The United Nations Development Progaramme (UNDP) Administrator Ms Helen Clark has reaffirmed the UNDP support to the National Assembly and MPs in particular in order for them to effectively carry out their legislative function. She made the reaffirmation during a meeting with selected Chairpersons of Parliamentary Committees that was held at Parliament Buildings on Thursday 16th July, 2015.
Ms Clark said as the world was moving from Millenium Development Goals (MDGs) to Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), there was need for raising awareness on SDGs among MPs. She said that there was need to start considering the inclusion of SDGs which will build upon the MDGs in national reports. Ms Clark recommended Zambia for being a peaceful country. She said this was in line with SDG number 16 which aims to promote peaceful and inclusive societies for sustainable development, provide access to justice for all and build effective, accountable and inclusive institutions at all levels. She also stated that other issues of concern in the SDGs included taking urgent action to combat climate change and its impacts and to ensure inclusive and equitable quality education among others.
And in making his key note speech during the meeting, Rt. Hon Justice Dr. Patrick Matibini, SC, MP, Speaker of the National Assembly paid tribute to the UNDP for the support rendered to the National Assembly of Zambia. He said that as the world comes to the end of the MDGs and look forward to the SDGs, it was essential that the UNDP and the National Assembly strengthen their partnership so as to create effective parliamentary oversight in the implementation of government policies towards the achievement of SDGs.
Mrs. Clark who also paid a courtesy call on the Hon Mr. Speaker prior to the meeting was accompanied by Ms. Janet Rogan, UN Resident Coordinator and UNDP Resident Representative, Mr. Hamid El Bashir, UNICEF Representative, Mr. Martin Maya, UNDP Country Director and Mr. Derek Pieper, UNDP Policy Specialist. The Clerk of the National Assembly, Mrs. Doris Katai K Mwinga was also in attendance during the meeting.
