Debates- Thursday, 25th February, 2010

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DAILY PARLIAMENTARY DEBATES FOR THE FOURTH SESSION OF THE TENTH ASSEMBLY

Thursday, 25th February, 2010

The House met at 1430 hours

[MADAM DEPUTY SPEAKER in the Chair]

NATIONAL ANTHEM

PRAYER

________

QUESTIONS FOR ORAL ANSWER

PROVISION OF BEDS AND MATRESSES TO KABUNDA GIRLS HIGH SCHOOL

252. Mr Chimbaka (Bahati) asked the Minister of Education when the Government would provide beds and mattresses to Kabunda Girls High School where pupils sleep on the floor.

The Deputy Minister of Education (Mr Sinyinda): Madam Speaker, there are no immediate plans to procure beds and mattresses at Kabunda Girls High School. However, the ministry has realised that there is need to procure beds and mattresses not only at Kabunda Girls High School, but also at many boarding high schools in the country. We need to budget for this and then procure the mattresses.

I thank you, Madam Speaker.

Mr Chimbaka: Madam Speaker, may I find out from the hon. Minister why the Campaign for Female Education (CAMFED) or Forum for African Women Educationalists of Zambia (FAWEZA) could not come to the aid of Kabunda Girls High School, it being a girls’ high school?

Mr Sinyinda: Madam Speaker, now that he has requested us to ensure that these organisations could assist, we will try to liaise with CAMFED or FAWEZA whether it is possible to do that. However, I must emphasise that it is not only that school which has a shortage of mattresses, but there also many other schools that have no mattresses and we are cognisant of the fact that we need to do something as quickly as possible.

I thank you, Madam.

Mr Kambwili (Roan): Madam Speaker, in view of the answer given by the hon. Minister, is there any money budgeted for mattresses in those schools that are affected? As we are forty-three years after independence, is it normal to have schools without mattresses?

Mr Sinyinda: Madam Speaker, I must emphasise that we are doing everything possible to ensure that we promote quality education in our schools. That is why we have embarked on the construction of more high schools throughout the country. I also want to emphasise the fact that we recognise the problems and step by step we are going to attend to them.

I thank you, Madam Speaker.

Hon. Government Members: Hear, hear!

Mr D. Mwila (Chipili): Madam Speaker, Government cannot allow a situation where pupils should continue sleeping on the floor. Could the hon. Minister indicate whether it is government’s policy to let pupils to continue sleeping on the floor?

Mr Sinyinda: Madam Speaker, it is not our policy. The hon. Member may wish to know that we have embarked on a massive construction of boarding schools throughout the country …

Interruptions

Madam Deputy Speaker: Order!

Mr Sinyinda: As I have already stated, over the years, there was negligence, but we as a government, we are doing everything possible to ensure that we have a conducive ….

Mr Kambwili: Question!

Mr Sinyinda: … environment in our schools.

I thank you, Madam.

Mr Mbewe: Hear, hear!

Mr Lubinda (Kabwata): Madam Speaker, in his response to the last supplementary question, the hon. Minister mentioned that over the years, there was a lot of negligence that is the reason why the children do not have mattresses. Could he kindly share with us who was negligent over the years to an extent that today he is talking about constructing schools without providing the necessary requisites for the children, particularly the girl-child?

Mr Sinyinda: Madam Speaker, may I first correct that impression made by the hon. Member that we are constructing schools without the necessary equipment, that is not true. If any one went to any school that we have just built, they will find that we have built the most modern schools in the world.

Hon. Government Members: Hear, hear!

Mr Kambwili: Question!

Mr Sinyinda: These schools have laboratories, computer labs and everything that is modern in as far as a school environment is concerned.

Mr Kambwili: Question!

Madam Deputy Speaker: Order! Order!

Mr Sinyinda: For example, if Hon. Kambwili cared enough, he could go to Ndola Girls High School and he will see that what I am talking about is true. This is the same throughout the country.

I thank you, Madam Speaker.

Hon. Government Members: Hear, hear!

Mr Kapeya (Mpika Central): Madam Speaker, it is indeed very shameful on the part of the Ministry of Education to hear that pupils still sleep on the floor despite them paying school fees. Could we learn from the hon. Minister how these school fees are used at Kabunda Girls High School?

Mr Kambwili: Hear, hear!

Mr Sinyinda: Madam Speaker, I hope the hon. Member knows that in boarding schools, the fees that are paid by pupils are not for buying school requisites, but are for buying food stuffs. We are cognisant of the fact that we have the need to actually improve the lives of our children in boarding schools and I want to emphasise that boarding fees are used to buy food.

I thank you, Madam.

Mr Chota (Lubansenshi): Madam Speaker, could the hon. Minister explain to us what the Government is going to do about Kabunda Girls High School where girls are sleeping on the floor. What are you going to do about this? Are you going to buy them mattresses?

Madam Deputy Speaker: The hon. Minister may re-emphasise.

Mr Sinyinda: Madam Speaker, I am glad that you have said that I should re-emphasise. I must emphasise that we have recognised the problem and we need to do something about it and definitely, we will do something.

I thank you, Madam Speaker.

Mr Mukanga (Kantanshi): Madam Speaker, the hon. Minister mentioned that the reason for not having mattresses was due to negligence through the years, what action has been taken against those officers who were negligent and made the children to be sleeping on the floor?

Mr Sinyinda: Madam Speaker, when we talkd about the need to buy certain school requisites, it did not mean that some members of staff had been negligent. The reason is that, for some time, we have not recognised the fact that there was need to buy these mattresses. However, now that we see that there is need to do that, we will do it.

I thank you, Madam Speaker.

ABUSE OF OFFICE BY MANAGEMENT OF NATIONAL PENSION SCHEME AUTHORITY

253. Mr D. Mwila asked the Minister of Labour and Social Security:

(a)    when the report by a committee led by Mr Justice Mushabati on abuse of office by management at the National Pension Scheme Authority (NAPSA) would be published;

(b)    what the outcome of the investigations was;

(c)    how much money the committee spent on the exercise; and

(d)    what action, if any, had been taken following the investigations.

The Minister of Labour and Social Security (Mr Liato): Madam Speaker, I wish to state that the Justice Mushabati Committee was appointed to study allegations in the office of the Director General of NAPSA and not the general abuse of office by NAPSA management as the hon. Member’s question seems to suggest. This was meant to resolve internal administrative matters of the institution and thereafter, a report was submitted to my office.

Madam, the appointed committee was to assist me in resolving the internal matter at the institution and this was done and appropriation action in accordance with the recommendations was taken.

Madam Speaker, the amount of money the committee on the exercise was K88,000,000.

As I have already stated, Madam, the issue was purely administrative and the appropriate action in accordance with the recommendations was taken.

I thank you, Madam Speaker.

Mr D. Mwila: Madam Speaker, after the completion of the investigations, the contract of the Director General of NAPSA was terminated. May I find out from the hon. Minister what the terms of exit were and what was offered to him when leaving?

Madam Deputy Speaker: The question sounds something else. Hon. Minister, do you have an answer to that question?

Mr Liato: Madam Speaker, I do not have those facts.

I thank you, Madam Speaker.

Mr Nkombo (Mazabuka Central): Madam Speaker, I would like the hon. Minister to explain further on the actual appropriate action that was taken on Mr Chibunda who was the Director General of a public utility, NAPSA. This is because this utility actually keeps people’s funds. I want to know what he means when he says, “appropriate action was taken”.

Mr Liato: Madam Speaker, the issue on NAPSA was tabled before this House before. There was, in fact, a statement on the same sometime last year where the House was informed on the happenings at NAPSA. I just want to say to the hon. Member that for purposes of explaining what I mean by appropriate action, I would summarise it by saying that his contract was terminated and this was in accordance with the findings of the committee.

I thank you, Madam Speaker.

Mr Kambwili: Madam Speaker, I would like to know if the report highlighted any abuse of finances and if so, how much was involved and if that money has been recovered.

Mr Liato: Madam Speaker, there were no such revelations.

I thank you, Madam Speaker.

MINERAL PROSPECTING AND OIL EXPLORATION PROGRAMME IN MFUWE PARLIAMENTARY CONSTITUENCY

254. Mr Malama (Mfuwe) asked the Minister of Mines and Minerals Development:

(a)    whether there is any firm prospecting for minerals in Muchinga Escarpment in Mfuwe Parliamentary Constituency; and

(b)    whether the Government intends to carry out an oil exploration programme in Chief Nabwalya’s and Chief Mukungule’s areas.

The Deputy Minister  of Mines and Minerals Development (Mr Nkhata): Madam Speaker, there is one firm prospecting for minerals in the Muchinga Escarpment in Mfuwe Parliamentary Constituency which is Sekelela Enterprises. This firm is prospecting for copper, diamond, cobalt, uranium and gold under prospecting licence No. 11979. The licence was issued on 18th February 2009 and is valid until 2011. However, D and B Gem are holding a small scale mining licence No. 13649 for gypsum. The licence which was issued on 22nd July 2009 is valid until 21st July 2019.

Madam Speaker, a reconnaissance microbial prospecting for oil and gas survey covering parts of Chief Nabwalya’s and Chief Mukungule’s areas was conducted in 2007 and are part of the blocks that were advertised in the first and the current bidding rounds in both local and international media.

I thank you, Madam Speaker.

Mr Malama: Madam Speaker, I would like to find out what the Government is doing to stop the illegal mining which is going on in the area.

Mr Nkhata: Madam Speaker, the hon. Member of Parliament who has asked this question is a Government figure and if he has seen such kind of activities going on, he can report the same to the relevant authorities.

I thank you, Madam Speaker.

Hon. Members: Hear, hear!

COMPLETION OF ELECTRIFICATION OF KALAS AND LUBANSA BASIC SCHOOLS

255. Mr Chitonge (Mwansabombwe) asked the Minister of Energy and Water Development:

(a)    when the electrification of Kalasa and Lubansa Basic Schools in Mwansabobwe Parliamentary Constituency will be completed; and

(b)    how much money had been spent on this project since its inception in 2005.

The Deputy Minister of Energy and Water Development (Mr Imasiku): Madam Speaker, the electrification of Kalasa and Lubansa Basic Schools in Mwansabobwe Parliamentary Constituency was started in 2006 and was completed in December, 2009. The two schools have since been connected at a total cost of K63,760,000.

I thank you, Madam Speaker.

Mr Mukanga (Kantanshi): Madam Speaker, I would like to find out when the Rural Electrification Master Plan will be made available to stakeholders because that will be a guide for us to know which areas are going to be electrified.

Madam Deputy Speaker: Order! The question is on Kalasa and Lubansa.

Mr Kambwili (Roan): Madam Speaker, the Rural Electrification Authority (REA) has a lot of work on its hands. May I know why it took four years to electrify these two schools?

The Minister of Energy and Water Development (Mr Konga): Madam Speaker, the challenge which was faced by REA was that of financial resources to undertake the exercise.

I thank you, Madam Speaker.{mospagebreak}

Mr Malama: Madam Speaker, may I know when the master plan will be given to the hon. Member so that he can know when the electrification will be done to his schools.

