Debates - Tuesday, 4th October, 2016

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 Tuesday, 4th October, 2016

The House met at 1430 hours 

[MR SPEAKER in the Chair]

NATIONAL ANTHEM 

PRAYER

                                                                         __________
    
OATH OF ALLEGIANCE 

The following hon. Members took and subscribed the Oath of Allegiance:

Victoria Kalima

Howard Kunda 

Ambrose Lwiji Lufuma

Jack Jacob Mwiimbu

Gary Nkombo

Douglas Munsaka Syakalima 

__________

ANNOUNCEMENT BY MR SPEAKER

STANDING ORDERS COMMITTEE

Mr Speaker: Hon. Members, in accordance with the provisions of Standing Order No. 150, I have appointed the following Members to constitute the Standing Orders Committee of the First Session of the Twelfth National Assembly:
    
The Hon. Mr Speaker (Chairperson)

The Hon. I. M. Wina, MP, Her Honour the Vice-President

The Hon. Felix Mutati, MP, Minister of Finance 

The Hon. R. Musukwa, MP, Chief Whip 

The Hon.  J. J. Mwiimbu, MP, Leader of the Opposition 

Mr H. Kunda, MP

Mrs R. C. Fundanga, MP

Mrs G. M. P. Jere, MP

Thank you.

Hon. Members: Hear, hear!

________

BUSINESS OF THE HOUSE

The Vice-President (Mrs Wina): Mr Speaker, I rise to give the House some idea of the business it will consider this week. However, before I do that, let me, once again, welcome all hon. Members, particularly those who have come to Parliament for the first time. I congratulate you all on being elected or nominated to the Twelfth National Assembly. I do hope that the House, as in the past, will work harmoniously despite having divergent political views to develop our great country in the next five years.

Sir, let me now come back to the business the House is expected to transact this week. As indicated on the Order Paper of today, 4th October, 2016, the Business of the House will commence debate on the Motion of Thanks to His Excellency the President’s Address, which was delivered to this House last Friday. 

Mr Speaker, tomorrow, Wednesday, 5th October, 2016, the Business of the House will start with Questions, if there will be any. This will be followed by Presentation of Government Bills, if there will be any. Thereafter, the House will deal with Private Members’ Motions, if there will be any. The House will, then, continue with the debate on the Motion of Thanks to His Excellency the President’s Address.

Sir, on Thursday, 6th October, 2016, the Business of the House will commence with questions, if there will be any. This will be followed by Presentation of Government Bills, if there will be any. The House will, then, continue with the debate on the Motion of Thanks to His Excellency the President’s Address. 

Mr Speaker, on Friday, 7th October, 2016, the Business of the House will begin with Her Honour the Vice-President’s Question Time. This will be followed by questions to hon. Ministers, if there will be any. Then, the House will continue with the debate on the Motion of Thanks to His Excellency the President’s Address. 

I thank you, Sir.

_______

MOTIONS

MOTION OF THANKS

Mr Mbulakulima (Milenge): Mr Speaker, I beg to move that the thanks of this Assembly be recorded for the exposition of public policy contained in His Excellency the President’s Address.

Mr Speaker: Is the Motion seconded?

Ms Katuta (Chienge): Yes, Mr Speaker.

Mr Mbulakulima: Mr Speaker, first and foremost, I count it a blessing to be given this opportunity to move the Motion of Thanks to His Excellency the President’s Address and also, to be the first of the 156 distinguished hon. Members of this august House to deliver a maiden speech.

Mr Speaker, as mentioned on Friday, 30th September, 2016, this is an honour for the people of Milenge who, for many years, have been anxiously and genuinely waiting for the Government to deliver the much-desired development to this extremely underdeveloped, but viable rural constituency.

Mr Speaker, I will move the Motion of Thanks to His Excellency the President’s Address first and then later on, zero in on my maiden speech.

Mr Speaker, from the outset, allow me to thank you for according me the rare honour and privilege to move the Motion of Thanks to the speech by the President of the Republic of Zambia, His Excellency, Mr Edgar Chagwa Lungu, on the occasion of the Official Opening of the First Session of the Twelfth National Assembly, on Friday, 30th September, 2016. 

Mr Speaker, I would like to congratulate His Excellency the President on his inspiring, enriching and human-centred speech, in which development was the focus of discussion. I would further like to congratulate him on a speech that is all-inclusive and non-controversial.

Mr Livune: Question!

Mr Mbulakulima: Mr Speaker, in his address, His Excellency the President outlined the various areas that need urgent attention and those of future concern upon which the House should deliberate.

Mr Speaker, in his opening remarks, His Excellency the President congratulated all the presiding officers on the deserved election to positions of Speaker, First Deputy Speaker and Second Deputy Speaker. He also did congratulate all hon. Members of Parliament on their well deserved election and nomination to this august House.

 

Sir, I also wish to join His Excellency the President in congratulating you, on assuming the position of Speaker of this House, the hon. First Deputy Speaker, the hon. Second Deputy Speaker and all my fellow parliamentarians.

Mr Speaker, in his speech, His Excellency the President covered many areas of national interest. Allow me to take this opportunity to briefly comment on some of the salient issues raised.

Sir, since Independence, this country has been dependent on copper earnings for Government revenue and development. Its economy has always been very fragile because the prices and market of these metals are internationally determined and externally positioned. It, therefore, makes economic sense to diversify from this traditional export and try to promote agriculture as the priority of our economic diversification. Agriculture and industrialiasation are inter-linked, as industrialisation is an off-shoot of agriculture. Therefore, Zambia’s long-term solution to economic development lies in the diversification agenda. It is, therefore, gratifying to note that as a demonstration of the country’s resolve to diversify to the agriculture sector, the Patriotic Front (PF) Government will attract investment in farm mechanisation and introduce science and technology to stimulate production. This shows that His Excellency the President is focused and ready to support our farmers.

Hon. Government Members: Hear, hear!

Mr Mbulakulima: The agriculture sector can make our economy viable again. 

Sir, what is also gratifying is that His Excellency the President appreciates the important role the mining sector plays and, in his speech, he emphasised that it will continue playing its role side by side with the agriculture sector.

Mr Speaker, hon. Members will agree with me that jobs enhance esteem and dignity. It is, therefore, gratifying to learn that the PF Government is putting job creation, job security and fair treatment of workers top on the agenda.

As regards job creation and industrialisation, Sir, His Excellency emphasised the fact that job creation remains high on the agenda of the PF Administration. To demonstrate this, the Government enacted the Employment (Amendment) Act No. 15 of 2015 in order to curb casualisation and unfair termination of employment. This will tackle the issue of high levels of poverty and unemployment. As you are aware, in the first term of the PF’s Administration, it established the Industrial Development Corporation (IDC) to spearhead the development of Zambia’s domestic industrial capacity. In so doing, it has played a major role in creating jobs. I, therefore, pray that the Government will not take its eyes off this object of focus.

Sir, in the President’s Speech, he reiterated the fact that youths need to be empowered through the establishment of schemes, whereby they will be given land and start-up kits to participate in agriculture. I must commend the Government on this good initiative. In most cases, youths are marginalised and have no employment. Therefore, a radical approach such as this one is needed to enable our youths to contribute to economic diversification.

Mr Speaker, in terms of energy, the unprecedented economic growth and unpredictable weather pattern in the Sub-Saharan countries has led to serious deficiency in the electricity supply chain. For instance, the last ten years witnessed Zambia posting an average of 6 per cent gross domestic product (GDP) growth. It is, therefore, impressive to note that the PF Government has adopted the innovative approach aimed at increasing renewable energy generation such as the launching of the Zambia Scaling Solar Project whose construction works have reached an advanced stage on the two solar plants at the Lusaka South Multi-facility Economic Zone, giving a total of 100 MW.

Sir, it is gratifying to note that the PF Government is partnering with the private sector. His Excellency the President indicated that the private sector has responded positively to the new policy environment of the PF Government’s resolve to attract more investment in the electricity sub-sector. The nation should be happy that in the next three years, investors such as the Ndola Energy Company, EMCO Energy Zambia and Maamba Collieries will provide an additional 665 MW to the national grid. In the long run, this will improve the current situation of grid-based electricity, which is under stress, and also reduce load-shedding.

Sir, when these investments are completed, the business community will be given an opportunity to expand and employ more people. Expanded businesses and employment of more people will add more money to Government revenue through corporate taxes and pay as you earn (PAYE). The Government will, in turn, have more money to spend in the social sectors such as education and health. 

Mr Speaker, in terms of climate change, His Excellency the President, in his speech, said that the Government will implement the National Policy on Climate Change, which will facilitate a co-ordinated national response for climate change adaptation, disaster risk reduction and mitigation across all sectors of the economy.

