Friday, 13^th February, 2026

The House met at 0900 hours

[MADAM FIRST DEPUTY SPEAKER in the Chair]

NATIONAL ANTHEM

PRAYER

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ANNOUNCEMENTS BY MADAM FIRST DEPUTY SPEAKER

ACTING LEADER OF GOVERNMENT BUSINESS IN THE HOUSE

Madam First Deputy 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 Home Affairs and Internal Security, Hon. Jack J. Mwiimbu, SC., Member of Parliament, has been appointed Acting Leader of Government Business in the House from today, Friday, 13^th February, 2026, until further notice.

I thank you.

 

STUDENTS FROM LUSAKA SOUTH COLLEGE

Madam First Deputy Speaker: Hon. Members, I wish to recognise the presence, in the Public Gallery, of students from Lusaka South College in Lusaka District.

Hon. Members: Hear, hear!

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

I thank you.

PUPILS AND TEACHERS FROM NUCREST ACADEMY LIMITED

Madam First Deputy Speaker: Hon. Members, I wish to recognise the presence, in the Public Gallery, of pupils and teachers from Nucrest Academy Limited in Lusaka District.

Hon. Members: Hear, hear!

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

I thank you.

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BUSINESS STATEMENT

The Minister of Home Affairs and Internal Security and Acting Leader of Government Business in the House (Mr Mwiimbu, SC.): Madam Speaker, before I present the Business Statement, I wish to express my sincere condolences to the family of our dear citizen in Canada, whose child was among those who were shot dead at the school in British Colombia.

Madam Speaker, I wish to inform the House that the House Business Committee met on Thursday, 12^th February, 2026, to determine and schedule Business of the House for the period 17^th to 27^th February, 2026.

Madam Speaker, the House Business Committee resolved to lay before the House the following business for consideration in the next two weeks:

Announcements

The Hon. Madam Speaker will make announcements to the House, if there will be any.

Rulings

The Hon. Madam Speaker will render Rulings, if there will be any.

Ministerial Statements

Hon. Ministers will render Ministerial Statements on topical issues, if there will be any.

Private Member’s Motions

The following proposed Private Member’s Motion may be considered during the period:

1. Mr S. Chanda, MP, will move a Motion entitled, “Establish an Environmental Court within the High Court.” This will be considered on 10^th February, 2026;

1. Mr S. Chanda, MP, will move a Motion entitled, “Establish a Youth Agriculture Technology Fund (AGRITECH).” This will be considered on 19^th February, 2026;

1. Mr S. Chanda, MP, will move a Motion entitled, “Reserve 30 per cent of Government Procurement for Women and Youth-led Enterprises.”  This will be considered on 25^th February, 2026;

1. Mr S. Chanda, MP, will move a Motion entitled, “Establish Public-Private Partnerships for Rural Innovation and Agro Industry Parks in all Provinces.” This will be considered on 26^th February, 2026;

1. Mr M. Fube, MP, will move a Motion entitled, “Allocate a Percentage of the Constituency Development Fund to Sponsor Diploma and Degree Courses.” This will be considered on 26^th February, 2026; and

1. Mr M. Fube, MP, will move a Motion entitled, “Enable Local Authority to Return a Percentage of Toll Revenue Collected within their Jurisdiction.” This will be considered on 27^th February, 2026.

Bills

The following Bills will be considered:

1. The Agriculture Credit and Warehouse Receipts Bill, No. 34 of 2025. This will be at Second Reading stage and the date for consideration is 17^th February, 2026;

1. The Agricultural Marketing Bill, No. 35 of 2025. This will be at Second Reading stage and the date for consideration is 19^th February, 2026;

1. The Banking and Financial Services Bill, No. 36 of 2025. This will be at Second Reading stage and the date for consideration is 27^th February, 2026;

1. The Immigration Control Bill, No. 18 of 2025. This will be at Committee Stage and the date for consideration is 18^th February, 2026;

1. The Criminal Procedure Code (Amendment) Bill, No. 29 of 2025. This will be at Committee Stage and the date for consideration is yet to be determined;

1. The National Payment System Bill, No. 32 of 2025. This will be at Committee Stage and the date for consideration is 18^th February, 2026;

1. The Food Reserve Bill, No. 33 of 2026. This will be at Committee Stage and the date for consideration is 25^th February, 2026;

1. The State-Owned Enterprises Bill, No. 37 of 2025. This will be on Committee Stage and the date for consideration is 19^th February, 2026; and

1. The Zambia Deposit Insurance Corporation Bill, No. 38 of 2025. This will be at Committee Stage and the date for consideration is 18^th February, 2026.

Reports on International Conferences

Madam Speaker, Reports on International Conferences will be considered, if there will be any.

Parliamentary Committee Reports

Madam Speaker, Committee Reports will be considered, if there will be any.

Questions

Madam Speaker, forty-one Questions for Oral Answer are available for consideration. The Questions are contained in Appendix I of this statement, which will be circulated to all hon. Members. Further, the details to the Questions are contained in the Notices of Questions of 12^th September, 2025, 28^th September, 2025 and 4^th February, 2026, which have already been circulated to all hon. Members.

Questions on Standby

Madam Speaker, the Questions on Standby to replace Questions that may not be placed on the Order Paper on the designated day, due to unforeseen circumstances, are contained in Appendix II and will be circulated to all hon. Members as part of the Business Statement.

Suspension of Standing Orders

Madam Speaker, on Thursday, 19^th February, 2026, I will move a Motion to suspend relevant Standing Orders to enable the President of the Republic of Zambia, Mr Hakainde Hichilema, to address the House on the Progress Made in the Application of National Values and Principles on Friday, 20^th February, 2026.

Presidential Address

Madam Speaker, Mr Hakainde Hichilema, President of the Republic of Zambia, will address the House on Friday, 20^th February, 2026, on the Progress Made in the Application of National Values and Principles.

Motion of Thanks

Madam Speaker, the Motion of Thanks to the President’s Address will commence on Tuesday, 24^th February, 2026, and will continue for a period of ten Sitting Days up to Wednesday, 11^th March, 2026.

Madam Speaker, on behalf of the House Business Committee, and in accordance with Order No. 44 of the National Assembly Standing Orders, 2024, I have the pleasure to present the business for the next two weeks to this august House.

I thank you, Madam Speaker.

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URGENT MATTERS WITHOUT NOTICE

MR B. MPUNDU, HON. MEMBER FOR NKANA, ON THE MINISTER OF HOME AFFAIRS AND INTERNAL SECURITY, MR MWIIMBU, SC., ON THE REMOVAL OF ROADBLOCKS

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

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

Mr B. Mpundu: Madam Speaker, the Urgent Matter without Notice I wish to raise is directed to the hon. Minister of Home Affairs and Internal Security.

Madam Speaker, I was just reading a notice by the police command around the suspension of roadblocks. In as much as roadblocks are an inconvenience to the travelling public, it is important to explain why such a big decision is made, every time it is made, in order to avoid anxiety and apprehension. You recall that when a similar decision was made some time back, there were speculations to the effect that we, as a country, facilitated illegalities, to a point where we were accused of having facilitated the movement of ballot papers meant for the elections in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC).

Mr Mwiimbu, SC.: Ah!

Mr B. Mpundu: Madam Speaker, is the hon. Minister of Home Affairs and Internal Security in order to allow such a huge decision to be made, without explaining …

Mr Nkandu: Question!

Mr B. Mpundu: … why it has been made?

Madam Speaker, we know that roadblocks serve as a security feature to deter criminal activities and movement of unwanted persons, …

Mr Tayali: Question!

Mr B. Mpundu: … immigrants and movement of banned substances like mukula and others.

Madam Speaker, is the hon. Minister of Home Affairs and Internal Security in order to not come to this august House to explain why this decision has been made, so as to stop any form of speculation from the general public?

I seek your indulgence, Madam Speaker.

Madam First Deputy Speaker: I advise the hon. Member for Nkana to file in an Urgent Question so that the hon. Minister of Home Affairs and Internal Security can attend to it.

MR MUMBA, HON. MEMBER FOR KANTANSHI, ON THE FRONTBENCH, FOR BEING TIRED OF DOING GOOD THINGS WHICH THEY ARE NOT TALKING ABOUT

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

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

Mr Mumba: Madam Speaker, listen carefully to my matter because we have only one important responsibility here, and that is to secure prosperity for our citizens.

Madam Speaker, respectfully, when you look at the hon. Members on the Frontbench, you will see that they look very tired.

Laughter

Mr Mumba: Do you know why they are tired?

Hon. Opposition Members: No!

Mr Mumba: They have worked very hard.

Hon. UPND Members: Hear, hear!

Mr Mumba: They have brought down the inflation rate. They have been able –

Madam First Deputy Speaker: Hon. Member, I do not even know how you can determine that an hon. Minister who is smiling and looking happy is tired.

Laughter

Madam First Deputy Speaker: How do you determine tiredness?

Mr Mumba: Madam Speaker, I will qualify what I mean.

Madam Speaker, they have reduced the rate of inflation, strengthened the Kwacha, and brought Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) of close to K12 billion in the mining sector.

Mr Mubika: Yes!

Mr Mumba: They have been able to reduce the cost of goods and services, and they are not talking about it. Now, the only thing people know, which they are talking about, is imingalato. That is all.

Madam Speaker, is the Acting Leader of Government Business in the House in order to come here looking tired, like nothing is happening in the country, and only reminding us every time that the Patriotic Front (PF) left a wrecked economy, when he knows that the PF was able to do something? We, in the Opposition, are ready to take over and build on what the Government is doing.

Hon. UPND Members: Question!

Laughter

Mr Mumba:  The people of Kantanshi want to know why the Government has remained quiet, instead of reminding us of the good things that are happening?

Hon. UPND Members: Hear, hear!

Mr Mumba: It is our responsibility in this House to not just oppose, because we have also contributed to the wellbeing of this economy. It is important that the Government tells us how this has happened, for the benefit of our people. We do not want to be seen as an Opposition that does not appreciate. We want to be part of the success story. When we take over this year, we want to make sure that those on the right do not say that they are the ones who left the economy that way. We have also contributed. We need a comment from the Government, Madam Speaker.

Hon. UPND Members: Hear, hear!

Laughter

Madam First Deputy Speaker: I would have ruled accordingly. However, when we look at the rules for Urgent Matters without Notice, it does not qualify.

