Tuesday, 6th March, 2018

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Tuesday, 6th March, 2018

 

The House met at 1430 hours

 

[MADAM FIRST DEPUTY SPEAKER in the Chair]

 

NATIONAL ANTHEM

 

PRAYER

 

__________

 

MINISTERIAL STATEMENT

 

STATUS OF CONSTRUCTION OF KENNETH KAUNDA INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT

 

The Minister of Housing and Infrastructure Development (Mr Chitotela): Madam Speaker, I thank you for giving me the opportunity to deliver another ministerial statement on a subject that is of public interest and very topical. Last year, I came to this august House to inform the nation about this very subject and, out of duty, I am here today again to update the nation and this House on the progress made, as of January, 2018, regarding the construction of the Kenneth Kaunda International Airport (KKIA). The Government considers this project a key component of our effort to expand and modernise the infrastructure base of the country and ultimately transform Zambia into a transport hub in the region and beyond. We are, therefore, making a significant investment in this facility because we believe that it is of tremendous national importance. Apart from the fact that it is the first point of contact for most of our foreign visitors and, therefore, the first impression of our country, it will contribute to the economic growth of our country in so many ways.

 

Madam Speaker, the Government, in partnership with a contractor called China Jiangxi Corporation for International and Technical Co-operation Zambia Limited, has moved forward since the last time I stood on the Floor of this august House to provide an update. We are well on the way to meeting the target of 20th October, 2019, as the completion date for the design and construction of the KKIA, which commenced on 21st April, 2015. So far, there have been no variations made and the contract sum remains US$360 million. We continue to manage the project efficiently to remain on track financially and technically.

 

Madam, I am delighted to inform the nation that, since my last update, we have been able to move the overall project from 37 per cent to 64 per cent completion. I, therefore, commend all those who have contributed to this progress. At the same time, I urge them to continue with the same vigour as we go towards the 100 per cent mark.

 

Madam Speaker, allow me to mention some of the progress that has been made under the different stages and sub-components of the contract.

 

Design

 

The design of the various components of the project is as follows:

 

  1. the design of the fuel system is at 30 per cent completion level. The design drawings have since been sent to specialists in fuel systems in South Africa who are expected to provide expert advice to the Government; and

 

  1. the maintenance hangar is still at 25 per cent completion and the contractor is working to finalise the designs while the Zambia Air Service Training Institute (ZASTI) Management has been requested to establish the scope of work for the rehabilitation of the institute.

 

Construction

 

Madam Speaker, with regard to the actual construction works, the progress is as follows:

 

  1. the Presidential Pavilion is at 76 per cent, from 59 per cent when I last reported to this august House;

 

  1. the Fire and Rescue Station is 100 per cent;

 

  1. the apron for special planes is also 100 per cent complete;

 

  1. the new terminal building is 74 per cent, from 49 per cent the last time I updated the house;

 

  1. the hotel is at 40 per cent;

 

  1. the air traffic control tower is at 90 per cent, from the 50 per cent reported in my previous statement;

 

  1. the viaduct is at 100 per cent, up from the 90 per cent last reported;

 

  1. the airfield area is at 53 per cent;

 

  1. the new warehousing facilities are at 30 per cent completion;

 

  1. the cargo apron is at 90 per cent completion;

 

  1. the terminal apron is at 70 per cent, from the 42 per cent reported last time;

 

  • the taxiway extension is at 65 per cent, from the last time when we reported it at 53 per cent;

 

  1. the new shopping mall is 45 per cent; and

 

  • the new office park is at 33 per cent.

 

Quality Control

 

Madam Speaker, we continue to make sure that quality control is very seriously monitored. In line with the position I stated last time, I am glad to inform the House that we have continued taking all the necessary measures aimed at achieving high quality standards through testing of all the concrete materials, stones, gravel and building sand, reinforcement bars as well as all works and finishes as an integral part of our monitoring and supervision.

 

Environmental Protection

 

Madam Speaker, the measures we instituted when we commenced the project have continued to be implemented. Through monitoring and inspections, we are improving the measures in order to enhance our environmental protection efforts. We have also continued to monitor the use of the temporary toilets and garbage collection points on site, the enforcement of dust emission suppression activities as well as environmental education.