Sir, I feel this cause must be supported because, as His Excellency the President indicated, it will increase the country’s capacity to predict weather patterns and improve early warning systems for floods and drought. 

Mr Speaker, further, our farmers need information on the changing weather patterns and expected impacts thereof. This can help them to plan better for their next farming season. The PF Government will ensure that the National Policy on Climate Change is properly implemented so that existing farmers and new entrants appreciate the need to invest in agriculture. The agriculture sector has the potential to employ more people and contribute effectively to the eradication of poverty.

Mr Speaker, in order to support infrastructure development for the agriculture sector, the Government will ensure adequate, modern and well-functioning social and economic infrastructure. This includes housing, roads, airports and aerodromes.

Sir, to this end, the implementation of the Link Zambia 8,000 km Road Project has demonstrated the Government’s commitment to the opening up of the rural areas which constrained the economic growth of this country for some time now since agriculture produce could not be transported to markets. The lack of good road infrastructure and high transport and communication costs also significantly made the country to fail to compete favourably with other countries in the region. With the robust infrastructure now in place, especially road construction, all these problems will be a thing of the past.

Mr Speaker, allow me now to turn to my constituency and thank the people of Milenge for the overwhelming support given to me, His Excellency the President and the PF Party…

 Hon. Government Members: Hear, hear!

Mr Mbulakulima: … in the recently held election.

Mr Ngulube: Hear, hear!

Mr Mbulakulima: I want to assure the people of Milenge that I know the deep meaning of their vote and what it stands for. I will endeavour to live up to their expectations. I will not take their support for granted because I understand their thirst for development. I will work with the Government very closely in order to bring about the much-needed development. The people of Milenge can count on me as their voice in seeking the meeting of their requirements which are too numerous to itemise. I just want to assure them that their requirements are at my fingertips.

Mr Speaker, let me clarify one issue that has normally confused many citizens and this is with regard to the name and boundary of my constituency.

Sir, the name Chembe came about because in 1991, the constituency boundary started from Chembe, which many people know of. It is the first place you touch from the Copperbelt as you come through the Pedicle Road. However, following the 1996 delimitation exercise, the Chembe that the people haD come to know became part of Mansa Central. Admittedly, this was an anomaly because the area that had remained as Milenge continued using the name Chembe. With the creation of Chembe as a district and consequently a constituency, Milenge had no choice, but to drop the name “Chembe”. I wish to, therefore, put on record honourable landlord, the hon. Member of Parliament for Kabwata, that my winning of the 2011 General Elections had nothing to do with the Mwanawasa Bridge nor did it have the winning of the 2016 General Elections  have to do with the running away from the old constituency. 

The area and the people I represent have remained 100 per cent intact. The current Chembe Constituency came about following the delimitation of Mansa Central Constituency. 

Mr Speaker, the people of Milenge observe, with appreciation, that His Excellency the President has appointed enough Cabinet Ministers from the province. It is, therefore, the hope of the people of Milenge that the colleagues who have been afforded this rare privilege will not confine development to their respective constituencies at the expense of other areas as it has been in the past.

Hon. UPND Members: Hear, hear!

Mr Mbulakulima: Sir, we believe that at the end of five years, it will be unfair to blame His Excellency the President or the PF Party for the underdevelopment. Our lamentation does not mean or amount to promoting regionalism because, definitely, hon. Ministers must work for the betterment of the whole country. However, going by the complaints from Luapula on underdevelopment, we believe that the first hurdle to development has been addressed by His Excellency the President. Dear colleagues, after all, charity begins at home.

Hon. Government Members: Yes!

Mr Mbulakulima: Mr Speaker, at national level, having been in this House long enough, I have observed with sadness that successive governments rarely pay serious attention to the Auditor-General’s report. This important annual report reveals glaring improprieties year in and year out, with little action from the Executive. The people of Milenge are convinced that Zambia stands to benefit greatly if such reports can seriously be attended to. I want to appeal to the President and the hon. Minister of Finance especially, to adopt a new approach. The Auditor-General must be afforded an opportunity to highlight the details of his or her findings to the Executive, in this regard, Cabinet Ministers and, thereafter, to the controlling officers who, in most cases, are responsible for the plunder or misuse of national resources.

Sir, the people of Milenge are fully convinced that the savings that will arise from the Government’s stringent controls will greatly benefit the country so that modern audit is not just limited to scrutinising financial transactions, but also including value for money audit.

Mr Speaker, at the global level, the people of Milenge are worried about the latest phenomenon, in this regard, the upsurge in the racial discrimination, especially the new wave of shooting of the African American citizens by the police in the United States of America (USA).

Mr Muchima: Shame!

Mr Mbulakulima: Mr Speaker, this new phenomenon reverses the dream that was achieved by the famous civil rights activist, Dr Martin Luther King, who said that he saw a one and new America where the sons of former slaves and sons of slave masters will be able to sit around on the same table. This achievement which was achieved by the ascendance to the highest office of America by an African American is now being reversed. This abomination must be addressed by all well-meaning world leaders. This is the cry by the people of Milenge.

Hon. Government Members: Hear, hear!

Mr Mbulakulima: Mr Speaker, as I conclude, allow me to thank His Excellency the President for calling to action all of us, as Zambians, to work hard. He said:

“Let us all remain hard working and united. We must be selfless, honest and united. We must focus our energies on what we are able to give to others and the nation at large, as opposed to our selfish gains at the expense of the nation.”

Sir, this is a President who means well and wants to work with everybody.

Hon. Government Members: Hear, hear!

Mr Mbulakulima: He needs our support …

Hon. Government Members: Hear, hear!

Mr Mbulakulima: … and we must be patriotic enough to answer this call.

 With these few remarks, Mr Speaker, I beg to move.

I thank you, Sir.

Hon. Government Members: Hear, hear! Quality!

Mr Speaker: Does the seconder wish to speak now or later?

Ms Katuta (Chienge): Now, Sir.

Mr Speaker, first and foremost, I wish to express my sincere thanks to you for according me this opportunity to second the Motion of Thanks to the President’s Address on the Official Opening of the First Session of the Twelfth National Assembly on Friday 30th September, 2016. The speech by His Excellency, Mr Edgar Chagwa Lungu, President of the Republic of Zambia, was well presented and I feel honoured to second the Motion of Thanks today.

Sir, let me recognise the able manner in which Hon. Mbulakulima, Member of Parliament, moved the Motion of Thanks to the speech delivered by His Excellency the President. In this regard, I wish to join him in commending His Excellency the President for the well-articulated speech under the theme: “Building an Integrated Multi-sectoral Approach to Development that Enhances Inclusiveness in Development without Leaving Anyone Behind.’

Mr Speaker, there are positive aspects of the President’s Speech which I would like to draw to your attention. The first is the Patriotic Front (PF) Government’s realisation that achieving its priority agenda requires a well-integrated multi-sectoral approach as an attempt to build synergies across sectors. This is in order to guarantee that developmental outcomes communally strengthen each other.

Secondly, Mr Speaker, it is gratifying to note that the PF Government has given special emphasis to the agriculture sector, fisheries and livestock which to me, is the heartbeat of rural Zambia and the only option we have in dealing with the challenges of starvation and poverty. Agriculture is the vital battle ground in the war against hunger and poverty. I, therefore, welcome the efforts aimed at attracting investment in the farm mechanism and the introduction of science and technology in stimulating production. An example of a country that has benefitted from improved science and technology is China. In order to fully develop agriculture and refresh its rural economy, China, with a population of 1.3 billion, promoted advanced science and technology which has not only substantially raised its food production today, but also improved the living standards of its farmers.

Sir, I would, therefore, like to urge the Government, through the hon. Minister of Agriculture, to provide farmers, especially small-scale farmers, with scientific and technology services by offering fine strand of seeds, information, consultation and technical know-how. Farmers should be taught the latest methods and techniques in plant cultivation, fertiliser use, livestock breeding, epidemic prevention, agricultural machinery, processing and storage. This will, in turn, lead to increased productivity which will result in the increased standard of living for these farmers. This will further benefit all Zambians as increased farm productivity will directly contribute to the country’s GDP.

Hon. Government Members: Hear, hear! Quality!

Ms Katuta: Mr Speaker, in his speech, His Excellency the President encouraged the youth to embrace innovation and entrepreneurship, and advanced technologies and to actively participate in economic development programmes. While it may be prudent to appreciate that the Government, through the Youth Development Fund, gives out loans to the youth, it is largely perceived that only the PF youths have been benefitting from them. I would, therefore, like to urge the persons responsible for distributing these loans to ensure that all Zambians benefit from them regardless of their political affiliation.

Hon. Opposition Members: Hear, hear!

