Friday, 10th April, 2026

Friday, 10^th April, 2026

The House met at 0900 hours

[MADAM FIRST DEPUTY SPEAKER in the Chair]

NATIONAL ANTHEM

PRAYER

_______

ANNOUNCEMENT BY MADAM FIRST DEPUTY SPEAKER

PUPILS AND TEACHERS FROM BRAINOBRAIN ACADEMY ZAMBIA

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

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

Thank you.

COMPREHENSIVE EYE SCREENING BY NORTHERN OPTICIANS & EYE CLINIC

Madam First Deputy Speaker: Hon. Members, I wish to inform the House that the Northern Opticians and Eye Clinic has been granted permission to conduct a free comprehensive eye screening campaign for hon. Members of Parliament and staff of the National Assembly.

The exercise will include comprehensive eye examinations as well as general wellness assessments, including weight measurement, blood pressure monitoring and blood sugar screening. The objective of this initiative is to promote eye health through early detection, timely intervention and management of common ocular and related health conditions.

The screening will take place from Monday, 13^thApril to Thursday, 16^th April, 2026, from 0900 hours to 1600 hours, and on Friday, 17^th April, 2026, from 0900 hours to 1300 hours, at the main reception area, Parliament Main Building.

Interested hon. Members are encouraged to take advantage of this important health initiative.

Thank you.

_______

URGENT MATTER WITHOUT NOTICE

MR KAMPYONGO, HON. MEMBER FOR SHIWANG’ANDU, ON HER HONOUR THE VICE-PRESIDENT, DR NALUMANGO, ON THE APPOINTMENT OF JUDGES

Mr Kampyongo (Shiwang’andu): On an Urgent Matter without Notice, Madam Speaker.

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

Mr Kampyongo: Madam Speaker, most appreciated.

Madam Speaker, the Urgent Matter without Notice I am raising is directed to the Leader of Government Business in the House, Her Honour the Vice-President.

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

Mr Kampyongo: Madam Speaker, indeed, His Excellency the President of the Republic of Zambia has the mandate, and the Constitution allows him to make appointments to constitutional offices. Yesterday, an announcement was made regarding the appointment of Judges to the High Court, the Supreme Court and the Court of Appeal.

Madam Speaker, I know that this august House will have to ratify the appointment of the nominees. However, there has been public uproar on some of the nominees and this cannot be crossed over. It is important to protect the institutions of governance as we were reminded by the President of Ghana, who spoke about the integrity of Government institutions.

Madam Speaker, one of the nominees is already in campaign mode, and in Luanshya, he was openly campaigning on the United Party for National Development (UPND) ticket. Another one has been cited for serious illegal encumbrances.

Madam Speaker, in as much as we, as an institution, have to scrutinise the appointment of the nominees before we ratify them, it is important that some of them are withdrawn before their names are tabled in this august House.

Madam Speaker, is Her Honour the President in order to allow this august House to scrutinise the nominees, whose appointment has generated public outcry?

Hon. Government Member interjected.

Mr Kampyongo: I seek your serious guidance –

Shut up, you! I am not talking to you.

Madam First Deputy Speaker: Order, hon. Member!

Kindly finish your Urgent Matter without Notice.

Mr Kampyongo: Madam Speaker, I seek your serious guidance.

Madam First Deputy Speaker: Hon. Member for Shiwang’andu, I think, you know the procedure that is usually undertaken when the President appoints people. There is a process that is followed until Parliament ratifies the appointment of those appointed. So, it is like you have already done the work of the Committee. The Committee will look into all those issues that you brought up and it will make a decision together with you in the House. So, that matter does not qualify to be raised as an Urgent Matter without Notice.

_______

THE VICE-PRESIDENT’S QUESTION TIME

Mr Charles Mulenga (Kwacha): Madam Speaker, thank you for giving me the opportunity to ask Her Honour the Vice-President a question.

Good morning to Her Honour the Vice-President.

Madam Speaker, the situation in the Middle East right now is quite volatile, and we are witnessing the war escalating. Most countries in Africa, particularly in the Central African Region, including Zambia, are worried because the movers of their economies are countries in the Middle East, where fuel is procured from. However, there are countries within the region which are near Zambia that have fuel, and I am referring to Angola, in particular. Are there any immediate solutions to the problem? We are getting fuel from very far away, yet there are countries close to Zambia and the distance is not far compared to –

Madam First Deputy Speaker: Can you summarise your question, hon. Member.

Mr Charles Mulenga: Madam Speaker, does the Government have plans of procuring fuel from Angola, which is near Zambia, and there are no huge costs associated with transportation?

The Vice-President (Dr Nalumango): Madam Speaker, good morning to the hon. Member for Kwacha and I thank him for that question, which in my understanding concerns the Middle East, where we get some important commodities like fuel. The area is engulfed in war and, therefore, it is difficult to get these commodities, and they have become extremely expensive.

Madam Speaker, the question was: Do we have plans of purchasing fuel from neighbouring countries or, indeed, from Africa? The short answer is yes, there are plans. We started engaging, for example Angola, even before the war. We have engaged with countries such as Angola and Nigeria to see how we can possibly work together. I think, on Angola, we started talking about it and something was raised in the House. So, we are looking for alternatives. Like you see, we are well placed among the African Countries. The war is affecting the cost and access to fertiliser. I think, as Zambians, we prepared so well as fertiliser is being produced locally and neighbouring countries are assessing it. Had we not been producing fertiliser locally, it would have been difficult to access it. Remember, previously, we used to get the commodity from Saudi Arabia and other countries but, today, Zambia is well prepared when it comes to fertiliser; we should be happy. However, as regards fuel, we are engaging the countries I mentioned.

I thank you, Madam Speaker.

Mr Chisopa (Mkushi South): Thank you, Madam Speaker.

Madam Speaker, now that it is clear that the Zambian people are voting out the United Party for National Development (UPND) on 13^th August, 2026 –

Hon. UPND Members: Question!

Laughter

Mr Chisopa: Madam Speaker, the people have already made a decision that come 13^th August, 2026, the UPND will be out of Government. The reasons are very simple. People cannot speak freely because of the cyber law that the Government introduced. People always say that they cannot speak because they have no lawyers.

Madam First Deputy Speaker: Hon. Member for Mkushi South –

Mr Chisopa: We cannot find mealie meal priced at K50.

Madam First Deputy Speaker: Hon. Member for Mkushi South, you are now de-campaigning in the House. You are campaigning. Come up with a question for Her Honour the Vice-President so that she can answer it. Do not campaign in the House.

Interruptions

Mr Chisopa: Madam Speaker, it is true that when the UPND came into power, it promised the Zambian people to reduce the price of mealie meal to K50, …

Interruptions

Madam First Deputy Speaker: What is your question?

Mr Chisopa: … and that it would reduce the United States (US) Dollar exchange rate to a single digit.

Hon. UPND Members: Sit down!

Madam First Deputy Speaker: Hon. Member for Mkushi South, I have given guidance to you to not campaign. The time for campaigning will come. Summarise your question so that you can give a chance to other hon. Members to ask as well. Do you have a question or not, or maybe you want to campaign?

Mr Chisopa: I have a question, Madam Speaker.

Madam First Deputy Speaker: Go straight to the question.

Mr Kabuswe: Limbi, naukolwa fye, iwe!

Mr Chisopa: Madam Speaker, ask the hon. Minister of Mines and Minerals Development to stop making noise.

Interruptions

Madam First Deputy Speaker: Hon. Member for Mkushi South, for the last time, do you have a question to ask, or are you not prepared?

Mr Chisopa: Yes, Madam Speaker.

Madam First Deputy Speaker: Go straight to your question.

Mr Chisopa: Madam Speaker, the Zambian people experienced serious load-shedding. What is the last message that Her Honour the Vice-President has for them to gain confidence in the Government in the remaining few months?

Interruptions

The Vice-President: Madam Speaker, the hon. Member for Mkushi South has asked very important questions. Please, allow me to answer them. He took his time. So, let me also respond. To start with, the hon. Member – (the Vice-President coughed)

Mr B. Mpundu: Kola wimbe!

Laughter

The Vice-President: This is when I say that the hon. Member for Nyimba is practising witchcraft on me.

Laughter

Mr B. Mpundu: Mayo mulibakaele!

Laughter

The Vice-President: I will still speak.

Interruptions

The Vice-President: Madam Speaker, the hon. Member for Mkushi South started by making a statement to the effect that the Zambian people will finally vote us out. That is very important. Let me start by addressing him and say that if anybody is in danger, it is him.

Hon. UPND Members: Hear, hear!

The Vice-President: How many votes did he win by?

Hon. UPND Members: Two votes!

Laughter

The Vice-President: Madam Speaker, he will not get those five votes this time because we have strategic positions in Luano Valley where he managed to do what he did.

Hon. UPND Members: Hear, hear!

The Vice-President: Therefore, hon. Member, I think, we should not go down that route.

Madam Speaker, this side of the House (pointed at the UPND Benches) is extremely confident based on the same things that the hon. Member has talked about. Firstly, he has misled this nation by saying that we introduced the cyber law. Honestly, was the hon. Member not in the House when the cyber law was presented in this House?

Mr Mwiimbu, SC.: He was!

The Vice-President: Now, today, the situation has turned, and he is saying that it was us. Do not make laws that target others. The law is now working. We just operationalised it.

Hon. UPND Members: Hear, hear!

Hon. PF Members: Question!

The Vice-President: The record is there showing that the cyber law was brought to this House under the previous Government ...

Mr Mwiimbu, SC.: PF!

The Vice-President: … of the Patriotic Front (PF).

Mr Mabeta: Correct!

The Vice-President: Therefore, the Zambian people know. They should not be taken for granted. The Zambian people understand, Madam Speaker. They know. They follow what we do in this House.

Madam Speaker, the hon. Member spoke about the promises in our manifesto. He should read the manifesto, not use what in law they call – Hon. Mpundu will agree with me – trade paths.

Mr B. Mpundu Laughed.

The Vice-President: Madam Speaker, one should read the manifesto and understand that, indeed, we promised to reduce inflation. Is that still something to question? Can you question whether we have reduced the inflation rate? It has been reduced to single digit and it is now at 7.4 per cent. It has reduced. Can you –

Mr Chisopa interjected.

The Vice-President: That is where the problem is. If you, who is supposed to interpret (the Vice-President coughed) or understand what is happening in the economy can misunderstand, then, you are leaving us alone to explain. You are not explaining.

Madam Speaker, the Zambian people understand. Inflation has been reduced. Can you question the exchange rate and say that it has not been reduced?

Mr Mwiimbu, SC.: Eh!

The Vice-President: Honestly, Madam Speaker? Those are the things that we have worked on. The exchange rate has improved, even though we found the economy in tatters. Others will call it a basket case. Today, you must be proud. It does not matter where you are. The issues of the economy, which are very difficult to handle, have been handled, and the Zambian people appreciate that. If there is a decision the Zambian people have made, it is to ensure that those who turned the economy into a basket case are not given another opportunity.

Hon. UPND Members: Hear, hear!

Hon. PF Members: Question!

The Vice-President: Hon. Member for Mkushi South, you are supposed to be handling issues the way you are supposed to handle them and say what you will do differently, instead of looking at this performing Government under the leadership of the President.

Madam Speaker, I can stand anywhere and say that the economy has been worked on. We, as Zambia, are blessed because when other nations are going through a lot of stress, we are still moving. Our people are being looked after in many ways.

Interruptions

The Vice-President: You can ask another question.

I thank you, Madam Speaker.

Hon. UPND Members: Hear, hear!

Mr Simushi (Sikongo): Thank you very much, Madam Speaker.