 

Madam Speaker, as I conclude, I assure the august House and the nation that we will continue working tirelessly so that Zambians can benefit from this investment once it is completed. We expect our women and men to get full-time employment from the many facilities that this project will operationalise. We also expect that the establishment of a national carrier will benefit from this investment. I have told the hon. Minister of Transport and Communication that what we are doing is like building a very beautiful and expensive house with a very beautiful car park and expecting your neighbours to park their vehicles in your yard.

 

Madam, we will continue on this development path we charted for ourselves, as the Patriotic Front (PF) Government, through the mandate given to us by the people of Zambia. We want to make our people proud and leave a legacy of an international quality standard infrastructure product that will form a strong basis for our long-term development, as a nation.

 

I thank you, Madam.

 

Hon. Government Members: Hear, hear!

 

Madam First Deputy Speaker: Hon. Members, you are now free to ask questions on points of clarification on the statement issued by the hon. Minister.

 

Dr Chanda (Bwana Mkubwa): Madam Speaker, ...

 

Mr Mwiimbu: On a point of order, Madam.

 

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

 

Mr Mwiimbu: Madam Speaker, thank you for according me this opportunity to raise a very serious point of order pertaining to the health of our people in this country.

 

Madam Speaker, you may not be aware that our neighbouring countries have decided to take urgent measures to stop the importation of ready-to-eat meat from South Africa as a result of the outbreak of listeriosis in that country.

 

Madam Speaker, you may not be aware that most of the meat products sold in Zambia from South Africa are made by a company called Tiger Brands Limited, and that is the company that has been associated with the outbreak of the disease.

 

Madam Speaker, is Her Honour the Vice-President in order to remain quiet on this matter, considering how urgent it is? The people of Zambia need to be informed, through this House, what measures the Government has taken to ensure that they are protected.

 

Madam, whatever has been said about this issue outside this House is a rumour. I expect the Government to issue a ministerial statement through this House. Is the Government in order not to take this matter seriously? If we do not take precautionary measures, our people will be affected. I am aware that more than 180 people have died from the disease in South Africa.

 

Madam First Deputy Speaker: Yes, I have also read about this threat to public health. Therefore, I direct the hon. Minister responsible for public health to issue a statement to this House on Friday, 9th March, 2018 to inform this House and the public at large what the Government is doing to protect the health of the people.

 

Interruptions

 

Madam First Deputy Speaker: I have been informed that Thursday and Friday are holidays.

 

I cannot see the hon. Minister of Health in the House. Maybe, he is attending to the same issue. Since he is proactive, and probably already dealing with this matter, he must issue the statement to this House tomorrow.

 

The hon. Member for Bwana Mkubwa may continue.

 

Dr Chanda: Madam Speaker, we want to make Zambia a regional hub and have one of the best airports in the region. When that is done, we expect a lot of traffic to flow into the country. However, the Airport Road leaves much to be desired and, as the hon. Minister rightly said, in many countries, the best road is usually the one to the airport. When will we have a proper Airport Road to complement the new facilities we are building at the airport?

 

Mr Chitotela: Madam Speaker, we will begin upgrading that road to a dual carriageway before the end of this year.

 

I thank you, Madam.

 

Mr Nkombo (Mazabuka Central): Madam Speaker, I am aware that initially, the construction of the new terminals at the Kenneth Kaunda International Airport (KKIA) was meant to be done under a public-private partnership (PPP). Later, the Government changed its mind and took a loan to implement the project. If that is true, I would like to find out whether the hon. Minister can come back to this House to tell Zambians how much of that loan has been used, who the sub-contractors are, how much each of them has been paid, and how the Government intends to realise a return on this investment.

 

Mr Chitotela: Madam Speaker, I must put it on record that I am not aware that this project was supposed to be implemented using the public-private partnership (PPP) model. What I know is that it was supposed to be done under the engineering, procurement and construction plus financing (EPC+F) model. If there is a need to provide information on how many contractors have been engaged for the project and how long the loan repayment period is, I will issue a statement on that. However, I can confirm to the nation that the total project cost is US$360 million, which came under the engineering procurement and construction (EPC) model.

 

Madam, the project will also construct various facilities, including a seventy-roomed hotel, on the left side of the terminal building. Within the terminal building, we shall have a thirty-roomed transit hotel for passengers. The other facility that will be constructed is a shopping mall while ZASTI will be rehabilitated and other facilities, such as the ones used for the storage of both imported and exported fresh products like roses, will also be built. Further, the airport will have a standalone very very important persons (VVIP) Presidential Pavilion, which will ensure traffic at the airport is not disrupted every time a head of state visits our country. This means that Presidential planes will not land at the same airstrip as other planes. The facility will also service our President and the Vice-President.