Laughter

MS NYIRENDA, HON. MEMBER FOR LUNDAZI, ON THE HON. MINISTER OF LOCAL GOVERNMENT AND RURAL DEVELOPMENT, MR SIALUBALO AND THE HON. MINISTER OF HOME AFFAIRS AND INTERNAL SECURITY, MR MWIIMBU, SC., ON CONSTRUCTION OF PALACES IN LUNDAZI

Ms Nyirenda (Lundazi): On an Urgent Matter without Notice.

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

Ms Nyirenda: Madam Speaker, I thank you and good morning. The Urgent Matter without Notice I wish to raise is directed at the hon. Minister of Local Government and Rural Development and the hon. Minister of Home Affairs and Internal Security.

Mr Nkandu: Question!

Madam First Deputy Speaker: You may proceed, hon. Member.

Ms Nyirenda: Madam Speaker, I wish to raise a very important matter considering that when the first Constituency Development Fund (CDF) was allocated in 2021, our K1 million was given to the Ministry of Home Affairs and Internal Security for the prisons authority to build palaces for our chiefs in Lundazi. However, I want to state that up to today, these people, the hon. Minister of Local Government and Rural Development and his counterpart, that man (pointed at Mr Mwiimbu), Mr Jack Mwiimbu, the longest-serving hon. Member of Parliament in Zambia …

Madam First Deputy Speaker: Order, Hon. Member!

Ms Nyirenda: … have not even gone to the site. Therefore, Chief Kapichira, Chief Mwase and Chief Mpamba in my constituency have sent me to ask those hon. Ministers where they will pay their courtesy calls, especially that the general elections will be soon. Mwamuyowayachi kukaya ku Lundazi, mwamuyoyela mphani. Where are you going to pay your courtesy calls, especially that up to date, you (pointed at Mr Sialubalo), the one who took over from Garry Nkombo, you have failed to even just put up a small thing that would help you to go and enter Lundazi?

Hon. PF Members: Hear, hear!

Madam First Deputy Speaker: Order, hon. Member!

Ms Nyirenda: Madam Speaker, the matter is very urgent for the people of Lundazi. Bantu nimbo kwiya kukaya uku. If my brother, the hon. Minister of Local Government and Rural Development, does not address this matter, he will not be able to pay a courtesy call anywhere in Lundazi. Mwamufikila ngakuni sanga munda bapangile manyumba?

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

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

Madam First Deputy Speaker: Hon. Member for Lundazi, you know the rules of the House. The official language is English. When you are raising any matter, you are supposed to be brief.

Ms Nyirenda: Madam Speaker, I will interpret.

Madam First Deputy Speaker: Further, we do not address hon. Ministers by their names in this House. We address them by the ministries that they are assigned. However, hon.  Member, I have heard your matter.

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

Mr B. Mpundu: Awe, takwaba.

Madam First Deputy Speaker: Hon. Members, before the hon. Minister comes in, let me just attend to this matter.

Hon. Member for Lundazi, your matter is not admissible. You are talking about an old matter that started in 2021. According to the rules for raising Urgent Matters without Notice, it has to be something that has happened within the last twenty-four hours. So, your matter is not admissible.

Hon. Minister of Transport and Logistics, you can raise your point of order.

Mr B. Mpundu: Awe, takwaba! Takwaba point of order during Urgent Matters without Notice.

Interruptions

Mr Tayali: Madam Speaker, I am most obliged for giving me this opportunity to rise on this very important point of order. Is the hon. Member for Lundazi in order to have used that language, which may be misconstrued, when she referred to a small thing entering Lundazi, especially considering that we have visitors in the Public Gallery and some of them are our children? This is extremely serious.

Laughter

Mr Tayali: Madam Speaker, may those remarks be expunged from the record of this honourable House. Is she in order to do that?

Madam Speaker, I seek your serious guidance.

Rev. Katuta: Which Standing Order?

Mr B. Mpundu: Namufwala inkoloko ba Tayali. 

Mr Tayali: Standing Order No. 71.

Laughter

Madam First Deputy Speaker: Hon. Members, I think, I had ruled much earlier on the language that is supposed to be used in this House. The official language is English. Moreover, her matter was also not admitted. So, we make progress. We have had three Urgent Matters without Notice. We are supposed to take only three Urgent Matters without Notice.

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

Madam First Deputy Speaker: On whom?

Mr Kasandwe: Madam Speaker, on the hon. Member for Kantanshi.

Hon. Government Members: Question!

Madam First Deputy Speaker: No, we have already passed that stage. Why did you not raise it immediately after –

Mr Kasandwe: I indicated.

Madam First Deputy Speaker: No, we did not see you.

Hon. Members, without wasting much of our time, let us make progress. I have ruled on all three matters that were raised.

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MINISTERIAL STATEMENT

PREVAILING WEATHER CONDITIONS AS A RESULT OF TROPICAL CYCLONE GEZANI

The Minister of Tourism (Mr Sikumba) (on behalf of the Minister of Green Economy and Environment (Mr Mposha)): Madam Speaker, I wish to update this honourable House and the nation at large on the prevailing weather conditions affecting our country following the influence of Tropical Cyclone Gezani.

Madam Speaker, from 7^th February, 2026, to date, Zambia has experienced a marked increase in rainfall activity across most parts of the country. During the early part of this period, from 7^th to 9^th February 2026, continuous, and at times heavy rainfall, has been recorded over the Northern Province, Muchinga Province, the Eastern Province, Central Province and Copperbelt Province. Subsequently, the rainfall activity extended to the Western Province, Lusaka Province, the Southern Province and the North-Western Province, areas which had previously experienced a reduction in rainfall.

Madam Speaker, the sustained rainfall is attributed to increased moisture inflow associated with Tropical Cyclone Gezani, which is currently situated over the South-Western Indian Ocean. Although the cyclone is not directly over Zambia, its circulation is enhancing moisture coverage over the country, thereby intensifying rainfall activity.

Expected Developments of the Cyclone

Madam Speaker, according to current meteorological projections, Tropical Cyclone Gezani is expected to make landfall over Mozambique on 13^th February, 2026, which is today, and thereafter, remain within the Mozambique Channel before weakening into a low-pressure system over central Mozambique by 17^th February, 2026. However, it is important to note that there remains some uncertainty regarding the exact trajectory, intensity and speed of the cyclone. Such systems are dynamic in nature and may change direction or strength depending on prevailing atmospheric conditions. In view of this uncertainty, rainfall activity over Zambia is expected to continue over the next seven days, but the spatial distribution and intensity may vary depending on the cyclone’s eventual track.

Anticipated Impacts

Madam Speaker, as the cyclone continues its westward movement, it is expected to sustain the inflow of warm and unstable moisture into the region. Consequently, the following impacts are anticipated:

1. elevated moisture content levels across the country;

1. rising river and stream levels, especially in low-lying and flood-prone areas;

1. increased risk of flash floods and flooding, particularly in urban areas with poor drainage systems;

1. water logging and leaching of soil nutrients, which may affect agricultural productivity;

1. possible displacement of communities in high-risk areas; and

1. potential damage to infrastructure, including roads and bridges.

Madam Speaker, in light of the above, the Government, through the ministry, advises the following:

General Preparedness

1. local authorities should intensify community sensitisation on flood safety and preparedness measures;

1. monitoring of major river basins should be strengthened; and

1. relevant ministries and agencies must enhance co-ordination for preparedness and response actions, and communities in high-risk flood zones are urged to take precautionary measures to remain alert to official advisories.

Health Advisory

1. the Ministry of Health, in collaboration with the local authorities, should heighten surveillance for waterborne and vector-borne diseases, such as cholera, typhoid and malaria, which are commonly associated with flooding;

1. members of the public are advised to boil or treat drinking water, practice proper hygiene and avoid contact with flood waters where possible;

1. health facilities, especially in flood-prone districts, should ensure adequate stocks of essential medicines and emergency medical supplies; and

1. the public is encouraged to promptly report suspected disease outbreaks to the nearest health facility.

Agricultural Advisory

1. farmers, particularly in flood-prone areas, are advised to improve field drainage where possible to minimise waterlogging;

1. livestock farmers should move animals to higher ground and ensure adequate shelter to prevent loss and disease outbreaks;

1. extension officers are directed to provide guidance on soil nutrient management, given the risk of nutrient leaching; and

1. farmers are encouraged to closely-monitor crop conditions and report any significant damage to local agricultural officers for timely assessment and support.

 Madam Speaker, given the uncertainty surrounding the trajectory and evolution of Tropical Cyclone Gezani, the public and the private sector, disaster management structures and other stakeholders are strongly encouraged to continuously obtain official weather updates and advisories from the Zambia Meteorological Department. The ministry, through the department, will continue to closely monitor the trajectory and intensity of the cyclone, and provide timely and regular updates to the nation. The Government remains committed to safeguarding livelihoods and national infrastructure during this period.

Madam Speaker, I thank you.

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

Mr Mutale (Chitambo): Madam Speaker, the presentation of this Ministerial Statement before the House is timely.

Madam Speaker, taking advantage of this Ministerial Statement, I would like to bring to the attention of the Government the fact that Chitambo is already immersed in water, as five wards in my constituency are already submerged, and cassava and other crops are in water. I heard the hon. Minister clearly say that the local councils are encouraged to undertake sensitisation in the communities and to prepare for action. I know that we may have the human resource, but are the financial resources that are majorly needed for the people to move and do what the ministry has requested them to do available?

Mr Sikumba: Madam Speaker, the Government has the resources for that. That is the reason I indicated that the facilities within the districts will be used to assist in the management, in this particular case, we are talking about the local authorities who have what we would like to call the yellow equipment to assist in draining most flooded areas. I would also like to indicate that if a disaster is declared, then, these activities are managed through the Disaster Management and Mitigation Unit (DMMU).

Madam Speaker, I thank you.

Mr J. Chibuye (Roan): Madam Speaker, thank you very much for giving me this opportunity to ask the hon. Minister a question on a point of clarification.

Madam Speaker, I would like to thank the hon. Minister for his brief but detailed Ministerial Statement.

Madam Speaker, the hon. Minister has outlined the negative impact that Tropical Cyclone Gezani will cause on the nation. I am particularly worried that in the advisory, specifically on the agricultural sector, he said that extension officers should advise farmers to draw up drains in their fields. My concern and question is: At the end of it all, even when that is done, will the 2025/2026 Farming Season yield be affected? Will there be a negative effect on the yield of the 2025/2026 Farming Season?