Ms Katuta: Mr Speaker, His Excellency the President informed the House that a total of 315 out of the 650 health posts are now operational. Further, he informed the House that the Government had upgraded Chilenje and Matero clinics to first level referral hospitals. Improved provision of health services is, indeed, an important ingredient of fostering economic development. However, allow me to state that despite all these developments, what is on the ground leaves much to be desired. Most of these hospitals and clinics are under-staffed. Long queues at clinics are a normal occurrence. The lack of enough manpower at health facilities is part of the problem that has led to patients queuing up at these facilities for long hours. Further, some health facilities have no trained medical personnel to attend to patients. At the University Teaching Hospital (UTH), which is Zambia’s largest health referral centre, doctors are overwhelmed with work. Some give patients appointments that are six months and sometimes a year away from the day they seek medical attention. This situation has led to patients dying as they wait for their appointment dates. Some doctors have also started running private clinics to cash in on the shortage of doctors.

Hon. Government Member: Like Canisius Banda.

Ms Katuta: Sir, according to some patients, doctors give them appointments on dates far off from the time they seek medical attention or encourage them to visit their private clinics, where there are no queues and they can be attended to on the same day. On top of being under-staffed, most clinics are further experiencing drug shortages. This has led to the rationing of drugs and patients being forced to use substitutes that are less effective or more expensive. I, therefore, would like to urge the Government, through the Ministry of Health, to address the current problems being faced at most of our clinics and hospitals, especially in Chienge District.

Mr Speaker, let me now talk about the education sector. I believe that a nation that is not educated cannot have meaningful development taking place due to a lack of skilled human resource. In view of this, I would like to commend His Excellency the President for his Government’s commitment to improving the quality of education through the training and recruitment of teachers. The Government also seeks to improve the teaching of science and mathematics as a way of attaining improvement in technology and innovation for enhancement, indsutrialisation and job creation.

Sir, it is sad to note that after fifty-one years of being independent, our education sector has not yet developed to satisfactory levels. To date, we still have mud-and-pole schools in rural areas. Further, children have to walk long distances to get to these poorly constructed schools. We cannot expect much, in terms of education, from such children. That is why the pass rate in these areas is feeble.

Mr Speaker, education is regarded as a basic human right and a very vital component to the development of the nation. We, therefore, expect to see improved rural school infrastructure, including good housing units for teachers. This will attract more teachers and encourage them to teach in these rural areas. Subsequently, the pass rates will improve. Furthermore, the Government should build more boarding schools in remote areas. In fact, every constituency should have, at least, two boarding schools at high school level to lessen the problem of children having to travel long distances. Doing this will enable more children to access education and ultimately, to improve the quality of life of every Zambian. They will also be able to make choices on what careers they want to pursue in order to compete at both local and international levels. Similarly, in tertiary education, the Government should work on building universities as well as skills training schools in every province. 

Sir, allow me to now comment on international relations. His Excellency the President, in his speech, indicated that the Government would present the Foreign Service Bill for the consideration of this august House in a bid to professionalise our Foreign Service. I must say that this is long over-due. As a nation, we are tired of being represented by political cadres with little or no training in diplomatic studies.

Hon. Opposition Members: Hear, hear!

Ms Katuta: Sir, I wish to urge the Government, through the Minister of Justice, to ensure that it drafts the Foreign Service Bill in a manner that will bring sanity to the Foreign Service.

Sir, as regards development, I want to urge the Government to not only concentrate in urban areas, but also invest in the rural areas. The people of Chienge do not want to use illegal fishing methods. However, hunger and poverty leave them with no choice, but to find whatever means possible to feed their families. It is, therefore, my humble appeal that people in areas such as Chienge District and other remote areas of Zambia be considered and that national resources be distributed equitably. This includes areas such as road construction as well as maintenance, university education infrastructure, health infrastructure and industrial development.

Mr Speaker, in conclusion, I would like to remind each of us that this country belongs to all Zambians.

Hon. Members: Hear, hear!

Ms Katuta: Sir, it is in this spirit that we should all aim to work together to improve the standard of living for each and every person that we represent. 

Hon. UPND Members: Hear, hear!

Ms Katuta: Mr Speaker, before I sit down, allow me to briefly deliver my maiden speech as required by the procedures of this august House. 

Glory and praises be to my God, the Father, who makes all things possible. Without God, I would not be in your midst today. By his unfailing grace, we traversed the land of Chienge and won the tightly contested election. Secondly, I would like to say a special thank you to my husband, partner and strategist, Dr Lawrence Mwelwa, the one person who has not only provided me the opportunity to do what I love, that is, to serve the people of Chienge, but also moral, spiritual and financial support which made my campaign easier.

Hon. Opposition Members: Hear, hear!

Ms Katuta: Mr Speaker, my heartfelt appreciation goes to my president, Ms Edith Nawakwi, and the Forum for Democracy and Development (FDD) for trusting and adopting me as their candidate, who now happens to be the one and only FDD Member of Parliament. In the same vein, I wish to congratulate Ms Nawakwi on courageously braving the gender-related hostilities and emerging third in the elections. With our President’s proven approach of recognising women and appointing them to positions of leadership, it is worth recognising and appreciating the steady, but sure political popularity of President Edith Nawakwi.

Mr Speaker, I extend my profound gratitude to the people of Chienge for expressing their confidence in me by giving me this opportunity to serve them in this House. This is not a privilege I take for granted. I will do everything possible to ensure that their voices are heard and also ensure that this new Government does not forget about the people of Chienge, especially the women and girls.

Sir, I want to take this opportunity to congratulate the PF on putting up a spirited fight and emerging victorious in the 11th ...

Hon. Government Members: Hear, hear!

Ms Katuta: ... August General Election.

Mr Lubinda: Ndiye ma MPs aya.

Ms Katuta: Mr Speaker, I further wish to congratulate my fellow hon. Members of Parliament on this side (pointing to the left side of the House) of the House. My colleagues and I take these seats on your left with pride and eagerness to serve the people who elected us to this House, as a credible opposition for national development. 

Mr Speaker, before I bring forth the wishes of my ‘constituency’ …

Mr Livune interjected.

Mr Katuta: It is constituency …

Laughter 

Mr Speaker: Just continue, hon. Member.

Mr Katuta: Sir, I wish to congratulate you for being elected Speaker of the National Assembly of Zambia. We have no doubt that you will perform to the expectations of all hon. Members of the House. I also wish to extend my congratulatory remarks to the new First and Second Deputy Speakers.

Mr Speaker, may I further remind our colleagues on the right that the newly elected Government is not just for PF members, but also for all Zambians.

Hon. Members: Hear, hear!

Mr Katuta: Even those who did not vote for the PF Government are constitutionally entitled to consideration for development.

Hon. Opposition Members: Tell them!

Mr Katuta: Mr Speaker, the people of Chienge would like to seize this opportunity to inform this august House about our willingness to partner with the present Government in ensuring the achievement of development for all the people of Chienge, regardless of their political affiliation. It is imperative that we begin to draw attention to the tears of the people of Chienge with regard to the road network. The fundamental problems at hand are well-known to this Government and it is our wish that as soon as we commence our duties in this House, the Government will consider addressing our challenges. 

I shall, therefore, encourage the PF Government to be open-minded when it comes to embracing all of us in the interest of national unity. My belief is that this House, which looks so youthful, will come with fresh ideas and new thinking to move the unity and stability of our great nation further.

Mr Speaker, as I present my views, let me emphasise that my intention is to build and not to destroy and to unify and not to disunite. However, I will seek to challenge Zambians by speaking frankly on the matters we are facing. In other words, I will offer constructive criticism where necessary as well as commend the Government where noticeable achievements are recorded.

The question then is: How do we achieve this? This is done by carrying out radical political and economic reforms underpinned by the five key activities; healing the nation, refining our Constitution, resolving the regionalism crisis, recovering and stabilising the economy, and transforming our economy.

Mr Sikazwe: Hear, hear!

Mr Katuta: Mr Speaker, allow me to talk about the challenges of the people of Chienge. Hunger and poverty are the major challenges that my relatives are faced with, coupled with oppression and abuse of human rights. Others include: 

(a)    a lack of adequate schools and tertiary training institutions;

(b)    a lack of clean drinking water and poor sanitation;

(c)    poor road network; 

(d)    inadequate health infrastructure; 

(e)    understaffed Civil Service;

(f)    youth unemployment; and 

(g)    early marriages. 

Mr Speaker, in other words, Chienge is extremely underdeveloped. Kindly allow me to quote Prof. Sen, who sees “development as freedom”. He states that:

“Hunger and poverty deprive human beings of their dignity and self-esteem, leaving them hopeless and incapable of achieving the kind of life they value and desire. Against this view, ‘freedom from hunger’ is not a rhetorical cry. Poor economic opportunities as well as systematic social exclusion and deprivation, all constitute major sources of what is called ‘unfreedom.’”