 

Madam, I cannot confirm the issue of the PPP, how many sub-contractors have been engaged and how much money has been utilised. With the leave of this House, I can make that information available after I have consulted.

 

I thank you, Madam.

 

Dr Kambwili (Roan): Madam Speaker, what is the number of full-time jobs that will be generated once this projected is completed?

 

Mr Chitotela: Madam Speaker, after the completion of all the facilities at the airport, we expect to create 300 permanent jobs for indigenous Zambians.

 

Madam Speaker, I thank you.

 

Mr Kafwaya (Lunte): Madam Speaker, I thank the hon. Minister for that statement. Being one of those who strongly believe that infrastructure development stimulates economic activity, I am pleased with the update that the hon. Minister has given us.

 

Madam Speaker, is the progress that the hon. Minister has mentioned regarding the upgrading of the Kenneth Kaunda International Airport (KKIA) the same as that made on the Kasama Runway? Further, what is the payback period for this loan?

 

Madam First Deputy Speaker: The hon. Minister will deal with the issue of the payback period. The question on Kasama Airport should be ignored.

 

Mr Chitotela: Madam Speaker, that question is similar to the one asked by the hon. Member of Parliament for Mazabuka Central Constituency. I will need to do some research so that I can give the correct information to the nation. So, as soon as Her Honour the Vice-President, who is the Leader of Government Business in the House, clears us, I will issue a comprehensive statement to this august House and inform the nation on the repayment period and auxiliary benefits the country has accrued from the construction stage. The statement will also answer the question of how the loan has been utilised. Therefore, I seek the permission of the Chair to issue a comprehensive statement later.

 

I thank you, Madam Speaker.

 

Madam First Deputy Speaker: Could the hon. Minister issue that comprehensive statement within the course of next week.

 

Mr Chitotela indicated assent.

 

Mr Lufuma (Kabompo): Madam Speaker, I thank the hon. Minister for the update. However, I have a slight problem. A project similar to the one in question, the Harry Mwaanga Nkumbula International Airport Project in Livingstone, was facilitated by the leadership of the Patriotic Front (PF). According to the Government, the project was also supposed to be a master piece in the tourist capital. Unfortunately, that airport is a sorry sight. If you go there right now, you will see that nothing tangible has been built, and some people have attributed that to the corrupt way in which the contract was awarded. These are the factors that are eating into our development progress. Could the Government assure the country that what happened to the Harry Mwaanga Nkumbula International Airport will not happen to Kenneth Kaunda International Airport (KKIA).

 

Madam First Deputy Speaker: Hon. Members, you are becoming very creative in the way you are asking questions.

 

Before the House adjourns sine die, the hon. Minister of Housing and Infrastructure Development should issue a comprehensive statement on questions relating to the development of all other airports and aerodromes in this country. That way, he will deal with all these questions that are now beginning to come from the sides. So, in addition to the statement next week, the hon. Minister will, before 29th March, 2018, also issue a comprehensive statement on the payback period for the loan acquired for the construction of the Kenneth Kaunda International Airport (KKIA).

 

________

 

QUESTIONS FOR ORAL ANSWER

 

FISHING BAN IN LIUWA CONSTITUENCY

 

207. Dr Musokotwane (Liuwa) asked the Minister of Fisheries and Livestock:

 

  1. why the Government had extended the fishing ban to Liuwa Parliamentary Constituency, which is not affected by the cholera epidemic;

 

  1. whether the Government was aware that the extension of the ban was adversely affecting the people of Liuwa, who depended on fishing activities for their livelihood; and

 

  1. whether the Government would consider lifting the ban in areas that were not affected by the cholera epidemic.

 

The Minister of Fisheries and Livestock (Ms Mulenga): Madam Speaker, the Government has extended the fishing ban to Liuwa Parliamentary Constituency and other fishing areas to prevent the spread of cholera from the epicentres to fishing areas that have not been affected by the epidemic.