Madam Speaker, I have been privileged to live through all the Governments that have ruled this country, from the United National Independence Party (UNIP), the Movement for Multi-party Democracy (MMD), the Patriotic Front (PF) and now, the United Party for National Development (UPND). What intrigues me is President Hakainde Hichilema’s ingenuity and methodical approach to development, which have turned the fortunes of this country within a short time and made it such a great nation, and that has also earned him the status of a global icon. Critical to that is the creation of the Public-Private Dialogue Forum (PPDF), enhancement of the Constituency Development Fund (CDF), as well as creation of the Presidential Delivery Unit (PDU). Now, how fortunate are we, as a country, to have a President, a person, such as Hakainde Hichilema, a leader of this country at a critical time such as this one?

The Vice-President: Madam Speaker, I would like to thank the hon. Member for Sikongo, who has said that looking back at the previous Governments – yes, we appreciate that they did their parts – President Hakainde Hichilema’s ingenuity has, basically, put many things in place that have worked in a critical time like this one. The hon. Member has talked about the Public-Private Dialogue Forum (PPDF), the increased CDF allocation and many other innovations in terms of governance, particularly economic governance. He has asked what I can say about the fact that the President has been given to us at a critical time such as this one. I would say that Zambia is a blessed nation maybe, because of its status as a Christian nation. At a time when people thought they would go under a lot of suffering, God raised another leader to lead this nation.

Madam Speaker, let us look at the good things that the President has done and tell ourselves that truly, it is a blessing to have this President lead this nation, get us from the doldrums to where we are. Even Jesus, if you may allow me, said that the poor will always be among us, but we have to look at the majority. Things are improving and it depends on which lenses one is putting on for one to see. Let us not put on political lenses. When we campaign, let us do it based on real issues. Let us give praise where it is due. I think we need to praise our God for giving us President Hakainde Hichilema to deal with so many issues that concern our economy. He came in when the mining sector was dying. Today, the mining sector has resurrected. Jobs are being created. When did we hear of a Government employing thousands of people? When did we hear that?

Hon. Government Member: Never!

The Vice-President: Unfortunately, the hon. Minister of Education is not hear. Today, we are employing people. I know hon. Members on your left side will say, “Who are you employing? When were they qualified?” Well, if people were qualified ten years ago, where was the Government then? We are now employing all those. Those are the good things that should make us say we are blessed as a nation. Let us support this President for him to move the economic agenda to a higher level for the sake of the Zambians.

Madam Speaker, I thank you.

Hon. Government Members: Hear, hear!

Mr B. Mpundu (Nkana): Madam Vice-President, imwe mwila sakamana, muli bakaele. Tamulyako –

Madam First Deputy Speaker: Order!

Hon. Member for Nkana, that is not the official language in the House.

Mr B. Mpundu: Thank you, Madam Speaker.

Madam First Deputy Speaker: I also want to remind you that we are on the Vice-President’s Question Time.

Mr B. Mpundu: Noted, Madam Speaker.

Madam Speaker, the National Registration Cards (NRC) issuance exercise is always funded and as such, when officers participate in it, they must be paid right there and then. It has been almost a year and most of the officers who took part in that exercise have not been paid. You may wish to note that some of the officers who took part in that exercise were deployed to far-flung areas and had to borrow money. Now, they are being haunted by the debt they contracted. Why has your Government failed to pay those hard-working civil servants after they rendered that very important service to the nation?

The Vice-President: Madam Speaker, I would like to thank the hon. Member for Nkana for the question on the issue of payment to those who took part in the National Registration Card (NRC) issuance exercise. We do admit the fact that there are those who are not yet paid.

Hon. Opposition Members: All of them!

The Vice-President: No. It is not all of them. We should remember that the exercise was done in two phases. Those who participated in the first phase were paid. That is a fact.

Interruptions

Madam First Deputy Speaker: Order, hon. Members.

Please, allow Her Honour the Vice-President to answer.

The Vice-President: Let us not argue about facts. Yes, those who participated in the first group were paid. The second part was the extension because we needed to continue with the exercise. Probably, as Parliament, we under allocated the resources to that exercise. We thought it would be done. However, there were areas that were hard to reach.

Madam Speaker, I remember in this House being told by hon. Members that certain parts of their constituencies had not been covered during that exercise. As a listening Government that knows the importance of NRCs, the period of the exercise was extended. It was that extension that brought about this issue of non-payment because no resources were allocated to it. Like the hon. Member said, that was a funded exercise. It was funded but other areas were left out. I am sure the hon. Members remember that that issue was brought here. The extension caused this problem. The hon. Member should just wait. I know that he will soon see figures because this Government is committed. We needed to make sure that everyone who needed an NRC got it rather than for us to cut the process short.

Madam Speaker, it is a prerequisite for voter registration and the Social Cash Transfer (SCT). So, we thought people could be allowed to get their NRCs. We did not want to leave people as it may have been in the past. Due to its importance, we extended the period. It is just like the maize issue. We allocate money so that we do more. That way, we would not say that there is no money. We extended the period and we are going to pay within a very short time. We will do that as soon as we pass the Supplementary Budget. We should remember that we are people who work within the Budget and that is what we are going to do. We are going to pay. They should not start inciting anybody. We are going to pay.

I thank you, Madam Speaker.

Mr J. Chibuye (Roan): Madam Speaker, thank you very much for the opportunity to ask Her Honour the Vice-President a question. Your Honour the Vice-President, greetings from the people of Roan Constituency.

Madam Speaker, I want to begin by stating that indeed, credit must be given where it is due. I want to appreciate the Republican President, through you, for reopening Shaft 28, which was defunct for the past twenty-three years.

Your Honour the Vice-President, I want to report that last week, I had a meeting with the Chairman of Luanshya Copper Mines and that by August, full production will commence at Shaft 28.

Madam Speaker, the question that I have is quiet haunting to myself. As the Government, the Republican President is on record stating that we need to reintroduce the Zambia National Service. The reason is very simple as it all boarders on discipline. What is happening in schools right now, is quite disheartening where we are now witnessing pupils struggling, fighting, arguing, bickering and procrastinating with their own teachers.

Your Honour the Vice-President, when we were growing, for some of us to be here today, is because we were disciplined.

Madam First Deputy Speaker: You can summarise your question.

Mr J. Chibuye: Thank you, Madam Speaker.

Madam Speaker, with what is obtaining in schools today, is the Government thinking of reintroducing the minimum corporal punishment for our pupils so that we can maintain the discipline that this country is known for?

The Vice-President: Thank you, Madam Speaker.

Madam Speaker, I would like to thank the hon. Member for Roan who does really agree that we should give praise where it is due. There is praise for the President of Zambia, Mr Hakainde Hichilema, because of the many things he is doing, that include the reopening of mines like the one which will now operate in full throttle by August in Roan. I thank him for that.

Madam Speaker, the hon. Member talked about the President having said that we reintroduced training of youths at the Zambia National Service (ZNS) because this would help to discipline young people. He said there is a lot of indiscipline in schools today. I think, we should admit the point that we, as a nation, must work on discipline. This is one word that also embodies other issues like morality. I think, the issue of indiscipline is beyond schools. I will not go too far into that debate, but I am sure that everybody here would agree with me that certain things are happening because children lack self-control, which breeds indiscipline. This is a terrible situation and it is not easy to handle. If there is indiscipline in schools, what kind of society do you think we will have? Schools are where children’s character is shaped. When undisciplined people go into society, they also breed undisciplined families, and this goes on and on. That is what it means.

Madam Speaker, as to how we can handle it, it is a big topic. Let me talk about the reintroduction of corporal punishment, if that is what the hon. Member meant. I know that the Bible says that spare the rod and spoil the child. However, this issue requires consultation before we can say that it can be done. I do not think I can stand here and agree with the hon. Member. This means a lot. We have come a long way to reach this point. Sometimes, even teachers must be guided on how far corporal punishment can go. I think, this is a national matter, which calls for a national debate. So, we cannot just say that we need to reintroduce it. I cannot declare that here. There is a need for a mindset change for us to grow a society that will be different and disciplined.

I thank you, Madam Speaker.

Mr Mtayachalo (Chama North): Madam Speaker, thank you for this opportunity, and good morning to Her Honour the Vice-President.

Madam Speaker, the Constituency Development Fund (CDF) is the flagship programme of the United Party for National Development (UPND) Administration. The CDF is a very good programme, and, as such, I do appreciate that every year the Government endeavours to increase its allocation. However, the Government has been struggling in the last two years to disburse the CDF. This has affected the smooth implementation of CDF projects in almost all constituencies. For example, by 31^st December, 2025, Chama Town Council was owed K19 million of the CDF for 2024. Nyimba Town Council is owed K14 million of the CDF for 2024. We, as hon. Members of Parliament are now being blamed for this. People are saying that we are not working, but the issue is that money is not being released to local authorities. When is the Government going to clear these arrears? We are now in the second quarter of 2026, yet the Government has not disbursed the CDF for 2026. Whatever monies have been paid this year are arrears for 2024 and 2025. When is the Government going to clear the arrears and also ensure that the CDF for the first quarter is paid, so that projects can be implemented smoothly?

The Vice-President: Madam Speaker, I request the hon. Member to repeat the last part of the question. I did not pick it. I did not get the last part of the question. I heard the part where he asked when the Government is going to pay the arrears. Is that what he said?

Madam Second Deputy Speaker: That is the main question, actually.

The Vice-President: Madam Speaker, the Constituency Development Fund (CDF) is one of the flagship programmes of the United Party for National Development (UPND), New Dawn Government. I think, all of us have seen and appreciate how much the CDF has done in our constituencies. Therefore, it is worth supporting.

Madam Speaker, the hon. Member said that this Government has been struggling in the last two years to disburse the CDF. He cited two districts, that is, Chama and Nyimba, as the areas owed. Chama is owed K19 million and then the other one is owed K14 million. I understand that the disbursement of the CDF is based on the requests and the programmes from constituencies. This is what I understand. What happens is that when the money is disbursed to a council, a council uses it. I do not know whether the money can be retired by a council or how that is done. Constituencies can request for more monies to be disbursed. I do not know whether Nyimba or Chama North exhausted the funds that they requested or the funds that they were allocated. If they have requested for funds, definitely, they will be given the money. Remember, this fund is in perpetuity. The money is not withdrawn. This is what the hon. Minister said here some years ago. He said that the ministry would not withdraw the money. I hope that is still the case. So, it does not matter if it takes a long time for the money to be disbursed because it will still be sent to constituencies. That is what the Government decided. At the end of the day, it cannot mop up the money and then not give constituencies money. The money will surely go to Chama. It will go to Nyimba as well because the CDF programme goes on.

Madam Speaker, I thank you.

Mr Tayengwa (Kabwata): Madam Speaker, there is a saying that a worthless physician can never solve the problem that he may have created. Today, we have seen how the Patriotic Front (PF) has actually disintegrated. It has accused the Ruling Party of being the one behind the confusion in the PF. We have seen how a worthless physician is jumping from one organisation to another, wanting to come to power using the back door or deceit.

Madam Speaker, what is Her Honour the Vice-President's word of advice to the Zambian people about certain individuals who could have plundered the resources of this nation, who caused misery to the Zambian people but now want to come back to power using deceptive means such as using another vehicle?

The Vice-President: Madam Speaker, I did not get the saying very well, but I think that the hon. Member spoke of a disintegrated former Ruling Party, and that it would like to come back to power through the back door using deception. People do not easily forget. Although we say they forget, people do not easily forget. This is why we have a situation in my country. They do not forget so easily. They are able to monitor what is going on.

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

Interruptions

Madam Second Deputy Speaker: Order, hon. Members!

I am not taking points of order, hon. Member for Lunte. Let Her Honour the Vice-President proceed with her response.

Her Honour the Vice-President may proceed.