Mr Sikumba: Madam Speaker, as our colleagues in the Ministry of Agriculture have been advised accordingly, I will speak from experience as a farmer, the more the water in your fields, the more the nutrients are leached. We can only ascertain whether the 2025/2026 harvest will be affected when our team of agricultural extension officers gets on the ground. However, it is our desire that the mitigatory aspects that the ministry has requested the team from the Ministry of  Agriculture to put in place are implemented in the shortest possible time, especially during this period, so that we do not lose our crop which, obviously, we have worked hard to raise to where it is today.

Madam Speaker, I thank you.

Mr Mumba (Kantanshi): Thank you, Madam Speaker.

Madam Speaker, one of the challenges during floods is reptiles, which fall under the Ministry of Tourism, which the hon. Minister has not talked about. Has his substantive ministry highlighted some of the hotspots where reptiles are rampant in the flood-prone areas, that is, areas where crocodiles end up in residential areas? I have Kitwe in mind. On several occasions, crocodiles have been found in an area called Kwa Mulenga. Has his ministry identified areas that it can mark as red spot zones so that in case the reptiles get swept into those areas, our people will remain safe?

Mr Sikumba: Madam Speaker, indeed, the intervention is timely. My team from the Department of National Parks and Wildlife (DNPW) is on alert for river basins that ordinarily burst when there are flash floods, such as the ones anticipated. I would like to call upon members of the public to alert the ministry almost immediately something happens. It might be difficult for the ministry to conduct patrols, but as soon as members of the public alert officers of reptiles in any place they are not supposed to be, then, the officers will move in to capture and take them to where they are supposed to be. I must also indicate that the reptiles are not killed, but captured and resettled elsewhere.

Madam Speaker, I thank you.

Mr Chinkuli (Kanyama): Madam Speaker, I thank the hon. Minister for his statement. He has given an assurance that local authorities will sensitise communities.  However, places such as Kanyama experience perpetual floods. As I speak now, Kanyama is flooded. With the looming cyclone – I do not know whether it is Bwezani or –

Mr Sikumba: Gezani!

Mr Chinkuli: Wherever the name came from.

Madam Speaker, with the looming cyclone, what will local authorities do, considering that they have been unable to handle the few floods that have been experienced so far?

Mr Sikumba: Madam Speaker, it is a well-known fact that most of the settlements in our country are in extremely flood-prone areas.

Madam Speaker, to quickly answer the hon. Member’s question, it is incumbent upon the local leadership in various constituencies to work hand-and-glove with the local authorities. What we have discovered is that most of the areas affected by floods year in and year out, are what I would like to call “unplanned settlements.” That is where our brothers and sisters build their beautiful structures. They build in dambos and request the local authorities to work with them. As the saying goes, “charity begins at home.” When people are told to not build in a specific area, they should not build, because it becomes increasingly difficult for us, as the Government, to mitigate the disaster. That is why, at times, the Government officials go to such places late, or not go there at all because such areas are not designated for human habitation. So, I urge the hon. Member to work hand and glove with the councillor and report issues to the Ministry of Local Government and Rural Development so that we find ways and means of mitigating the disaster.

Madam Speaker, I thank you.

Mr Munsanje (Mbabala): Madam Speaker, good morning.

Madam Speaker, what communication measures have been put in place for persons with disabilities to be included in the sensitisation on the impending devastating cyclone, so that they are not left out, but are part and parcel of the measures being taken by the Government?

Mr Sikumba: Madam Speaker, I am very much aware that the District Disaster Management Committees (DDMCs) do include our colleagues with disabilities. I also wish to indicate that the same DDMCs do include hon. Members of Parliament from respective constituencies. Therefore, I think it is very important that, in as much as they would like more representation from various sectors of society, hon. Members of Parliament rope in our colleagues who may be challenged in one way or another so that they also provide input.  However, one thing I would like to state is that, as the Government, we are all inclusive and all embracing. Anyone with a good idea we would use to push our agenda is more than welcome.

Madam Speaker, I thank you.

Mr Shakafuswa (Mandevu): Madam Speaker, I thank you for giving me an opportunity to ask a question on behalf of the people of Mandevu. 

Madam Speaker, to start with, I feel that the statement rendered by the hon. Minister should have been rendered by Her Honour the Vice-President, because the solutions require collaborative efforts of the Ministry of Health, the Ministry of Local Government and Rural Development, and the Disaster Management and Mitigation Unit (DMMU) itself. Kanyama, Mandevu, and others are flood-prone areas. When floods occur, there is always an outbreak of waterborne diseases such as cholera and dysentery. Therefore, solutions range from cleaning drainage systems, and providing safe drinking water in areas not serviced by the Water Trust and Lusaka Water Supply and Sanitation Company (LWSSC). Immediate action is needed. The local leadership is available. Since the hon. Minister represents the Government and Cabinet, I would like to find out whether the DMMU will invite the civic leadership in flood-prone areas to plan for collaborative immediate action. I feel sensitisation itself is not enough.

Mr Sikumba: Madam Speaker, I am very delighted that the hon. Member for Mandevu understands that the United Party for National Development (UPND) is one Government. It thrives on one Government policy. I also wish to publicly state that Her Honour the Vice-President of the Republic of Zambia, Dr W.K. Mutale Nalumango, is the chairperson of the Committee of Ministers who manage disasters.

Madam Speaker, this Ministerial Statement has come at a time when the Cyclone Gezani has not hit. That is why this week there was a presentation of a Bill to amend the Disaster Management Act, which speaks to us as the Government to become more proactive as opposed to being reactive. To give comfort to my hon. Colleague, the Member of Parliament for Mandevu, I wish to inform him that the Government has already been planning. All the advisories I have highlighted are a result of planning. I mentioned sensitisation, which will reach the hon. Member at some point. However, what is clear to us as the Government is that even when we plan with the hon. Members, they would have already come up with solutions that would be implemented by the District Disaster Management Committee (DDMC).

Madam Speaker, I thank you.

_______

QUESTIONS FOR ORAL ANSWER

CONSTRUCTION OF COMMUNICATION TOWERS IN SELECTED AREAS IN MILENGE

180. Mr Chonde (Milenge) asked the Minister of Technology and Science:

1. when construction of communication towers in the following areas in Milenge Parliamentary Constituency will commence:

1. Milenge District Hospital;

1. Lungomukuta Ward; and

1. Nsaka Ward; and

1. what the cause of the delay in constructing the towers, is.

The Minister of Technology and Science (Mr Mutati): Madam Speaker, perhaps allow me to add context to the issue of towers before I address the specific answer.

Madam Speaker, the Government has had challenges in delivering towers. However, I am now glad to say that several initiatives have been undertaken to address the issue of towers. Firstly, through the Ministry of Finance and National Planning, the World Bank approved US$100 million under the Digital Programme for Zambia. Out of that programme, 300 towers will be delivered this year.

Madam Speaker, secondly, Telco Systems are working on 407 towers this year, including upgrading 1,200 towers from Third-Generation (3G) to Fourth-Generation (4G).

Madam Speaker, next, for the first time –

Interruptions

Madam First Deputy Speaker: Order, hon. Members!

The consultations are rather loud.

Mr Mutati: Madam Speaker, in the Budget for 2026, for the very first time, the hon. Minister of Finance and National Planning, to whom I am grateful, made a provision of K150 million for construction of communication towers.

Madam Speaker, let me now answer the specific question. The Government plans to construct communication towers at Milenge Hospital under the thirty-communication tower project, thanks to the allocation in the 2026 Budget for the Ministry of Technology and Science. The Government also plans to construct a communication tower at Lungomukuta Ward under the World Bank-funded Digital Zambia Acceleration Project. The Government further plans to construct a communication tower in Saka Ward for the establishment of the Smart Village Project.

Madam Speaker, the delay is because we needed to approve the 2026 Budget as well as the World Bank grant. That has now been finalised, and the grant is effective.  

I thank you, Madam Speaker.

Mr Chonde: Madam Speaker, I appreciate the context that the hon. Minister has added as supplementary information. Three years ago, or thereabout, he came here and gave us hope that the Government was constructing communication towers. Personally, I submitted five sites for the construction of the towers, and took the message to the people in Milenge. I appreciate the information that he has presented. Now, is the hon. Minister sure that this is not just another promise? Is this promise different from the other promises he made years back?

Mr Mutati: Madam Speaker, we started negotiating for funds from the World Bank almost three years ago. The negotiations were protracted, but thanks to the hon. Minister of Finance and National Planning, we finally got the funding approved last year. The grant is now effective in 2026. So, that is confirmation that we are making progress. Secondly, in the 2026 Budget, for the very first time, the hon. Minister of Finance and National Planning provided K150 million for the construction of communication towers; the hon. Member can check the Budget. A communication tower will be built in Milenge using funds from this Budget. Thirdly, we said that we are implementing the Smart Village Project, and that has already been provided for in the 2026 Budget. So, I ask the hon. Member of Parliament for Milenge to spend time to go through the Budget.

I thank you, Madam Speaker.

Mr Chisopa (Mkushi South): Madam Speaker, –

Hon. UPND. Members: Question!

Mr Chisopa: Madam Speaker, I need your protection.

Madam First Deputy Speaker: You may ask your question, hon. Member.

Mr Chisopa: Madam Speaker, if you remember very well, the hon. Minister came to this House and made three to four announcements that we needed to submit the areas where we needed communication towers built, and we submitted them. All of us submitted the areas. There was even a deadline attached to that. Today, we have not received those communication towers. The hon. Minister said that the Government is going to build the communication towers that the hon. Member for Milenge has asked for this year. Bearing in mind that the Zambian people are going to kick this Government out in three months –

Hon. UPND Members: Question!

Mr Chisopa: Madam Speaker, is the hon. Minister sure that he is going to manage to build the communication towers for Milenge within three months, because after August, he will be out of the Government?

Mr Mutati: Madam Speaker, as I stand here, I am not aware that this Government is going to be kicked out because across the aisle, they do not seem to have hope.

Madam Speaker, I have already said that we have a grant from the World Bank, and that in the 2026 Budget, there is a provision of K150 million to address the issue of communication towers.

I thank you, Madam Speaker.