 

Madam Speaker, the Government is aware of the impact of extending the fishing ban on the people of Liuwa and all other communities that rely on fishing activities for their livelihoods. However, it cannot risk the further loss of human life by allowing the spread of the cholera epidemic to fishing areas. Therefore, it took the necessary measures to contain the spread of the disease, including, but not limited to extending the fishing ban to all fishing camps.

 

Madam Speaker, the hon. Member may also wish to know that the Government has an on-going programme for promoting alternative forms of livelihood in fishing areas, such as aquaculture, livestock rearing, bee-keeping and crop production, to mitigate the effects of the ban. One example is rice production in Liuwa Parliamentary Constituency.

 

Madam, the Government will consider lifting the fishing ban upon receiving clearance from the Ministry of Health or the National Cholera Task Force.

 

I thank you, Madam.

 

Dr Musokotwane: Madam Speaker, as a result of heavy rainfall, crops had been destroyed by flooding as early as December, 2017, while by January, 2018, there was a drought that destroyed the remaining crops. In short, there is hunger now. What is the Government doing to feed the people of Liuwa now that they are being stopped from fishing, an activity that would have generated income to enable them to feed themselves? Further, when is the Government taking relief food there?

 

Ms Mulenga: Madam Speaker, if there is a disaster in Liuwa Constituency, the Disaster Management and Mitigation Unit (DMMU) will come in. The Government cannot risk the lives of the people Liuwa by lifting the fishing ban. Health inspectors and the cholera task force are currently on the ground inspecting the fishing camps. In our statement on the extension of the fishing ban, we said it was subject to review. So, we will lift the ban once we get clearance from the cholera task force.

 

Thank you, Madam Speaker,

 

Dr Kalila (Lukulu East): Madam Speaker, what specific interventions are currently being implemented in Liuwa and other fishing camps, such as those in Lukulu, to prevent the further spread of cholera? I ask this question because, as far as I know, there has been no cholera in those two places, yet the reason the hon. Minister has given for the ban is the need to prevent the further spread of the disease.

 

Ms Mulenga: Madam Speaker, the ministry is implementing sensitisation programmes through the people it has in the area. It is also, through the cholera task force, ensuring that the sanitary conditions in fishing camps are good. Like I stated earlier, as soon as we get clearance from the task force, we will lift the ban. At the moment, we cannot risk the lives of people.

 

I thank you, Madam Speaker.

 

Mr Ndalamei (Sikongo): Madam Speaker, is it right to punish people by stopping them from fishing when there was only one case of cholera reported in Kaoma, and the person who was found with cholera had gone there from Lusaka to buy mushrooms. There have been no other cases reported in the Western Province from that time. Is it right to prevent people from fishing for their livelihood?

 

Ms Mulenga: Madam Speaker, it is said that prevention is better than cure. As a responsible Government, we recorded a case of cholera and had to take measures so that the disease did not spread. We will do everything possible to protect the welfare of the people of Liuwa.

 

I thank you, Madam Speaker.

 

Mr Miyutu (Kalabo Central): Madam Speaker, the hon. Minister is talking about fishing camps, but I do not know how much knowledge she has concerning Liuwa because there are no fishing camps there.

 

Laughter

 

Mr Miyutu: Madam Speaker, fishing is our livelihood. We do not fish from camps, but from our villages. The hon. Minister should also know that wild animals in Liuwa graze on the crops people grow and that adds to their plight. Given the situation at hand and the fact that there is no cholera in the area, what has the task force about which the hon. Minister is talking done in Kalabo to indicate to her that there is a threat of the occurrence of cholera in Liuwa? What reports has she received?

 

Madam First Deputy Speaker: The hon. Minister of Fisheries and Livestock will focus her response on whether or not there are fishing camps in Liuwa and if at all the ministry is actively involved in ensuring that the ban will be lifted if the Government is satisfied that the threat does not exist.

 

Ms Mulenga: Madam Speaker, I would like to correct the hon. Member of Parliament. There are fishing camps along the Zambezi River, except during the flood season. I indicated that the ban in Liuwa will be lifted as soon as we get clearance. This will not take long because the cholera task force is already on the ground. So, I do not understand why the hon. Member insists on asking why the Government effected the ban. The Government extended the ban because it has to protect its people. The ban has not only affected the people in the fishing camps, but also the traders because it had to cut across the board.

 

I thank you, Madam Speaker.