Madam Deputy Speaker: Order! Whose schools? The question is on Kalasa and Lubansa and these have been electrified. Do not start to sneak in questions. You think the Chair forgets.

Laughter

ROAD WORKS IN CHIPULUKUSU AND TWAPIA TOWNSHIPS

256. Mr Mushili (Ndola Central) asked the Minister of Works and Supply:

(a)    when Mwabombeni road in Twapia township in Ndola Central Parliamentary Constituency was last rehabilitated and when it would be considered for complete reconstruction; and

(b)    when Misundu/ZESCO road in Chipulukusu township in Ndola Central Parliamentary Constituency would be constructed.

The Deputy Minister of Works and Supply (Dr Kalila): Madam Speaker, the Ndola City Council, who have been appointed as a road authority for urban, township and feeder roads in the city carried out works of pothole patching of Mwabombeni road from September to October, 2008 through funding received from the Constituency Development Fund (CDF). The construction of the road was however not included in the 2009 Annual Work Plan because of limited funds. The 2009 Annual Work Plan has allowed only for ongoing projects in order to carry out and complete them. It is the intention of the ministry to give priority to the rehabilitation of Mwabombeni road in the 2011 Annual Work Plan.

Madam Speaker, grading maintenance on the Misundu-ZESCO road was carried out towards the end of 2008 with funds from the CDF. The ministry has given priority to the Misundu/ZESCO road and plans to include it in the 2011 Annual Work Plan.

I thank you, Madam Speaker.

Mr Mushili: Madam Speaker, will the hon. Minister tell us how much money was budgeted for from the CDF which was passed over to the city council to carryout the works on Mwabombeni road in Twapia and on the Misundu/ZESCO road.

Mr Mulongoti: Madam Speaker, when the funds are passed on to any council the ministry does not interfere because it is a decision of the council with the area Member of Parliament. So, what was made available depended on the decision made by the council and area Member of Parliament.

I thank you, Madam Speaker.

Interruptions 

Madam Deputy Speaker: Order!

Mr Nsanda (Chimwemwe): Madam Speaker, can the hon. Minister tell this House how much money is needed to repair a two kilometre road compared to the K600 million which was given to the councils to slash grass along council roads? 

Hon. Opposition Members: Hear, hear!

Mr Mulongoti: Madam Speaker, the impression being created by Councillor Nsanda …

Laughter 

Mr Nsanda: … is that the councils do not raise any funds at all for providing services. If that is the understanding, then I have difficulties because these councils raise money from rates and services to be able to attend to these projects. So, I have difficulties in understanding why it is expected that my ministry must even provide for pothole patching in the urban jurisdiction.

I thank you, Madam Speaker.

Mr Lubinda: Madam Speaker, may I find out from the hon. Minister of Works and Supply for, I do not know, which constituency. Can you clarify?

Laughter 

Mr Mulongoti: Ndola Central!

Mr Lubinda: Madam Speaker, can the hon. Minister clarify how much money the Ndola City Council, which is a road authority, asked for from the Road Development Agency (RDA) to facilitate the construction of roads within Ndola because they are an agent of the RDA? How much money was asked for, particularly for Mwabombeni Road in Twapia, in Ndola?

Mr Mulongoti: Madam Speaker, first of all, roads that are taken on by the RDA come after recommendations from a councillor, the council sitting and approving them, through to the District Development Co-ordinating Committee (DDCC) and Provincial Development Co-ordinating Committee (PDCC). So, for us, if we have funds that can be given to a council, that is done and we expect that each respective council should budget through their own money …

Interruptions 

Mr Mulongoti: … to improve the roads. That is why you were boasting when you were campaigning that you were going to attend to those roads.

Interruptions

Mr Mulongoti: Now, you are stuck and you want to pretend …

Mr Kambwili: Question!

Mr Mulongoti: Madam Speaker, this is their responsibility. They have failed to develop the roads.

I thank you, Madam Speaker.

Laughter 

Mr Ntundu (Gwembe): Madam Speaker, I recall that the MMD Government patched potholes in Mwansabombwe when there was a by-election.

Mr Muyanda: Yes.

Hon. Opposition Members: In Solwezi!

Mr Ntundu: Yes, including Solwezi. Hon. Minister, can you tell this House, and you should be truthful, whether you are waiting for the Member of Parliament to die in Ndola and that is when you are going to patch the road?

Laughter 

Mr Ntundu: Can you tell this House, hon. Minister?

Hon. Opposition Members: Hear, hear!

Madam Deputy Speaker: It sounds a very dangerous question on the wish by anybody in this House for another hon. Member to die, and a death of an hon. Members is not part of our mandate. I do not want the hon. Member to wish anybody death in the House. Can we ask without bringing such issues into this? Next question, please.

Interruptions

REHABILITATION OF FITENTE AND MACHA ROADS IN NDOLA CENTRAL CONSTITUENCY

257. Mr Mushili asked the Minister of Works and Supply:

(a)    when the rehabilitation of the Fitente and Macha roads in Ndola Central Parliamentary Constituency was last budgeted for;

(b)    when the contractors for the roads above moved on site to begin the works; and 

(c)    when the works on the roads at (a) would be completed.

Dr Kalila: Madam Speaker, the works for the rehabilitation of selected urban roads in Ndola was advertised as one tender with selected urban roads in Luanshya. The roads included Macha and Fitente roads in Ndola Central Constituency. The closing date for receiving bids for the tender of the works was 22nd May 2009. A total of four bids were received. The evaluation of the bids was done by the RDA and Ndola City Council. However, the contract for the works could not be awarded as all the bids received were higher than the amount that was budgeted for in the 2009 Annual Work Plan.

Madam Speaker, since a contractor has not been selected, no one has moved to any site.

Madam Speaker, there is no time frame for completing the road works since there is no contract signed yet.

I thank you, Madam Speaker.

Mr Mushili: Madam Speaker, will the hon. Minister of Works and Supply …

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

Madam Deputy Speaker: A point of order is raised, but let me guide the House that we had better come back to our own rules of procedure. When you rise on a point of order, it should be procedural or it should be to correct a statement of fact that may have been given on the Floor. For the rest, we have ways of dealing with them. You may go ahead if it is procedural or a matter of fact.

Mr Chanda: Madam Speaker, I am one of those hon. Members who do not rise on point of orders, but I find it necessary to do so today. May I find out if the hon. Minister of Energy and Water Development is in order to keep quiet when there is contaminated diesel that has been supplied by TAZAMA out there without warning motorists of the consequences?

Madam Deputy Speaker: What procedure has been breached? 

Hon. Opposition Members: National interest.

Madam Deputy Speaker: Yes, national interest can come under urgent questions of urgent nature.

May the hon. Member for Ndola Central continue?

Interruptions

Mr Mushili: Madam Speaker, arising from the Minister of Works and Supply’s answer as regards to Fitente and other roads citing the prohibitive quotations that were offered by the contractors, will the hon. Minister tell this House when this Government will work on these roads?

Mr Mulongoti: Madam Speaker, with projects that come under the annual work plan, the money goes back to Central Treasury at the end of the year if what is provided is inadequate. However, the application must be made afresh in the following year. So, if nothing is done by the respective council, it is not possible that we can pursue that because there are new priorities that come every year.

I thank you, Madam Speaker.

WORKERS’ COMPENSATION FUND

258. Mr Simuusa (Nchanga) asked the Minister of Labour and Social Security:

(a)    what the lowest and highest amount received by pensioners each month under the Workers’ Compensation Fund was: and

(b)    what the progress was on the reforms to the Workers’ Compensation Fund.

Mr Liato: Madam Speaker, the lowest monthly pension is K574.98 while the highest is K400,000. These amounts have been determined based on the provision in the current law. The same law is in the process of being reviewed to enhance benefits paid under the Workers’ Compensation Fund Control Board.

Madam Speaker, the proposed amendments to the Workers’ Compensation Act have been approved by the board and were submitted to my ministry. The proposed amendments will be tabled at the next Tripartite Consultative Labour Council (TCLC) meeting scheduled to take place next week on Monday and Tuesday. The TCLC is the forum responsible for amendments of all employment and labour laws. After adoption, the amendments will then be subjected to the normal legislative process.

Madam Speaker, I thank you.

Mr Liato left his microphone on.

Madam Deputy Speaker: Turn off your microphone, hon. Minister.

Mr Simuusa: Madam Speaker, in light of the many sufferings that pensioners are going through owing to the current low rate from the Workers’ Compensation Fund, I wish to find out from the hon. Minister when exactly these reforms will be completed and after completion, the lowest monthly payment pensioners will receive.

Mr Liato: Madam Speaker, I thank the hon. Member for the question. The Government has realised the need to review these figures as they are quite insufficient. This is the reason the programme to review these amounts has been invoked and as I indicated, this issue will be tabled before the TCLC meeting next week. Once that process is concluded, it is our intention to bring before this House issues that will normalise or change the amounts as per law as early as possible this year.

I thank you, Madam Speaker.

GRADUANTS FROM CHAINAMA COLLEGE AND FOREIGN MEDICAL DOCTORS COUNTRY-WIDE

259. Mr Chisala (Chilubi) asked the Minister of Health:

(a)    how many clinical officers and psychiatric nurses graduated from the Chainama College of Health Sciences from 2005 to 2008, year by year; and

(b)    what was the total number of medical doctors of foreign nationality currently serving in Zambian hospitals countrywide.

The Minister of Health (Mr Simbao): Madam Speaker, the number of clinical officers and psychiatric nurses who graduated from Chainama College of Health Sciences from 2005 to 2009 is as follows:

No    Category    Year
2005    2006    2007    2008    2009    Total

1.    Clinical officer psychiatry        0    0    5    0    0    5
post basic

2.    Clinical officer general        93    85    97    118    123    516

3.    Clinical officer psychiatry        0    0    0    0    40    40

4.    Registered mental health        0    5    0    0    0    5
post basic

5.    Registered mental health        0    0    0    0    39    39
nurse

Total        93    90    102    118    202    605

Madam Speaker, the total number of medical doctors of foreign origin serving in Zambian hospitals countrywide is 339. The majority of these doctors are from the Democratic Republic of Congo and Ukraine.

Madam Speaker, I thank you.

Mr Chisala: Madam Speaker, the number of medical doctors mentioned by the hon. Minister of Health is quite sufficient in the sense that if calculations were done properly, I believe each of the seventy-two districts in the country would have a medical doctor. Why has Chilubi, to date, not received a medical doctor in the aftermath of the doctor who was transferred there from Nakonde in October last year leaving for further studies?

Mr Simbao: Madam Speaker, first of all, the hon. Member of Parliament has acknowledged that we sent a medical doctor to Chilubi. The issue with rural-based medical doctors under their retention scheme is that they are offered scholarships by co-operating partners. The Ministry of Health does not intend to stop doctors from going for further training. Therefore, it so happened that the doctor posted to Chilubi was offered a scholarship to study in Australia and has gone there. At the moment, we are looking for a doctor to replace him.