Sir, together we shall create the Zambian dream …

Mr Speaker: Order!

Hon. Member, you need to second the Motion before it lapses on account of your time running out.

Mr Katuta: Thank you for your guidance, Sir.

Interruptions

Mr Katuta: Mr Speaker, I wish to second the Motion now.

Hon. Members: Hear, hear!

Mr Speaker: Thank you very much. That is all.

Mr Mwewa (Mwansabombwe): Mr Speaker, I thank you for giving me this opportunity to support the Motion on the Floor of the House. When I heard His Excellency the President …

Mr Bwalya: On a point of order, Sir.

Mr Speaker: A point of order is raised.

Mr Bwalya: Mr Speaker, thank you for giving me this opportunity to raise a very serious point of order. In so doing, I want to refer to …

Mr Syakalima: Maiden speech first.

Mr Sing’ombe: Yes.

Mr Ngulube: Just wait.

Mr Bwalya: … a number of documents that I have.

Interruptions 

Mr Speaker: Order!

Mr Bwalya: Mr Speaker, the National Assembly Member’s Handbook, 2006, on pages 2 to 7, defines certain Parliamentary terms and I want to just pick out some of them. On page 2, ‘attendance’ is defined as “presence at any sitting of the Assembly, or meeting of any Committee”. Further on page 3, ‘constitution’ is defined as “a document that sets out the primary principles and laws of a nation”. It is also true that the ‘Oath’ on page 4 is defined as “a solemn declaration to affirm the truth of a statement involving God or a sacred being or object as witness.”

Mr Speaker, on 23rd September, 2016, all hon. Members of Parliament in this House, including hon. Members of the United Party for National Development (UPND), took the Oath before you, except for those that did so today. In taking that Oath, we all clearly stated that, “I shall bear true allegiance to the President of the Republic of Zambia.” We went further to say, “I will preserve, protect and defend the Constitution of the Republic of Zambia.” 

Mr Speaker, Article 86(1) of the Constitution of Zambia (Amendment) Act, No. 2 of 2016, very clearly states that:

“The President shall, at least twice in every year, attend and address the National Assembly.”

Mr Speaker, this took place on 30th September, 2016 and all of us, as Members of Parliament, were informed of His Excellency the President coming to address the House on 23rd September, 2016 immediately after swearing in. The information continued to run on both electronic and print media. 

Mr Speaker, your office and that of the Clerk of the National Assembly went further to put the information on the Order Paper which was circulated to us through our pigeonholes and it was also stuck on the notice board at the Members’ Motel. We were all well-informed about His Excellency’s Address to the National Assembly. Your office communicated effectively and efficiently.

Mr Speaker, the decorum of this House, on Friday 30th September, 2016, was assaulted and the etiquette of this House was also mutilated by the United Party for National Development (UPND) Members of Parliament …

Hon. PF Members: Hear, hear!

Mr C Bwalya: … who, after swearing in to truthfully bear true allegiance to the President of the Republic of Zambia, stayed away…

Mr Sing’ombe: What is your point of order?

Mr Speaker: Order!

Mr Bwalya: … from this House.

Mr Speaker, my point of order is on the UPND. Are the hon. UPND Members of Parliament in order to have abrogated their responsibility “to preserve, protect and defend the Constitution and not to bear true allegiance to the President of the Republic of Zambia” who, at this point in time, happens to be Mr Edgar Chagwa Lungu?

Hon. PF Members: Hear, hear!

Mr Bwalya: Mr Speaker, are they in order to have not only abrogated the Constitution, but also violated the decorum and etiquette of this Parliament?

I need your serious ruling, Mr Speaker.

Hon. PF Members: Hear, hear!

Mr Speaker: Order!

I would like to make two points. First, it is that maiden speeches are ordinarily not amenable to points of order…

Hon. Opposition Members: Hear, hear!

Mr Speaker: However, granted the nature of the subject matter that has been raised, I would like to inform the House that, in any event, I have since received a complaint from the Government Chief Whip. Those of you who were present during the Orientation Seminar will recall that I did underscore the importance of the role that the Government Chief Whip plays in the maintenance of discipline of the House. To that extent, and I am invoking Standing Order 151(2) and (3), I have since resolved to refer this matter to the Privileges, Absences and Support Services Committee.

Hon. PF Members: Hear, hear!

Mr Speaker: The Privileges, Absences and Support Services Committee will, in due course, after I constitute it, attend to this rather grave matter.

May the hon. Member for Mwansabombwe, continue.

Mr Mwewa: Mr Speaker, I am happy that I stand here this afternoon to support the Motion and thereafter, present my maiden speech. I would like to congratulate you, Mr Speaker, on your election as Speaker and, indeed, I also congratulate the First Deputy Speaker and the Second Deputy Speaker on their respective elections. I would like to also congratulate the Chief Whip and the Deputy Chief Whip.

Mr Speaker, the President, His Excellency Edgar Chagwa Lungu, was very clear in his speech. When I was talking to my people in Mwansabombwe about the President’s Speech, they were very happy that, at least, there is hope for Zambia. I told them that they were very correct as the speech was a progressive one that every well-meaning Zambian should appreciate. His Excellency the President talked about my people on how they can be elevated from being peasant farmers to another position of comfortability in terms of money and, indeed, if possible, become commercial farmers. I was asked a question, “How can we move from where we are to another level where we are able to spend money, pay school fees and put food on the table without a problem?” The answer His Excellency the President gave to these questions lies in his speech. 

His Excellency the President talked about having huge volumes of production. How can we have huge volumes of what you produce? His Excellency the President answered that question nicely, calmly and collected. He said that we have to invest in farm mechanisation. We have to invest in science and technology and, indeed, look at financial services that we can give to our people. He talked about what kind of collateral we can use. He talked about cheap money that Zambians can get and pump into agriculture.

Mr Speaker, I would like to go slowly as I mention these factors and how they affect my people in Mwansabombwe. Farm mechanisation is simple. Today, we see my people using holes to cultivate a one hectare piece of land, but His Excellency the President said we should move away from that and start using machines to cultivate. My people take about a month to cultivate a one hectare piece of land, but with machines they can take a day. However, is that all? No. His Excellency the President went further to talk about science and technology. How does it affect my people in Mwansabombwe? How can farmers put more money into their pockets? His Excellency the President clearly indicated that with science, we are going to analyse the soil samples of Mwansabombwe by taking the soil samples into a laboratory to find out what is the best seed for that type of soil. What is the best fertiliser for such a crop? 

Mr Speaker, today, we use the same fertiliser in Mwansabombwe, Kalomo, Mongu…

Mr Ngulube: In Dundumwezi.

Mr Mwewa: … and Dundumwezi. The same D-compound and urea fertiliser is what we use. Time has come for us to analyse the soil samples that we have and then look for …

Mr Sing’ombe: Ninshi Dundumwezi gives you sleepless nights ayi?

Mr Speaker: Hon. Member for Mwansabombwe, please, take your seat.

Can we stop the running commentaries.

I am addressing both sides of the House. I think we need to get down to serious business. 

I do not want to belabour this point.

May the hon. Member for Mwansabombwe, please, continue.

Mr Mwewa: Mr Speaker, all that His Excellency the President was trying to say to this House, even to those hon. Members who were not here is that we have to progress, as Zambians, so that we are able to have high yields from our crops. When I went to Brazil and Argentina, I found that that is what they do.

Mr Speaker, one hectare of land here in Zambia produces about thirty-five 90 kgs bags of maize grain, compared to our friends who have applied science to agriculture, produce 120 90 kgs bags of maize grain on the same piece of land that our peasant farmers use.

Mr Speaker, the other thing is the use of technology. We have seen that here in Zambia, we cultivate one crop in twelve months on one piece of land. With technology, we will be able to invest in irrigation systems which will be able to give us three crops in a year.

Mr Mwiimbu: On a point of order, Sir.

Mr Speaker: Hon. Members for Mwansabombwe, and Monze Central and Leader of the Opposition, please, take your seats.

Not long ago, I indicated that during this phase of our business, points of order are to be avoided. If you have issues, and I am addressing both sides, about the manner of debate, please, take note of them and I will give you an opportunity to respond at an appropriate juncture. The logic of this decision is very simple. If I allow the points of order to reign, there will be disorder because the debates will now be conducted through points of order.

Hon. PF Members: Hear, hear!

Mr Speaker: This is what I am avoiding. I will be in charge of these proceedings.

Hon. PF Members: Hear, hear!

Mr Sikazwe: Judge!

Mr Speaker: If there are any issues you would like to raise about the conduct of Business in the House, please, you have whips. There is a Government Chief Whip and my door is open. As long as we continue with this debate, I am not allowing any points of order.