 

Ms Katuta (Chienge): Madam Speaker, I heard the hon. Minister say that the Government is empowering the fishermen in the areas where the fishing ban has been extended. However, I want her to know that what is obtaining on the ground is total cruelty to humanity.

 

Madam Speaker, I know it is not time for debate, but allow me to speak on behalf of the people of Chienge and Luapula. The hon. Minister has stopped people from trading, but Capital Fisheries takes fish to Chienge and Nchelenge. Why is it that this kind of trade is not stopped as well?

 

Madam First Deputy Speaker: Hon. Member ...

 

Ms Katuta: I am coming to my question now.

 

Madam Speaker, the people of Chienge totally depend on fishing. That is a livelihood ...

 

Madam First Deputy Speaker: Hon. Member, the question is about Liuwa. I will allow you to ask a general question pertaining to the ban, but let us focus on the question.

 

Mrs Katuta: Yes, Madam Speaker, the last …

 

Madam First Deputy Speaker: Focus on the question.

 

Interruptions

 

Madam First Deputy Speaker: You may continue, hon. Member for Chienge.

 

Mrs Katuta: Madam Speaker, the last part of the question asked by Hon. Dr Situmbeko Musokotwane, says … Let me just read the question.

 

Hon. Government Members: Ah!

 

Hon. Opposition Members: Yes!

 

Mrs Katuta: Part (c) of the question is on whether the Government will consider lifting the ban in areas that are not affected by the cholera epidemic. I ask this question because the fishing ban has been extended to all fishing places. May I know why the Government cannot lift the ban when there is no cholera case that has been reported in the areas in question, including Chienge? Currently, in Chienge, the marines are busy beating up people. Cholera is here, in Lusaka, and other places. In fact, it is Capital Fisheries from Lusaka which takes fish to Chienge.

 

Madam First Deputy Speaker: The hon. Minister of Fisheries and Livestock will just repeat her response to part (c) of her response to the principal question.

 

Ms Mulenga: Madam Speaker, I just want to put it on record that life is more important than fish and that cholera is not …

 

Mrs Katuta: But the marines are busy beating up my people.

 

Ms Mulenga: … in Lusaka only. For example, there are areas like Shibuyunji where there are fishermen from all parts of the country.

 

Mr Lusambo: Hear, hear!

 

Ms Mulenga: The Government cannot take the risk, Madam Speaker. It is very difficult for us to identify which fisherman is from Chienge or Bangweulu; we just regard them as fishermen. This is a preventive measure we have put in place. As I indicated, once we get clearance from the task force, the ban will be lifted. I want to put it on record, once more, that life is more important than fish.

 

I thank you, Madam Speaker.

 

Hon. Government Members: hear, hear!

 

Mr Mutelo (Mitete): Madam Speaker, indeed life is more important than fish. So, the source of life is equally important. There were more cholera cases here, in Lusaka. We saw the hon. Ministers of Health and General Education reschedule the reopening of schools so that cholera cases would not spread. Later, schools were opened in Lusaka, where cholera cases were reported. Now, where there is no cholera, the hon. Minister has banned fishing. What is her problem?

 

Laughter

 

Madam First Deputy Speaker: The hon. Minister does not have a problem.

 

Laughter

 

Madam First Deputy Speaker: Further, you have asked your question. So, please, resume your seat.

 

Laughter

 

Ms Mulenga: Madam Speaker, I just want to put it on record, although I know that I am not the hon. Minister of Higher Education, that there were schools in Lusaka that did not open. So, the Government will take every necessary measure to ensure that our people are safe. Like I said, it is not Lusaka alone, but the whole country.

 

Dr Chilufya: Yes!

 

Ms Mulenga: These are preventive measures that we are taking as a Government. So, until we get a clearance from the cholera task force, and the ministries of Health and Local Government, we will not lift the ban.

 

Madam Speaker, I also want to put it on record that the Government does not work in isolation.

 

I thank you, Madam Speaker.

 

Hon. Government Members: Hear, hear!

 

Mr Mwansa (Chimbamilonga): Madam Speaker, is Lake Tanganyika also affected? I ask this question because, there, we do not have camps, but districts …

 

Madam First Deputy Speaker: Hon. Member for Chimbamilonga, the question is about Liuwa.

 

Do you have a question on that?

 

Mr Mwansa: Yes, Madam.

 

 Madam Speaker, I just want to know because some areas do not have fishing camps, like the hon. Member for Liuwa has said. They have specific towns and villages. Are those towns and villages also affected?