I thank you, Madam Speaker.

Ms Kapata (Mandevu): Madam Speaker, I just want to find out from the hon. Minister whether the foreign medical doctors are on expatriate or local conditions of service.

Mr Simbao: Madam Speaker, I thank the hon. Member of Parliament for Mandevu for that question because I think it is important to clarify one issue. We do not have, in the Ministry of Health, conditions called expatriate conditions. We have one set of conditions signed by doctors that have been hired on contract and they apply to both Zambians and non-Zambians.

In fact, we are fighting hard to improve the conditions for the so-called expatriates serving in rural areas because the incentive package does not apply to them and we are trying to rectify this problem. It is not in their favour. However, when we recruit expatriate doctors in this country, they sign the same conditions of contract that Zambians do. There is nothing special about them.

I thank you, Madam.

Dr Katema (Chingola): Madam, how many Zambian doctors do we have in the country who are working in the public and private sectors?

Madam Deputy Speaker: Yesterday, we had a question on how many doctors there were in the country. 

Mr Nkombo: Madam, there are 605 graduates from the Chainama Hills Hospital in the faculty of psychiatric studies, which gives a ratio of one graduate to 19,334. This can be compared to the population of this country. Are there some psychiatrists who are specially trained to do psycho-socio counselling for the very important people (VIPs) out of the 605?

Mr Simbao: Madam, I think that the term used by the hon. Member is new and I have no answer for it.

Thank you, Madam.

Mr Mukanga: Madam, what is the Government doing to improve the conditions of service for foreign doctors who are serving in rural areas like at Katulwampa Hospital who are not on the retention scheme because the Zambian doctors are on pension scheme?

Madam Deputy Speaker: I think Hon. Kambwili is now following the Chair.

Mr Kambwili: Madam, may I know if there is any peculiar reason we are attracting doctors from Ukraine and the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) as opposed to doctors from developed countries?

Mr Simbao: Madam, firstly, I want to assure the hon. Member for Roan that we have very good doctors who graduate from three established medical schools in the DRC, namely, Kinshansa, Lubumbashi and Kisangani. However, there are some that graduate from some mediocre set-up schools and those are checked against so that they are not recruited by this Government. We recruit very good doctors. They are all over the world not just in Zambia and so we are getting the best. As for doctors from Ukraine, which is in Eastern Europe, they are equally very well trained. Initially, people have a negative attitude towards the Eastern trained people, but people from the world over, if you have been following events, are now going to Eastern Europe as well as Asia for treatment because they have realised that the doctors there are very good and cheap. Therefore, we are getting the best in this country.

Thank you, Madam.

Mr Mushili: Madam, is it true that most of the doctors that are recruited from Ukraine are leaving the country faster than other doctors from elsewhere because they are highly rated and are being frustrated most of the times?

Mr Simbao: Madam, I do now know whether that is a rumour or fact. The doctors that I know and talk to are very happy to be in this country. There was a case in Ndola, yes, and that is just one case of a couple, which we talked to. They are both doctors who are no longer in Ndola, but still with the ministry. However, this was an isolated case and I hope it will not happen anywhere else.

I thank you, Sir.

TUBERCULOSIS CASES IN PRISONS COUNTRYWIDE

260. Mr Kambwili asked the Minister of Home Affairs:

(a)    why the Government detained inmates suffering from tuberculosis in the same cells as inmates without tuberculosis; and

(b)    what the total number of tuberculosis cases in prisons countrywide was as of 30th September, 2009.

The Deputy Minister of Home Affairs (Mr D. B. Phiri): Madam, inmates suffering from tuberculosis are not put in the same cells with inmates who are not suffering from it. Once an inmate has been diagnosed with tuberculosis, the Prisons Service isolates such such an inmate from the rest. Tuberculosis patients who are isolated are not necessarily put in cells, but in other rooms within the prison as the number of existing cells are not enough to accommodate such categories of inmates. Apart from being isolated, those suffering from tuberculosis are taken to the hospital for treatment.

However, there are rare cases where inmates with tuberculosis are found in the same cells with inmates who are not suffering from it. This is often the case in the diagnostic stages of the illness. In such cases, efforts by the Prisons Service are made to have such prisoners transferred to prisons where it is possible to isolate them. Suffice to mention that these efforts, to a large extent, have helped to contain the spread of tuberculosis in prisons.

Mr Speaker, the total number of tuberculosis cases in prisons countrywide as of 30th September, 2009 was 310.

I thank you, Madam.

Mr Kambwili: Madam, it is clear that the hon. Minister is misleading the House as there are a lot of tuberculosis patients being put in the same cells as inmates without it from the experience I had when I was in prison. 

Laughter

Mr Kambwili: However, I would like to find out if the Government has any plans to build a prison exclusively for inmates with tuberculosis.

The Minister of Home Affairs (Mr Mangani): Madam, I do know that Hon. Kambwili did not stay long in prison...

Laughter

Mr Mangani: ... and so he may not have followed what was happening there. However, I can assure him that if he had been coughing terribly, the Prisons Service would have isolated him from the rest of the inmates, but, fortunately, he was not coughing so much. This is why he was not isolated from the rest. 

In terms of building special hospitals or prisons for people suffering from tuberculosis, it may happen very soon although we still have problems, as you know, of prisons. We have a population of 16,000 prisoners countrywide and still have a big challenge in terms of accommodating them. As such, we will not necessarily build a prison purely for those suffering from tuberculosis.

I thank you, Sir.

Mrs Musokotwane (Katombola): Madam, out of the 310 cases of tuberculosis, how many cases are HIV/AIDS related?

Mr Mangani: Madam, I may not be in a position to isolate those suffering from HIV/AIDS and those who are being treated purely for tuberculosis. I do not have the figures, but most of the cases, indeed, are related to the HIV/AIDS infection.

Thank you, Sir.

Mr Mukanga: Madam Speaker, I would like to find out what protection is given to the prison waders who attend to prisoners suffering from tuberculosis.

Mr Mangani: Madam Speaker, once we identify that somebody is suffering from tuberculosis, they are isolated and usually attended to by clinical officers so that they monitor the medicine that they have to take everyday.

I thank you, Madam.

Ms Kapata: Madam Speaker, tuberculosis is infectious and the rule is that when somebody is diagnosed with it, the Ministry of Health, clinics or hospitals follow- up contacts. I would like to find out from the hon. Minister how the contact in prison is done when the prisoners have tuberculosis.

Mr Mangani: In fact, the contacts are easily done in imprisons because we are able to supervise patients almost on a daily basis. Immediately we discover that somebody is suffering from tuberculosis, clinical officers or people in charge of supervising that patient will ensure that this person takes the medicine. If any changes, in terms of a patient’s health are noted, they are quickly taken to the hospitals so that we follow-up his health almost every time when there is a serious problem affecting this person.

I thank you, Madam Speaker. 

FOOD PRODUCTION BY PERSONS WITH DISABILITIES COUNTRYWIDE

261. Mr D. Mwila asked the Minister of Community Development and Social Services:

(a)    what the total food production in all farm blocks for persons with disabilities countrywide had been from 2007 to 2009, year by year, and

(b)    what the projected production level in the 2009/2010 marketing season was.

The Deputy Minister Community Development and Social Services (Malwa): Madam Speaker, I wish to inform the House that the total food production in all the farm blocks for persons with disabilities countrywide from 2007 to 2009, year by year, is as follows:

2007/2008 Farming Season

490 bags x 50 kilogrammes of maize
335 boxes of tomatoes
2,889 chickens
1,576 units of green maize
1,486 heads of cabbage

2008/2009 Farming Season

362 bags x 5 Kilogrammes of maize
141 boxes of tomatoes
570 chickens
420 units of green maize
1,030 heads of cabbage

Total Food Production Combined

852 bags of 50 kilogrammes of maize
476 boxes of tomatoes
3,459 chickens
2,005 units of green maize
2,516 heads of cabbage

Madam Speaker, the projected production levels in the 2009/2010 marketing season are:
Produce            Production
Maize    3,380 bags x 50 kilogrammes 
Poultry    5,000 chickens
Green Maize    2,750 units (10 cobs per unit)
Tomatoes    1,000 boxes
Beans    50 bags x 50 kilogrammes

Madam Speaker, the House may wish to note that the Zambia Agency for Persons with Disabilities (ZAPD) has developed a three-year plan for revamping the farm blocks to ensure that they create employment, rehabilitate and empower persons with disabilities in the country.

I thank you, Madam Speaker.

Mr D. Mwila: Madam Speaker, for the past five years, the Government has not budgeted for food production in all farm blocks countrywide. Could the hon. Minister indicate when the Government will start budgeting for food production because in the 2010 Budget only K5 been has been provided for salaries and other allowances.

Mr Malwa: Madam Speaker, I would like to inform the House that each farm centre will be given about K35 million bringing the total for recapitalisation to K210 million. However, this revamping exercise has been earmarked for the 2010 Annual Budget.

I thank you, Madam Speaker.

Mr Mukanga: Madam Speaker, I would like the hon. Minister to clarify what he meant by unit of green maize because I am totally lost.

Mr Malwa: Madam Speaker, the units of green maize are ten per unit and this maize is grown off season. It is mainly from MIMOSA Farm Block here in Lusaka.

PROCUREMENT OF FUNITURE AND ELECTRIFICATION OF CHISENGISENGI RURAL HEALTH CENTRE

262. Mr Katuka (Mwinilunga East) asked the Minister of Health:

(a)    when the Government would procure furniture for the Chisengisengi Rural Health Centre; and 

(b)    when the rural health centre above would be electrified using solar energy.

Mr Simbao: Madam Speaker, I wish to inform the House that funds for the procurement of furniture for Chisengisengi Rural Health Centre has been apportioned from the grant. This has been set aside every month. As soon as enough funds have been collected, which appears that this might be in April, this year, 2010, the furniture will be purchased.

Madam, the electrification of Chisengisengi Rural Health Centre has been included in the district. The procurement of the solar panels for the electrification of the rural health centre will commence.

I thank you, Madam Speaker.

Mr Katuka: Madam Speaker, is the hon. Minister aware that it has taken three years since the health centre was opened, but has been unable to render its services because of lack of furniture.

Mr Simbao: Madam Speaker, yes, we are aware and I have just mentioned that furniture might be bought in April, this year.

Ms Kapata: Madam Speaker, may I find out from the hon. Minister how the children’s programme in terms of immunisation is done at this particular rural health centre considering that it has no electricity?

Mr Simbao: Madam Speaker, that programme is normally carried out during the day time.

I thank you, Madam Speaker. {mospagebreak}

COMMENCEMENT OF THE CHINGOLA/MWINILUNGA/ANGOLA RAILWAY PROJECT

263. Mr Katuka asked the Minister of Communications and Transport when the railway project from Chingola to Angola via Mwinilunga would begin. 

The Deputy Minister of Communications and Transport (Mr Mubika): Madam Speaker, the Government signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with a consortium comprising of three companies namely; China Railway Engineering Co-operation, (CREC) – AYR (Australia) – Trans Zambezi Railway Company Limited to develop the railway line in August, 2008. 

