ending 31^st December, 2026.

Vote 99 ordered to stand part of the Estimates.

The Chairperson: Order!

Business was suspended from 1640 hours until 1700 hours.

HOUSE RESUMED

[MADAM SPEAKER in the Chair]

Mr Mwiimbu, SC.: On a point of order, Madam.

Madam Speaker: A point of order is raised.

Mr Mwiimbu, SC.: Madam Speaker, I rise on a very serious point of order on Hon. Katotobwe.

Madam Speaker, is Hon. Katotobwe in order to remain quiet and to not express happiness that the Constitutional Court has thrown out the contempt of proceedings against hon. Members of this House?

I need your serious ruling, Madam Speaker.

Laughter

Hon. UPND Members: Hear, hear!

Madam Speaker: Thank you very much, hon. Minister of Home Affairs and Internal Security. I do not know what role the hon. Member for Luapula Province played in the contempt of court proceedings, but I thought he was one of the contemnors; the people who were alleged to have committed contempt.

Mr Mwiimbu, SC.: That is why he should express happiness, Madam Speaker.

Laughter

Madam Speaker: I do not know why he is not smiling, but he is smiling from –

Laughter

Madam Speaker: I was also going to ask hon. Members what was scaring you because there was no need to worry. The matter was dismissed with costs, for it was misconceived.

Hon. UPND Members: Hear, hear!

Madam Speaker: So, with that, we need to see the attire to celebrate the winning.

Hon. Members: Hear, hear!

The Estimates of Expenditure (Including Capital and Constitutional and Statutory Expenditure) for the year 1^st January, 2026, to 31^st December, 2026, were reported to the House as having passed through Committee with amendments.

Report Stage on Friday, 12^th December, 2025.

Madam Speaker: I feel like we should go on.

Hon. Members: Hear, hear!

_______

MOTION

ADJOURNMENT

The Minister of Defence and Acting Leader of Government Business in the House (Mr Lufuma): Madam Speaker, I beg to move that the House do now adjourn.

Question put and agreed to.

_______

The House adjourned at 1705 hours until 1430 hours on Wednesday, 10^th December, 2025.

____________

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