 

Ms Mulenga: Madam Speaker, whether there is cholera or not, there are many people in the fish trade value chain. There are companies, transporters and fishermen. So, we cannot monitor who is coming from where. Even the people engaged in aquaculture have to get clearance from ministry under the Fisheries Department before they transport their fish. It should cheer all hon. Members that this is a concerned Government.

 

I thank you, Madam Speaker.

 

Hon. Government Members: Hear, hear!

 

Madam First Deputy Speaker: Hon. Minister, are areas that do not have fishing camps also affected?

 

Ms Mulenga: Yes, Madam Speaker. All areas are affected by the fishing ban.

 

Dr Musokotwane: Madam Speaker, this Government says that it has banned fishing because of the fear that the people who move into fishing areas from other places will transmit cholera. At the same time, the same Government allows people to travel by bus from Lusaka, Ndola and Livingstone to Liuwa, Mongu and other places every single day. School children were allowed to move from places where they were on holiday to Liuwa and other places. So, could the hon. Minister tell us the real reason she banned fishing in Liuwa and other areas because the explanation she has given does not make sense.

 

Hon. Opposition Members laughed.

 

Madam First Deputy Speaker: Hon. Member for Liuwa, will you withdraw the last part of your question.

 

Dr Musokotwane: Madam Speaker, the explanation is not believable.

 

Madam First Deputy Speaker: So, do you withdraw the last part of your statement?

 

Dr Musokotwane: Yes, Madam Speaker, I withdraw.

 

Laughter

 

Ms Mulenga: Madam Speaker, we are, obviously, avoiding the transmission cycle. In fishing camps, there are no proper sanitary facilities. We know cholera is transmitted through faecal matter. So, we are trying to break the transmission cycle. Like I said, the Government does not work in isolation. We have other stakeholders who are involved and are currently on the ground.

 

I thank you, Madam Speaker.

 

Mr Chikote (Luampa): Madam Speaker, since the hon. Minister is aware that …

 

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

 

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

 

Mr Nkombo: Madam Speaker, this is very difficult for me. My point of order is pursuant to Cap 12 of the Laws of Zambia, which deals with privileges, immunities and support services for Members of Parliament and, by extension, the precarious situation in which the hon. Member of Parliament for Liuwa has found himself by suspecting that something is not being spoken truthfully here.

 

Madam Speaker, I have a set of three documents. I have already referred to the law on which I am raising the point of order. I also have an excerpt from the Hansard for Friday, 2nd March, 2018, quoting the hon. Minister of Health, my dear brother and friend, Dr Chitalu Chilufya, when he was winding up the acrimonious debate on the National Health Insurance Bill. I will lay these documents on the Table as soon as I am done. I quote:

 

Dr Chilufya: Referring to the report that says there was no consultation done, Madam Speaker, I will lay on the Table of the House the evidence and consultation that was done. I have referred to the household survey and, furthermore, I will refer to the stakeholders’ meetings that were held, where various stakeholders, including the Zambia Federation of Employees (ZFE) and the Zambia Congress of Trade Unions (ZCTU) participated.

 

Madam Speaker, we did a study tour to Ghana on the Social Health Insurance Bill, not as part of social protection, but if you look at the people that travelled to Ghana, it included the leadership of the ZCTU. It included people from various stakeholders. Even when we went to Rwanda, we had the leadership of the unions”.

 

Madam Speaker, I have a copy of a letter to the administration of this institution, unfortunately copied to my friend, the Chief Whip, Dr Steven Chungu, I did not know that my colleague is a doctor; me, Gary Nkombo; and all the members of the Committee on Privileges, Absences and Support Services. The letter is signed by a man called Cosmas Mukuka, Secretary-General of the ZCTU. Madam Speaker, I quote: 

 

“5 March 2018

 

The Chairperson

Committee on Privileges, Absences and Support Services

National Assembly

LUSAKA

 

Dear Sir/Madam

 

MISREPRESENTATION OF FACTS DURING DEBATE BY HON. CHITALU CHILUFYA ON THE NATIONAL HEALTH INSURANCE BILL

 

We write to protest over the manner the Honourable Member of Parliament for Dr Chitalu Chilufya, who is also Minister of Health, has been presenting the National Health Insurance Bill to Parliament. Our protest emanates from the fact that Honourable Chilufya has not been very truthful with facts when presenting the Bill.