The Vice-President: Madam Speaker, deception means not telling people the truth or simply, telling people things that are not true. Zambians do not forget as much as we think. If they forgot so easily, we would have seen a repeat of other Governments that have been in power before. The Patriotic Front (PF) is not the only previous Government. We should learn from that. The people do not go back to – What do we say? People do not go back to ku malushi, boi.

Interruptions

Madam First Deputy Speaker: Order, hon. Members!

The Vice-President: Madam Speaker, I think, we misunderstand the issue.

Mr Kapyanga: Question!

The Vice-President: Let me respond.

Mr B. Mpundu: The hour.

Mr B. Mpundu and Mr Kapyanga showed the Movement for Multi-Party Democracy’s (MMD) symbol.

Madam First Deputy Speaker: Order!

Hon. Member for Nkana and hon. Member for Mpika, you are not supposed to shout out slogans and raise symbols of political parties in the House. You know the rules. Can you, please, refrain from doing that.

Her Honour the Vice-President, you may continue.

The Vice-President: Madam Speaker, there is a total misunderstanding of an institution, a political party and an individual. Any of you can come, be here and you will still win, as a member of a party. Many Members who were there (referring to the left side of the House) are joining us, but that will not be Patriotic Front (PF). My hon. Colleagues should not pretend to not understand. They understand what I am saying, that Zambians do not – After all, I have not gone back to Kaputa to stand, because that is where I was rejected. Kulya ndi malushi. They vomited me. No matter how much they love me, to me, it was done. I did my bit. I am not standing there. However, as an individual, that is a different matter.

Hon. PF Members: Question!

The Vice-President: Madam Speaker, the Zambian people do not go backwards. Just know where to survive. Using deceptive means or lies, sorry not lies, or untruths, will not help because Zambians still remember what they passed through. As individuals, you are different. Otherwise, we would be rejecting the people from the PF, but we do not because it is an individual decision. So, no matter what some people try, it will not work. No matter what they say, Zambians still remember. They cannot go out there and talk about peace, as the same entity, when Zambians still remember the beatings. They cannot go out there and tell the Zambians that they are going to grow the economy, when they still remember how they closed the mines. They cannot go out there and talk of – Zambians still remember what they did as a closed entity.

Mr Kapyanga: Akabunga ati sha?

The Vice-President: Akabunga boi, kaili bwino.

Laughter

The Vice-President: Madam Speaker, let me say this. Whatever they do, Zambians decode and understand. There would probably be no mealie meal.

Interruptions

The Vice-President: The people in Kaputa are very happy. I was there. They understand. Anyway, let me stop answering these guys.

Hon. Government Members: Hear, hear!

The Vice-President: Madam Speaker, whatever our colleagues do, they should not use deception or mislead people. Zambians understand. They do not forget easily. Ta ba bwekelako. They do not go back. So, the hon. Member for Mkushi South has more work than I do. As PF Members, they have more work than I do because we are still new on the scene. People know them, and they still remember what they did as a party. It is hard for them, but they should continue blessing us.

I thank you, Madam Speaker.

Mrs Chonya (Kafue): Madam Speaker, the people of Kafue, and Chalala in particular, have a challenge of sinkholes, which I am sure the Office of the Vice-President is aware of. What is the Disaster Management and Mitigation Unit (DMMU), which is under the Office of the Vice-President, doing to address this matter?

The Vice-President: Madam Speaker, I would like to thank the hon. Member for Kafue for that question.

Madam Speaker, I would like to explain that the issue of sinkholes is not a disaster. I think, we need to address it through the Ministry of Mines and Minerals Development and the Ministry of Green Economy and Environment because a disaster is when something happens. Of course, together, we are one Government. The Ministry of Mines and Minerals Development has been requested to look at the issue of sinkholes before it becomes a disaster. We will come and issue a statement on the sinkholes when the research is done. I hear there is an old report, but I think there is a need to look at it.

I thank you, Madam Speaker.

Mr Simumba (Nakonde): Madam Speaker, it is now evident that the United Party for National Development (UPND) Government is leaving. Now the problem I have with this Government is that it is very scared of competition.

Hon. Opposition Members: Hear, hear!

Mr Simumba: Madam Speaker, it confiscated the passport and phones of the incoming president, Hon. Brian Mundubile, on 19^th March, 2026. Why is this Government so scared of Mr Brian Mundubile as an individual, to the extent of trying to block him? Why is it doing that? He has been here for five years, but they have now raised cases that are not even there. Why are they scared of competition?

Hon. Opposition Members: Hear, hear!

Madam First Deputy Speaker: I will allow that question, but hon. Members, we are not supposed to debate ourselves.

The Vice-President: Madam Speaker, I would like to thank the hon. Member for Nakonde for that question though I do not understand his political status fully. I appreciate the question, except that it does not state facts as they are. Is it about the Government or the party? Which one?

Hon. Opposition Members: Your party.

The Vice-President: The Government is for all. It does not compete with anybody because our colleagues are also members of the Government. Are they saying as the Government –

Interruptions

The Vice-President: That is why I asked if it is the party or the Government, but they are saying the Government. The Government is for everyone. All of us here are members of the Government. So, who can compete within itself? I do not understand.

Madam Speaker, thank you for making it clear that we cannot, in this House, debate an individual. I refuse to debate the hon. Member whose name was brought up. We do not debate individuals, nor do we debate ourselves here.

Madam Speaker, I urge my hon. Colleagues to follow up issues. When somebody’s passport is taken, let us follow up, and find out why it has been taken. They even have big lawyers. Let us handle it.

Hon. Opposition Members: Where?

The Vice-President: I did not mention anybody.

Laughter

The Vice-President: If an innocent person is arrested, the courts will vindicate that person. So, let us use the processes that we have to follow up, if some hon. Members or members of the public’s passports have been confiscated for no reason. Definitely, the confiscating officers must have a reason they did that. The hon. Member should challenge that, and he will get the answers.

I thank you, Madam Speaker.

Mr Kampyongo (Shiwang’andu): Most appreciated, Madam Speaker, for giving me this last opportunity.

Madam Speaker, we saw Her Honour the Vice-President undertake a tour of duty, which started in Chama, and we were reliably informed that she received thirteen defectors.

Laughter

Mr Kampyongo: Madam Speaker, the challenge the people of Chama are facing is that the Chama/Lundazi Road, whose contract works were terminated, has now gotten worse, and so has the last stretch of the Chama/Matumbo Road, which is the remaining 66 km. We also saw her in Luapula Province, where people have been expecting works on the Nchelenge/Chienge Road, as equipment was taken and the road commissioned, but that has not started. The Mporokoso/Nsama/Kaputa –

Madam First Deputy Speaker: Hon. Member for Shiwang’andu, we are running out of time, that is why I said that you should summarise your question.

Mr Kampyongo: Madam Speaker, I was worried when I saw my brother, the hon. Minister of Youth, Sport and Arts, using his motor vehicle as a boat in trying to cross a river.

Laughter

Madam First Deputy Speaker: What is your question?

Mr Kampyongo: What message does Her Honour the Vice-President have for the people she visited, who have been expecting the Government to deal with those pertinent issues?

Hon. Opposition Members: Hear, hear!

The Vice-President: Madam Speaker, the first statement that the hon. Member – colleagues, sorry.

Interruptions

The Vice-President: Madam Speaker, the first statement that the hon. Member has made is about a tour of duty. He followed that up with one of the things that happened, that is the welcoming of defectors and he has mentioned a number.

Those are not just in Chama. They are councillors, mwana.

Hon. UPND Members: Hear, hear!

The Vice-President: They are not ordinary members. They are councillors. However, that is not the issue. The most important thing is that I went on a tour of duty. Probably, I should be asked about what I went to do. If I saw the hon. Minister driving a car like a boat, then, those are the things I went to see; the flooding of the Chambeshi River, which spills into Mungwi, Chinsali and Nkweto areas. I know about such things. That is the purpose for which I moved around, but somebody stands up, and says that I did not even do this or that. Did they want me to start walking to the flooded areas? I was moving around in a small helicopter, and I hovered to see so that I could come up with a report, and it is that report that will be acted on.

Madam Speaker, on the issue of people who are submerged, I think, we know that food has been sent to those places to help them. Even when the hon. Member for Chama North speaks like he spoke the other day, he knows that we have been supplying food.

Interruptions

The Vice-President: Madam Speaker, that is for me to do. Then, somebody says, “Where was she?” Did that person want me to stand in the water? That was not the purpose. The purpose was to see the situation. I can be asked about the areas where there are floods, today, where I went. I know where the situation is severe or moderate, and I know the areas we have to plan for. How do we help those people the whole year? If one cannot appreciate that, then, I do not know what else to do. Did they want me to stay after I was done with my duty and, then, go to sleep? I used my time, for example, to see my political party members. I am a politician. I am not just a Government worker. When I visit an hon. Member’s constituency, I will do the Government’s work, and if I have a bit of time, I will see my members and have a chat with them. That is what the hon. Member did when he was a Minister. We should not remove the actual work.

Mr Kampyongo: The roads!

The Vice-President: Do you not know what the word ‘reports’ mean?

Laughter

The Vice-President: Madam Speaker, infrastructure that is destroyed or damaged is part of the things I went to see. Some of the damage did not happen today; it goes back a long way. The promise this Government has made to the people is that it will work on the infrastructure. When we come back, we will do better. They know what their Government is doing, including on the issues the hon. Member has talked about. The people know where the resources are going. They know what the CDF is doing. They know what the Government is doing under social protection in many ways so that people can survive. I do not have to go through social protection programmes. The Budget has many social protection aspects. As the economy grows, we will also continue with capital projects. Whether you like it or not, the Social Cash Transfer (SCT) Programme, Cash-for-Work programme and the wetlands programme, you name it, are all part of social protection because people must survive. They are the ones for whom the roads are needed. You do not start with working on a road while people are dying. Yes, we will make the roads motorable.

Madam Speaker, the hon. Member talked about Nchelenge. The contractor is in the area. There is a road stretching right through to Chienge. One does not start road works in the middle because it is in Kaputa. Before working on the road in Mporokoso and Nsama, one goes to work in Kaputa because that is where the Vice-President comes from? We should be objective and ensure that our development is – uhm, the word has gone.

I thank you, Madam Speaker.

Madam First Deputy Speaker: We make progress.

_______

QUESTIONS FOR ORAL ANSWER

INSTALLATION OF X-RAY MACHINE AT KALABO DISTRICT HOSPITAL

293. Mr Miyutu (Kalabo Central) asked the Minister of Health:

whether the Government is aware that for the past one month, the new X-ray machine purchased for Kalabo District Hospital has not been installed, thereby, causing patients to travel long distances to access X-ray services, leading to increased costs; and

if so, what urgent measures are being taken to install the X-ray machine at the hospital.

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

Madam First Deputy Speaker: Before the hon. Minister of Health responds, a point of order is raised.

Mr Chisopa: Madam Speaker, Luano District has two segments; the valley and plateau. There is consistent hunger in the valley. Her Honour the Vice-President has said that she travelled to Chama, and the Government has started taking food to the district. It is now five years, and the United Party for National Development (UPND) Government has only sent relief food four times, that means once per year. Is Her Honour the Vice-President in order to say that relief food can only be taken to areas once she travels?

I seek your serious ruling, Madam Speaker.

Laughter

Madam First Deputy Speaker: What breach has been committed?

Mr Chisopa: Being factual, Madam Speaker, under Standing Order No.71.

Madam First Deputy Speaker: Hon. Member for Mkushi South, I listened attentively to Her Honour the Vice-President’s response. I did not hear her say that food can only be distributed when she goes out into the field. So, you are totally out of order. You are bringing in issues that were not mentioned by Her Honour the Vice-President.

Hon. Minister of Health, you may proceed.

The Minister of Health (Mr Katakwe): Madam Speaker, before I answer the question, I would like to extend a message of condolences to the people of Solwezi East, Mushindamo District, on the loss of Chief Mulonga, and this has happened barely five months after we buried another senior chief in my constituency.