Hon. PF Members: Hear, hear!

Mr Speaker: The hon. Member for Mwansabombwe may continue.

Mr Mwewa: Mr Speaker, I was talking about cultivating not one crop a year, but three. A crop can be cultivated every four months. This is what His Excellency the President was talking about as regards uplifting the standards of living of our people.

Mr Speaker, let me now address livestock and fisheries. 

Where I come from, fish is depleted in our rivers and lakes. Sir, my people are fishermen and His Excellency the President provided a solution for them. He talked about aqua culture. We have to develop this sector. We have a lot of land. We engage in fish caging on the lakes and rivers in Luapula Province. We can also fish farm on our land. Why should we import fish from China, Zimbabwe and Mozambique when we are cable of producing it?

Sir, His Excellency the President of the Republic of Zambia, Mr Edgar Chagwa Lungu, provided an answer to what we need to do. This is the way to go. It remains for the able hon. Ministers in the Patriotic Front (PF) Government, particularly the hon. Ministers of Agriculture and Livestock and Fisheries to take up and implement the directive. His Excellency the President gave a directive and showed us how to do it.

Mr Speaker, as regards irrigation, it will be very difficult to carry it out throughout the year with the current power supply. This is why His Excellency the President talked about clean renewable energy.

Mr Speaker, in Luapula Province, we are thinking of using agriculture to give us energy. We want to use sweet potatoes and cassava to give us bio gas energy. The peels of cassava and sweet potatoes blended with animal excretA can give us bio gas. We have cattle, goats and chickens in Luapula Province and bio gas can surely be produced. 

Mr Speaker, His Excellency the President went further to talk about skills training and the need for a skills training centre in each district. The skills training centre is where we are going to teach our youth how to process bio gas energy, fish caging and processing of mango juice. They will be capacitated through these institutions and, thereby employment will be created.

Sir, I can only say that this is something that the people of Zambia have been looking for. We will add value to whatever we produce. We will not export raw. It is materials, but finished products. This is what we want and why I strongly believe that the President, His Excellency Mr Edgar Chagwa Lungu, was voted for. It is because of the grace of God and the wisdom that he exhibited when he was here that he was voted for.

Hon. PF Members: Hear, hear!

Mr Mwewa: The President’s Speech was themed, “Building an Integrated Multi-Sectoral Approach to Development that Enhances Inclusiveness in Development without Leaving Anyone Behind.”

Mr Speaker, from what I have talked about, you will understand that His Excellency the President was talking about an integrated multi-sectoral approach. We have the ministries of Agriculture and Livestock and Fisheries, Finance and Higher Education all inter-linked. We have to build synergies amongst the ministries. This is where the Ministry of National Development and Planning comes into play. It is to ensure that the creation of synergies is achieved. 

Mr Speaker, if this can be achieved, I can see, for sure, that Zambia will be the food basket of Africa.

Hon. PF Members: Hear, hear!

Mr Mwewa: Mr Speaker, I can see this nation’s gross domestic product (GDP) going towards a two-digit growth rate. I can also see this nation going towards a one digit inflation rate. 

Hon. PF Members: Hear, hear!

Mr Mwewa: Mr Speaker, let me now go my to maiden speech. 

Sir, I am the bearer of a message from the people of Mwansabombwe. They told me to come and congratulate you and your two Deputy Speakers.

Hon. PF Members: Hear, hear!

Mr Mwewa: Let me take the opportunity to thank my family, my wife and my children for allowing me to go out there to campaign. They felt my absence, but understood that I was on national duty. 

Let me also sincerely thank my brothers and, most importantly, the people of Mwansabombwe for electing me for the second time. I broke the record in Mwansabombwe. All the people who have served there have only been elected to Parliament once. However, the people saw who I am and have given me another fresh mandate.

Hon. Government Members: Hear, hear!

Mr Mwewa: Mr Speaker, I would also like to thank a group of young people called “Think Tank” who worked with me in Mwansabombwe. 

Sir, Mwansabombwe is not an easy place to work in, but with the prayers of clergymen from there, I walk tall the way I do and go there and come back here because they pray for me. I thank them and I want them to continue praying for me.

 Hon. Government Members: Hear, hear!

Mr Mwewa: Mr Speaker, I would like to tell the people of Mwansabombwe that I will continue from where I ended. I had programmes lined up for them. Some of them were never finished. I am going to finish them in the course of this fresh mandate that they have given me. I will ensure that all those who did not get cattle get it this time. The first phase was done and the second phase of this programme will be done.  I can tell you that when I went to fight for cattle to be taken to Mwansabombwe, I was told that the people of Mwansabombwe would eat the cattle, ...

Interruptions

Mr Mwewa: ... but we have proved them wrong. No cattle has died and no one has eaten any cattle in Mwansabombwe.

Hon. Government Members: Hear, hear!

Mr Mwewa: Most of the cattle has multiplied. I saw calves and thought this was great. We did artificial insemination and have calves. We also have goats. Each household has about six.

Ms Lubezhi interjected

Mr Mwewa: Iye! A woman!

Laughter

Mr Mwewa: This is a starting point. It is not like you, my friends, who are ...

Mr Speaker: Order!

Hon. Member, concentrate on your debate. 

Laughter

Mr Speaker: Order!

Do not debate your colleagues.

Mr Mwewa: I would like to tell the people of Mwansabombwe that I will continue all the programmes I started. 

Interruptions

Mr Speaker: Order!

Hon. Member, continue with your debate. 

Mr Mwewa: Mr Speaker, yes, thanks for your guidance. 

We are ‘gonna’ continue helping the people of Mwansabombwe.

Laughter

Mr Speaker: Order!

The word “gonna” is unparliamentary. Please, note that. 

Mr Mwewa: Mr Speaker, I am sorry. I will continue helping the people in Mwansabombwe to ensure that agriculture becomes the cornerstone that will change that district. Like I have said on the Floor of this House, we will make agriculture sexy. We will make agriculture sexy in Mwansabombwe.

Laughter

Mr Speaker: Order!

Hon. Member, please, withdraw that word, it is unparliamentary. In fact, you recall that I advised you in the last House, when you were an hon. Deputy Minister, not to use that word. It is on record. 

Mr Mwewa: Mr Speaker, I am sorry. I meant to say that ...

I withdraw the word, umm, I cannot use it again.

Mr Speaker: Order!

The word you had referred to has been withdrawn. Fine.

Laughter

Mr Mwewa: Mr Speaker, we want agriculture to be attractive. We want everyone to come to Mwansabombwe knowing very well that it will make them put food on the table and take their children to school. Most people shy away from agriculture, but it is good. We want people to drive a Ferrari because they are in agriculture. 

Hon. Government Members: Hear, hear!

Mr Mwewa: Sir, I promise to be there for the people of Mwansabombwe and will support them for as long as they allow me to. I would like to tell them that I will continue supporting them through paying of water bills. No Mwansabombwe resident pays for water because I do that ...

Interruptions

Mr Mwewa: ... and I will continue doing that for them because they are good people. 

Mr Speaker, finally, I would like to thank the constituency committee, the district committee and the provincial committee for having hope and trust in me. Indeed, I also thank the members of the central committee. Without them, I would not be here. 

I thank you, Sir. 

Hon. Government Members: Hear, hear!

Mr Speaker: Order!

Before we progress to our next hon. Member of Parliament to debate, let me just explain one procedural issue here. We have just begun the Twelfth National Assembly and, as is customary, we have opportunity to debate our maiden speeches, but this is also combined, as it were, with the debate of the President’s Speech. So, to that extent, the debate is rolled up. I stress, it is rolled up. It is very difficult for me to determine in advance which aspect is being addressed. So, on grounds of convenience, the general rule will apply, namely that maiden speeches are not amenable to points of order. Let me say also anyway, that points of order are not a right. They are meant to assist presiding officers to maintain order. In their genesis, they are procedural in nature. However, the prerogative to maintain order of the House is exclusively ours, as presiding officers, however enthusiastic you may be. Of course, in appropriate circumstances, we will allow them, but for the time being, I think I have made a position. It is not the first time anyway, that I will maintain that certain segments of our proceedings will not be amenable to points of order. I have done that before and will continue doing it in future. I will determine when to allow points of order.  It is not a right. It is a privilege and you have to assist presiding officers. That function rests with us. 

The hon. Member for Chama South may take the Floor.  

Mr Mung’andu (Chama South): Mr Speaker, thank you and I will try to roll up my debate, as you have advised. 

Sir, I will start with the Motion on the President’s Speech. Then, later, I will go into my maiden speech.  

Mr Speaker, I am very grateful to the Patriotic Front (PF) and the people of Chama South, in particular, for according me the opportunity to represent them here. I would also like to congratulate you, Mr Speaker, on your re-election. 