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

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

Mr Kapyanga: Madam Speaker, thank you for this opportunity you have given me to raise a very serious point of order on the hon. Minister of Technology and Science, pursuant to Standing Order No. 71.

Madam Speaker, the hon. Minister has insinuated that we are not giving hope to the Zambian people. He knows 100 per cent that his Government has failed the Zambian people in all spheres. People are crying for change. They are calling on us, through Hon. Brian Mundubile, to govern the country, and redeem them, instead of the hon. Minister just saying that he will join us when we form Government, like he usually does.

Laughter

Madam First Deputy Speaker: Order!

May you resume your seat, hon. Member.

That point of order, hon. Member, is not admissible.

We may continue with serious business.

Ms Nyirenda (Lundazi): Madam Speaker, thank you for giving the people of Lundazi a chance to ask the Minister, Hon. Mutati, a supplementary question.

Madam Speaker, I want to redeem the hon. Minister a bit because I think that the heat is too much. The Government built two communication towers in Lundazi, that is, at Kanyunya and Msuzi Ward at Kasuku. Now, –

Interruptions

Ms Nyirenda: I am not like my husband, who says you are going.

Laughter

Ms Nyirenda: I am very objective.

Madam First Deputy Speaker: Order, hon. Members!

Laughter

Madam First Deputy Speaker: Hon. Member for Lundazi, may you resume your seat.

Ms Nyirenda: Allow me to finish.

Madam First Deputy Speaker: May you resume your seat.

Ms Nyirenda resumed her seat.

Madam First Deputy Speaker: Hon. Member for Lundazi, be reminded that we do not address people in this House as husbands or wives. I am sure that the hon. Member, your husband, has a constituency. So, address him as the hon. Member of a constituency, not as husband. That is a family thing.   

Ms Nyirenda: Madam Speaker, I thank you for the guidance.

Madam Speaker, I wanted to take advantage of Valentine’s Day, which is coming tomorrow – Anyway, he is Hon. Chisopa.

Hon. Members: Hear, hear!

Ms Nyirenda: Madam Speaker, taking advantage of the question from the hon. Member for Milenge, I wish to state that it has now been two and half years since communication towers were erected, but just switching them on so that they can start working is a problem. So, I want to find out from the hon. Minister what the problem is.

Madam Speaker, towers were built, but it has been two years without the people of Kasuku, Kanyunya and Chinthuta having access to proper phone network. So, how sure is the hon. Minister that the people of Milenge will see communication towers erected and connected? We are suffering because the ministry has failed to connect our towers in Lundazi.

Mr Mutati: Madam Speaker, we have not failed to connect the towers in Lundazi. I have already said that this year, we have a budget provision of K150 million, which will be used to put active equipment on the towers in Lundazi.

I thank you, Madam Speaker.

Mr Zulu (Nyimba): Madam Speaker, –

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

Madam First Deputy Speaker: Order!

Before the hon. Member for Nyimba comes in, there is an indication for a point of order by the hon. Member for Shiwang’andu.

Mr Kampyongo: Madam Speaker, I thank you for allowing me to raise a point of order on the hon. Minister on the Floor.

Madam Speaker, as he was responding to a follow-up question from an hon. Member, I heard him saying that the Opposition is not giving hope.

Hon. UPND Members: Yes!

Mr Kampyongo: Madam Speaker, as far as we know, the hon. Minister is the president of the Movement for Democratic Change (MDC), which is an opposition party ...

Hon. Government Members: Question!

Mr Kampyongo: …, but he is privileged to be in the Government.

Laughter

Mr Kampyongo: Madam Speaker, was he in order to remove himself from being a leader of an opposition political party because of being in an alliance? The dynamics might change as we go to the polls. Further, is he confirming …

Mr Nkandu: Question!

Mr Kampyongo: … that he no longer has hope of contesting for the Presidency of the Republic and has shelved his party, which we can help him revive?

Laughter

Mr Kampyongo:  Was he in order to exclude himself from the Opposition?

I seek your serious ruling, Madam Speaker.

Madam First Deputy Speaker: That point of order is not admissible. It is rather too political, which I will not attend to.

Hon. Member for Nyimba, you may continue.

Mr Zulu: Madam Speaker, I thank the hon. Member who raised this question.

Madam Speaker, I will acknowledge something. In my language, we say, “Muyako akachita konzu, nawe konzu”. So, the hon. Minister –

Madam First Deputy Speaker: Meaning what?

Mr Zulu: I am coming, Madam Speaker.

Madam Speaker, it means that when somebody has worked, we need to acknowledge the achievement.

Madam Speaker, I know that the hon. Minister promised that more than 300 communication towers will be distributed around the country. However, out of the five towers to be installed in Nyimba, excavation for the installation of only one tower started last week. I can assure the hon. Minister that the polling station in that area has about 3,000 voters. The Ruling Party is assured of getting some votes in that area since a promise has been fulfilled

Madam Speaker, according to the hon. Minister’s statement, there is K150 million in this year’s Budget for the construction of towers. There is also US$100 million that will come from the World Bank. According to the hon. Minister, about 300 communication towers will be distributed countrywide this year. Since we have ten provinces in this country, will the towers be distributed equitably? In this regard, constituencies such as mine cannot appreciate communication tower construction because the towers are being constructed in other areas with lesser population. Some constituencies have a communication tower after every 10 km. That cannot be compared to areas like my constituency, which has a high population, but the whole valley is in the dark with regard to communication because there are no towers. Even the system at the Ministry of Technology and Science shows that the whole of Nyimba is blacked out because of lack of communication. Therefore, since 300 towers will be distributed countrywide, will the hon. Minister ensure that we receive five more tower as Milenge will be given two towers, but its population is twenty times lesser than Nyimba?

Mr Mutati: Madam Speaker, the hon. Member of Parliament for Nyimba is basically saying that what should be done in Nyimba should be the same as what will be done in Milenge. When constructing towers, we have a specific criterion that should be followed, which includes looking at the population, existing towers, economic activity and public infrastructure. We cannot say that what will be done in Nyimba will be the same as what will be done in Milenge because the factors may be different.

I thank you, Madam Speaker.

Mr Munsanje (Mbabala): Madam Speaker, I would like to thank the hon. Minister for the response he has given to the people of Milenge.

Madam Speaker, in the usual methodical manner that the United Party for National Development’s (UPND’s) New Dawn Government does things, what step-by-step measures have been put in place to ensure that areas such as Chazangwe, Simunzele, Shantambo and Sinalungu in Mbabala Constituency that do not have communication towers also get the towers that we have applied for to the ministry?

Mr Andeleki: On point of order, Madam Speaker.

Madam First Deputy Speaker: Before the hon. Minister comes in, there is an indication for a point of order by the hon. Member for Katombola.

Mr Sing’ombe: Hear, hear!

Mr Andeleki: Madam Speaker, thank you very much for according the people of Katombola an opportunity to raise a point of order against the Acting Leader of Government Business in the House, Hon. J. J. Mwiimbu. Is he in order to sit there quietly and not inform the nation that there were elections yesterday in Serenje, where the United Party for National Development (UPND) participated and emerged victorious in Muchinda Ward?

Hon. Government Members: Hear, hear!

Mr Nkandu interjected.

Laughter

Mr Andeleki: Madam Speaker, is the Acting Leader of Government Business in the House in order to sit quietly without informing the nation that the people of Serenje have reposed continued confidence in the UPND?

Interruptions

Madam First Deputy Speaker: Hon. Member for Katombola, that point of order is not admissible …

Laughter

Madam First Deputy Speaker: … because there are other channels that are normally used to raise such matters. The Electoral Commission of Zambia (ECZ) is going to announce the winner. So, the point of order is not admissible.

Mr Mutati: Madam Speaker, I think, the point of order was on a light note. It is just to show the momentum that is being gathered as we approach the major event later this year.

Hon. UPND Members: Hear, hear!

Mr Mutati: Madam Speaker, the question from the hon. Member of Parliament for Mbabala was about a specific location and I do not have that information on my fingertips.

I thank you, Madam Speaker.

Mr Chonde: Madam Speaker, I would like to appreciate the hon. Minister and take his word as–

Mr Amutike: You have not presented your maiden speech.

Laughter

Mr Chonde: Madam Speaker, I would like to thank the hon. Minister for the promise he has given on the Floor of this House to the effect that the ministry will give us a communication tower. I can hear from the hon. Members’ views that this is a common and standard problem in the country.

Madam Speaker, the hon. Minister has spoken about this, but for the sake of clarity, I would like to know the areas of preference; the areas the ministry will start with. I am asking this question because two of my wards have zero network communication. I want to know if that is part of the need to give preference to such areas? Since the hon. Minister made the promise, I went back to the people to inform them but, today, we are hearing a new about thing coming, and yet the people have zero network communication. Is that one of the reasons the ministry will use as a preference in attending to this problem? I realise that the 300 communication towers that will be erected  are not sufficient for what the country may need. Could he comment on the order of preference.

Mr Mutati: Madam Speaker, the ministry does not have preferences. It reflects the priorities that are submitted by the hon. Members of Parliament. Three specific locations were submitted for Milenge, and I have said that the ministry will erect communication towers in those three locations, which are his constituency’s priorities. The ministry does not have preferences or feelings. The hon. Member should bring new priorities for the ministry to address.

I thank you, Madam Speaker. 

Madam First Deputy Speaker: Hon. Members, we are behind time. The hon. Member for Milenge has exhausted his allocation for follow up questions. So, we make progress.

CONSTRUCTION OF CHINSALI BUS STATION

181. Mr Mukosa (Chinsali) asked the Minister of Local Government and Rural Development:

1. when the construction of Chinsali Bus Station in Chinsali District will be completed;

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

1. what the cost of the project is;

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

1. what the cost of the outstanding works was as of the date in (d).

The Minister of Local Government and Rural Development (Mr Sialubalo): Madam Speaker, I wish to inform this august House that the stalled construction of Chinsali Bus Station will be completed. The delay was due to limited funds.

Madam Speaker, the project is under procurement, and the cost will be ascertained once the procurement process is concluded.

Madam Speaker, as of August 2025, the project had stalled at about 10 per cent. Under the old contract awarded in 2014, the cost of outstanding works by August 2025 was about K10 million.

I thank you, Madam Speaker.