Madam Speaker, let me get back to my response. The Government is fully aware of the non-installation of the new digital X-ray machine purchased for Kalabo District Hospital, which has been on site for the past one month. Allow me to assure this House that the procurement process has been completed in line with contractual obligations, and that the contractor was paid 25 per cent upon delivery.

Madam Speaker, the installation of these machines is technologically complex and given that deliveries have been made countrywide, they cannot all be installed simultaneously. However, the Government has put in place a clear schedule to ensure that the equipment at Kalabo District Hospital is installed in the shortest possible time.

Madam Speaker, the existing analogue X-ray machine at Kalabo District Hospital is prone to frequent breakdowns, and it is precisely for this reason that the Government procured a modern digital machine to replace it. In the interim, patients are being transported at no cost to Yuka Adventist Mission Hospital, which is only a five to ten-minute drive away, and are accessing X-ray services without interruption.

Madam Speaker, I also wish to state that this demonstrates the Government’s commitment to ensuring continuity of care while investing in modern technology that will improve diagnostic services. The installation of the new digital X-ray machine will not only enhance service delivery at Kalabo District Hospital but also contribute to better health outcomes for the people of Kalabo.

Madam Speaker, the Government remains steadfast in modernising health infrastructure across the country, and the people of Kalabo can be assured that their hospital will soon benefit from this important upgrade.

Madam Speaker, this morning, to enhance efficiency, I had a meeting with all the heads of department at the Ministry of Health, and I encouraged them to improve efficiency, and do away with the laissez-faire that has been going on for some time. I have tasked those responsible for various projects, whose implementation has been slow, to quicken their action and put timelines to enhance healthcare delivery for our people.

Madam Speaker, the Government wishes to notify the House that the installation of the X-ray machine at Kalabo District Hospital will commence in the week beginning 20^th April.

Madam Speaker, I am ready for follow-up questions.

Madam Speaker, I thank you.

Mr Miyutu: Madam Speaker, we appreciate the Government’s effort of acquiring a new X-ray machine for Kalabo District Hospital, even though it has not yet been installed. However, despite the distance being short between Kalabo District Hospital and Yuka Missions Adventist Hospital, where X-ray services are available, the challenge is that transport is not available at the district hospital. What further assistance can be extended to the hospital to enable it transport patients to Yuka Mission Adventist Hospital, where X-ray services are provided, as the machine is being installed?

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

Madam First Deputy Speaker: Thank you.

Before the hon. Minister comes in. A point of order is raised.

Mr Kapyanga: Thank you, Madam Speaker, for giving me the opportunity to raise a point of order.

Madam Speaker, when the hon. Member of Parliament for Chama North asked Her Honour Vice-President a question regarding the Constituency Development Fund (CDF) accounts for various constituencies in the country, she provided an answer, which needs to be clarified. Almost all the councils in 2024 did not receive funding amounting to over K12 million. That followed a directive from the ministry that councils could spend the available resources in their accounts and that meant them spending the 2025 funds on 2024 projects, and they proceeded as such. That directive has created implementation chaos among councils because they do not have the money to fund the 2025 projects, and part of the 2026 projects are affected. So, when Her Honour the Vice-President was asked the question, it was an opportunity to take up the matter and provide the nation with an answer on what will happen next, because all the councils owe contractors who undertook work during the said year.

Madam Speaker, I seek your serious indulgence on this very serious national matter.

Madam First Deputy Speaker: What is the breach, hon. Member?

Mr Kapyanga: Madam Speaker, the House interacted with Her Honour the Vice President in national interest, and this matter should be treated as such.

Madam First Deputy Speaker: Hon. Member for Mpika, Her Honour the Vice-President responded. If you are not satisfied with the response she gave, use another platform to address that. Go directly to the hon. Minister of Local Government and Rural Development, or the hon. Minister of Finance and National Planning so that you can get an answer that will satisfy you. Her Honour the Vice-President responded. If you are not happy with the response, please, use another avenue to address that. You can even file in a question or visit other relevant offices so that you are satisfied or given a response on your specific need.

Hon. Minister of Health, you may proceed.

Mr Katakwe: Madam Speaker, I would like to thank the hon. Member for Kalabo Central for his follow-up question. He stated that there are no vehicles at Kalabo District Hospital to transport patients who need X-ray services at Yuka Adventist Mission Hospital, where such services are accessed.

Madam Speaker, the ministry will engage the Provincial Health Director and ensure that the patients are assisted with transport. However, I also need to state that we are one Government. At Kalabo District Council, there is the Constituency Development Fund (CDF) vehicle, and there is also an ambulance and other pool vehicles. It is up to the hon. Member to engage other units of the Government to ensure that, where there is an urgent need for transportation, that is addressed so that we do not disrupt the services needed by our people. So, in his capacity as Member of Parliament, the hon. Member can talk to the people in other Government departments. The CDF vehicle and the ambulance can be released and used for such duties.

Madam Speaker, I thank you.

Mr Miyutu: Madam Speaker, I really thank the hon. Minister for his response.

Madam Speaker, I appreciate the fiscal challenges he has talked about. However, I want to ask the hon. Minister of Health to intervene the manner at which the officers at the district administration operate. As I have already mentioned, the hospital has no transport. The hon. Minister is right that the district has about three ambulances but when the hospital administration requests for an ambulance, it will not be released there and then. So, my earnest appeal to the hon. Minister is to encourage the people at the district administration to release ambulances. Yes, we can interact with them, but I am sure that the hon. Minister is aware that, at some point, they would rather receive a word from him.

Mr Katakwe: Madam Speaker, I thank the hon. Member for that. His concern is noted.

Madam Speaker, as I indicated in the beginning, sometimes we have a laissez-faire work culture. That is why I stated that we are engaging the senior management not only at the headquarters but also, at the provincial level. Not too long ago, I summoned all the Provincial Health Directors in order to emphasise issues of efficiency. So, I have taken note of the concern. I will call the Provincial Health Director and direct him to do the rightful thing, so that we knock out such kind of inefficiencies in service delivery.

Madam Speaker, I thank you.

Mr Kang’ombe (Kamfinsa): Madam Speaker, the question by the hon. Member for Kalabo Central raises a very important problem, which is the issue of coordination. The Government buys an X-ray machine which is extremely needed by the people, but one month later, that machine is not utilised for the intended purpose. I am also aware that some constituencies have built health facilities that are not being utilised because no equipment has been placed there, yet we have equipment that is not being utilised.

Madam Speaker, there are two Permanent Secretaries (PSs) at the Ministry of Health. One is in charge of administration and the other is in charge of technical services. Is there coordination when the equipment is procured for facilities? Is there some level of coordination to ensure that the equipment that the Government is spending money on is put to good use in good time?

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

Madam Speaker, procurement of most X-ray machines and ambulances has been under the jurisdiction of the Zambia Medicines and Medical Supplies Agency (ZAMMSA). We know that we had issues with ZAMMSA. Not too long ago, I issued a statement in which I said that in order to improve the efficiency of ZAMMSA, we need to make some critical changes, so that we can respond to such kind of concerns and deliver the services that our people deserve, rightfully so.

Madam Speaker, there are other measures we are taking to improve the efficiency of ZAMMSA. I will not mention them now, but hon. Members should be assured that we are working to attain the vision of the President to make sure that service delivery is enhanced and reaches the last mile. Our people should be treated promptly and receive the care that they deserve. So, all those inefficiencies are being addressed.

Madam Speaker, I also wish to state that we need to devise a system or mechanism where each time we build a facility in a constituency, we also have it equipped. I gave the example that just last week, I was handing over one maternity annex in my constituency. It was constructed and equipped using the Constituency Development Fund (CDF). The maternity annex is equipped with all the equipment needed. I encourage hon. Members of Parliament to ensure that constituencies do not just construct buildings but also, plan for other components that are needed, such as water reticulation systems and equipment for buildings to be fully functional. Otherwise, we will end up having structures that will be white elephants, defeating the whole purpose of building them.

Madam Speaker, I thank you.

Mr Munsanje (Mbabala): Madam Speaker, I thank the hon. Minister for the very important responses, particularly on the issue of clinics that are constructed using the Constituency Development Funds (CDF) that need human resources. We hope that we can get the human resources right now.

Madam Speaker, regarding the question of X-ray machines, is the Zambia Medicines and Medical Supplies Agency (ZAMMSA) or the ministry able to conduct a countrywide audit of the functionality of X-ray machines at district and mission hospitals? I can cite the case of Macha Mission Hospital in Choma. Sometimes, patients are referred to Choma General Hospital. They have to spend a lot of money when they are referred to another hospital because of the non-functionality of the X-ray machines. Is the ministry able to ensure that X-ray machines are functioning all the time, especially at the primary level, so that we can reduce costs for patients to move from villages to the Bomas?

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

Madam Speaker, indeed, an audit has to be done. It has been an ongoing process. Currently, we have a list of all the facilities in the country indicating which equipment is down. We have also delivered a number of equipment including modern high-tech equipment, and very soon some of it will be commissioned. All this is in response to the deficit in equipment. Further, some machines are very old so they are being replaced, like in the case of Kalabo. What informs the equipment we need to deliver is the same audit that is time and again done at the district and provincial level. That information gets to the headquarters, where we process it and work in collaboration with ZAMMSA, so that we are able to deliver the services needed for our people.

Madam Speaker, I thank you.

______

YOUTHS WHO BENEFITED FROM THE FUEL TANKERS

294. Mr Simumba (Nakonde) asked the Minister of Youth, Sport and Arts:

whether any youths in Nakonde District benefited from the fuel tankers that were distributed in 2022, under the Fuel Tankers Empowerment Programme;

if so, how many youths benefited from the programme; and

if there were no beneficiaries, why.

The Minister of Mines and Minerals Development (Mr Kabuswe) (on behalf of the Minister of Youth, Sport and Arts (Mr Nkandu)): Madam Speaker, I wish to inform the House that the Fuel Tanker Empowerment Programme was implemented in Phases I and II in 2021 and 2022, respectively. Two youth groups from Nakonde benefited from the empowerment as follows:

Takchiko Mike Zambia Limited under Phase I of the programme implemented during the period 2020 to 2021; and

Muchinga Delta Force Multi-Purpose Co-operative Limited under Phase II of the programme implemented in 2022.

Madam Speaker, the hon. Member may wish to note that thirty-four youths benefited from this empowerment in 2022.

Madam Speaker, the names of the beneficiaries of the Nakonde Delta Force Youth Co-operative are Geoffrey Singogo, Ronald Musonda, Jacob Simfukwe, Jacob Machila, Martin Mulenga, Griffin Mucinde, Andrew Sichande, Nkwiza Simbeye, Osward Bwalya, Richard Simbeye, Amos Mutambо, Amos Singogo, Peter Mumba, Harry Simwendo, Maxwell Simpito, James Mutambо, Davis Simwelu, Thembah Silwimba, Elisha Simpungwe, Manuel Silwemba, Pethias Simbule, Mwamulima Lameck, Lan Mwila, Lameck Mwansa, Golden Sikanyika, Jairos Ng’ambі, Mathews Lumbеtа, Webson Muntali, Blessings Simutenda, Alfred Mukwasa, Davy Simumba, Ernest Sichande, Edwin Siwakwi and Robert Simwanza.

Madam Speaker, part (d) of the question falls off because there were beneficiaries.

Madam Speaker, I thank you.

Mr Simumba: Madam Speaker, I thank the hon. Minister for the answer.

Madam Speaker, I would like to find out why the Ministry of Youth, Sport and Arts has never included the Office of Member of Parliament in identifying youths who should be beneficiaries of the fuel tankers.

Mr Kabuswe: Madam Speaker, the process was that advertisements were put in place and youths applied. It was open to the public. If there are youths that the hon. Member thought could have benefited, he should have encouraged them to apply so that they are considered.