Sir, His Excellency the President gave one of the most conclusive speeches. The theme was, “Building an Integrated Multi-Sectoral Approach to Development that Enhances Inclusiveness in Development without Leaving Anyone Behind.” 

Mr Speaker, this entails that no one in the entire country, Chama South, Dundumwezi and Sioma inclusive, will remain behind. What did His Excellency the President mean by integrated multi-sectoral approach? 

Sir, the people of Chama South and I understand that development cannot go one way. We need all the sectors of the economy to synchronise and integrate. How should this be done? In his speech, His Excellency the President emphasised economic diversification. My colleagues, particularly those on the left, will agree with me that this country has never planned for a rainy day. We have always depended on our non-renewable resource, copper. 

People say that due to external shocks, copper goes through a cyclic curve. When copper prices drop, we go through serious hardships as a country. Our country has gone through this before. In 1993, under the late Dr Frederick Chiluba’s Movement for Multiparty Democracy (MMD), the Anglo-American Company pulled out because copper prices plummeted. I think that, as a country, we did not plan for that. We did not diversify. This is the situation we are in right now. 

Mr Speaker, in order to avoid this, His Excellency the President was very categorical in his speech that agriculture will be the cornerstone of our economic diversification. What did he imply? I would like to look at the value chain or advantages that the agriculture sector in this country offers. Agriculture is practiced by almost everyone. It does not need intangible skills that the hon. Member for Pambashe might own. A peasant farmer in Chama South or Sioma can practice agriculture and their livelihood can go on. 

Sir, another point which was very cardinal in His Excellency’s Speech was industrialisation. How does industrialisation synchronise or integrate with education? For instance, we have been more dependent on importation. What implication does this have on our economy? We are spending more money buying goods and services outside this country. As a result, we are putting pressure on our local currency. We need foreign exchange and, in this case, the dollar, to buy goods.

 If, however, we produced certain goods locally, there would be a multiplier effect on our economy. For example, most of the raw materials in the West are obtained from Africa. They will get iron and bauxite, which is the principle ore of aluminum, and take it to China for processing. We, then, import it as aluminum for our houses. 

Mr Speaker, by so doing, we are simply promoting sustainable jobs in those countries from which we import these goods. This is why His Excellency the President has encouraged industrialisation in his speech. He has emphasised that, as a country, we need to industrialise so that we save the foreign exchange that we spend in these other countries. 

Mr Speaker, on education, His Excellency the President mentioned that we will have a youth skills training centre in each district. Industries, as my cousins in Luapula think, are not run by professors or doctors. They are run by technocrats and technicians. We need to invest in these skills training centres so that our people, especially our youth, can manage to polish gemstones and process iron into a usable item such as a bearing.

 In the construction industry, they can be able to produce and fix tiles. My colleagues who come from the construction industry will attest to the fact that this country lacks trained artisans. So, for industrialisation to actualise, His Excellency the President emphasised on an integrated multi-sectoral approach where agriculture, education, health and many other sectors must interplay. 

In summary, the President’s Speech was complete. In my conclusion, this is why people on your left decided not to come to the House, Sir, maybe, …

Mr Speaker: Order!

Hon. Member for Chama South, just concentrate on your debate. We do not debate ourselves here. Just focus on what you have to say. 

You may continue.

Mr Mung’andu: Thank you, Mr Speaker, for that guidance. 

Mr Speaker, apart from agriculture and its value chains, His Excellency also put much emphasis on tourism. This country has immense potential to move forward in the tourism sector. We have one of the most favourable weather conditions. We have some of the most beautiful flora and fauna. Chama South is blessed with national parks. Both North and South Luangwa National parks converge in Chama South.

Sir, I have no doubt that the Patriotic Front (PF) Government is ex-ante. It does not just talk. It acts. 

Hon. PF Members: Hear, hear!

Mr Mung’andu: Going by His Excellency’s Speech, I am sure that by the end of five years, we would have walked the talk. 

Mr Speaker, in his speech, His Excellency the President emphasised that the Industrial Development Corporation (IDC) will have a subsidiary which will act as a special purpose vehicle (SPV) to create tourism investment and development. I am sure that this will help to set up certain facilities in these national parks. I am confident that before the five years is up, South and North Luangwa National parks will become the Serengeti and Kruger National parks of Africa, if not better. 

Mr Speaker, having said this, allow me now to go into my maiden speech. It is my honour and privilege to speak to this august House for and on behalf of the people of Chama South Constituency, who have sent me here to represent them as Member of Parliament for the next five years. I do not take this for granted. The trust that the people of Chama South have bestowed on me is enormous.  

Mr Speaker, Muchinga Province has no Opposition. 

Laughter 

Mr Mung’andu: The election campaigns were violence-free because the people in the area are generally moving in one direction. 

Hon. PF Members: Hear, hear!

Mr Mung’andu: This direction is towards the PF. The PF remains the pride and joy of the people of Chama South. The party is a source of unity. It has branded itself as the only vision bearer, now and in the future. It has grown and it continues to grow. 

Mr Speaker, the socio-economic activities for the people of Chama South revolve around the PF and its plans for this country. People in Chama South gather in corridors and various platforms to discuss the PF and how it can propel their economic future. 

Therefore, it was no surprise that during campaigns in Chama South, it was impossible to hear divergent views simply because everyone was supporting the PF.

Mr Speaker, before I go into substantive issues, allow me to mention that people in my constituency are grateful to God for granting them His Excellency the President, Mr Edgar Chagwa Lungu, as Head of State of this humble country for the next five years.

Hon. Government Members: Hear, hear!

Mr Mung’andu: Sir, I am equally humbled by His Excellency the President’s leadership style, humility and a knack for improved infrastructure, which has substantially eased the many hardships that people in the entire country previously faced. Further, the people of Chama South are shocked that His Excellency the President, Mr Lungu, has succeeded in doing this much in terms of development between January, last year and now. This is a mark of a great leader.

Mr Speaker, now that the campaigns are over, it is time to work for the people of Zambia. I hope that our colleagues in the Opposition can think in those lines so that the Government can start working for the people instead of correcting misrepresented political statements.

Sir, Chama South has its fair share of problems and it would be dishonest of me to stand here and claim otherwise. The main problems that it faces are due to its geographical location. Chama South is usually flooded during the rainy season because it is located in a valley. However, I thank the Ministry of Agriculture for the timely distribution of farming inputs. The people in my constituency are happy that they have received these farming inputs on time.

Mr Speaker, the biggest challenge that the people of Chama South are facing is that of widespread starvation. This has resulted not only from their failure to farm, but also because of crop failure due to drought and attacks by wild animals. I, therefore, appeal to the Office of the Vice-President, through the Disaster Management and Mitigation Unit (DMMU), to consider helping the people of Chama South with relief food.

Sir, in terms of the industrialisation that His Excellency the President mentioned, Chama South is ideal for rice production. However, there have been no efforts to promote proper management of this precious resource so that people can have sustainable economic livelihoods. As the new hon. Member of Parliament for the area, I want to find ways in which I can work with the people to form associations to promote the polishing, branding and marketing of Chama rice. This will be done through the concept of industrialisation and value-addition. Instead of people selling rice to different traders, we will promote and facilitate the formation of agricultural co-operatives so that people in associations will be able to add value to mass produced rice.

Mr Speaker, His Excellency the President mentioned the diversification of the energy sector. Instead of being dependant on hydro-power stations, he encouraged the country to move towards solar energy. Chama South is very sunny and this can be used in the production of commercial ...

Mr Speaker: Order!

Business was suspended from 1615 hours until 1630 hours.

[MR SPEAKER in the Chair]

Mr Mung’andu: Mr Speaker, Chama South Constituency is very sunny a condition which can be used in the production of commercial solar electricity. I urge the hon. Minister of Energy to conduct a feasibility study in Chama South instead of investing these solar farms in high altitude areas like Lusaka. The heat we feel in Lusaka cannot compare to the heat produced in Chama South.

Sir, in conclusion, His Excellency the President, Mr Edgar Lungu, has won the elections and ...

Hon. Government Member: Hear, hear!

Mr Mung’andu: ... a good politician goes back to the drawing board after a loss, like the founding father of the Patriotic Front (PF), Mr Michael Sata, did. 

Hon. Government Member: Hear, hear!

Mr Mung’andu: Finally, I invite all hon. Members from the United Party for National Development (UPND) to join the PF ...

Hon. Government Member: Hear, hear!

Mr Mwale: Eh ma debaters!

Mr Mung’andu: ... in order for us to promote national unity.

Laughter 

Mr Mung’andu: The UPND has failed to form Government ...

Mr Speaker: Order!

Hon. Member, I counselled earlier that we do not debate ourselves.