Mr Mukosa: Madam Speaker, I did not hear the hon. Minister clearly because I asked when the project will be completed, and he has said something to the effect that it will be completed. Then, he mentioned something about the project being under procurement. Does that mean the contract that was in effect was terminated and the contractor who was there before is no longer the contractor?

Mr Sialubalo: Madam Speaker, in the statement, I indicated that the initial contract for the bus station was awarded in the year 2014. So, looking at the period, definitely, the contract expired. Re-procurement was initiated under the New Dawn Administration. So, that is the cause of the delay. When I say that when funds are made available, it means resources are being organised, and that is the reason the procurement process has started.

I thank you, Madam Speaker.

Madam First Deputy Speaker: Hon. Member for Chinsali, do you have another question?

Mr Mukosa: Madam Speaker, I think, I have got the answer that the hon. Minister has given.

Laughter

Ms Nyirenda (Lundazi): Thank you, Madam Speaker.

Madam Speaker, the issue of bus stations aches. The delay in finishing the construction of all the bus stations is leading to a lot of talk, especially in my constituency, Lundazi, where people are now mocking the fact that the old bus stop was destroyed and a piggery was brought in its place. Looking at how the ministry is delaying the completion of the bus station in Lundazi, what hope can he give the people, especially since there are a few months left before the dissolution of Parliament where we have the right to speak and represent our people?

Mr Sialubalo: Madam Speaker, though the question on the Floor is constituency-specific, I would like to give a bonus response to my sister, the hon. Member of Parliament for Lundazi. She has raised this concern before, and I had a conversation with her, we engaged, and agreed that her concerns should be tabled before the technical team at my ministry so that the concerns can be properly addressed.

I thank you, Madam Speaker.

Madam first Deputy Speaker: I will take the last two questions from the hon. Member for Shiwang’andu and the hon. Member for Zambezi East.

Mr Kampyongo: Thank you very much, Madam Speaker.

Madam Speaker, this is a project whose contract was terminated. When we talk about procurement, obviously, it entails that the cost of completion of the project has been re-evaluated and now engaged in the process of procurement, as the hon. Minister has stated. Can we know at what stage that is? Have tenders already been floated for the completion of this station? If so, when should we expect the new contractor to be on site for the completion of the works?

Mr Sialubalo: Madam Speaker, indeed, the contract was terminated. The re-procurement process has just started. I would be giving wrong information if I were to give the exact time the contract will be awarded. We know well that Government tendering processes take a bit of time. So, it is not possible for me to give an accurate response to my dear hon. Colleague. I will not be factual, not until that process is concluded.

I thank you, Madam Speaker.

Mr Kambita (Zambezi East): Madam Speaker, I sincerely thank you for giving me the opportunity to ask the hon. Minister a supplementary question. Since you used your discretion to allow the hon. Member for Lundazi to ask a question and also indicate what is happening there, in Lundazi, I wish to do the same.

Madam Speaker, in Chinsali, there were contracts which were started during the Patriotic Front (PF) regime. It is clear that even Lundazi and Zambezi East, have a similar situation. Works at a bus stop that was constructed in the previous regime were shoddyand the contract was eventually terminated. With a new contractor now,we are able to see a little bit of activity. I want to find out from the hon. Minister of Local Government and Rural Development, the commitment of the New Dawn Administration to ensuring that – I know the word ‘mess’ is not allowed in Parliament. I do not know what word to use. However, I will say that the chaos created during the previous regime, which he is now correcting, gives us the assurance that all those bus stations whose construction was stalled, now with new contractors, will be completed on schedule, including the bus station in Zambezi.

Mr Sialubalo: Madam Speaker, the New Dawn Government issues contracts when there is a resource envelope. We do not just come up with contracts when we do not even know where the money to pay the contractor will come from.

 Madam Speaker, I implore my dear hon. Colleagues, the Members of Parliament in general, to take a keen interest in the works or contracts being undertaken in the constituencies. If work is done in a shoddy manner, I urge hon. Members to speak out so that corrective measures are taken. That is the conversation I had with my dear hon. Colleague from Lundazi, who wants her concerns to be addressed.  Contractors should know that hon. Members play an oversight role. When contracts are given, the output should be perfect so that it stands the test of time. So, if we notice any shoddy work, we should show a red card so that the right thing is done. Let us not leave it to contractors or council workers alone. We have to take a keen interest because we are the ones who apportion resources here. We have a bigger say than anybody else. So, let us speak out and not fear anything.

Madam Speaker, I thank you.

_______

ANNOUNCEMENT BY MADAM FIRST DEPUTY SPEAKER

RESCHEDULING OF THE DELIMITATION CONSULTATIVE MEETINGS

 Madam First Deputy Speaker: Hon. Members, as you are aware, the Electoral Commission of Zambia (ECZ) is holding delimitation consultative meetings in all constituencies. However, the ECZ, in consultation with the Office of the Speaker, has rescheduled the meetings from Thursday, 19^th February and Friday, 20^th February, 2026, to the week beginning 23^rd February, 2026. This is to enable all hon. Members to attend the Special Address on the Progress Made in the Application of National Values and Principles by the President of the Republic of Zambia, Mr Hakainde Hichilema. The specific dates for the rescheduled delimitation exercise meetings shall be communicated to you in due course. Therefore, all hon. Members are advised to be in the House on Friday, 20^th February, 2026, to listen to the Speech by the President.

Further, hon. Members are advised that on Tuesday, 17^th February and Wednesday, 18^th February, 2026, all hon. Members who will be attending the delimitation consultative meetings and are unable to attend the Sitting of the House physically will be provided with login credentials so that they can attend virtually.

I thank you.

Hon. Members: Hear, hear!

_______

MAJOR CAUSES OF POVERTY IN ZAMBIA

182. Mr Miyutu (Kalabo Central) asked the Minister of Finance and National Planning:

1. what the major causes of poverty in Zambia, are; and

1. what measures are being taken to alleviate poverty levels.

The Minister of Finance and National Planning (Dr Musokotwane): Madam Speaker, most of our people, especially the poor ones, live in rural areas. Some major causes of poverty in Zambia include the following:

1. low agricultural productivity;

1. poor infrastructure and connectivity;

1. limited access to finance and credit facilities; and

1. demographic and human capital factors. The country continues to experience high fertility levels, causing large household sizes, low education levels and skills.

Madam Speaker, I must emphasise that poverty is a multi-dimensional phenomenon. Most of the time, we speak about income poverty, but there are also other aspects of poverty, especially those to do with deprivation. There is deprivation of education and health.  All these are elements of poverty.

Madam Speaker, in terms of what the Government is implementing, the first thing, of course, is a reform of the economy so that it grows bigger. As it grows bigger, more jobs will be created. So, many people will be able to fend for themselves because they will be able to earn an income.  More taxes will be paid, which the Government can use to support those who are weak in society.  Therefore, the issue of economic reform stands at the centre of the fight against poverty.

Madam Speaker, in addition, we have other interventions that directly support individuals. For example, the Farmer Input Support Programme (FISP) and the Food Security Pack. All of those are intended to make individual farmers produce more and thereby fight poverty.

Madam Speaker, there are also social programmes such as the Social Cash Transfer (SCT) and Cash-for-Work that ensure that   the weak   and those without jobs in society have some income.

The Constituency Development Fund (CDF) is also helping to fight poverty. Under the CDF, children are able to go to school, we are able to provide services like healthcare so that deprivation is dealt with and many small businesses and job opportunities have been created, which enable people to get income as they construct schools, make desks and do all sorts of work in constituencies. 

Madam Speaker, in conclusion, I want to repeat what I said yesterday. Education is the most important fight against poverty. When people are educated, they know what to do to protect themselves from hazards, because they can read, listen to the radio and watch television. People with less education can expose themselves to some hazardous things while those who are educated have a higher chance of protecting themselves from hazardous things. Education, as we have said over and over, is an investment in a human being that makes it possible for one to have a job and look after one’s parents and children, if one succeeds in education. This is why the Government decided that education is going to be free. This is really a way of making sure that every family gets something out of their country. Education is an equaliser.

Madam Speaker, I thank you.

Mr Miyutu: Madam Speaker, the hon. Minister has comprehensively responded to the questions. His conclusion was that education is the key. Is there consistency in the provision of enhanced education across all communities? Are there no ups and downs in the process of delivering education to the underprivileged?

Dr Musokotwane: Madam Speaker, yes, consistency in terms of intentioned plans is definitely there. However, we also have to recognise that this is a journey, and a journey does not end in one day. The most important decision was to say that education was going to be free, and that was backed by the provision of financial resources through the CDF. So, that will remain consistent.

Madam Speaker, having said so, I think, it is also fair to admit that there are challenges on this journey. Some of the challenges include the fact that disparities between rural and urban areas exist and will continue to exist for some time, because education is not just what one learns in school but also what one picks up in the environment. Obviously, children in urban areas can learn using their phones, and through television and radio. Children in rural areas are, of course, disadvantaged until more of such facilities continue to be expanded.

Madam Speaker, the other thing that is a challenge is the tendency for teachers to shun the remotest places. Yes, this Government has done a lot and hired many teachers in the last few years, but there is still the problem of teachers shunning deep rural areas. When that happens, even though the policy says free education for everybody, the children in deep remote areas are disadvantaged. As I said, this is a long journey. These are some of the issues that have to be addressed as we move on, so that there is equity across the education spectrum.

Madam Speaker, I thank you.

Mr Tayengwa (Kabwata): Madam Speaker, I totally agree with the hon. Minister that education is one of the key ingredients to fight poverty. In religious circles, people think poverty is a demon, yet it is just a social condition. I have picked one of the social programmes that the Government is implementing to fight poverty, that is, the Cash-for-Work Programme. We have seen how the Cash-for-Work Programme is transforming our communities. People are getting help through it, but the challenge is how payments are made. Is there a system to improve how payments are made? The Cash-for-Work Programme is a good social intiative that is helping our communities to fight poverty.

Dr Musokotwane: Madam Speaker, I missed the last words that the hon. Member said because there was a bit of disturbance. Did he say the payment streams? Is that what he is referring to?

Mr Tayengwa: Madam Speaker, my emphasis is on the late payment of those on the Cash-for-Work Programme. Is there a way the Government can improve payments? This social programme is helping our communities.

Dr Musokotwane: Madam Speaker, since I am about to answer, I am sure I will be –

Madam First Deputy Speaker: Order!

Business was suspended from 1040 hours until 1100 hours.