I thank you, Madam Speaker.

Mr Simumba: Madam Speaker, some of the beneficiaries that the hon. Minister has mentioned have been coming to my office to complain that they have not benefited even when their names are on the list of beneficiaries. What type of benefits are those whose names have been mentioned getting? Do they get monthly revenue? What are they benefiting, yet they come to my office to complain that they see the fuel tankers moving and by passing the border, but they do not benefit anything. What benefits are the youths getting from the tankers?

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

Madam Speaker, a co-operative is made up of several members. So, the chairperson of the co-operative should be interrogated, if at all his members are not benefiting. He should give a reason they are not benefitting because there are terms and conditions that were put in place when the agreements were made. So, the chairperson of the co-operative should first be interrogated and asked why some members are not benefiting, and what is going on. It is that money is being given, yet is not being distributed as it should?

I thank you, Madam Speaker.

Eng. Mabenga: Madam Speaker, thank you very much.

Madam Speaker, do the constituencies that never benefitted from this programme stand a chance to benefit and will the programme be repeated? For example, Mulobezi never benefitted anything. Is there any intention of extending this programme to other constituencies that did not benefit because they also want to benefit from it?

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

Madam Speaker, indeed, this is a national programme. So, there is a possibility of implementing it in other constituencies that have not benefited. The programme started in 2021, but it has teething issues, which the ministry is addressing so that it perfects the whole process and can implement it in other parts of the country.

I thank you, Madam Speaker.

Mr Kapyanga (Mpika): Madam Speaker, I would like to find out from the Acting hon. Minister of Youth, Sport and Arts the measures the Government will put in place to ensure that those who benefited from the tankers are monitored and all the members of the co-operative benefit from the empowerment. That is very important because the empowerment is there to uplift the living standards of the youths. Now, when there are answers such as –

Mr Kabuswe: Madam Speaker, I thank the hon. Member for that very important question.

Madam Speaker, I will repeat what I said that co-operatives have a system in place; they have membership and leadership. In fact, we encouraged co-operatives to open bank accounts, which must be controlled according to their agreements and the way they operate, and not allow only one person to withdraw the money. That was the first control measure that was put in place. However, we asked Oil Marketing Companies (OMCs) to teach the youths the business side of things because most of them have not done the fuel business before, but it was a way of empowering them. So, we asked OMCs to teach the youths the business side of things. Some OMCs are doing well while others are not, and the ministry is following through to make sure that this system works out and benefits our youths.

I thank you, Madam Speaker.

Madam First Deputy Speaker: Order!

Business was suspended from 1040 hours until 1100 hours.

_______

[MADAM FIRST DEPUTY SPEAKER in the Chair]

ANNOUNCEMENT BY MADAM FIRST DEPUTY SPEAKER

PUPILS AND TEACHERS FROM MUKOBEKO SECONDARY SCHOOL

Madam First Deputy Speaker: Hon. Members, I wish to recognise the presence, in the Public Gallery, of pupils and teachers from Mukobeko Secondary School in Kabwe District.

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

I thank you.

Hon. Members: Hear, hear!

_______

MOTIONS

REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE ON YOUTH, SPORT AND CHILD MATTERS ON THE STATE OF SPORTS IN SCHOOLS

Mr Mabeta (Kankoyo): Madam Speaker, I beg to move that this House adopts the Report of the Committee on Youth, Sport and Child Matters on the State of Sports in Schools, for the Fifth Session of the Thirteenth National Assembly, laid on the Table of the House on 7^th April, 2026.

Madam Speaker: Is the Motion seconded?

Mr Chisanga (Lukashya): Madam Speaker, I beg to second the Motion.

Mr Mabeta: Madam Speaker, in line with its terms of reference, the Committee considered the topical issue on the state of sports in schools. In carrying out this important task, the Committee sought both written and oral submissions from various stakeholders.

Madam Speaker, let me state from the outset that historically, sports have always been an integral part of education in Zambia. Over time, there has been a noticeable decline in participation in competitions, infrastructure, quality and structured talent identification programmes. This is despite physical education and sports having been integrated into the curriculum. Sport is not merely a recreational activity because it nurtures physical fitness, discipline, teamwork, leadership, resilience and social cohesion. It is also a major income earner both for the sports persons and the country when elevated to high-performance levels.

Madam Speaker, the above notwithstanding, it is gratifying to note that Zambia has a comprehensive legal and policy framework supporting sports development. However, despite this, the Committee observed that implementation of the framework remains weak. Additionally, the absence of a clear governance mechanism to enforce compliance has undermined progress in sports development. You will further note that though recognised in policy, sports continues to be marginalised in practice. In this regard, the Committee urges the Executive to ensure strengthened policy implementation in all schools.

Madam Speaker, one of the most pressing concerns the Committee observed during its deliberations with stakeholders was the lack of sports infrastructure. Sports facilities are non-existent, dilapidated or poorly maintained in many schools across the country. Additionally, the rural-urban divide has continued to widen due to restricted access to quality facilities, thereby undermining equity and inclusion. This leads to limited talent identification, as poor infrastructure not only affects performance, but poses safety risks and discourages participation. Poor training environments limit skills development. Consequently, schools are forced to concentrate on low-cost sports, such as football and netball, thereby limiting exposure to diverse disciplines like rugby, golf, basketball, volleyball, swimming, tennis and other specialised sports. This severely affects talent identification and progression pathways. The Committee, therefore, recommends deliberate investment in the construction of safe, inclusive and standardised sports infrastructure, particularly in rural and underserved areas.

Madam Speaker, allow me to bring to the attention of this august House the fact that amidst the declining levels of sports development, the country further lacks a dedicated national financing model for school sports. The 25 per cent allocated to core curriculum activities is inadequate, as sports have to compete with other core curriculum activities. Without a ring-fenced budget, schools will continue to struggle to maintain facilities, procure equipment and organise competition. In addition, the funding models being used by some schools to raise additional funds through parental contributions create gross inequality among schools, as wealthier schools are able to raise additional funds, while poorer schools struggle to maintain the most basic equipment.

Madam Speaker, to ensure effective sports development in schools, the Committee recommends the establishment of a dedicated and sustainable funding mechanism for school sports through a ring-fenced budget, separate from the general core curricular allocation. Further, Zambia must draw lessons from neighbouring countries such as South Africa, which has adopted an integrated institutional framework that protects school sports through a dedicated budget and co-ordinated structures.

Madam Speaker, it should be noted that investing in school sport is not merely an investment in games, but also in health, discipline, national unity and a bright future for young people. If the country is to start yielding medals at international competitions, there is a need to nurture sport in schools when learners are still very young. It is the view of the Committee that the teaching of physical education should be enhanced at all levels of education.

Madam Speaker, before I conclude, let me state that as hon. Members of Parliament, we are privileged to be given the Constituency Development Fund (CDF). Allow me, therefore, to request hon. Members in the House to support the renovation of sports infrastructures in schools within our communities so that we can continue attracting and identifying talent at a tender age.

Madam Speaker, allow me to render my sincere gratitude to you and the Office of the Clerk of the National Assembly for the service rendered to the Committee through its deliberations. Gratitude is also extended to all stakeholders who provided the Committee with invaluable information, which formed the basis of the report before the House today.

Madam Speaker, I thank you.

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

Mr Chisanga: Now, Madam Speaker.

Madam Speaker, thank you very much for giving me the opportunity to second this Motion on the Floor of the House, which has been ably moved by my hon. Colleague, the chairperson of the Committee.

Madam Speaker, considering that hon. Members are privy to what is contained in the report, allow me to restrict my comments to only two important issues.

Madam Speaker, firstly, as stated by the mover of the Motion, I must point out that the legal and policy framework exists in the country to support physical education in schools. The problem stems from a lack of enforcement, and among the problems that were identified, we have recommended that we would like to reiterate the issue of school sports funding.

Madam Speaker, as earlier stated by the mover of this Motion, school sports funding is very critical in sports development in the country. It was suggested to the Committee that, if possible, the Government must establish a dedicated budget line for such funding.

Interruptions

Mr B. Mpundu: Question!

Mr Chisanga: Madam Speaker, the second issue identified by the Committee was vandalism of the existing school sports infrastructure. It was a feeling of the witnesses who appeared before the Committee that there is rampant vandalism of school infrastructure, especially in rural areas, and it was identified that most schools do not have peripheral fencing, which makes them vulnerable to vandals. In this regard, the Committee also recommends that schools be fenced to secure infrastructure and prevent encroachment and vandalism by residents. The Committee also makes an earnest call for community involvement in school sports activities.

Madam Speaker, it was also established that the infrastructure deficit is critical in rural areas, and the Committee recommended that the Government must pay particular attention to bridging the infrastructure deficit between rural and urban areas.

Madam Speaker, as I conclude, allow me to thank the various stakeholders who appeared before the Committee and tendered both oral and written submissions. I would also like to express my gratitude to the Clerk of the National Assembly and the staff for the invaluable support they rendered to the Committee during its deliberations.

Madam Speaker, I support the Motion and thank you.

Mr Fube (Chilubi): Madam Speaker, what we are talking about is not merely school sports, but a money-spinner, not just for the people involved in sports, but also for –

Interruptions

Mr Fube: Madam Speaker, there is too much noise, especially from the hon. Member for Nkana.

Interruptions

Madam First Deputy Speaker: Hon. Members on my left, can we, please, maintain order in the House. The hon. Member for Chilubi is debating, let us give him the Floor.

Hon. Member for Chilubi, you can continue.

Mr Fube: Thank you very much, Madam Speaker.

Madam Speaker, the school environment is a reservoir from which we tap talent. It gives at an advantage to most young people, who are in their prime energy levels and are supposed to be –

Mr Jamba interjected.

Mr Fube: Jamba, if you have nothing to say in this Parliament, sit down.

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

Please, just continue.

Interruptions

Mr Fube: Why are you taking up the role of the –

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

You are addressing me. Is that a question? You mentioned something about the role of –

Mr Fube: No, I was telling him that he is taking up your role, instead of allowing you to speak.

Madam First Deputy Speaker: Okay, please address me.

Mr Fube: Madam Speaker, can I continue?

Madam First Deputy Speaker: Please, do.

Mr Fube: Thank you.

Madam Speaker, I was trying to underscore the point that the school environment is a reservoir of energy for the country. According to the youth policy, a youth is defined as someone between fifteen and thirty-five years old, and people in the school environment predominantly fall within that age group.

Madam Speaker, I know that we have not given sports, especially school sports, much attention per se, and we do not view the sector as a money-spinner. Why do I call the school environment a reservoir even for economic power? It is because if we look at people like Messi, they are billionaires, earning more than those who have acquired qualification as a doctor of philosophy (PhD). I think, we should have a curriculum that runs on two routes. One on the vocational route and the other on the academic route. We should put sports in the vocational line, because sport is a psychomotor skill. However, it should not end at skill alone; it should be something that puts food on the table for that child who chooses to go into sports. How do we nurture sports skills? Currently, we consider the child who chooses sports to be dull, if they are not performing very well academically. It is time we realised that, while still in school, a child can also choose to pursue a particular line of sport and we can support the child. This can be done by injecting –

Mr B. Mpundu: On a point of order, Madam Speaker.

Mr Fube: Nishi wabela na disturbance iwe?

Interruptions

Mr Fube: It can be done by investing in that sport so that there is holistic development of the child.

Madam First Deputy Speaker: Order, hon. Member!

Madam First Deputy Speaker: There is an indication for a point of order.

Mr B. Mpundu: Madam Speaker, my sincere apologies to my dear brother, the hon. Member for Chilubi.

Madam Speaker, the rules of this House are very clear. We cannot transact business when there is no quorum in the House.

I seek your indulgence, Madam Speaker.

Madam First Deputy Speaker: Let us wait for a confirmation.