Mr Mung’andu: Thank you, Mr Speaker.

Sir, in conclusion, I am sure that, through the Industrial Development Corporation (IDC) agricultural diversification and synchronising the multi-sectoral approach, I have no doubt that Zambia will be a role model for the African Continent. 

I beg to move, Sir.

Mr Speaker: Those who are coming forth, both from the left and right, please, note that the rules of debate do not permit us to debate one another. I know it is very tempting, especially given where we are coming from, but it will not help us. We need to move on. I do not want to constantly interject and remind hon. Members that that is not permissible. It is a very settled rule of debate. It is too settled to require reminders.

Mr D. Mumba (Chama North): Mr Speaker, my full names are Darius Mumba, Member of Parliament for Chama North Constituency. I will start my debate by delivering my maiden speech and, then, move on to the Motion of Thanks to the President’s Address.

Mr Speaker, first and foremost, let me thank you for according me this opportunity to deliver my maiden speech to this Twelfth National Assembly. From the outset, let me congratulate His Excellency the President of this country, Mr Edgar Chagwa Lungu, on his victory in the just-ended Presidential Election. Let me also congratulate Her Honour the Vice-President, Mrs Inonge Mutukwa Wina, who is Leader of Government Business in this august House. At this point, allow me to also congratulate you, Mr Speaker, the First Deputy Speaker and the Second Deputy Speaker on your deserved victories. I would be failing in my duties if I do not congratulate my fellow hon. Members of Parliament for having made it to this august House.

Mr Speaker, allow me to thank the Patriotic Front (PF) Government, under the able leadership of His Excellency the President, Mr Edgar Chagwa Lungu, for adopting me. I would not have been in this august House had it not recognised me. I also wish to thank my family for being there for me from the beginning to the end of the elections. 

Sir, let me also thank the people of Chama North for trusting me. There were several candidates who stood in that constituency, but the people of Chama North showed their confidence in me. 

Hon. Government Members: Hear, hear!

Mr D. Mumba: Sir, I, therefore, thank them very much. Let me put it on record that the constituency I am representing is not a new one. It has been in existence for some time. To that effect, let me also recognise and compliment all the people who have been hon. Members of Parliament of that constituency. I would also like to thank the working PF Government. When I was first elected to this august House, my first question was with regard to when the Chama/Matumbo Road was going to be tarred. I am proud to report today, that it is a thing of the past.

Hon. Government Members: Hear, hear!

Mr D. Mumba: Mr Speaker, as I am speaking, the works on that road are in progress and the contractor is working on the bridge. In addition to that, the Chama/Muyombe and the Chama/Lundazi roads are being worked on. That is a plus for the working PF Government, under the able leadership of His Excellency the President, Mr Edgar Chagwa Lungu. 

Mr Speaker, having mentioned these positive sentiments does not mean that Chama has no challenges. I, therefore, want to mention what my area of focus will be during my five-year tenure of office. I take this as a project. I am sure my Government is already aware of the challenges that my constituency is facing. I know that it will include them in its agenda. 

Mr Speaker, my area of focus will be on water and sanitation. As we already know, water and sanitation is very cardinal. Our people need clean drinking water because if they do not have it, they will suffer from recurring diseases. Time and again, I will lobby for the sinking of more boreholes in my constituency in a quest to reduce on the distances which my people cover in search of water. 

Mr Speaker, another area that I am going to focus on is health. If I was not healthy, I would not even stand the way I am standing right now. I will, therefore, lobby for more health posts in my constituency in order to reduce on the distances that people cover to access medical services. 

Sir, we all know that education is important in this country. I would not be in this House if I was not educated. We all know that the Constitution of Zambia requires that for someone to stand as a Member of Parliament, they should have a minimum qualification of a Grade 12 Certificate. If I did not have that qualification, I would not have been in this House. We know that knowledge is in two types. We have tacit knowledge and explicit knowledge. Explicit knowledge is on paper and can be easily transferred to others. Tacit knowledge is the kind that is difficult to transfer to another person by means of being written down or verbalised. In this vein, education is key to whatever we want to do in our lives. 

Mr Speaker, let me also talk about feeder roads. I know that whatever our farmers are producing has to be transported to the markets and, therefore, there should be good roads. During my term of office, I will focus on the feeder roads so that my people can take their farm produce to the market. Feeder roads are also important in that they enable people to access health posts.

Mr Speaker, under agriculture, my area of focus will be to lobby for more staff. At the moment, we have about twenty-five camps, but only ten out of that are manned. We have a shortfall of fifteen. I know that the able hon. Minister of Agriculture is there and she willhelp us if we visit her office. 

Mr Speaker, I have already stated the offices that we will visit. The issues that relate to health will be referred to the ministry responsible for health. The issues that relate to education will be directed towards the ministry responsible for education. I know that I will not find problems because these ministries are under this working Government. 

Mr Speaker, the issues that relate to water and sanitation will be referred to the Ministry of Local Government and Housing. Issues that relate to agriculture will be directed to the Ministry towards Agriculture. 

Mr Speaker, I know that the PF Government is not a failing Government. 

Mr Livune: Question!

Mr Mumba: Mr Speaker, before I go into the Motion of Thanks, let me also mention that I will also focus on the issue of electricity. We are cognisant of the fact that information and communication technology (ICT) has now been introduced in schools. This means that we need power in schools in order for pupils to use computers. This power can be generated from different sources such as solar. Therefore, I will encourage this able Government to make sure that electricity is provided.

Mr Speaker, at this point, allow me to debate the Motion of Thanks to His Excellency, Mr. Edgar Chagwa Lungu.

Sir, in debating this Motion, I will start from Page 5, “Macro-Economic Situation.”

Mr Speaker, when we hear the term “macro-economy,” what comes to the mind of most of us is the fiscal and monetary policy.

 Sir, when we hear issues to do with this matter, we want to achieve double growth rate of the gross domestic product (GDP) and single inflation rate because these are the off-spring of macro-economies. Therefore, I would want to zero in on the fiscal and monetary policy.

 Mr Speaker, I would like to put it on record that most of us fail to appreciate issues to do with the fiscal policy. We think that it is the Central Government, the Ministry of Finance and the parliamentarians to handle that. Why are we connected to that? It could be because of the Motion of Ways and Means where we try to raise money to finance the Estimates of Revenue and Expenditure through the Motion of Supply and the Appropriation Bill. The question that arises is how an ordinary citizen is to appreciate the fiscal policy.

Sir, to attain the objectives that His Excellency, the President, Mr Edgar Chagwa Lungu, outlined, we need to employ the multi-citizen approach. Instead of us calling it the “multi-sectoral approach,” I would refer to it as a “multi-citizen approach.” 

Mr Speaker, each time His Excellency, Mr Edgar Chagwa Lungu, the President of this country addresses the nation, he begins by saying, “One Zambia, One Nation.” To us, as Zambians, it is a motto, but to our colleagues out there, it is a marketing slogan. So, the question is how we can relate it to our development and economic growth.

Sir, as citizens, we shun participating in the economic development of our country. We forget about what we would call “citizenship behaviour and commitment.” What do I mean by this? My desire, as Darius Mumba, and that of my colleagues to remain citizens of this country is our commitment and this is vital. Our behaviour towards achieving this is also important because the statements we make can have a negative impact on our economic growth. Therefore, it is important to ask ourselves what our civic virtue is in the area of citizen behaviour and where we stand. What is our boosterism?

Laughter

Mr D. Mumba: Where do we stand? 

 Interruptions

Mr Musukwa: Kokolapo!

 Hon. Opposition Members: What is boosterism?

Mr D. Mumba: Boosterism is the manner in which we represent our country as public figures. 

Hon. Government Members: Hear, hear!

Mr D. Mumba: What kind of statements do we make to the general public without realising the negative impact they can have on our economic growth? In one breath we talk about economic growth, yet negate that in another breath. So, let us try to achieve the “One Zambia, One Nation” motto because it is not just simple, but a marketing slogan. It is the perception we create to the outside world. Therefore, I implore my hon. Colleagues to uphold the “One Zambia, One Nation” motto.

Interruptions

Mr D. Mumba: Oh, we are above politics now? We did whatever we did. As far as I am concerned, this motto is the summary of Zambia. If I may borrow the words of the Hon. Mr Speaker, we have one common denominator and that is the people of Zambia. Many of us stood to be voted as Members of Parliament, but only those of us in whom the people of Zambia believed were elected. So, if we can be mindful of the statements that we put in public domain, it can help the people of Zambia and grow our economy.

 Hon. Government Members: Hear, hear!