However, the project could not commence due to litigation by an interested party. The High Court ruled in favour of the Government, but the interested party was dissatisfied and proceeded to appeal to the Supreme Court. Therefore, progress on the project depends on the outcome of the matter in the Supreme Court of Zambia.

I thank you, Madam Speaker.

UNIFORM PRICING OF PETROLEUM PRODUCTS COUNTRYWIDE

264. Dr Machungwa (Luapula) asked the Minister of Energy and Water Development when plans to introduce uniform pricing of fuel and other petroleum products in the country would be implemented. 

Mr Imasiku: Madam Speaker, I wish to inform the House that the Government, through the Ministry of Energy and Water Development, will commence implementation of the uniform petroleum pricing programme in June, 2010.

Madam Speaker, I thank you.
 
Dr Machungwa: Madam Speaker, while I commend the Government for giving that firm deadline, can I get assurance from the hon. Minister that, in fact, this shall be so because it is a known fact that poverty in the rural areas is higher than in the urban areas and this implementation of uniform prices will go some length towards removing this disparity.

Interruptions

Madam Deputy Speaker: Order, in the House. Some people are speaking so freely as if we are in some place where such freedom is allowed. Let us listen to each other.

The Minister of Energy and Water Development (Mr Konga): Madam Speaker, the Government has, indeed, recognised that the disparities in wealth levels among the citizens is tilted more towards those living in the urban areas. One of the contributing factors is, indeed, the pricing of fuel which is more in the rural areas as compared to the urban areas. It is for this reason that the Government has, indeed, embarked on addressing this challenge so that this year, the programme for achieving uniform petroleum pricing countrywide would commence.

I thank you, Madam Speaker.

Mr C. K. B. Banda, SC. (Chasefu): Madam Speaker, in giving us comfort that, indeed, come June, fuel will be in all the provincial centres, may the hon. Minister tell us how many provincial fuel depots are ready for use at the moment.

Mr Konga: Madam Speaker, the Government is going to achieve the uniform petroleum pricing countrywide by undertaking measures including storing in the provincial centres as was announced earlier. To this effect, the Government has worked out measures to engage various stakeholders on a public-private partnership mode to rehabilitate the various provincial or storage facilities so that they could be ready to be stored with fuel. 

I thank you, Madam Speaker.

Mr Lumba (Solwezi Central): Madam Speaker, what measures has Government put in place to encourage the private sector to build up filling stations in rural areas, particularly in the North-Western Province?

Mr Konga: Madam Speaker, I welcome the hon. Member to the House. Last week and early this week, the Government, through the Zambia Citizens Economic Empowerment Commission, has been advertising procedures and measures to request citizens and citizens-empowered companies, especially women to apply for licences to run various fuel depots throughout the country, particularly in the rural areas.

I thank you, Madam Speaker.

Mr Shakafuswa (Katuba): Madam Speaker, while the determinant of the price of fuel, at the moment, is the transportation cost from the station where the fuel is taken from, is the Government going to subsidise the transportation or the uniform prices of fuel to  be raised so that everyone pays at a higher price to subsidise those in far flung areas.

Mr Konga: Madam Speaker, indeed, the Government intends to subsidise the transportation cost and it is also considering the aspect of raising the price of fuel in the urban areas slightly so that the people in the rural areas can also benefit from this process. 

I thank you, Madam Speaker. 

Mr Mwamba (Kasama Central): Madam Speaker, Total Zambia Limited has been wholly purchased by this Government. I remember that, last year, I asked the hon. Minister of Energy and Water Development if at all the Government had any intentions to sell part of the shares to a consortium of Zambians in order for Indeni to operate efficiently. 

Madam Deputy Speaker: The Chair has failed to connect. 

Mr Chazangwe (Choma): Madam Speaker, regarding the issue of food shortage in the country, I would like to find out from the hon. Minister if his ministry has any plans to subsidise fuel that will be used by small-scale and commercial farmers so as to reduce the escalating mealie meal prices in the country.

Mr Konga: Madam Speaker, presently, the fuel that the motoring public is paying for is actually subsidised by the Government. 

I thank you, Madam. 

Mr Muntanga (Kalomo): Madam Speaker, how will the Government subsidise the price of fuel when the hon. Minister has just said that the price in town will go up to match the price in rural areas? The difference will already have been covered through the price increase in urban areas, therefore, how will the Government subsidy come in? May I, please, have a clarification. 

Mr Konga: Madam Speaker, as I earlier responded, the Government is currently subsidising the pump price of fuel. 

Hon. Opposition Members: Aah!

Mr Konga: This not withstanding, in order to give relief to the citizens in rural areas, the Government intends to have a slight increment on the pump price in urban areas, and at the same time, give a subsidy on the transportation of fuel to rural areas, while maintaining the price of petroleum products in the rural areas at the same level. This way, we intend to achieve parity on the pricing, both in the rural and urban areas.

Madam Speaker, I thank you. 

Mr Simuusa: Madam Speaker, I wish to find out from the hon. Minister by what percentage the fuel price has been subsidised and where the money to pay for this subsidy is coming from?

Mr Konga: Madam Speaker, I cannot give the exact percentage of subsidy just yet. However, I can come back to the House with a figure. Nevertheless, I can confirm that the Treasury is giving a subsidy to the motoring public in Zambia at the moment. 

I thank you, Madam.

Dr Scott (Lusaka Central): Madam Speaker, the normal understanding of the term subsidy is that you are reducing the untaxed price. Can the hon. Minister clarify that what he is actually talking about is charging enormous taxes in Zambia and then giving a small subsidy which is affected in a tax rebate? Can you clarify what you mean by a subsidy?

Mr Konga: Madam Speaker, the petroleum products that are sold on the Zambian market have got various duties except for petrol, which has a current duty of 36 per cent. The other products like diesel attract minimum duties of only 10 per cent. This is the subsidy we are talking about. The Government actually subsidises, in cash, during the purchase of these petroleum products to mitigate the impact on the consumer of paying higher prices. 

Madam Speaker, I thank you. 

Mr Kambwili: Madam Speaker, one of the reasons our fuel is expensive in Zambia is that it attracts fuel levy. Is the hon. Minister not thinking of excluding the rural areas from the fuel levy so that fuel is cheaper because, at the end of the day, very few rural roads are rehabilitated using the money collected from this levy?

Mr Konga: Madam Speaker, indeed, the Government, through the Energy Regulation Board (ERB), collects the fuel levy which goes towards maintaining some of our roads. Further, in order to sustain the maintenance of these roads, the Government, at the moment, does not envisage removing the fuel levy. 

Madam Speaker, I thank you.

Mr Mukanga: Madam Speaker, on the pump price, there is an embedded K152 per litre which was meant for building strategic reserves for the nation. However, to date, these reserves have not been built. Why can the hon. Minister not utilise this K152 per litre to formalise the prices between the urban and the rural areas? 

Mr Konga: Madam Speaker, the Government collects a levy which goes towards the Strategic Reserve Fund. Due to the volatility of petroleum products on the international market, and in order to cushion the motoring public and the Zambian public in general, through various activities such as farming, the Government has been using some of the money from the Strategic Reserve Fund to subsidise the pump price. 

Madam Speaker, I thank you. 

PAYMENT OF MINERAL ROYALTIES

265. Mr Mwango (Kanchibiya) asked the Minister of Mines and Minerals Development;

(a)    how much money was paid, in form of mineral royalties, in 2008 and 2009 by the following mining companies:

(i)    Konkola Copper Mines Plc;
(ii)    Mopani Copper Mines Plc;
(iii)    Chibuluma Copper Mines Plc; and
(iv)    Kansanshi Copper Mines Plc; and

(b)    how much money was expected to be collected, in form of mineral royalties, in 2010 from the mining companies at (a).

The Deputy Minister of Mines and Minerals Development (Mr Nkhata): Madam Speaker, a total of K423,841,162,783 was paid in form of mineral royalties by mining companies listed in the question in 2008 and 2009 broken down as follows:

    Company        2008                2009                                                    Total
    
Chibuluma Mines    8,764,724,935.67    11,116,275,640.09    19,881,000,575.76
    Plc
    Kansanshi Mines    70,600,677,947.99    38,386,637,649.33    108,987,315,597.32
    Plc
    Mopani Copper    71,724,700,625.49    80,877,739,179.66    152,602,439,805.15
    Mines Plc
    Konkola Copper    55,762,431,219.22    86,607,975,586.32    142,370,406,805.54
    Mines Plc
    Total            206,852,536,736.37    234,159,478,995.19    423,841,162,783.77    

Madam Speaker, as regards to question (b) a total of K236,517,604,580.39 is expected to be collected as mineral royalty in 2010 broken as follows:

    Company                     2010 Projections
    
Chibuluma Mines              12,116,740,447.70
    Plc
    Kansanshi Mines         41,841,435,037.77
    Plc
    Mopani Copper             88,156,735,705.83
    Mines Plc
    Konkola Copper            94,402,693,389.09
    Mines Plc
    Total                              236,517,604,580.39

Madam Speaker, 2010 projections are based on 2009 collections with an annual projected growth rate of 9 per cent.

 I thank you, Madam Speaker.

Mr Mwango: Madam Speaker, may I know if the Government has any intentions of introducing new taxes since they scraped the windfall tax.

Mr Nkhata: Madam Speaker, the taxes that were mentioned in the 2010 Budget last year are the ones that Government is currently using.

 I thank you, Madam Speaker.

 Hon. Government Members: Hear, hear!

Mr Kakoma (Zambezi West): Madam Speaker, the contributions by the mining companies stated in question on mineral royalties has been going up except for Kansanshi Mines. May I find out from the hon. Minister why mineral royalties for Kansanshi Mines dropped from K70 billion in 2008 to K30 billion in 2009 and is expected to lean low in 2010? May I know the reasons?

Mr Nkhata: Madam Speaker, the reason for that is that Kansanshi decided to step back because of the development agreement. The Government has set up a team of ministers to dialogue with Kansanshi over the decision that it took. That is the reason the mineral royalties from Kansanshi dropped.

I thank you, Madam Speaker.

 Hon. Government Members: Hear, hear!

Mr Mwenya: Madam Speaker, we are told that K423 billion is what was realised from mineral royalty tax for the past two years. I am aware that according to Section 136 of Mines and Minerals Act, the K424 billion is supposed to be shared with the local authorities and the local community. I am also aware that the Ministry of Mines and Minerals Development had come up with a committee that was trying to come up with the mechanism of sharing this money. I would like to find out from the hon. Minister how far we have gone with the sharing mechanism and when we intend to disburse these funds so that we can bring development in our areas which have been neglected by the Government.

Mr Nkhata: Madam Speaker, the Government is still working on those sums and as soon as it finishes, it will come back to that.

 I thank you, Madam Speaker. 

Mr Lubinda: Madam Speaker, I would like to find out from the hon. Minister how much of this money is in the so so-called stabilisation account and how much was taken to control ninety-nine and voted upon by this Parliament in both 2009 and also for the 2010 Budget.