Interruptions.

Madam First Deputy Speaker: Hon. Member for Nkana, I just want to inform you that we have a quorum. There are some hon. Members who are attending virtually. So, I can confirm that we have a quorum in the House.

We may make progress.

Madam First Deputy Speaker: Hon. Member for Nkana, I am informing you that we have a quorum.

Hon. Government Members: Hear, hear!

Madam First Deputy Speaker: Some hon. Members are attending virtually, so it is confirmed that we have a quorum in the House.

We may make progress.

The hon. Member for Chilubi may proceed.

Mr Fube: Thank you, once more, Madam Speaker.

Madam Speaker, I was trying to underscore the importance of holistic development of a school child. I think that children in schools should be given opportunities to develop. I am saying that sport is beyond talent development; it should be looked at as an economic activity. The moment we start looking at sport as an economic activity, we are going to inject enough investment into it, so that the children who will be coming out of schools will be able to compete favourably.

Madam Speaker, I also want to underscore that there is a need for co-ordination of the national policy on education, the Zambia Education Curriculum Framework, the national sports policy and the Sports Council of Zambia Act, Chapter 142 of the Laws of Zambia. I say this because you will find that the focus of some policies and laws is just on the development of sport outside the parameters of a school.

Madam Speaker, I also want to say that inter-school competitions are not done on a fair basis, because the development of different sport disciplines in different areas is not done well. For instance, if you come to Chilubi, you will find that some people who like football and netball, if taken to any competition, are likely to compete favourably in those two disciplines. However, if you bring competitions involving volleyball, long tennis or basketball, they will underperform. The reason is that children are not exposed to these sports. If we are to target multidisciplinary sports development, we need to take a competency-based approach. Not all children will be good at football. Not all children will be interested in netball, but we need to create an environment at the school level where children can choose to participate in different sport disciplines. This also starts with the sports master theory. You find that one sports master looks after students playing football, netball and other sports disciplines. We need to use the sports master theory and allocate a sports master for each sports discipline. For instance, football should have its own sports master, volley should have its own sports master …

Mr Mposha interjected.

Mr Fube: Mposha, ichindike.

Mr Fube: … and netball should have its own sports master.

Madam Speaker, once we do that, you find that all sports disciplines will be attractive. When children leave school, they will contribute to sports disciplines and earn money not just for themselves but for the nation as well. Some of them will choose sports as a way to earn an income. This will reduce pressure on the Government to create jobs. Everybody thinks people have to study nursing or teaching for them to earn a living. If we develop different sports disciplines, we will find that those who will be practising different sport disciplines will start excelling in those disciplines.

Madam Speaker, in conclusion, I would like to say that creating a fair playing field means using the equity approach. The reason children in rural areas are not venturing into different sports disciplines is because of lack of infrastructure. For example, you will find that the infrastructure in Kabwata cannot be compared to the infrastructure in Chilubi. If you talk about spending money from the Constituency Development Fund (CDF) in Chilubi on sports infrastructure, and not building a classroom, you will be chewed alive. So, the Government should deliberately invest in sports in rural, urban and peri-urban areas.

Madam Speaker, those are the few words I wanted to contribute, on behalf of the people of Chilubi.

I thank you, Madam Speaker.

Mr Mulebwa (Kafulafuta): Madam Speaker, I would like to thank you for giving me the opportunity to contribute to the debate on the Motion on the Floor.

Madam Speaker, from the outset, I would like to say that on behalf of the people of Kafulafuta, I strongly support this Motion. I think that my hon. Colleague has covered quite some good ground, so I will bring in my own context.

Madam Speaker, when I was in primary school playing sports was natural to all of us, and we competed with other schools. For us, then, playing sports was not so much about making money, but about making the school proud, or making the school look like a champion in our community. Let me give a typical example of the football pitches we had at my school. I remember very well that we made the pitches ourselves. We did not have to wait for money to come from somewhere else. You might recall that our curriculum then was very rich. In primary school, we had Physical Education (PE) and Production Unit (PU). School built almost every aspect of our life. I keep wondering and wishing that today’s pupils would have the same situation. I think, we were disciplined in every aspect of life.

Madam Speaker, this Motion is non-controversial. I think that every parent would like to encourage support for their children in sports. We have seen different sports facilities around, like the one near Parliament Motel. We have pitches there where small children play. They are called academies. This is a good thing. However, I think we would cover more ground as a nation if we created a special hour or period in schools, like it used to be in the old days, for sports. In that hour, we would go out of classes for PE and play football and volleyball. I remember that at my school, boys would compete with girls in netball and all kinds of sports. So, we grew up very active in sports.

Madam Speaker, I do not need to say too much. Let me just say that this is long overdue. We need to restructure our school programmes, especially starting from primary school. I said earlier that when I was in primary school, we competed with other schools in sports. When I went to secondary school, it was the norm to compete with other secondary schools as well. We grew up healthy with few malpractices, if I may use that English word.

Madam Speaker, with those few words, on behalf of the people of Kafulafuta, I would like to support this Motion.

I thank you, Madam Speaker.

Madam First Deputy Speaker: Thank you.

Hon. Member for Kankoyo, wind up the debate.

Interruptions

Madam First Deputy Speaker: Is there any hon. Minister to respond? There is no indication here.

The Acting hon. Minister of Youth, Sport and Arts may respond. Sorry, it was not indicated that you would respond.

The Minister of Mines and Minerals Development (Mr Kabuswe) (on behalf of the Minister of Youth, Sport and Arts (Mr Nkandu)): Madam Speaker, I thought it is automatic that I have to respond.

Madam Speaker, I thank you most sincerely for giving me this opportunity to make a statement to this august House, and the nation, on the debate to adopt the Report of the Committee on Youth, Sport and Child Matters. First and foremost, I commend the Committee for its detailed and insightful report on issues pertaining to the state of sport in schools. I have no doubt in my mind that the report reflects issues that once acted upon will contribute immensely to the development of sport in schools.

Madam Speaker, allow me to speak to the key issues raised in the report as follows.

Madam Speaker, the Committee highlighted a very important factor in the development of sport in the country, which is talent development pathways. I wish to report that the Ministry of Youth, Sport and Arts in collaboration with the Ministry of Education and other partners hosted the 2025 National Youth Games in Lusaka. The aim of the youth games is to nurture young talent in sport. I am glad to report that the games attracted over 2,000 young people from all the provinces in the country.

Madam Speaker, the report also highlights the lack of proper sports facilities and equipment in community schools, which poses a major setback in the implementation of sports in schools. In this regard, the Ministry of Youth, Sport and Arts, through the National Sports Council of Zambia, launched the Rural Sports Development Programme, with the aim to provide sports attires and equipment to rural communities. The programme has so far been launched in Kaputa, Mongu and Solwezi. Further, the ministry has decentralised community sport with its matching resource of K30 million. The fund is aimed at co-ordinating sports in communities and provide sports equipment in order to address the gaps. As far as the National Youth Development Council Act is concerned, the House may be aware that the Government attaches great importance to issues of youth development in this regard.

Madam Speaker, I wish to state that the ministry has made strides to review the process of the National Youth Development Act, Chapter 144 of the Laws of Zambia. Allow me to mention that in collaboration with the Ministry of Justice, the ministry has drafted the layman’s Bill. To this effect, the ministry is validating the consolidations of the proposals of the draft layman’s Bill before it is submitted to the Cabinet and Parliament.

Madam Speaker, the Government has put in place measures to curb moral decay, including drug abuse among the youths. In order to comprehensively address alcohol, drug and substance abuse among the youths, the Government has provided a legal and policy framework to support prevention programmes on drug abuse among the youths through the following:

the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Act No. 35 of 2021;

the National Policy on Drug and Substance Control;

the National Health Policy; and

the National Alcohol Policy of 2018.

Madam Speaker, furthermore, the Government undertakes various programmes, through the Drug Enforcement Commission (DEC), to address drug abuse, which include awareness activities, radio programmes, community outreach, counselling and training workshops. The Ministry of Youth, Sport and Arts is further actively supporting efforts in addressing drug abuse among the youths. The ministry, through the National Olympic Committee of Zambia, National Sports Council of Zambia (NSCZ), DEC and other institutions, implements programmes and activities aimed at eliminating doping in sport that include education and sensitisation programmes. Additionally, the Government undertakes in-competition and out-of-competition testing among the athletes to ensure athletes play true.

Madam Speaker, as I conclude, I urge the august House to adopt the report of the Committee on Youth, Sports and Child Matters.

I thank you, Madam Speaker.

Madam First Deputy Speaker: Hon. Member for Kankoyo, you can wind up the debate.

Mr Mabeta: Madam Speaker, allow me to thank the hon. Minister for the well-detailed report. I also thank the Member for Chilubi, Hon. Fube, the Member for Kafulafuta, Hon. Mulebwa, and Hon. Binwell Mpundu for supporting this Motion.

Madam Speaker, we are all beneficiaries of sport. We are leaders today because of the discipline that was imparted in us at a tender age when we were heavily involved in sports programmes. Hon. George Chisanga was once an athlete who used to run twelve laps …

Laughter

Mr Mabeta: … and he learned discipline, commitment and dedication to duty through his sports activities. However, it is unfortunate that today, we have neglected that source of leadership in schools. I, therefore, urge all hon. Members, who are seated here, to allocate at least 5 per cent of the Constituency Development Fund (CDF) every year towards grading the sports fields in schools, which just need to be graded. Most constituencies bought graders. We can put fuel, and grade the sports fields and also use the tippers and Tractor Loader Backhoes (TLB), which were bought. We can load loam soil or black soil in the tippers and spread it on the pitches, and this will go a long way in changing the lives of our people.

Madam Speaker, it is unfortunate that in some constituencies, football pitches have been sold as plots, and this should be reversed by the Ministry of Local Government and Rural Development. We should all agree to this decision to ensure that sports infrastructure, which has been converted into commercial use, is returned to the schools. It is through sports that we learn and we are able to become better leaders in future. There are no sports academies in the country. So, sports in schools remains a source of sports identification, and I urge all hon. Members of Parliament to look at this issue seriously because it is part of who we are. So, let us transfer it to the next generation.

I thank you, Madam Speaker.

Mr Mulebwa crossed the Floor.

Hon. Members: Order!

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

Question put and agreed to.

REPORT OF THE PLANNING AND BUDGETING COMMITTEE

Mr Chaatila (Moomba): Madam Speaker, I beg to move that the House do adopt the Report of the Planning and Budgeting Committee for the Fifth Session of the Thirteenth National Assembly.

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

Madam First Deputy Speaker: Order!

There is an indication for a point of order.

Mr Andeleki: Madam Speaker, thank you for giving the people of Katombola Constituency an opportunity to raise a point of order premised on the provisions of Standing Order No. 139, under the 2024 Standing Orders.

Madam Speaker, the point of order I am raising is of constitutional nature arising from the provisions of Article 72(2) of the Constitution of Zambia, which states as follows:

“That a Member of Parliament shall cease to be a Member of Parliament if he resigns from the political party or he joins a political party that did not sponsor him to the National Assembly.”

Madam Speaker, this point of order is on Hon. B. Mundubile, MP, Hon. G. K. Chisanga, MP, and Hon. S. Kampyongo, MP, who have continued to be addressed as Members of Parliament in view of who a Member is in accordance with the National Assembly Powers and Privileges Act.

Interruptions

Madam First Deputy Speaker: Order, hon. Members!

You may continue, hon. Member for Katombola.

Mr Andeleki: Madam Speaker, I want the Opposition to listen very carefully to the point of order that I am raising.

Madam Speaker, Section 2 of the National Assembly Powers and Privileges Act defines who a Member is. In view of the fact that the hon. Members who I have listed joined the Forum for Democracy and Development (FDD) political party two days ago through the Tonse Alliance, my point of order is whether they are in order to continue being recognised as Members of Parliament and to continue to enjoy the privileges of this House.