Mr D. Mumba:  Mr Speaker, the other issue which I want to comment on is that of democracy and good governance.  Just the term itself speaks volumes. Time and again, His Excellency the President, Mr Edgar Chagwa Lungu, mentions the motto “One Zambia, One Nation” and the importance of the rule of law. When we have good institutions of good governance …

Interruptions

Mr D. Mumba: …. when we have good institutions of governance and …

Interruptions

 Mr D. Mumba: Sir, democracy and good governance go hand in hand.

 Interruptions

Mr Speaker: Order! 

Mr D. Mumba: Therefore, Sir, institutions of good governance are very important. They play a key role in fostering economic growth. 

Hon. Government Members: Hear, hear!

Mr D. Mumba: Mr Speaker, the issue is that institutions of good governance are not just institutions of learning, but established norms. There are not just places for one to acquire explicit knowledge for people to say Darius Mumba acquired a doctor of philosophy (PhD). Institutions of good governance instil respect for the rule of law, which my able Government is capable of doing. For example, when we say a matter should be heard within fourteen days, it means just that.

 Hon. Government Members: Hear, hear!

Mr D. Mumba: Sir, the issue is about respecting the rule of law. When we build confidence and establish the independence of the three arms of Government, that is, the Judiciary, Legislature and the Executive, we are not supposed to interfere with their operations. Therefore, when any of these arms says that a matter should be heard within fourteen days, it has to be just that and we are required to adhere to that. 

Sir, for example, when the rule of law is respected when enforcing contracts, the perception that will be created among would-be investors will be credible. Investors will say Zambia is a favourable destination for their investment because they will get value for their money.

Mr Speaker, although I am running out of time, I would like to comment on one issue, which is job creation and industrialisation.

Sir, I will go directly to a very interesting item, which is the Bill on Investment and Enterprise, which will be introduced to the House soon. I think it is an instrumental Bill because it will enable the business houses and entrepreneurs to have more power. When we leave the economic development of this country in the hands of entrepreneurs and let the situation take its course, then, there will be job creation and we will become employers. People will be empowered because of this Bill.

Mr Speaker, if we want to grow the economy and leave it in the hands of the private sector, the Government’s role will simply be to create an enabling environment. Therefore, as the able PF Government and under the capable leadership of His Excellency the President, Mr Edgar Chagwa Lungu, we will do just that.

 Mr Livune: Question!

Mr D. Mumba: Sir, when the enabling environment is created, the private sector and the entrepreneurs will have a fair playing ground as the economic issues will be left in the private hands. There will be job creation and the cost of doing business, which is quite cardinal, will be reduced. As a result, it will also be easy for an ordinary person to start a business which will flourish because the environment is conducive.

 Mr Speaker, I think I have added my voice to the debate in this august House on the Motion of Thanks.

 Hon. Government Members: Hear, hear!

Mr D. Mumba: Sir, with these few remarks, I beg to move.

 Hon. Government Members: Hear, hear!

Laughter

Mr Speaker: Order!

Just a point of guidance, the hon. Member for Milenge moved the Motion and was seconded by the hon. Member fro Chienge, the matter rested there. 

  The rest is just for debate and to record our thanks. That is all and, of course, to present our maiden speeches. There is no need to move the Motion further. It is procedurally improper.

Ms E. Phiri (Kanyama): Mr Speaker, Sir, I would like to thank you for giving me an opportunity …

Mr Speaker: Another point of guidance. Either you address the Chairperson as ‘Sir’ or ‘Mr Speaker’ …

Hon. UPND Members: Hear, hear!

Mr Speaker: … and not both.

Interruptions

Ms E. Phiri: Mr Speaker, I thank you for according me the opportunity to deliver my maiden speech on the Floor of this august House. After delivering my maiden speech, I will also thank His Excellency the President for the powerful speech on the Official Opening of the First Session of the Twelfth National Assembly.

Sir, I humbly stand here before this august House and all my fellow citizens. I am greatly humbled and thankful to have been elected on the 11th August, 2016, in the General Elections by the people of Kanyama to represent them in this Parliament. I do not take it for granted. Before I proceed, I would like to congratulate you on winning your second election to this august House. I also want to congratulate the hon. Deputy Speakers, Her Honour the Vice-President and every hon. Member of this House on being elected.

Mr Speaker, I am highly indebted to the Patriotic Front (PF) Party for the confidence it had in adopting me and finding me a suitable candidate, out of all the aspirants, to carry forward the mantle of developing Kanyama Constituency. I promise to be the voice and loyal servant of Kanyama Constituency. I am glad to mention that the road network in Kanyama Constituency is improving and about 15 km of roads were resurfaced under the L-400 km Road Project in the industrial part of Kanyama Constituency.

Sir, Kanyama is a very big constituency and has a high population. Therefore, there is a need for more schools, health facilities, drainages and excess clean water supply. I intend to involve the business community to enhance social-corporate responsibility in the blessed Kanyama Constituency. Let me add that Kanyama Constituency is very blessed with business investments. Many business people have confidence in investing in Kanyama because of its nature and location, hence creating more employment for the youths of Kanyama. This is what the PF Government promised the people of Kanyama.

Mr Speaker, as much as there are a number of development projects going on in Kanyama Constituency, I would like to mention that it is eager to get its fair share of the countrywide infrastructure development which the residents of Kanyama are anticipating. I wish to urge all my colleagues from the Opposition to give credit where it is due, …

Mr Livune: Question!

Ms E. Phiri: … especially that every resident of Kanyama will benefit. I wish to reiterate  that the PF Government has made great developmental strides in the country in terms of infrastructure development, which include roads, schools and health posts to mention, but a few. Now that the election period is over, it is time for the people of Kanyama to put aside their political affiliation differences and work together to resolve issues which affect all of us regardless of the political party one belongs.

Mr Mulenga: Hear, hear!

Ms E. Phiri: Mr Speaker, let me mention that almost everything is a priority … 

Hon. Government Members: Hear, hear! Hammer, hammer!

Ms E. Phiri: … when it comes to development in Kanyama and this includes clinics, schools, roads, proper drainages, youth and women empowerment projects and many more. For me to effectively achieve all these projects in the shortest possible time, through the Kanyama Parliamentary Office, I am going to involve all Kanyama residents through residence development committees. Therefore, 200 to 300 households will have to come up with the leadership of a Chairperson, Vice-Chairperson, Secretary and Vice-Secretary. The duty of this leadership will be to convene residential meetings every fortnight in order for the residents of a particular area to submit project proposals which will later be handed over to me, through the Kanyama Parliamentary Office.

Mr Speaker, my speech would be incomplete if I did not thank my campaign team, the campaign manager, Mr Chilufya Chanda, his co-ordinator, Mr Daniel Kalimba, and all the PF Kanyama Constituency, Ward, Branch and section officials who sacrificed their time to  campaign day and night. As I conclude my maiden speech, I wish to thank my entire family for the support they rendered to me during the campaign until the elections. I also wish to thank the President, His Excellency, Mr Edgar Chagwa Lungu, the PF Party, the people of Kanyama Constituency and the Members of the Central Committee for the support that they gave me and the trust they had in me to represent Kanyama.

Hon. Government Members: Hear, hear!

Ms E. Phiri: Mr Speaker, I would be failing in my duties if I did not commend the great speech that our able President, Mr Edgar Chagwa Lungu, delivered on 30th September, 2016. He mentioned a number of things and among those, he talked of human …

Interruptions

Hon. Government Members: Hammer, hammer!

Ms E. Phiri: … development programmes …

Interruptions

Ms E. Phiri: … and skills development programmes which will be implemented in different areas. He also mentioned the enhancement of tertiary education in every province. The people of Kanyama welcome this move because most of the youths in Kanyama are not educated. Therefore, by training them, we will bring them closer to the economic development programmes which the nation will initiate. It is better to invest in educating the youths unlike their being on the streets where they drink and smoke. As Kanyama Constituency, this is something we appreciate and thank our intelligent President for.

Hon. Government Members: Hear, hear!

Ms E. Phiri: Sir, most times when people speak, they forget to touch areas or issues affecting the young people. However, this time around, women will benefit from the Government projects through the Ministry of Gender. Similarly, the youth will also benefit through the Ministry of Youth and Sport. I promised the people of Kanyama Parliamentary Constituency that this time around, they will have their share of the cake.

Laughter

Ms E. Phiri: Mr Speaker, I am a mouth piece for the people of Kanyama Parliamentary Constituency. I promised to speak for them and so, we intend to benefit from each and every programme that the Government will put in place.

I rest.

I thank you, Sir.

Hon. Members: Hear, hear!

Hon. Government Member: Mwalasa.

Mr Livune: May your soul rest in peace.

ADJOURNMENT

The Vice-President (Mrs Wina): Mr Speaker, I beg to move that the House do now adjourn.

Question put and agreed to.

_______

The House adjourned at 1707 hours until 1430 hours on Wednesday, 5th February, 2016.