Mr Nkhata: Madam Speaker, that question would be better placed if it was directed to the Ministry of Finance and National Planning because it is the ministry which has the figures which can be given to the hon. Member.

 I thank you, Madam Speaker.

 Hon. Government Members: Hear, hear!

Mr Kambwili: Madam Speaker, by and large, Konkola Copper Mines (KCM) is the largest producing mine in Zambia, may I know why it only contributed K55 billion in 2008 as compared to K71 billion by Mopani Copper Mines and K87 billion by Chibuluma Copper Mines. May I know if indeed KCM is the largest copper producing company in this country?

Madam Deputy Speaker: I thought that was the same question. The hon. Minister may re-emphasise as to why they are paying less. That is the point that he clarified. That was KCM …

Mr Kambwili: That was Kansanshi!

Madam Deputy Speaker: Alright, that was Kansanshi. You may reply.

Mr Nkhata: Madam Speaker, the question is well tabulated and well answered. The reasons are based sometimes on production and what they find during the time of production.

I thank you, Madam Speaker.

Hon. Government Members: Hear, hear!

Mr Kambwili: Tapali ifyo walanda iwe!

Madam Deputy Speaker: Order! Order!

Dr Katema: Madam Speaker, after putting the mechanism of sharing mineral royalties in place, is Government going to pay local authorities and communities for the years 2008 and 2009?

Mr Nkhata: Madam Speaker, as I mentioned earlier on that over the years, the Government has been working on this and when it is done, the mechanism will indicate as to how these things will be done.

I thank you, Madam.

Mr Shawa: Hear, hear!

Mr L. J. Mulenga (Kwacha): Madam Speaker, what factors prevailed at that time for the reduction of mineral royalty tax from 2008 to 2009? In 2008, there was K264 billion collected while in 2009, there was K234 billion collected. What factors caused the reduction?

Mr Nkhata: Madam Speaker, I think my brother’s figures are not correct. In 2008, the amount was K206 billion and in 2009, K234 billion. I do not know where he is getting those figures.

I thank you, Madam.

REPRESENTATION OF ZAMBIAN YOUTHS AT YOUTH CONFERENCES ABROAD

266. Mrs Musokotwane asked the Minister of Sport, Youth and Child Development:

(a)    how many youth groups or individual youths represented Zambia at youth conferences abroad in 2008 and 2009;

(b)    whether there were any plans to include the National Youth Parliament in the school curriculum; and

(c)    whether there were any plans to review the Boy Scouts and Girl Guides Act, Cap 141 of the laws of Zambia and the Zambia Youth Service Act, Cap 143 of the Laws of Zambia.

The Deputy Minister of Youth, Sport and Child Development (Mr Misapa): Madam Speaker, I wish to inform this august House that twenty youth groups/individual youths attended youth conferences abroad in 2008 and 2009. The break down is that in 2008, they were ten and in 2009, they were ten adding up to twenty.

Madam Speaker, in answering part (b) …

Mr Msichili: On a point of order.

Madam Deputy Speaker: A point of order is raised.

Mr Msichili: Madam Speaker, is it in order for the hon. Minister to be seated whilst answering a question in this House? Is it a new culture? I need your serious ruling.

Laughter

Madam Deputy Speaker: Order! Order! The hon. Member may continue.

Laughter

Mr Misapa: Madam Speaker, thank you for protecting me. Actually he does not see that I am the tallest.

Madam Deputy Speaker: Order! Continue!

Laughter

Mr Misapa: Madam Speaker, on the question of whether there are any plans to include the National Youth Parliament in the School curriculum, my ministry has not yet discussed the subject with the National Youth Parliament and the Ministry of Education on how and when this could be done. The august House may wish to know that the National Youth Parliament is a non-governmental organisation (NGO) which receives funding from donors and has its own plan of action to implement programmes.

Madam, I would like to inform the august House that the revision of legislation which fall under my ministry is an ongoing exercise and all legislation will be reviewed to ensure that they are up-to-date with developments in our country, the region and on the international level.

I thank you, Madam Speaker.

Hon. Government Members: Hear, hear!

Interruptions

Madam Deputy Speaker: Order! Order!

Mrs Musokotwane: Madam Speaker, I did not ask about all the legislation in the ministry, I asked specifically about legislation concerning the girl guides and boy scouts. May the hon. Minister tell us whether these two Acts are going to be reviewed? We are not worried about the others ones.

Mr Misapa: Madam Speaker, actually these questions were presented to our ministry as they were read. If the hon. Member says that she is not the author of some of these parts, …

Mrs  Phiri: Question!

Mr Misapa: … then we are yet to sit down and ask her to clarify exactly …

Hon. Opposition Members: Aah!

Mr Misapa: … the way she framed the questions.

I thank you, Madam Speaker.

Mrs Phiri: Madam Speaker, I would like to find out what criterion is used to select youths to represent our country on different forums including the Youth Parliament.

The Minister of Sport, Youth and Child Development (Mr Chipungu): Madam Speaker, we have a number of youth groups in the country and these include NGOs. These NGOs are affiliated to the National Youth Development Council of Zambia and when there is an opportunity for youths to go and represent the country outside, it is the mandate of the council to identify such youths from the respective NGOs.

Mr Lubinda: Madam Speaker, the hon. Member for Katombola was asking about the National Youth Parliament in the school curriculum. She was obviously not asking about the NGOs but on the activities …

Madam Deputy Speaker: Order!

Business was suspended from 1615 hours until 1630 hours.

[THE DEPUTY CHAIRPERSON OF COMMITTEES in the Chair]

Mr Lubinda: Mr Speaker, when business was suspended, I was making a follow-up question to question to 266 with particular reference to part (b). I was saying that the intention by the hon. Member for Katombola at (b) was not necessarily to introduce the National Youth Parliament as an NGO in the curriculum but rather the activities that enhance democracy, ethics and values in children. I would like the hon. Minister to clarify whether his ministry and the Government have any intentions, whatsoever, of introducing activities that enhance the tenets of good governance and democracy and the maintenance of high values in the children by introducing them in the school curriculum.

Mr Chipungu: Mr Speaker, I will start by saying that the National Youth Parliament is an NGO which has its own agenda although it is affiliated to the National Youth Development Council. At the moment, there are no plans to introduce their activities in the school curriculum. We have not even discussed with the National Youth Parliament or the Ministry of Education the possibility of incorporating their activities in the curriculum. When the need arises to do so, this august House will be informed accordingly.

I thank you, Mr Speaker.

Mr Kambwili: Mr Speaker, I would like to find out if there are any plans to make it mandatory for all schools to have boy scouts and girl guides in schools as these two organisations played a pivotal role in improving the morality of pupils in the past.

Mr Chipungu: Mr Speaker, the scouts’ movement is in all the schools in the country and it is doing very well. The only impediment is the issue of funding but plans are under way in the ministry to support the movement.

I thank you, Mr Speaker.

CONSTRUCTION OF GIRLS HIGH SCHOOLS IN EASTERN PROVINCE

267. Mr C.K.B Banda, SC., (Chasefu) asked the Minister of Education:

(a)    when a girls’ high school will be constructed in Lundazi District; and

(b)    when the construction of a girls’ technical high school in the Eastern Province would commence.

The Deputy Minister of Education: Mr Speaker, there are no immediate plans to construct a girls’ high school in Lundazi District. However, consideration for additional school projects will be done after the ongoing and planned projects have been completed. Currently, the ministry has started constructing a high school in Chief Chitungulu’s area using community mode.

Mr Speaker, plans to construct a girls’ technical high school in Eastern Province have reached an advanced stage and the school will be constructed in Chipata District. We are about to advertise the work.

I thank you, Mr Speaker.

Mr C.K.B. Banda, SC.: Mr Speaker, is the hon. Minister aware that in the district, since 1966, the number of girls completing Form 5 is, by far, less than the number of boys? If he is aware, what plans has this Government got to ensure that this disparity is attended to?

Mr Sinyinda: Mr Speaker, we have recognised the fact that there has been this disparity between boys and girls and that is why we have a deliberate programme to construct high schools for girls in every province. This programme has commenced in many provinces and we are going to construct a girl’s high school in Chipata to address that concern. It is also a good idea to construct girls’ schools in districts although, at the moment, we do not have the resources to do that, but money is there for the construction of girls’ high schools in provinces.

I thank you, Mr Speaker.

Mr Mukanga: Mr Speaker, I would like to find out what mechanism has been put in place by the Government to ensure that the quality and standards of construction are upheld especially when it comes to construction of technical high schools like the one which has been constructed in Ndola for girls.

The Deputy Chairperson: The hon. Minister of Education may answer that question if he can manage.

Mr Sinyinda: Mr Speaker, I am not very sure whether I have understood the question, but what I know is that the girls’ high school in Ndola is of a very high standard and we have actually put in place all the measures to ensure that all the schools that we construct are of high quality.

I thank you, Sir.

NEW TECHNOLOGY PRODUCTS BY THE NATIONAL INSTITUTE FOR SCIENTIFIC AND INDUSTRIAL RESEARCH

268. Dr Chishya (Pambasha) asked the Minister of Science, Technology and Vocational Training:

(a)    which new technology products the National Institute for Scientific and Industrial Research (NISIR) had developed since 2000;

(b)    of the products above, which ones were being economically exploited and who was exploiting these products; and 

(c)    how much money NISIR had been raised from the sale of the new technology products.

The Deputy Minister Science, Technology and Vocational Training (Mr Musosha): Mr Speaker, the NISIR has been involved in a number of programmes in relation to technology development, as well as support to micro small and medium enterprises and it has for a long time supported this critical sector of the economy. During the period under review, some of the technologies and products developed by the NISIR include:

(i)    Reel and shackle electric insulators from local raw materials that is clay from Siavonga, Muswishi and Choma;

(ii)    a multi-layer power conditioning system surge protection for buildings, mortuary systems, electronic equipment;

(iii)    pre-basic disease free Irish potato seed;

(iv)    micro-propagation protocols for cassava, banana, sugarcane and artemisia; and

(v)    baby weaning foods from bambara nuts, that is intoyo in our local language and cow peas.

The production of reel and shackle insulators from the local raw materials

This technology is being economically exploited by the NISIR though an existing contract to sell these insulators to ZESCO.

Multi-layer power conditioning system surge protection for buildings, mortuary systems, electronic equipment

The technology is being economically exploited by NISIR who is selling the product to the general public. This is of benefit to the community through protection from power surges especially at mortuaries, buildings and others.

Pre-basic Disease Free Irish Potato Seed

This technology is being economically exploited by ZAMSEED who are selling the seed to farmers. This is of benefit to the community as it enables production and supply of potato seed for enhancing agricultural production and through food security. 

Those who wish to confirm can go to ZAMSEED and do so.

Micro propagation of cassava, banana, sugar cane and artemisia annua 

This technology is being economically exploited by NISIR and the farming community, NISIR provides planting material for food security crops like cassava to the farming community. This sustainable use of underutilised genetic resource programmes is able to support national food security activities. However, it should be noted that economic benefit is yet to be attained from artemisia annua as it is still in its infancy in terms of development.