 

Contrary to the assertions by the Minister that the Zambian Congress of Trade Unions (ZCTU) has been consulted during certain stages in processing the Bill, we can confidently state that we have never been approached by the Ministry of Health for the purposes of discussing the Bill. The Ministry of Health has single-handedly driven the process regarding the development of this Bill.

 

It is equally not true that the ZCTU participated in the study tour to Rwanda over the Bill, organised by the Ministry, as alleged by the Minister whilst debating the Bill in Parliament. At no stage did any ZCTU official participate in such a tour by the Ministry.

 

We are therefore, appealing to the Committee to investigate this matter to determine the truth. We greatly feel that because of the unfounded pronouncements in Parliament by the hon. Member, Dr Chilufya, the House and the public at large have been grossly misled.

 

Yours faithfully,

 

 

Cosmas Mukuka

SECRETARY-GENERAL 

 

cc. Chief Whip for PF – Dr Stephen Chungu

cc. Chief Whip for the Opposition – Mr Garry Nkombo

cc. Hon. Members of the Committee”

 

Madam Speaker, the provisions of Cap 12 of the Laws of Zambia are very clear. I will not waste time on reading them, but for avoidance of doubt, maybe at tea break, you can go through them so that you can make a determination of my point of order. I would like us to know who is telling the truth between the hon. Minister and the ZCTU. I rest my case.

 

Mr Nkombo laid the paper on the Table.

 

Madam First Deputy Speaker: What is your point of order?

 

Mr Nkombo: Madam Speaker, assuming the ZCTU position to be the correct one, is Hon. Dr Chilufya in order to have misled the country through this House by uttering what seem to be falsehoods, contrary to Cap 12 of the Laws of Zambia?

 

I seek your ruling, Madam Speaker.

 

Hon. UPND Members: Hear, hear!

 

Madam First Deputy Speaker: The hon. Member for Mazabuka Central has raised a point of order alleging that the hon. Minister of Health misled the House and, through this House, the nation by stating that he had consulted some stakeholders in the preparation and finalisation of the National Health Insurance Bill, which was debated last Friday. As the hon. Members will obviously know, the Chair will need time to investigate and peruse the documents that have been laid on the Table of the House. Therefore, the ruling is reserved.

 

The hon. Member for Luampa was on the Floor.

 

Mr Chikote: Madam Speaker, the hon. Minister is aware that the source of income for the people of Liuwa is fishing. This pro-poor Government knows that the people of Liuwa depend on fishing. Now that there is a fishing ban, most of the parents are failing to take their children to school. What mechanism is this pro-poor Patriotic Front (PF) Government putting in place to support the people of Liuwa?

 

Madam First Deputy Speaker: The Hon. Minister of Fisheries and Livestock will repeat her earlier answer to a similar question for emphasis’ sake.

 

Ms Mulenga: Madam, as I earlier stated, the hon. Member may also wish to note that the Government has an on-going programme of promoting alternative forms of livelihood in fishing areas, such as aquaculture, livestock rearing, bee-keeping and crop production. For example, in Liuwa Constituency, we will promote rice production. These programmes will be implemented to mitigate the effects of the fishing ban. If, indeed, there is hunger in that area, the hon. Member can simply inform the DMMU, which will get to the ground like it has always done.

 

I thank you, Madam Speaker.

 

Mrs Chonya (Kafue): Madam Speaker, since the hon. Minister is new in the ministry, I would like to inform her that we had a disaster in Kafue in which five fishermen died during one night while trying to make a living out of fishing. Perhaps, she does not appreciate the levels of poverty in our communities because she said that life is much more important than anything else, yet people’s livelihoods are at stake. That said, could she kindly tell us when the task force will report back to her so that interested parties like the people of Kafue, Liuwa and others affected by the fishing ban are not left in indefinite suspense regarding the extended ban. Maybe, she can take a leaf from the hon. Minister of Higher Education who gave us a specific date for the reopening of public universities. The task force might take a year to report back to her and the people may die because of not being informed.

 

Ms Mulenga: Madam Speaker, death has nothing to do with anybody being new in a given ministry. As the Minister of Fisheries and Livestock, I am part of the cholera task force. In case the hon. Member of Parliament for Kafue does not know, I want to put it on record that updates are given every day. So, I advise her to listen to the morning news or come to our offices where we will give her daily updates. There is cholera in Kafue, which started in Shibuyunji. So, we will do everything possible to mitigate it so that it does not spread to other compounds like our friends are anticipating.