[MADAM FIRST DEPUTY SPEAKER in the Chair]

No quorum.

Dr Musokotwane: Madam Speaker, before business was suspended, the hon. Member for Kabwata asked about payments under the Cash-for-Work Programme.

Madam Speaker, I know that there have been some delays, partly because the whole scheme was being re-designed so that it can deliver more for the people, and that has been done. I believe that going forward, we should see better consistency in the release of funds under the programme.

Madam Speaker, I thank you.

Mr Miyutu (Kalabo Central): Madam Speaker, the disparity between rural and urban areas is a major contributing factor to poverty, especially in rural areas. What measures has the Government put in place to reduce the disparity between rural and urban areas so that poverty, which is more pronounced in rural areas, is reduced?

Dr Musokotwane: Madam Speaker, I cannot think of another Government that has worked so hard to reduce the disparity between rural and urban areas compared to the United Party for National Development (UPND) Government. I say so because if we look at the distribution of inputs, this Government has worked so hard through the use of electronic devices or rather technology to deliver fertiliser more equitably.

Madam Speaker, this is the same Government that has been distributing the Cash-for-Work Programme more efficiently and consistently. Further, this Government has delivered the Social Cash Transfer (SCT) Programme consistently and more efficiently than any other Government. For many years, others believed it was impossible to offer free education but, this Government is doing it right now. I think, we all agree that education is the biggest equaliser.

Madam Speaker, despite saying that, I recognise that there are some pending issues, which I mentioned earlier on, such as teachers shunning very remote areas and the quality of education in rural areas. Compared to the rural areas, urban children have all sorts of alternative learning devices instead of just books. However, I want to repeat that in terms of interventions for rural areas, I cannot imagine any other Government that has done so much like this one.

Hon. UPND Members: Hear, hear!

Dr Musokotwane: Even when we compare this Government to the United National Independence Party (UNIP) Government, we can see that the UNIP Government did a lot regarding the construction of secondary schools at the district level in the 1960s. The secondary schools in Serenje, Mkushi, Kaoma and so forth were constructed during that time. However, in the villages, there is no other Government that has done so much to take development to the rural areas.

Madam Speaker, finally, I want to repeat what I have always been saying. Poverty has ultimately reduced because everyone who is a participant in the economy is putting something on the table. In this regard, this Government is working very hard to encourage investments to come to our country so that as many people as possible, especially the young ones, can have jobs. When one has a job, he or she can sort himself or herself out and does not need the Cash-for-Work Programme.

 Madam Speaker, I thank you.

CONSTRUCTION OF BRIDGE ON KALUNGU RIVER BETWEEN CHINSALI AND NAKONDE

183. Mr Mukosa asked the Minister of Infrastructure, Housing and Urban Development:

1. whether the Government has any plans to construct a bridge across Kalungu River to connect Chunga Village in Chinsali Parliamentary Constituency to Katukauchu Village in Nakonde Parliamentary Constituency;

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

1. what the estimated cost of the project is; and

1. 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 a bridge across the Kalungu River to connect Chunga Village in Chinsali Parliamentary Constituency and Katukauchu Village in Nakonde Parliamentary Constituency.

Madam Speaker, the Government awarded the contract for the construction of the substructures and assembly of the pre-fabricated steel acrow panel bridges in Muchinga Province to Nde’kazi Investments Limited. The scope of works includes construction of the Kalungu and Mwaleshi bridges. The contractor commenced construction works on the Mwaleshi Bridge site and has plans to commence works at Kalungu Bridge site at the end of the 2025/2026 Rainy Season, that is, after the water levels in the Kalungu River recede.

Madam Speaker, the estimated cost for the project for the construction of Mwaleshi and Kalungu bridges is K19,489,048.54.

Madam Speaker, as stated in response to part (a) of the question, the Government has plans to construct the bridge.

I thank you, Madam Speaker.

Mr Mukosa: Madam Speaker, I would like to seek a clarification. I did not hear properly what the hon. Minister said on the date of implementation. Did he say that the works have already started or what? Maybe, he can just clarify that.

Eng. Milupi: Madam Speaker, I said that works have commenced. The contractor commenced works at the Mwaleshi Bridge site, and plans to commence works on Kalungu Bridge, which is the one that the hon. Member has an interest in, as soon as the water recedes. If you have seen Kalungu River, you may have seen that it is flowing with a lot of water. So, we are waiting for the water levels to go down and then work will start.

I thank you, Madam Speaker.

Mr Mutelo (Mitete): Thank you, Madam Speaker.

Madam Speaker, you know when you are calm and do not want other people to cry, you remain quiet. However, I would like to congratulate the United Party for National Development (UPND) for scooping the last by-election, which was held in Muchinda Ward in Serenje. That is a sign.

Madam Speaker, here is a question about a bridge connecting one constituency to another constituency. I would like to know if there are any plans for a bridge to connect Mitete and Lukulu. I am just taking advantage of the question on the Floor to ask if there are such plans.

Laughter

Madam First Deputy Speaker: Well, it is up to the hon. Minister to say if he has an answer for that question.

Eng. Milupi: Madam Speaker, there are plans to connect Mitete and Lukulu districts, just like there are plans to connect Lukulu East to Lukulu West.

I thank you, Madam Speaker.

Madam First Deputy Speaker: Next question. Hon. Member for Chama North.

Mr Mukosa indicated to speak.

Madam First Deputy Speaker: Oh! I did not see your indication on time.

Hon. Member for Chinsali, you may ask your follow up question.

Mr Mukosa: Madam Speaker, in his answer, the hon. Minister mentioned something about fabrication. So, the other thing I want to seek clarification on from the hon. Minister is: What type of bridge will be installed at the Chunga Bridge site? Will it be an Acrow bridge or a different type of bridge?

Eng. Milupi: Ba tata, mulekutika.

Madam Speaker, what I said is that it will be a pre-fabricated Acrow Bridge. I am sure he is very happy about that.

I thank you, Madam Speaker.

Ms Nakaponda (Isoka): Thank you, Madam Speaker.

Madam Speaker, I want to advantage of the question about the bridge because the people of Isoka use the same bridge. If the Government constructs that bridge, the people of Isoka will be very happy. I would like the Government to construct that bridge so that the people of Isoka can also take advantage of it.

I thank you, Madam Speaker.

Eng. Milupi: Madam Speaker, that level of appreciation is what gives us confidence that we are coming back.

I thank you, Madam Speaker.

Hon. UPND Members: Hear, hear!

REHABILITATION OF FEEDER ROADS IN CHAMA NORTH

184. Mr Mtayachalo (Chama North) asked the Minister of Local Government and Rural Development:

1. whether the Government has any plans to rehabilitate the following feeder roads in Chama North Parliamentary Constituency:

1. Chama/Sitwe;
2. Mafinga Turn-Off/Mulilo;
3. Lundu/Mwinichipeta;
4. Chibale/Kambowe; and
5. Chibale/Isoka;

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

1. if there are no such plans, why.

Mr Sialubalo: Madam Speaker, the Government has plans to rehabilitate the above-mentioned feeder roads in Chama North Parliamentary Constituency. Through the local authority, Chama/Sitwe, Mafinga Turn-Off/Mulilo and Lundu/Mwinichipeta feeder roads will be worked using the Constituency Development Fund (CDF), while the Chabale/Kambowe and Chibale/Isoka feeder roads will be worked on as soon as funds are made available.

Madam Speaker, implementation of the plans already commenced. The local authority was working on grading the Chama/Sitwe Road using the CDF. As of December, 2025, 36 km had been completed. Upon completion of the remaining works on the Sitwe Road, the local authority will proceed to work on the Mafinga Turn-Off/Mulilo and Lundu/Mwinichipeta feeder roads, subject to the availability of funds.

Madam Speaker, the plans are there, as answered in response to part (a) of the question.

I thank you, Madam Speaker.

Mr Mtayachalo: Madam Speaker, I thank the hon. Minister for his responses.

Madam Speaker, Chama North Town Council and Chama South Town Council have procured earth-moving equipment such as graders, excavators and compactors.  However, there is a lot of pressure on the utilisation of the Constituency Development Fund (CDF). The huge challenge we face is on the construction of crossing points. Therefore, only utilising the CDF and our earth-moving equipment to work on the crossing points on the Chama/Sitwe Road is not enough. Will the Government assist us in terms of resources to work on those crossing points, now that the cost is huge?   

Mr Sialubalo: Madam Speaker, I thank my dear colleague for that follow-up question.

Madam Speaker, allow me to commend the two hon. Members of Parliament from Chama, for working hand in hand. We have seen that happen even in Mufulira, where three hon. Members of Parliament joined hands to undertake works that were of common interest in the district.

Madam Speaker, I was in Shiwang’andu and Isoka, where I learnt that as hon. Members of Parliament, we need to learn how to utilise the Constituency Development Fund (CDF) through our fellow hon. Members.

Madam Speaker, one interesting thing is that in Chama South, a very beautiful bridge was built using the CDF. So, with the CDF, there is no pressure. There is no pressure when it comes to the use of that money. However, pressure comes in when we decide what to use the money on. So, my dear hon. Colleague can engage with his counterpart the same way he did when they bought the equipment for the district. He has to sit with his brother, who is also my brother, to see the approach he used to build such a nice bridge using the CDF.  However, I indicated that, should a window of resources open up, not only Chama, but many other constituencies, will definitely be considered for construction of crossing points. It is a matter of the resource envelope.

I thank you, Madam Speaker.

Ms Nyirenda (Lundazi):  Madam Speaker, thank you for giving the people of Lundazi the opportunity to ask a question. When the hon. Minister of Finance and National Planning was answering a question on poverty, he stated that one of the issues that have caused poverty to increase in our nation is lack of road network. Our people cannot sell their products because they have to spend a lot of money on transporting the same products.

Madam Speaker, the issue of crossing points came in after the cancellation of all the roadworks, which were supposed to be done by the previous Government, when the United Party for National Development (UPND) Government just came into power. We now have the equipment, which we can use to grade the roads, but working on the crossing points is very expensive. The hon. Minister knows very well that the Constituency Development Fund (CDF) is not enough to work on Kaviyese and Kachule bridges, and all the eighteen bridges, especially for the people of Lundazi, where floods have actually turned the constituency upside down.