Madam Speaker, I seek your serious ruling.

Hon. Government Members: Hear, hear!

Mr Kampyongo: Wakamba late!

Madam First Deputy Speaker: Order!

Thank you very much for that point of order, hon. Member. A similar point of order was raised on Tuesday on other hon. Members. Since that is on the same matter, facts must be gathered to make an informed ruling. So, because of that, I reserve my ruling.

Hon. Government Members: Hear, hear!

Mr Kampyongo: Wakamba late!

Madam First Deputy Speaker: Order, hon. Members!

Is the Motion seconded?

Mr Simushi (Sikongo): Madam Speaker, I beg to second the Motion.

Mr Chaatila: Madam Speaker, in line with its terms of reference, the Committee considered the effectiveness of the Extended Credit Facility (ECF) on budget support and debt sustainability.

Madam Speaker, following debt cancellation under the Heavily Indebted Poor Countries (HIPC) Initiative in 2002, Zambia’s fiscal position improved. However, over time, the situation deteriorated due to a combination of factors, notably the shift from concessional to non-concessional borrowing. In several instances, borrowing occurred with limited parliamentary approval, resulting in unsustainable debt. In August, 2022, Zambia entered into the ECF with the International Monetary Fund (IMF). The facility was aimed at restoring macro-economic stability and fostering higher, more resilient and more inclusive growth. It facilitated restructuring of the unsustainable debt and created fiscal space for social spending. The Committee is of the view that while debt sustainability has improved under the ECF, Zambia remains at risk of debt distress in the near future. The Committee is also of the view that the country risks reverting to unsustainable borrowing if reforms are not sustained. Therefore, the Committee recommends that the successor programme to the ECF places greater emphasis on accelerating inclusive economic growth.

Madam Speaker, the Committee notes that the IMF-supported programme has been effective in restoring macro-economic stability. However, economic growth remains constrained by, among other things, limited private sector co-ordination, persistent value-added tax (VAT) arrears and limited access to affordable finance. In this regard, the Committee recommends that the Government strengthens structured engagement with the private sector, expedites the clearance of VAT arrears and improves access to affordable finance.

Madam Speaker, the Committee is also of the view that strengthening governance and the performance of State-owned enterprises (SOEs) is essential to maintaining fiscal discipline. Therefore, it recommends that the Government enforces performance contracts for the SOEs with clear and transparent key performance indicators (KPIs). The Committee further recommends that the Government accelerates reforms of the SOEs.

Madam Speaker, the Committee further recommends that the Government expedites the restructuring process by concluding the restructuring of the remaining debt to enhance investor confidence and ensure debt sustainability.

Madam Speaker, the Committee emphasises the importance of prudent borrowing practices. The Government must, therefore, strictly adhere to the provisions of the Public Debt Management Act No. 15 of 2022, and stay on course with the debt ceilings provided for in the Act ahead of full enforcement in 2027.

Lastly, Madam Speaker, while the ECF has played a critical role in stabilising the economy, sustainability of the gains made will depend on the Government’s commitment to continued reforms. The transition to a successor programme presents us an opportunity to consolidate these gains and shift focus towards inclusive and resilient economic growth.

In conclusion, Madam Speaker, I would like to thank all the stakeholders who appeared before the Committee and made both oral and written submissions.

I would also like to thank you, Madam Speaker, for affording us the opportunity to serve on this important Committee. Further, I would like to take this opportunity to thank the office of the Clerk of the National Assembly of Zambia for the services rendered during the deliberations of the Committee.

Madam Speaker, last, but not least, allow me to thank my fellow hon. Members of the Committee for affording me the chance to chair this important Committee.

Madam Speaker, I thank you.

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

Mr Simushi: Now, Madam Speaker.

Madam Speaker, I rise to second the Motion that has been ably moved by the chairperson of the Committee. In doing so, I would like to draw your attention to the issues that were not covered in the chairperson’s remarks.

Madam Speaker, the Committee is aware that the Public Debt Management Act No. 15 of 2022 provides for the establishment of a sinking fund. This is a forward-looking mechanism to ensure that Zambia is better prepared to meet future debt obligations. This is a critical safeguard intended to accumulate resources during periods of financial surplus and reduce the risk of a recurrence of debt default. However, the current level of funding to the sinking fund is inadequate to meet its long-term objective of fully providing for the Eurobond maturities. In this regard, I support the recommendation made by the Committee to the effect that the Government should increase and ringfence contributions to the sinking fund. This will not only strengthen fiscal credibility, but reduce the country’s risk of facing future debt distress.

Madam Speaker, we are aware that significant progress has been made in restoring debt sustainability through restructuring and improved oversight. However, Zambia remains at high risk of debt distress and is vulnerable to a return to non-concessional borrowing after the conclusion of the Extended Credit Facility (ECF). Therefore, I recommend that the Government strictly adheres to the provisions of the Public Debt Management Act No.15 of 2022. This should be undertaken by maintaining concessional borrowing practices, strengthening parliamentary scrutiny of the Annual Borrowing Plan (ABP) and enhancing debt risk analysis. This will prevent the country from falling back into unsustainable debt accumulation.

Madam Speaker, the Committee is aware that about 94 per cent of Zambia’s debt has been restructured. However, it notes delays in resolving the outstanding 6 per cent of obligations with certain creditors.

This will continue to pose risks to debt sustainability and investor confidence. In this regard, I support the recommendation of the Committee that the Government should intensify engagement with the remaining creditors to quickly conclude the restructuring process.

Madam Speaker, the Committee proposes measures aimed at enhancing the revenue base, such as a review of tax incentives and holidays granted to foreign companies. The Committee also underscores the need to strengthen domestic revenue mobilisation through the adoption of digital tax systems. This is in addition to expediting the implementation of tax policy reforms, which are key to revenue mobilisation.

Madam Speaker, in conclusion, allow me to join the mover of the Motion in urging this House to adopt the report of the Committee. I also wish to thank you, for affording us an opportunity to serve on this important Committee.

Madam Speaker, I will be failing in my duties if I do not thank the hon. Members of your Committee for affording me the opportunity to second the Motion.

Madam Speaker, I thank you.

Mr Fube (Chilubi): Madam Speaker, as we speak about debt, the subject matter is the thirty-eight-month extended credit facility, which is US$1.3 billion. Among other things, it is intended to achieve more resilient and inclusive economic growth, debt restructuring, and create fiscal space for social spending, which also encourages and supports home-grown reforms.

Madam Speaker, the question of debt in Zambia has been approached with the wrong attitude. I say so because it has become a political playground for many political players whenever they want to underscore certain things or market their manifestos as to how they can flower and serve people. I know that the question of debt has been largely misunderstood. The International Monetary Fund (IMF) programme we are talking about is not the first one in Zambia. We had the Structural Adjustment Programme (SAP), which Dr Kaunda and the team abandoned in about 1985. It was from the same route. Later on, during the Movement for Multi-party Democracy (MMD) Government, we had the enhanced SAP taking the same route. Under Dr Kaunda’s Government, Zambia operated a commandist economy. After his rule, we were left with a US$7 billion debt, which, of course, different politicians added value and saw how they could dismantle the debt. Of course, at the end of the day, there was the debt cancellation championship.

Madam Speaker, I would like to indicate that I was part of Jubilee 2000, which was part of the group that was then championed by the late Bishop Mazombwe to lobby, alongside the Government, for debt reduction. We have been clothing debt with the wrong attitude, and we cannot solve it in that manner.

Madam Speaker, when the current Government came into power, there was a mountain of debt that was unsustainable. Those were the terms used. One factor that was overlooked was that during the Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic, there was a serious economic recession that damaged the economy in a way, and that has been acknowledged in the report. In the foreword to the Eighth National Development Plan (8NDP), the President equally acknowledges it. So, the default in servicing the debt is associated with that economic recession. Yet, in politicians’ mouths, the Patriotic Front (PF), is said to have defaulted mainly because of economic mismanagement, even though the President said that COVID-19 had a role to play, and the report points to the same challenge.

Madam Speaker, I want to underscore that the fifth review of the 2025 IMF programme, focused on debt sustainability and qualified the current debt as sustainable. The report further talks about breaches of debt sustainability analysis thresholds, and that is where the devil is in the details.

Madam Speaker, when we look at the breaches of the debt sustainability analysis threshold, where are they supposed to position us? Such breaches can place the country in a range of debt distress. If that can happen, the question is: What are we doing about it with the set targets? I know that when the Public Debt Management Act No. 15 of 2022 was introduced, it meant well. It was meant to match the targets set, and even then, it is not following the details of the Public Debt Management Act No. 15 that would serve the situation. What will serve the situation is being transparent about the conditionalities of the extended credit facility that every citizen should participate in, without political tone, and realising that debt management and debt restructuring are for everyone’s benefit. However, the moment we start resonating debt and flaunting it like a tool for political sustenance, we will miss the point.

Madam Speaker, when we intend to look at growth, especially economic growth, we have national development plans to refer to. When we compare the set targets to the national development plans, and how we intend to invest the US$1.3 billion in debt as desired, we realise that it is mainly an artificial mechanism. I say so because that is not what the common man can benefit from. I believe in the option for the poor; the common man should benefit.

Madam Speaker, the focus is on macroeconomic growth, leaving out microeconomic growth, although it is distantly reflected in social spending. When we look at these factors and aim to trigger economic growth, we should target both macroeconomic and microeconomic growth, especially when it comes to debt. It is in that mode that a common Zambian will participate in appreciating debt.

Madam Speaker, we introduce debt borrowing plans every now and then, and they accompany budgets that we make here, in the House. We do this on behalf of the Zambians who are out there. I am also opposed to the idea of saying they are non-concessional loans, concessional loans or commercial loans. A loan is a loan; whether it is non-concessional, concessional, or commercial, it still shifts the burden to the future. Our children will pay at the end of the day, and if that is the case, we need to prepare a landing ground for them to appreciate –

Hon. Government Member: Question!

Interruptions

Mr Fube: Are you fighting for adoptions or what?

Madam Speaker, we need to prepare a landing ground for our children so that they can appreciate the debt when we, the politicians, sit here in the House and approve the budgets.

Madam Speaker, I think it is misleading that the past debt, as reported in the report, did not receive parliamentary approval.

Madam Speaker, I thank you.

Mr Chinkuli (Kanyama): Madam Speaker, thank you so much for this opportunity to add a word to the debate on this wonderful report.

Madam Speaker, the question I want to ask is: Has the International Monetary Fund (IMF) Extended Credit Facility supported our Budget? The answer is yes. Has it helped in sustaining our debt? The answer is yes. It has also significantly enhanced the credibility of the Zambian Government, especially in the eyes of international investors, creditors, development partners and a number of other stakeholders. The IMF Extended Credit Facility has enabled the Zambian Government to sit down at a table with creditors and negotiate and renegotiate the terms of the debt that was borrowed.

Madam Speaker, dealing with the IMF comes with certain conditions, among them, rebuilding policy credibility through demonstrated fiscal discipline and reform implementation. The report tells us that this has been done. The IMF Extended Credit Facility has led to major progress on debt restructuring, provided a credible framework and unlocked debt negotiations. This gave creditors confidence that Zambia was serious about restoring debt sustainability and moving the country out of default status. I want to thank the hon. Minister of Finance and National Planning and his team, including President Hakainde Hichilema, for having getting involved with the IMF Extended Credit Facility programme because we are where we are because of the programme. We have managed to stabilise the economy.

Madam Speaker, because of the confidence that creditors have in the Government, we have been able to negotiate for haircuts. I think, the hon. Minister will be able to explain to us what a haircut negotiation is. It is a process where a borrower bargains with creditors to reduce the effective value of the outstanding debt. Creditors agree to accept a lower payment than originally owed. A haircut negotiation restores debt sustainability, frees up fiscal space for spending on essentials, such as health, infrastructure and social programmes. It helps us to regain access to new financing and investment.