Baby Weaning Foods from Bambara Nuts and Cow Peas

This technology is being economically exploited by NISIR. It is of benefit to the community as it provides a source of baby weaning foods that are nutritional to the baby. Several Non-Governmental Organisations (NGO) on child survival and nutrition are supplied with these nutritious foods by NISIR’s Post Harvest Food Processing and Nutrition Programme.

The NISIR has been able to raise some money which has been used to support some of its research activities. These amounts have varied from year to year. More than K3 billion has been raised by NISIR through these activities during the period under review.

I thank you, Sir.

Dr Chishya: Mr Speaker, from the answer given by the hon. Minister, it is more less like a technical service support.

Laughter 

Dr Chishya: Now, how much money has Government, through this House, appropriated to NISIR compared to what has come out of NISIR?

The Minister of Science, Technology and Vocational Training (Dr Chituwo): Madam Speaker, we cannot give the exact figures in terms of money appropriated to the NISIR, but the problem is that over the years there has been some element of under funding and, clearly, this has made some of the activities that closely depend on funding to scale down. This is why we are committed, as a Government, to increase funding. Secondly, we have implored the board that they must undertake fundraising activities by closely linking up with industry so that those technologies that can be exploited can quickly bring in more funding in order to increase basic research at the NISIR.

I thank you, Sir.

Mr Chimbaka (Bahati): Mr Speaker, besides industrial surge, could the hon. Minister tell us how the NISIR is assisting the industrial revolution in Zambia to try and arrest the situation where the Zambian market is flooded with juices from South Africa when we have mangoes, bananas, pineapples and fruits that could be made into juices and then create money for our country? How well does the NISIR interact with Ministry of Commerce, Trade and Industry to promote Zambian businesses?

Dr Chituwo: Mr Speaker, the era of discoveries of juices was as a result of the policy which was there at that time that we must find alternatives because it was going to be very expensive to import juices. 

With regard to new discoveries, since technology is already there, all that is required now is to invest in these areas and we can produce new products. So, the hon. Member of Parliament will appreciate that the role of the NISIR is that of basic research which is made available. What needs to be done is the industrial take off in order to utilise these technologies that are already available.

I thank you, Sir.

Mr Lubinda: Mr Speaker, can I find out from the hon. Minister the real aim of the NISIR? Is it the Government’s intention to run the NISIR as a self-financing research institute and an income-generating venture or is its mandate to exploit the talents of scientists to explore in new technology which should then be used by enterprise? Could he, please, clarify this?

Dr Chituwo: Mr Speaker, the mandate of NISIR is to add new knowledge to the scientific world and exploit that knowledge in order to better the lives of our communities. While doing this, the institute also needs to bear in mind that there is need for sustainability. Research in Africa has not received the kind of funding required to make inroads in science. In this regard, we cannot solely depend on Government funding and hence the need to exploit the technologies that already exist in order to fundraise.

I thank you, Mr Speaker.{mospagebreak}

BUFFALO POPULATION IN BLUE LAGOON NATIONAL PARK

269. Mr Hamusonde (Nangoma) asked the Minister of Tourism, Environment and Natural Resources what the population of buffaloes in the Blue Lagoon National Park in the Kafue Flats was as of 31st December, 2009.

The Deputy Minister of Tourism, Environment and Natural Resources (Mr Mwangala): Mr Speaker, there are about 170 buffaloes …

Hon. Opposition Members: What?

Mr Mwangala: … in the Blue Lagoon National Park. This estimate was made from aerial surveys done in 2005. Observations show that the number of buffaloes in the Kafue Flats, including the Blue Lagoon, is slowly increasing probably due to reduced and controlled hunting. Observations made before 2005 showed that the buffalo numbers in the Kafue Flats were lower than 170.

Mr Speaker, I thank you.

Mr Hamusonde: Mr Speaker, may I know from the hon. Minister how many times buffalo cropping is done.

Mr Mangani: Mr Speaker, the cropping exercise …

Interruptions

The Deputy Chairperson: Order!

Mr Mangani: … is only done in areas where the population is relatively high, but in this case it is not possible because when we are issuing hunting licences, we have estimates of how many animals are in each area. We normally give licences based on the animals in a given area for people to go and poach, but in this case …

Hon. Opposition Members: Go and poach?

Mr Mangani: Go and hunt rather.

Laughter

Mr Mangani: However, in this case, …

Mr Lubinda: The hon. Minister of Home Affairs?

The Deputy Chairperson: Order!

Mr Mangani: You will be arrested with those bad …

Laughter 

Mr Mangani: In this case, the Blue Lagoon National Park is a restricted area until the number of animals has increased.

I thank you, Mr Speaker.

Mr Kambwili: Mr Speaker, buffaloes are like cattle and reproduce every year, and the Blue Lagoon National Park is very big. Therefore, is it surely true that there are only 170 buffaloes or maybe the number is 170,000? May the hon. Minister please clarify that. 

Mr Mangani: Mr Speaker, the number is 170 buffaloes and the counting was done through an aerial view when we were carrying out surveys. Indeed, we do know that the area is big and we have taken measures to control poaching. Therefore, the problem was that, at one stage, poaching was free for all, but the number of buffaloes is increasing now.

I thank you, Mr Speaker.

Mr Chisala: Mr Speaker, the number of this animal species sounds to be very small. Is there a plan by the Government to increase the population of the animals in question?

Mr Mangani: Mr Speaker, the plan is definitely there. We have to control the way we issue hunting licences.

Interruptions

The Deputy Chairperson: Order! Hon. Members are not paying attention.

Mr Mangani: We also have to put in place measures to control poaching. This is our plan.

I thank you, Mr Speaker.

Mrs Musokotwane: Mr Speaker, the survey on these animals was done in 2005. How many buffaloes were born between 2005 and 2009, which a period of about four years? I am sure a lot of buffaloes were born.
The Deputy Chairperson: I think that question is far removed from the question on the Floor. However, the hon. Minister is free to attempt to give a bonus answer.

Mr Mangani: Mr Speaker, in our answer we said that these are estimates from an aerial view survey. Therefore, we may not give the exact figures of how many were born in that period, how many are females and so on. 

Laughter

Mr Mangani: Those are details which are difficult to give at the moment.

I thank you, Mr Speaker.

Mr Hachipuka (Mbabala): Mr Speaker, I would like to find out from the hon. Minister how regularly these surveys are done.

Mr Mangani: Mr Speaker, our plan is for surveys to be done regularly, but I think the cost associated with the exercise is quite high. These are aerial view surveys and we have to pay a lot of money for the planes that have to go around. Nonetheless, it is our intention to do this regularly so that we determine the population of the animals in these areas.

I thank you, Mr Speaker.

Mr Muntanga (Kalomo Central): Mr Speaker, the hon. Minister said that the buffaloes were 170 and are now increasing. How does he know that they are increasing when another aerial survey has not been undertaken?

Mr Mangani: Mr Speaker, the prediction that the number of animals has increased is based on the same surveys that were done earlier. We are seeing the number of small ones which are associated with the big ones and that shows that the numbers are increasing.

I thank you, Mr Speaker.

Mr Lubinda (Kabwata): Sir, first of all, let me commend the hon. Deputy Minister for the very eloquent answer he gave as the Obama of the MMD.

Laughter

Mr Lubinda: If, there are only 170 buffaloes in this vast game park, obviously there is need to protect them like my namesake, the hon. Minister, said. However, how come the Government is issuing licences allowing people to hunt buffaloes in the Blue Lagoon area like they offered me and others in 2007 and 2008? What is the reason for this when the numbers are so low?

Mr Mangani: Mr Speaker, in areas where we feel that the population of animals is low, we do not give licences.

Interruptions

The Deputy Chairperson: Order!

Mr Mangani: I am surprised that the hon. Member could have used backdoor means to get a licence.

I thank you, Mr Speaker.

Laughter 

ENTITLEMENTS FOR ZAMBIAN DIPLOMATS IN MISSIONS ABROAD

270. Mr Chitonge asked the Minister of Foreign Affairs what the entitlements for Zambian diplomats in missions abroad were as of 30th August, 2009 in relation to:

(i)    Spouse;
(ii)    Children; and
(iii)    Dependants.
The Minister of Information and Broadcasting Services (Lieutenant-General Shikapwasha) ( on behalf of the hon. Minister of Foreign Affairs (Mr Pande)): Sir, spouse allowance is paid to married diplomats to enable their spouses meet any incidental expenses incurred in the course of promoting duties complementary to those of the officer. Spouse allowance is not paid to diplomats whose spouses are not in residence for a continuous period of thirty days or more. The monthly rates for spouses as of 30th August, 2009 are as tabulated below:

Position                        Rate of Spouse Entitlement 
                            Per month as at 30th August, 2009

                                                                   US$

 Head of Mission                                         300
Minister - Counsellor                                   200
Consul General/                    
Deputy High-Commissioner/ Counsellor      180
Consul                                                         150
Vice-Consul/ First-Secretary                      150
Second-Secretary                                      150
Third-Secretary                                           150

An allowance is paid to diplomats to enable them meet incidental expenses in respect of three officially registered children or dependants at a Foreign Service station. The children’s age limit for eligibility is twenty-one years and below. This is paid at the rate of US$150 per month per child. The rate entitlement for the child and dependant is the same for all positions.

The entitlement of a dependant is the same as that of a child which I have just stated above.
I thank you, Sir.

Mr Chitonge: Sir, could the hon. Minister clarify why this Government is still paying for children and dependants of diplomats who have been recalled?

Lieutenant-General Shikapwasha: Mr Speaker, when a diplomat has been recalled, the payment of children’s allowances is curtailed immediately he leaves the station. For example, I was a diplomat in Tanzania and when I left, the allowances for my children were immediately curtailed.

I thank you, Sir.

Mr Chota: Sir, the hon. Minister has informed the House that an allowance of US$150 per month is paid to each child, but he did not specify the number of children one is allowed to go with in the Foreign Service.

The Deputy Chairperson: I think he said three children.

Mr Lumba: Sir, the question is asking about entitlements and the hon. Minister has talked about some allowances. Are there any other entitlements like holiday allowance which accrue to them?

Lieutenant-General Shikapwasha: Mr Speaker, there are no other entitlements that accrue to children, spouses or dependants of diplomats other than the ones that I have mentioned.

Thank you, Sir.

Ms Kapata: Sir, the children of officers in the diplomatic service are educated using Zambian taxpayers’ money. When some of them complete school, they work abroad. Do these children pay back to the Government because they are educated using taxpayers’ money? Do they pay any form of tax back home because they start working when they complete school?  