Madam Speaker, taking advantage of the question by Hon. Mtayachalo, really, is the hon. Minister not considering working on some of the most critical crossing points, especially for the people of Chama, given that we are neighbours there in Lundazi? When going to Chama, one has to pass through our place, otherwise, one cannot reach Chama if the crossing points in Lundazi are not worked on. We need that connectivity. As they are going to Chama, would they be in a position to work on those other crossing points whose contracts were cancelled by the United Party for National Development (UPND) Government itself? 

Mr Sialubalo: Madam Speaker, I thank my dear sister, the hon. Member for Lundazi, for that question.

Madam Speaker, I like the way the hon. Member brought in Lundazi into a constituency-based question. The entire country knows what happened in Lundazi, and we are with the people of Lundazi, for real. Definitely, I know that relevant institutions are not seated but doing something to avert the situation in Lundazi. We do sympathise. It was actually caused by nature.

Madam Speaker, what used to happen initially was that works were procured without sufficient resources. So, our approach is totally different. When resources are made available, that is when we reach out to the needy areas or projects. So, we know that the demand in Chama North needs more resources than the CDF. However, with the limited resources, we do not want to over-assure our people. We do not want to go beyond what we have said. I therefore, want to say that once there is a resource envelope, if a window of resources opens, definitely Chama, Lundazi, and many other constituencies, including my own constituency, Sinazongwe, will be considered.

I thank you, Madam Speaker.

Mr Mtayachalo: Madam Speaker, in as much as local authorities have bought the earth-moving equipment, I think there is a need for expertise in those local authorities. This is because we may work on the roads, but not to acceptable standards. The work done will be equal to zero.  So, I think we need road engineers in those local authorities, otherwise, we will be running in circles.

Madam Speaker, the Chibale/Isoka Road was awarded to a contractor, Tomorrow Investments Limited, under the hon. Minister’s ministry. Immediately when they came into power, they cancelled that contract, but works were not completed. So, when do we expect his ministry to give us another contractor so that the Chibale/Isoka Road can be completed?

 Mr Sialubalo: Madam Speaker, what led to the cancellation of the contracts was not because they were awarded by the Patriotic Front (PF). No. They were cancelled because there were no resources apportioned to those contracts. Our approach is that resources should be first seen, and only then can we undertake the projects.  

That was the reason contracts were cancelled. They were not cancelled because they were procured under the Patriotic Front (PF), no. Resources for those works were not available.

Madam Speaker, one important thing I also need to bring on board, which the hon. Member raised, is technical expertise in local authorities. That is a very genuine observation.  I have got many complaints from some hon. Members of Parliament that sometimes the expertise in local authorities leaves much to be desired. In the event that the hon. Member wants more advanced technical expertise, we have a team of engineers at the ministry whom we can assign to monitor operations. It is not a big number, but we want value for money. The only way we can achieve that is by having the right people do the right thing. When hon. Members observe that they doubt the capability of the engineers on a project, let them inform us so that we can give them the right people to do the right thing.

Madam Speaker, I thank you.

Mr Mung’andu (Chama South): Madam Speaker, I would like to thank the hon. Minister for the Constituency Development Fund (CDF).

Madam Speaker, this is the reason some of us have supported President Hakainde Hichilema. For the first time in our constituency, Chama South, 60 km of the Chama/Chikwa/Chasato Road has been worked on. We are also in the process of completing another 65 km of the Munyukwa/Chifunda Road. Actually, that is where the machines are. Bridges, as the hon. Minister mentioned, have also been worked on. This is the reason I am saying, let President Hakainde Hichilema continue up to 2031 in order for us to continue seeing development.

Madam Speaker, there are minor and serious issues. Hon. Mtayachalo mentioned crossing points in Chama South. I want to promise the people of Chikwa that using the CDF, we will build two bridges on Lunzi Road, because we know that Chama South is one of the constituencies that will continue receiving the CDF, under the leadership of President Hakainde Hichilema. For the smaller crossing points, is the hon. Minister in touch with the able, eloquent and politically explosive hon. Minister of Infrastructure, Housing and Urban Development regarding the Acrow Bridges concept? I believe that that is the only concept that can help us to attend to a number of crossing points not only in Chama North but also countrywide. Does the hon. Minister have any plans of discussing the extension of the Acrow Bridges project? We might need a number of Acrow Bridges so that we attend to the small crossing points.

Mr Sialubalo: Madam Speaker, I would like to thank my dear hon. Colleague for that supplementary question and also his line of thought.

Madam Speaker, that is a very wise line of thought. I should admit that I have never had an engagement with the hon. Minister of Infrastructure, Housing and Development along those lines. That is a brilliant idea, and I will take it on.

Madam Speaker, I thank you.

Interruptions

Mr Mukosa: Madam Speaker, the hon. Minister wants to wish me a Happy Valentine's Day before the day comes.

Laughter

OPERATIONALISATION OF CHILINDA MINI-CIVIC CENTRE IN CHINSALI DISTRICT

185. Mr Mukosa asked the Minister of Local Government and Rural Development:

1. when the Government will operationalise Chilinda Mini-Civic Centre in Chinsali District; and

1. what the cause of the delay in operationalising the centre is.

Mr Sialubalo: Madam Speaker, the Government has commenced activities to operationalise Chilinda Mini-Civic Centre. As an immediate measure, local authorities have stationed a revenue collector and departments performing devolved functions, such as fisheries and livestock. It has also deployed extension officers to the area and directed them to start using the facility.

Madam Speaker, the delay in the full operationalisation of Chilinda Mini-Civic Centre is due to a resource constraint. Further, Chilinda Mini-Centre in Chinsali District is located along the D18 Road, approximately 70 km from the Central Business District (CBD). It was established to serve the people in the northern part of Chinsali District. The site comprises an office block and a staff house. Full operationalisation requires a dedicated budget allocation to cover staff emoluments for additional personnel, as well as routine operational costs.

Madam Speaker, notwithstanding the above, the premises have periodically been used for revenue collection activities.

Madam Speaker, I thank you.

Mr Mukosa: Madam Speaker, I thank the hon. Minister for the answer that he has provided.

Madam Speaker, considering that the hon. Minister said that what has prevented the Government from fully operationalising Chilinda Sub-Boma is resource constraints, has the hon. Minister engaged the Ministry of Finance and National Planning to assist us with the much-needed resources for us to employ the staff we need to fully operationalise Chilinda Sub-Boma? When Chilinda Sub-Boma is fully operationalised, it will be a source of development.

Mr Sialubalo: Madam Speaker, I would like to like my dear hon. Colleague for the follow-up question.

Madam Speaker, we do not want to employ staff just because a building was constructed. We want to employ them because the need to employ has been identified by the local authority right there in Chinsali. So, once the local authority in Chinsali gives us a cadre that it feels will add value to its operations, we shall engage the Ministry of Finance and National Planning. So, employment of staff starts with the local authority in Chinsali, and then the ministry liaises with the Ministry of Finance and National Planning about it.

Madam Speaker, I thank you.

CONSTRUCTION OF FEEDER ROADS IN MPIKA DISTRICT

186. Mr Kapyanga (Mpika) asked the Minister of Infrastructure, Housing and Urban Development:

1. whether the Government has any plans to construct the Mpika/Katibunga/Mukungule/ Lufila/Kakoko Road in Mpika District;

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

1. if there are no such plans, why.

   CONSTRUCTION OF THE MPIKA/KATIBUNGA/MUKUNGULE/LUFILA/KAKOKO ROAD

186. Mr Kapyanga (Mpika) asked the Minister of Infrastructure, Housing and Urban Development:

1. whether the Government has any plans to construct the Mpika/Katibunga/ Mukungule/Lufila/Kakoko Road in Mpika District;

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

1. if there are no such plans, why.

The Minister of Infrastructure, Housing and Urban Development (Eng. Milupi): Madam Speaker, I wish to inform the House that the Government has plans to construct the Mpika/Katibunga/Mukungule/Lufila/Kakolo Road in Mpika District.

Madam Speaker, the Government will implement the plans once funds have been secured from the Treasury.

Madam Speaker, as stipulated in the response to part (b) of the question above, the Government have plans to construct that road.

I thank you, Madam Speaker.

Mr Kapyanga: Madam Speaker, the response indicates that the Government will implement the plans when funds are secured without indicating a timeframe. A plan must be coupled with a timeframe. So, when will the funds be secured, taking into account the importance of the road in question? That is an economic road connecting the Mukungule Chiefdom and the North Luangwa National Park to the rest of the country.

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

Madam Speaker, maybe, to put everything in context, it is necessary to provide a bit of history so that the hon. Member understands where we are. The previous contract for works was composed of two lots, which involved the construction and upgrading of approximately 80 km and 78 km for Lot I and Lot II, respectively. The part that was supposed to be worked on is from Mika via Katibunga through Chief Mukungule in Muchinga Province of Zambia. Lot I was awarded to Anhui Shuan Construction Group Corporation Limited at a contract sum of K267,727,318.33, which includes Value Added Tax (VAT). Lot II was awarded to China State Construction Engineering Corporation at a contract sum of K253,060,892.07, which includes VAT. The scope of work for the project included earthworks, construction of pavement layers, surfacing and drainage works on both lots, including other auxiliary works such as installation of road signage and road line markings.

Madam Speaker, this next part is important. The contract for Lot I lapsed on 16^th August, 2021. On that day, the New Dawn Government had not yet been formed. We were still struggling to get others to accept that they had lost. The contract for Lot II commenced on 15^th January, 2015. After five extensions caused by fiscal constraints, the contract lapsed and the project was terminated. At the time of termination, a total of K46,295,824, including VAT, had been certified and paid. The overall physical progress on both lots stood at 8.5 per cent and 10.5 per cent for Lot I and Lot II, respectively.

Madam Speaker, the hon. Member and the House can take note that the previous Administration had made a decision that projects that had not attained 80 per cent completion would be put on hold. One of these lots was at 8.5 per cent completion and the other one was at 10.5 per cent completion. So, they were put on hold.

Madam Speaker, the estimated cost of upgrading the two stretches to bituminous standards is approximately K856 million for Lot I, which is almost a billion Kwacha, and K815,100,000 for Lot II, which is also almost a billion Kwacha. We are talking about significant sums of money for projects that were put on hold by our predecessors.