Madam Speaker, we heard that creditors had confidence in us. So, we negotiated for a haircut, giving us space to implement certain programmes instead of chopping them. I would say our economy is not overheating; it has been worked on and it is moving very well. Despite the huge debt that the Government has with creditors, it is able to pay for the Social Cash Transfer (SCT) Programme under the Ministry of Community Development and Social Services, the Cash for Work Programme under the Ministry of Local Government and Rural Development and the Farmer Input Support Programme (FISP). This shows we are alive and the Government is on the right trajectory.

Madam Speaker, on development, we have the Constituency Development Fund (CDF), which has been used to construct infrastructure in various constituencies. We are seeing roads being constructed countrywide, even though we have not seen that in Kanyama. We have seen bridges that were swept away reconstructed within a few days or so. This is not because of magic. It is because of the programmes and the policies that the Government has put in place to ensure that we as a country are able to move forward, despite the debt we have.

Madam Speaker, finally, I just want to thank the Government for having managed to bear triplets; three sons. I think that economists understand. The three sons signify the stability of our economy, the inflation rate, which has been dealt with, and the exchange and interest rates. All these signify that our economy is not overheating.

Madam Speaker, with those few remarks I beg to support the Motion.

I thank you, Madam Speaker.

Hon. UPND Members: Hear, hear!

Mr Kafwaya (Lunte): Madam Speaker, the Committee report focused on the effectiveness of the International Monetary Fund (IMF) programme in supporting the National Budget, through the Extended Credit Facility programme. Now, in interacting with stakeholders, your Committee considered a number of things, including the restoration of macroeconomic stability, Budget support and fiscal performance, debt restructuring, structural and governance reforms and the gaps and risks associated with meeting the IMF conditions.

Madam Speaker, I would like to interrogate the issue of debt restructuring more deeply, which is on page 7 of the report. The people who have read the report, and those who will read the report, will find the following text:

“3.1.3. Debt Restructuring

The Committee was further informed that the public debt-to-GDP ratio had generally declined since the commencement of the EFC, largely reflecting effective fiscal consolidation and substantial progress in external debt restructuring.”

Madam Speaker, what the Committee is saying is that, debt restructuring has improved effective fiscal consolidation, and this is the basis of my contribution this afternoon.

Madam Speaker, what is fiscal consolidation? Fiscal consolidation, in my view, refers to the reduction of fiscal deficits as well as public debt. I am happy that the hon. Minister of Finance and National Planning is here. He knows that in order to reduce a fiscal deficit, you have to reduce borrowing. You also have to reduce public expenditure. Let me ask a question: Has the United Party for National Development (UPND) Government reduced public spending? Public spending has been increasing year on year. This morning, Her Honour the Vice-President indicated that there is going to be a Supplementary Budget to the K253.1 billion Budget which was already approved. That is not a reduction in public spending. That is increasing public spending.

Madam Speaker, year in year out, the UPND Government has been reporting a reduction in public debt. Yet when you look at the numbers, you will see that they have been increasing. The other day I argued about the amount of money that has been borrowed. This year, 2026, K106 billion has been borrowed from local markets, and then US$21 billion was borrowed also. These are absolute numbers measured in Gross Domestic Product (GDP) terms, but this Government will never tell you about them.

There is no report that this House or anybody out there has seen, which shows how the gross domestic product (GDP) has grown. Nobody knows the GDP. So, why is it that the Government is always showing us declining deficit numbers when it is hiding the GDP because if the GDP has not been hidden, why is it not in this report? The GDP has never been in any report in this Assembly. Now, why is the Government hiding the GDP? Remember, we, the people, are the economy. It is our participation in the economy, which produces the same GDP. However, the hon. Minister of Finance and National Planning stood there and defended the disputed census (Pointed at hon. UPND Members).

Interruptions

Mr Kafwaya: Oh, sorry about that. The census was disputed and the hon. Minister of Finance and National Planning on the Floor of the House justified it. Now, if a census, which comes from the Central Statistical Office (CSO) that gives out the GPD can be disputed, how then, can we say that they are credible numbers? I have a problem with the economy and the reports because our colleagues cannot tell us that the economy has grown, yet when we ask them what the GDP is, they cannot tell us what it is. So, we have serious problems.

Madam Speaker, let me refer to page 14 of the report, which states how the United Party for National Development Party (UPND) Government intends to grow revenue. On point 4.2 of the report, the Secretary to the Treasury submitted that there was need to gradually shift the tax system from focusing on production to consumption. The UPND Government, through the Secretary to the Treasury, submitted to a Committee of Parliament that it is going to move away from focusing on taxing production to focusing on taxing consumption. Are they concerned that mobile money taxes were increased (Pointed at the Front Bench)?

Hon. UPND Members: Do not point at us.

Mr Kafwaya: Well, I am pointing at the Speaker.

Madam Speaker, are you concerned?

Madam First Deputy Speaker: Order!

Just continue, hon. Member.

Mr Kafwaya: Madam Speaker, are you concerned that taxes which affect consumption, not production, will be increased? Now, who are the consumers in this country? This is a question we must ask. The consumers are those people who buy things for consumption, clothes to wear, buy the things that they use, and not the things to be deployed in production. However, the UPND Government is saying, “aba bene ebo tuleyako, these are the ones we are going to tax. These same ones are the ones we going for and we will leave those who are producing.” We know who is producing in this country. We know the big farmers and the big mining firms. This is why the UPND Government is capable of taking away money from a good venture like toll gates which is generating revenue and giving it to a concessionaire, who has done nothing, and when it does those things, it is proud. This is why it is even telling us that it will tax consumers of this nation more.

Madam Speaker, while we have to adopt this report, we will do it illegally …

Hon. Member’s time expired.

Madam First Deputy Speaker: Order!

Your time is up.

Mr Kafwaya: … because there is no quorum in the House. We are going to adopt the report illegally –

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

We are following rules here. How is the issue of the quorum and your time being up related?

Mr Kafwaya: Madam, I was just saying let us adopt this report illegally because there is no quorum in the House.

Madam First Deputy Speaker: Order, hon. Member!

I am sure you are done.

Hon. Minister of Finance and National Planning please, respond.

Dr Musokotwane: Madam Speaker, thank you very much.

Madam Speaker, let me start by thanking the Planning and Budgeting Committee for the comprehensive report that it has produced and also the recommendations that it has made.

Madam Speaker, the efforts of the United Party for National Development (UPND) Government in the last four and a half years have been very commendable because, indeed, we found this country in a lot of unsustainable debt, and we had to work together with the International Monetary Fund (IMF) and others to bring things back to normal. The excessive debt that we got did not bring itself. The debt was incurred by the previous Government.

Hon. UPND Members: Hear, hear!

Dr Musokotwane: Madam Speaker, I get surprised when people say do not put blame on those who were there because there was the Coronavirus Disease (COVID-19), hence they over-borrowed.

Madam Speaker, COVID-19 was only one of the many problems that this country faced. Since taking over, this Government has faced the largest ever disaster seen in this country. Did that lead to excessive borrowing? The answer is no. So, had this Government also acted irresponsibly, by now, the debt situation would have been worse because of the drought, and the loss of energy that came about as a result of the drought. However, the difference between this Government and the previous one is that this Government did not take advantage of disasters to push the country into a serious problem that we found ourselves into.

Madam Speaker, arising from the programme that we had with the International Monetary Fund (IMF) of debt restructuring and other things, I want to state that there have been tangible benefits. There have been tangible benefits seen in our country as a result of the debt restructuring that has been achieved. One of the colleagues who spoke earlier, talked about some of the benefits that we have seen in the country, arising from debt restructuring, as money was released to the citizens, and let me give examples.

Madam Speaker, for many decades, we had a serious shortage of teachers in this country. When debt restructuring came through and money was released, this Government was able to hire more than 40,000 teachers in the last four years, which was not the case before. In the last four years, we have seen tremendous changes taking place in the constituencies of this country. When others were focusing on infrastructure in urban areas and looking for praises for that, leaving the countryside behind, this Government decided that the money that came from debt restructuring was going to benefit everybody. Free education is a consequence of debt restructuring. Without debt restructuring, we would not be able to provide free education.

While some hon. Colleagues were busy withdrawing meal allowances from students in the past, this Government has said it will invest in our people, starting from pre-school all the way up. That is a consequence of debt restructuring.

Madam Speaker, today, in my constituency, Liuwa, we have managed to construct clinics near schools out of the Constituency Development Fund (CDF) alone, and I think that is the example in many other places. Nearly every school has a clinic nearby, and nearly every clinic has a school nearby. The days of our mothers walking 30 km, 40 km or 60 km to deliver have ended. The maximum distance that our mothers travel to the nearest clinic is 6 km, 7 km and 8 km, from the 60 km they used to cover in the past. That is a consequence of debt restructuring. Without debt restructuring, we would not have done such a thing.

Madam Speaker, let me now address the issue that my young brother, Hon. Kafwaya, spoke about. He said that the Government does not publish nor provide statistics on the gross domestic product (GDP). First of all, every time I present the National Budget, I inform the nation the size of the GDP. Even beyond that, let me give him the websites for the Bank of Zambia (BoZ) and the Ministry of Finance and National Planning. At his own time, he can check for the numbers that he says the Government does not provide. To simplify matters even further, if he does not want to visit those websites and other platforms, I can also give him the addresses of the International Monetary Fund (IMF), the World Bank and the African Development Bank (AfDB) offices in Lusaka. These are independent institutions. He should go ask them whether this country produces GDP numbers or not. They will tell him to not have a headache, and they will show him the numbers. So, the numbers are available.

Madam Speaker, when we say that debt has come under control, it is real. Part of why it is real is what I said a few minutes ago; the tangible benefits of money flowing to the underprivileged. That alone is part of the proof that debt has been brought under control. The money that was going towards servicing the debts is now benefiting even his constituency. So, the benefits are there.

Madam Speaker, I could have gone into other technical discussions to prove that debt is under control, but I do not think that is necessary at this level. This country has made a lot of progress. Beyond the financial issues, there is the question of how to prepare the country, or rather, uplift it from where it is to something better. I have said it before that if we, the Zambian people, want to have better lives, there are no shortcuts to producing more. It is the selling of something when one produces it that gives one money to live a better life. Not imagination. Good life cannot come through political parties dishing money from all sorts of sources, which I never understood. That cannot be the case. We have to encourage production. I am happy that, with what is happening in the mining sector, production levels have risen and there are new investments, such as investments in the energy sector so that more electricity can be produced. Looking at the fact that the country is exporting fertiliser, soon it will be exporting textiles; vitenge. These and more things to come are what bring money into the country, and people’s pockets, so that our people can be given decent lives.

Madam Speaker, my time has run out.

Madam Speaker, I thank you.

Mr Chaatila: Madam Speaker, I would like to thank the hon. Members who have debated; the hon. Members of Parliament for Chilubi, Kanyama and Lunte.

Madam Speaker, I would like to indicate that our report, on page 4, has the gross domestic product (GDP) numbers from 2021 to 2024 and projections for 2025, as opposed to what the hon. Member for Lunte has said. The numbers are there both in narrative and graph form for everyone to see.

Madam Speaker, I would also like to thank the hon. Minister of Finance and National Planning for his responses. I now ask hon. Members for their support in the adoption of this report.

Madam Speaker, I thank you.

Question put and agreed to.

ADJOURNMENT

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

Question put and agreed to.

_______

The House adjourned at 1228 hours until 1430 hours on Tuesday, 14^th April, 2026.

____________

Order Paper

parliament.gov.zm

Search form

You are here

Friday, 10th April, 2026

Order Paper

parliament.gov.zm