Lieutenant-General Shikapwasha: Sir, first and foremost, these are Zambian children who are entitled to education like any other Zambian. Indeed, when they graduate and there are opportunities for them to work in the Diaspora, we should allow them to do so and encourage them to gain knowledge that is going to help Zambia. Only yesterday, I met one of the children whose father was a wonderful diplomat. I need not mention her name, but she is one of the top film directors in Hollywood. She is a Zambian educated in the United States of America (USA) using taxpayers’ money. She is going to direct a very good film here in Zambia. We must encourage children. Let us not feel angered that they are using taxpayers’ money because it is an investment.

Thank you, Sir.

Mr Chimbaka: Sir, I think the allowances given to our diplomats are not enough. Is there no way the ministry can increase them in order to strengthen the integrity of our diplomats and, therefore, avert incidences of some of them dipping their fingers into the country’s coffers?

Lieutenant-General Shikapwasha: Mr Speaker, I thank the hon. Member for Bahati for such a wonderful compassionate question. Yes, indeed, it is the wish of this Government that as resources are made available, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs will remunerate the diplomats well. You will be surprised that when I went as a Diplomat...

The Deputy Chairperson: Order! There are too many people consulting loudly. I cannot hear what the hon. Minister is saying. Let us, please, consult quietly.

The hon. Minister may continue.

Lieutenant-General Shikapwasha: Mr Speaker, I was saying you will be surprised that when I went as a Diplomat to Tanzania, my monthly allowance was US$250 and this has been slowly increasing. Therefore, it is important that we help our diplomats before they become poverty stricken.

I thank you, Sir.

Mr Kambwili: Sir, when one applies for a visa to live or work in the United Kingdom (UK), children that are above eighteen years old are not accepted as dependants and are denied visas. May I know if children of diplomats are treated differently, and if so, why the Zambian Government has not engaged the British Government to sort out this issue because in Zambia people are regarded as dependants up to the age of twenty-one?

Lieutenant-General Shikapwasha: Sir, once one is sent as a diplomat abroad, they go under the Geneva Convention that Zambia and the UK and any other...

The Deputy Chairperson: Order! May the hon. Members on my right, please, give the hon. Minister the opportunity to answer the question.

The hon. Minister may continue.

Lieutenant-General Shikapwasha: Both Zambia and the UK are signatories to the Geneva Convention. Therefore, if there are complaints concerning Zambian children whose parents are not diplomats, it is necessary that my ministry knows so that we can reciprocate.

Thank you, Sir.

Mr Lubinda: Mr Speaker, the hon. Minister stated that the moment the diplomat is recalled, even the children’s allowances are withdrawn. I would like find out what happens because some of the children would be in school at the time the diplomat is recalled. Are they also immediately withdrawn from school and likewise their allowances? If that is the case, how do these children continue with school before the end of the semester?

Lieutenant-General Shikapwasha: Mr Speaker, with your permission, I would like to answer that question by giving my example. I was recalled in the middle or towards the end of the term probably two or three months before my child was to sit for examination. According to the Government regulation, they withdrew even the payment of tuition fees including examination fees. Therefore, I had to pay from my own pocket to allow my daughter to stay in Tanzania with friends in order for her to get educated. This is the system that is in place. 

I thank you, Sir.

Mr Hachipuka: Mr Speaker, allow me to discus the hon. Minister’s example. That was then. Now, we have the current Government and part of its mechanism should be to review its operational manuals. What then, has the Government done in instances such as this one because that kind of treatment would be considered inhumane?

Hon. Opposition Members: Hear, hear!

Mr Hachipuka: What is this Government doing to look into that because it is within its power to change the system?

Lieutenant-General Shikapwasha: Mr Speaker, first and foremost, it is very important to understand that any child whose parent is a diplomat, the moment the parent ceases to be a diplomat, there shall be an auditor-generals observation report on why that child should continue to be paid for abroad.

Interruptions

The Deputy Chairperson: Order!

Lieutenant-General Shikapwasha: Can I, please, continue. 

Therefore, in order for any expenditure that is illegal to be done, we have to find legality. The best legality that people must go through is to make arrangements with the Bursaries Committee so they approve a bursary for that child to continue until they complete school if the parent does not have the money. There is leeway outside the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. Paying from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs would be illegal because the parent is no longer a diplomat.

I thank you, Sir.

The Deputy Chairperson: Speaking as Chairperson and following up on that question, I think what has come from my left is that yes, that is the rule, at the moment, but can the Government not consider changing that rule? Hon. Minister, I think it is something that the Government can look at because it sounds a bit difficult for one who was diplomat and has been recalled in the middle of the term when children are at school and they are made to pay for their children from their own pocket. Anyway that was just a comment from the Chair.

Mr Chisala: Mr Speaker, it shows that the Government spends a lot of money on dependants which, if put together, can go a long way in developing some parts of this country.

Interruptions

Mr Chisala: Would it not be wise for the Government of the Republic of Zambia to reduce …

Interruptions

Mr Chisala: … the number of dependants to two instead of three?

Interruptions

The Deputy Chairperson: Order!

Lieutenant-General Shikapwasha: Mr Speaker, at one moment, from your left, hon. Members are saying we must pay for those children whose parents have been recalled. We thought they were being supportive and that they would support us when we bring a Motion on that. In the next moment, somebody stands up and says that we must reduce these allowances.

Laughter

The Deputy Chairperson: Order!

Lieutenant-General Shikapwasha: Mr Speaker, I suppose it is only a small example of the divisions between the two groups. 

Laughter

Lieutenant-General Shikapwasha: It is not possible to reduce any further the number of children that a diplomat is able to go with. It used to be six, but it was reduced to four and now it has been reduced to three. It makes it very difficult for Zambian families some of whom, like those on your left, have three or four wives …

Laughter

Lieutenant-General Shikapwasha: … to …

Mr Kambwili: Question!

Lieutenant-General Shikapwasha: … carry three children abroad.

Laughter

Lieutenant-General Shikapwasha: Therefore, it is important that we take care of, at least, three Zambian children …

The Deputy Chairperson: Order!

Lieutenant-General Shikapwasha: I thank you, Sir.

The Deputy Chairperson: Order! No, I think this is the point …

Interruptions

The Deputy Chairperson: Order!

I think we should proceed. There is no harm in having more than two wives.

Laughter

The Deputy Chairperson: I think we should allow that.

Mr Hamududu: Hear, hear!

Laughter

The Deputy Chairperson: Order!

I am talking about those who already have …

Laughter

The Deputy Chairperson: … I am not saying …

Laughter

Mrs Musokotwane (Katombola) Mr Speaker, we all want to benefit from …

The Deputy Chairperson: Order!

Mrs Musokotwane: … foreign service by having our children and dependants learn abroad when we are there, but it seems there are diplomats who are there forever. Is there a specific timeframe within which one should be in the foreign service so that they can come back and give a chance to other people to enable them benefit as well?

Lieutenant-General Shikapwasha: Mr Speaker, every diplomat signs a contract of a maximum of four years. As soon as the contract comes to an end, they have to come back so that their contract is renewed if they have special skills that they are offering abroad in order to help Zambia. Renewal of contacts is considered by the hon. Minister of Foreign Affairs and authority is given for the Permanent Secretary and the Civil Service Commission to go ahead and renew that contract and then the diplomat can stay a little longer than the four years. Otherwise, after four years, they have to come back.

I thank you, Sir.

Mr Kakoma (Zambezi West): Mr Speaker, the hon. Minister has just revealed that it is not possible to reduce the number of children because some diplomats have more than one wife. I would like to find out whether the Zambian Government allows people with more than one wife to be deployed in the foreign service …

Hon. Opposition Members: With both wives.

Mr Kakoma: … with both wives.

Hon. Government Members: Ichombela nganda!

Lieutenant-General Shikapwasha: Mr Speaker, when God created man …

Interruptions

Lieutenant-General Shikapwasha: … he gave him only one wife.

Mr Kambwili: What about Solomon?

Mr V. Mwale: Ichombela nganda!

Interruptions

Lieutenant-General Shikapwasha: Mr Speaker, although each individual has their own desires, the Government has said only one spouse. It is only one husband or, indeed, if he is a man, one wife can go abroad with the children. However, there are cases where a man is married to two wives.

Hon. Hamududu: Hear, hear!

Lieutenant-General Shikapwasha: Should he take his second wife, it will be at his own cost and not at the expense of the State.

I thank you, Sir.{mospagebreak}

UPGRADING OF KALOMO/DUNDUMWENZI/ITEZHI-TEZHI AND KALOMO/CHIANTA ROADS

271. Mr Muntanga asked the Minister of Works and Supply: 

(a)    when the Kalomo/Dundumwezi/Itezhi-tezhi Road would be upgraded to bituminous standard; and 

(b)    when the Kalomo/Chikanta Raod would be graded.

The Deputy Minister of Works and Supply: Mr Speaker, I wish to inform the House that the Ministry of Works and Supply does not have immediate plans to upgrade the existing road between Kalomo and Dundumwezi to bituminous standards.

However, the ministry has plans to rehabilitate the road. The ministry had earlier approached the Norwegian Government to finance the improvement of the road project, but this was shelved when the Norwegian Government pulled out of the road sector. 

Sir, currently, the Zambia Wildlife Authority (ZAWA) is carrying out limited maintenance on the Kalomo/Dundumwezi Road.

Sir, the Ministry of Works and Supply, through the Road Development Agency (RDA), is not able to carry out the grading of the Kalomo/Chikanta Road immediately because of the limited funds provided in the 2010 Annual Work Plan.

Mr Speaker, I thank you. 

Mr Muntanga: Mr Speaker, three to four years ago, this Government had indicated that they wanted to upgrade the Kalomo/Dundumwezi/Itezhi-tezhi Road to a bituminous standard because it passes through the national park. This was the main reason this was to be upgraded. Therefore, are they still considering looking for funds since the Norwegians have pulled out?

Mr Mulongoti: Mr Speaker, in fact, the Government is continuously looking for funds to improve our road network. I am sure even the ZAWA is also doing the same to try and improve on that. 

Sir, I have also been informed that Hon. Muntanga should know what equity means. We are very reluctant because when the provincial administration took the equipment to grade the road in Dundumwezi, it only worked in Hon. Muntanga’s constituency and not in Dundumwezi. Therefore, when we start, in future, we shall look at Dundumwezi and Kalomo will come last.

I thank you, Mr Speaker.

Laughter

Mr Sing’ombe (Dundumwezi): Mr Speaker, going by the Food Reserve Agency (FRA) Report, Siachitema and Chikanta Chiefdoms, where the Kalomo/Chikanta Road passes, actually produced the highest number of bags of maize. Why is it that your Government has got no immediate plans to give them a passable road? Hon. Munkombwe stood up in this House and said that Dundumwezi is now called a cantermania and Fusomania place. Therefore, when is this Government going to assist the people of Dundumwezi with a passable road?

Mr Mulongoti: Mr Speaker, we appreciate the high productivity of maize in that area, but it does not necessarily imply that if you grow too much maize, you deserve a bituminous road. Like all other parts of Zambia, of course, we all deserve bituminous roads whenever possible. We are sympathetic with the situation and we will do everything possible …

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

The Deputy Chairperson: A point of order is raised.