Madam Speaker, I have often made a point that there is no cancelled project. All the projects that were started by our predecessors will be completed as soon as the Government is able to generate enough money in the economy to undertake these vast projects. So, the hon. Member should take heart. He wanted to know whether the Government has plans. Yes, the Government has plans, and we are talking about vast sums of money. With resources being available, the Government will definitely continue the projects. These are projects that require vast sums of money. When will resources be made available? The resources will be made available as soon as the economy improves. That is why we require the hon. Member’s support in working with us and the hon. Minister of Finance and National Planning to ensure that the economy is placed on a growth trajectory.

I thank you, Madam Speaker.

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BILLS

SECOND READING

THE ZAMBIA DEPOSIT INSURANCE CORPORATION BILL, 2025

The Minister of Finance and National Planning (Dr Musokotwane): Madam Speaker, I beg to move that the Bill be now read a second time.

Madam Speaker, I have the honour of presenting the policy statement in support of the Zambia Deposit Insurance Corporation Bill No. 38 of 2025. This is in line with a commitment to broaden financial sector safety nets by having a system for the protection of depositors in the event of a failure of a bank or financial institution, thereby promoting financial system stability. Our commitment to the protection of depositors arises from lessons that we have learned over time.

Madam, the House may wish to note that in the mid-1990s and early 2000s, Zambia experienced multiple failures of banks and financial institutions. Further, depositors were subjected to prolonged and uncertain depositor reimbursement processes. For instance, in 2016, the Government intervened with financial support in the failure of the Intermarket Banking Corporation Zambia Limited, and subsequently in the failure of Investrust Bank Plc in 2024. The interventions were necessary to prevent significant losses to depositors.

Madam Speaker, dependence on the Government’s intervention as a first point of call when banks or financial institutions fail is not sustainable. It is against this backdrop that it has become necessary to establish a scheme for the protection of depositors.

Therefore, the establishment of an independent entity to be called the Zambia Deposit Insurance Corporation is proposed under an Act of Parliament, which will allow for the creation of a private sector-funded corporation to protect depositors.

 Madam Speaker, the Zambia Deposit Insurance Corporation Bill aims to achieve the following objects:

1. establish the Zambia Deposit Insurance Corporation and provide for its functions;

1. protect depositors and contribute to financial system stability;

1. establish the Deposit Insurance Fund; and

1. provide for matters connected with, or incidental to, the foregoing.

Madam Speaker, through this Bill, it is proposed that all banks or deposit-taking financial institutions that are licenced to conduct banking business or provide financial services under the Banking and Financial Services Act of 2025 should be members of the corporation. Further, the Bill proposes the establishment of the fund, which may be applied for the purpose of making payments in respect of protected deposits.

In conclusion, Madam Speaker, I would like to urge hon. Members of the House to support this Bill. I am confident that the enactment of this Bill will protect depositors and enhance the financial safety net for people, and contribute to overall financial stability.

 Madam Speaker, I thank you.

Ms Sefulo (Mwandi): Madam Speaker, in accordance with its mandate, as set out in Order No. 207(j) of the National Assembly of Zambia Standing Orders, 2024, the Committee on Cabinet Affairs considered the Zambia Deposit Insurance Corporation Bill No. 38 of 2025.

Madam Speaker, the Bill seeks to establish the Zambia Deposit Insurance Corporation to strengthen financial safety nets for depositors, protect depositors in the event of bank or financial institution failure, enhance financial system stability and build public confidence in the financial sector. Once enacted, the Bill will serve as a key pillar of the National Financial Stability Framework.

Madam Speaker, allow me to emphasise that this Bill represents a significant step towards safeguarding depositors and promoting confidence in the banking sector. By assuring depositors that their funds are protected, the Bill will reduce the risk of bank runs and reinforce the resilience of the financial system.

Madam Speaker, the House may wish to note that stakeholders who appeared before the Committee were in support of the Bill. In doing so, they raised a few concerns on which the Committee makes the following observations and recommendations.

 Madam Speaker, let me highlight a few issues that caught the Committee's attention. The first issue relates to the governance structure of the corporation. The Committee observed that the proposed composition of the board includes representation from public institutions, such as the Bank of Zambia (BoZ), the Pensions Insurance Authority (PIA), the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), the Ministry of Finance and National Planning, and the Attorney-General's Chambers. The Committee is of the view that the absence of depositors' representation, independent financial experts and consumer voices does not provide an adequate balance between public sector representation and independent professional expertise. In light of this, the Committee recommends that the Bill provides for the inclusion of independent members who do not serve in the Government and possess the relevant professional experience.

Another governance issue, Madam Speaker, that the Committee looked at was the proposal for the BoZ Governor to be the chairperson of the board. The Committee fears that the current state of affairs has the potential to create a risk of over-concentration of power and negation of good corporate governance. The Committee recommends that the chairperson of the board should be an independent person who should be appointed by the President.

Madam Speaker, the Committee also observed that premium payments are critical in building a sufficient fund capable of protecting depositors and maintaining confidence in the financial sector. While Part 4 of the Bill aligns with international best practice, it does not clearly specify which aspects of the premiums are intended to be prescribed. That lack of clarity may leave premium setting to the board's discretion. Additionally, the premium framework may affect smaller and community-based financial institutions, particularly those serving rural areas and low-income households. In view of the foregoing, the Committee recommends that the Bill clearly states whether what will be prescribed are the premium rates or a schedule or formula for calculating them. That will promote transparency and predictability in the premium setting process.

Madam Speaker, the Committee further recommends that the premium structure also takes into account the circumstances of smaller and community-based financial institutions so that premium levels do not hinder operations or their ability to serve ordinary citizens. This is consistent with the objectives of the Eighth National Development Plan (8NDP); to create a supportive business environment and broaden private sector participation.

Madam Speaker, finally, I wish to pay tribute to all the stakeholders who interacted with the Committee during the process. I also extend sincere gratitude to you and the Office of the Clerk of the National Assembly of Zambia for the guidance and support rendered to the Committee throughout its deliberations.

Madam Speaker, I thank you.

Dr Musokotwane: Madam Speaker, I would like to thank the House for the overwhelming support for this Bill.

I thank you, Madam Speaker.

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

Committed to a committee of the Whole House.

 Committee on Wednesday, 18^th February, 2026

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BILL

HOUSE IN COMMITTEE

[THE CHAIRPERSON OF COMMITTEES in the

Chair]

THE IMMIGRATION CONTROL BILL, 2025

Clause 1 ordered to stand part of the Bill.

CLAUSE 2– (Interpretation)

The Minister of Home Affairs and Internal Security (Mr Mwiimbu, SC.): Mr Chairperson, I beg to move an amendment in Clause 2:

1. on Page 9, in line 13 by the deletion of the word “person” and the substitution therefor of the word ‘child’; and

1. on page 12, in line 32 by the deletion of the word “and” and the substitution therefor of the word ‘or’.

 Amendment agreed to. Clause amended accordingly.

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

Clauses 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28, 29, 30, 31, 32, 33, 34, 35, 36, 37, 38, 39, 40, 41, 42, 43, 44, 45 and 46 ordered to stand part of the Bill.

CLAUSE 47 – (Suspension or Revocation of Certificate of Registration)

Mr Mwiimbu, SC.: Mr Chairperson, I beg to move an amendment in Clause 47, on page 34, in lines 1 to 38 and on page 35, in lines 1 to 5 by the deletion of Clause 47 and the substitution therefor of the following:

   47.                                (1)   Subject to the other provisions of this Act, the Directory-General may suspend or cancel a certificate of registration if the holder –

1. does not comply with the terms and conditions of the certificate of registration;

1. obtained the certificate of registration through fraud, misrepresentation or concealment of a material fact;

1. is convicted of an offence involving fraud, dishonesty or forgery under this Act; or

1. is convicted of an offence under this Act or any written law and sentenced to imprisonment for a term exceeding six months without the option of a fine.

(2)        The Director-General shall, before suspending or cancelling a certificate of registration in accordance with subsection (1), notify the holder of the certificate of registration in a prescribed form of the Director-General’s intention to suspend or cancel the certificate of registration and shall –

1. give reasons for the intended suspension or cancellation; and

1. require the holder of the certificate of registration to show cause, within a period of not more than fourteen days, why the certificate of registration should not be suspended or cancelled.

(3)        The Director-General shall not suspend or cancel a certificate of registration under this section if the holder takes remedial measures to the satisfaction of the Director-General within the period referred to in subsection (2) (b).

(4)        The Director-General shall in a prescribed form suspend or cancel a certificate of registration if the holder, having been notified in accordance with subsection (2) does not –

1. show cause to the satisfaction of the Director-General why the certificate of registration should not be suspended or cancelled; or

1. take remedial measures to the satisfaction of the Director-General within the period specified in subsection (2) (b).

(5)        A holder of a certificate of registration that is cancelled shall, within fourteen days of being notified of the cancellation, surrender the certificate of registration to the Director-General.

(6)        A person who contravenes subsection (5) commits an offence and is liable, on conviction, to a fine of not less than sixty thousand penalty units but not exceeding two hundred thousand penalty units or to imprisonment for a term not exceeding two years, or both.

Amendment agreed to. Clause amended accordingly.

Clause 47, as amended, ordered to stand part of the Bill.

Clauses 48, 49, 50, 51, 52, 53, 54, 55, 56, 57, 58, 59, 60, 61, 62, 63, 64, 65, 66, 67 and 68 ordered to stand part of the Bill.

CLAUSE 69 – (Aiding and Abetting Prohibited Immigrant or Illegal Immigrant)

Mr Mwiimbu, SC.: Mr Chairperson, I beg to move an amendment in Clause 69, on page 46, in line 5 by the deletion of the word “fine” immediately after the word “units”

Amendment agreed to. Clause amended accordingly.

Clause 69, as amended, ordered to stand part of the Bill.

Clauses 70, 71, 72, 73, 74, 75, 76, 77 and 78 ordered to stand part of the Bill.

First, Second, Third and Fourth Schedules ordered to stand part of the Bill.

Title agreed to.

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HOUSE RESUMED

[MADAM FIRST DEPUTY SPEAKER in the Chair]

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

The Immigration Control Bill, 2025

Report Stage on Wednesday, 18^th February, 2026.

Madam First Deputy Speaker: Order!

_______

MOTION

ADJOURNMENT

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

Question put and agreed to.

_______

The House adjourned at 1214 hours until 1430 hours on Tuesday, 17^th February, 2026.

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