Mr Muntanga: Mr Speaker, is the hon. Minister in order to confuse the road between Kalomo and Chikanta and the road that passes through Kalomo, Dundumwezi and Itezhi-tezhi? The bituminous road is through the national park. The road which passes through the area that Hon. Sing’ombe is talking about is Kalomo/Chikanta. It is not Chikankata. Therefore, is he in order to confuse these two roads? When the road was being graded, the machinery broke down. This machinery was tolled and brought back. Is the hon. Minister also in order to allege that I do not know the meaning of equity when he is failing to grade the roads on the pretext that the machinery has broken down?

The Deputy Chairperson: Hon. Minister, as you answer, please, take that point of order into account.

Mr Mulongoti: Mr Speaker, I am very sure about what I am saying. I have said that even ZAWA is concerned about the road that passes through the park because it is their road as well. I am very sure about my facts that when the equipment was sent to grade the road up to Dundumwezi, the hon. Member for Kalomo, because of his stature, intimidated other people and graded his ...

Laughter

The Deputy Chairperson: Order!

Laughter

The Deputy Chairperson: You are inviting comments from the other side. Can you leave out that personal attack and give a proper answer. You can continue, hon. Minister.

Mr Mulongoti: Mr Speaker, I was referring to the fact that the provincial administration did provide equipment. The equipment did not break down. The equipment was provided to grade the road from his constituency up to other constituencies. This equipment did not reach the other constituencies because all the fuel ended up being used in his constituency. This is why I was saying that if he can appreciate equity, in future, it will be possible to accommodate the other productive areas in Dundumwezi.

I thank you, Mr Speaker.

Mr Ntundu (Gwembe): Mr Speaker, you have heard for yourself that some of these hon. MMD Ministers are not serious when answering questions. In the light of the answer that has been given by …

Mr Mulongoti looked down.

Mr Ntundu: Look! You see, he is doing something else.

Laughter

The Deputy Chairperson: Can you ask your question.

Mr Ntundu: Sir, in the light of the answer that the hon. Minister is has given, can he give a specific time that equipment will be taken back to work on that road?

Mr Mulongoti: Mr Speaker, that is the lack of seriousness on the part of the hon. Member. He knows that the equipment is controlled by the provincial administration and he is a member in the province. Now, he is asking me to take control of that equipment which he knows very clearly it is being administered through the Provincial Administration. Please, show seriousness as well.

I thank you, Mr Speaker.

Interruptions

Mr L. J. Mulenga: Mr Speaker, in the light of what the hon. Minister has indicated, can he give us the general guidelines regarding the utilisation of this equipment? I am saying so because much as it affects Dundumwezi, it also affects every region.

Mr Mulongoti: Mr Speaker, these guidelines were given when the equipment was distributed. It is extremely disappointing that, a year later, the hon. Member does not know these guidelines. Therefore, I urge him to have a discussion with the hon. Minister for the Copperbelt Province who is here to help him.

I thank you, Mr Speaker.

Mrs Masebo: Mr Speaker, we seem to be fighting for these graders and I know that there is always a programme, but even when the programme is being implemented, it is clear that the number of equipment is inadequate, considering the extent of the damage of our roads in the country. Therefore, has the ministry got any plans to buy more equipment, at least, at the district level so that this fighting for one grader for the whole province can be reduced?

Mr Mulongoti: Mr Speaker, my ministry has no such intentions because of lack of resources. However, there are discussions on whether the Ministry of Local Government and Housing can acquire equipment for councils so that they can have their own equipment. We have also been considering the possibility, through the Ministry of Defence, to use equipment from the Zambia National Service to augment what is available from the Rural Roads Unit (RRU).

 I thank you, Mr Speaker.

Mr Shakafuswa: Mr Speaker, would the hon. Minister confirm that the guidelines which have been given are not followed? I am saying so because we have had incidences, in the Central Province, where graders were sent to a particular area and the whole Budget was exhausted.

The Deputy Chairperson: Order! I allowed some follow-up questions which are not related to the question under discussion. I am looking at various factors. The hon. Minister can give a bonus answer.

Mr Mulongoti: Mr Speaker, it is difficult for us to guarantee the conduct of human beings. We have, therefore, apportioned the equipment into provinces, and it is expected that in planning work, all hon. Members and other stakeholders will be consulted so that the use of this equipment is efficient and equitable.  

Mr Speaker, if there are any problems that are emerging, I would advise that the hon. Member sits with the provincial administration to find solutions. In any case, the hon. Minister for Central Province, who is in the House, has heard and I am sure he will address this issue. 

Mr Speaker, I thank you.

Mr Mushili: Mr Speaker, the hon. Minister said lack of funds is one of the reasons why this road has not been done. The issue of lack of funds always comes up every time someone asks about this road. Sometimes, funds are made available, but the work just never gets done. When you approach them for a contractor, they tell you that you have to apply in order for the project to be adjudicated whether it is still viable. 

Mr Speaker, I keep on asking this question, but this hon. Minister never answers it. When will the ministry consider reducing the cost of road maintenance because the cost of doing roads, which has been deliberately inflated by the white elephant of the Road Development Agency (RDA), is too high and unnecessary? 

Hon. Opposition Members: Hear, hear! 

Mr Mulongoti: Mr Speaker, RDA was created by this House. It is an Act of Parliament that created RDA. 

Secondly, from the regulations that are there, all contracts are advertised, evaluated and awarded through a process that has been made clear to everybody. 

Mr Speaker, our market is a shortage market in that we do not have many contractors that are graded. Some contractors can only participate in a contract of a certain threshold. Consequently, because of this shortage on the market, the prices are expected to go up. If you have done some economics, and I hope you have, you will know that when there are a few competitors on the market, prices go up. 

Mr Speaker, we cannot intervene and ask that the prices be reduced. The regulations are that it must be an open competitive process and because of this, we have opened up for foreign investors to come and participate in infrastructure development. However, you are condemning these people that we invited to come and participate so that in the process, we can lower the price of contracting. 

You cannot have your cake and eat it. If you want us to have many competitors on the market, allow people from outside to come and participate in the contracting process. This is the only way we can reduce the prices. It is an open tender process. By the laws made by this House, through the Public Procurement Authority, all the awarding of tenders must be through open tender. Therefore, if you have any other solution to this, tell us about it. You are the law makers after all. If you want to make a decision where contracts should be given without the participation of competitors, you can change the law. 

Mr Speaker, I thank you.    

Mr Lubinda: Mr Speaker, at the risk of being ridiculed by the Hon. Minister, …

Laughter 

Mr Lubinda: …I have a question. At the close of the decade, Danish International Development Agency (DANIDA) and Norwegian Agency for Development Co-operation (NORAD) were the major contributors …

The Deputy Chairperson: Order! I indicated earlier that we should zero in on Question 271 and keep introductory remarks brief. 

You may continue.

Mr Lubinda: Much obliged, Mr Speaker. 

Mr Speaker, my question is related to the Kalomo/Dundumwezi/Itezh-tezhi Road. At the close of the last decade, NORAD, which the hon. Minister referred to and DANIDA, were the major foreign contributors to RoadSip. The hon. Minister mentioned that NORAD pulled out of the Kalomo/Dundumwezi/Itezhi-tezhi Road resulting in the stalling of works. 

Would he like to inform the House that as a matter of fact, NORAD pulled out because the money that they had put in the construction of this road was abused by his Government, thereby leading or forcing NORAD to pull out of the road sector completely? May he please state this and if not, may he promise this House that he is willing to bring the Country Assessment Strategy for NORAD in which that decision was made. 

Mr Mulongoti: Mr Speaker, I thank the hon. Member for that question, which is loaded with malice. 

Hon. Opposition members: Aah!

Laughter 

Mr Mulongoti: Mr Speaker, when donors come with their funding, they have a choice on what they want to do. At the time, the money was not going in the common basket. Others chose to be in Western province, others in Southern Province and others even chose to change portfolios from roads to education or health. 
I have no information at all to indicate that there was abuse of funds. If there was any abuse, the normal position of the Government is to bring to book those that abused the funding. This is why I said that the question was loaded with malice because at the end of the day I do not think the hon. Member has got any cogent evidence to show that what he said was correct except that he would like to cast aspersions on this very hard working Government ...

Hon. Government members: Hear, hear!

Mr Mulongoti: …which hates corruption …

Hon. Government members: Hear, hear!
 
Mr Mulongoti: …and has put in place a policy on corruption, a Government which will ensure that all the money brought into this country by co-operating partners is utilised for the benefit of the people of Zambia. 

Hon. Government members: Hear, hear!

Mr Mulongoti: I am aware that the hon. Member worked at one of the donor agencies, may be NORAD in particular, I am not so sure, but I think …

Mr Lubinda interjected. 

The Deputy Chairperson: Order!

Mr Mulongoti: … in his discussions that were not official, he could have been discussing this. 

Mr Speaker, I can assure you that NORAD have been helpful, and we are grateful for what they have done. If there are any complaints at all over these funds, they should be brought to the Government which is ready to ensure that all those who participated in the abuse you are talking about are brought to book. 

Mr Speaker, I thank you.

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BILLS

FIRST READING

THE REGISTRATION OF BUSINESS NAMES (Amendment) Bill, 2010

The Minister of Home Affairs (Mr Mangani): Mr Speaker, I beg to present a Bill entitled the Registration of Business Names (Amendment) Bill, 2010. The object of this Bill is to amend the registration of Names Act so as to:

(a)    provide for the registration of business names by the Patents and Companies Registration Agency; and

(b)    provide for matters connected with, or incidental, to the foregoing.

Mr Speaker, I thank you.

The Deputy Chairperson of Committees: The Bill stands referred to the Committee on Economic Affairs and Labour. The committee is required to submit its report on the Bill to the House by Wednesday, 17th March, 2010.

Hon. Members who wish to make submissions or amendments to the Bill are free to do so within the programme of work of the committee.

THE PLEA NEGOTIATIONS AND AGREEMENTS BILL, 2010

The Minister of Home Affairs (Mr Mangani): Mr Speaker, I beg to present a Bill entitled the Plea Negotiations and Agreements Bill, 2010. The objects of this Bill are to provide for:

(a)    the introduction and implementation of plea negotiations and pleas agreements in the criminal justice system; and

(b)    matters connected with, or incidental to, the foregoing.

The Deputy Chairperson of Committees: The Bill stands referred to the Committee on Delegated Legislation. The committee is required to submit its report on the bill to the House by Friday, 19th March, 2010.

Hon. Members who wish to make submissions or amendments to the Bill…

Mr Daka entered the Chamber.

The Deputy Chairperson of Committees: Order! Order! That is totally unacceptable. Honestly, we live by rules of the House. We cannot afford to have people flouting the rules with impunity like that.

Hon. Members who wish to make submissions or amendments to the Bill are free to do so within the programme of work of the committee.

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MOTION

ADJOURNEMNT

The Minister of Home Affairs (Mr Mangani): Mr Speaker, I beg to move that the House do now adjourn.

Question put and agreed to.

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The House adjourned at 1737 hours until 0900 hours on Friday, 26th February, 2010.