 

I thank you, Madam Speaker.

 

SHORTAGE OF ZESCO PREPAID METERS

 

208. Mr Samakayi (Mwinilunga) asked the Minister of Energy:

 

  1. whether the Government was aware that the Zambia Electricity Supply Corporation (ZESCO) Limited had run out of prepaid meters;

 

  1. when the prepaid meters would be procured to avoid inconveniencing new customers and those requiring replacements; and

 

  1. what measures the Government was taking to ensure that ZESCO Limited had a continuous supply of essential items, such as prepaid meters and transformers.

 

The Minister of Energy (Mr Nkhuwa): Madam Speaker, yes, the Government is aware. The Zambia Electricity Supply Corporation (ZESCO) Limited has been procuring an average of 50,000 prepaid meters per year for new connections and replacements. After the Increased Access to Electricity Service Programme started, the company increased its procurement to 100,000 meters per year with a view to capturing more customers in line with the Government’s drive to increase access to electricity supply in the country.

 

Madam Speaker, the current temporary shortfall in the supply of prepaid meters has been caused by some challenges faced in the procurement process. Initially, ZESCO Limited had procured 100,000 prepaid meters to be used in 2017 and the first quarter of 2018, and it was envisaged that the next procurement would start in the first quarter of 2018. However, 50,000 of the meters delivered developed a common problem that resulted in their total recall by the manufacturer in November, 2017, as they were still within the warranty period. The manufacturer has already commenced repairs on the said meters. It must be noted that the corporation is not at zero meter for fault resolution meter replacements, as appreciable stock levels are available for, at least, the next two months. The only affected category is that of the new customers.

 

Madam Speaker, to avert the adverse effects of the shortfall, ZESCO Limited urgently initiated the procurement of 32,000 prepaid meters and, subsequently, 75,000 more. The first delivery is expected by the third week of 2018.

 

Madam Speaker, the Government is committed to supporting ZESCO Limited financially in all projects it is undertaking as far as procurement of critical materials like prepaid meters, transformers, conductors, service cables, wooden poles and line hardware is concerned. As I speak, there are a number of procurements related to the aforementioned at various stages. Additionally, the Government provides sovereign guarantees for ZESCO Limited to access external financing where needs arise. Foreign investors are also being encouraged to set up manufacturing plants in Zambia to cut down on the cost and lead times in the procurement of critical materials.

 

I thank you, Madam Speaker.

 

Mr Samakayi: Madam Speaker, I am failing to appreciate what the hon. Minister is saying in this House. Firstly, he agrees with me that the ZESCO Limited has run out of meters. Then, he says that it still has some stocks. I am a victim of the non-availability of meters. My prepaid meter is faulty and I have been to ZESCO Limited three times, but the company does not even have one prepaid meter. However, the hon. Minister said there are appreciable stocks of prepaid meters.

 

Mr Michelo: Which stocks?

 

Mr Samakayi: Which stocks, hon. Minister?

 

Laughter

 

Madam First Deputy Speaker: What is the question honourable …

 

Mr Samakayi: The question is: Does ZESCO Limited have any prepaid meters? If it has even one, I can go to get it right now because I have the faulty one in my car.

 

Mr Nkhuwa: Madam Speaker, ZESCO Limited has meters to replace faulty ones, but even if the hon. Member went there, he would not be given one because the company does not give meters to people, but installs them. Therefore, he can request to have the meter replaced. The Government’s position is that ZESCO Limited has meters for replacement of faulty ones and it has slowed down on new connections so as to avail the available meters to the people who already paid the connection fee. However, it should have more stocks by the end of this month.

 

I thank you, Madam Speaker.

 

Madam First Deputy Speaker: Hon. Minister, the hon. Member of Parliament for Mwinilunga insists that Zambia Electricity Supply Corporation (ZESCO) does not have meters to replace the faulty ones. Perhaps, you can guide him on what he should do in case he receives the same response from ZESCO. To what should he take recourse?

 

Mr Samakayi: Yes!

 

Mr Nkhuwa: Madam Speaker, I will take it up personally and ensure that the hon. Member of Parliament for Mwinilunga’s meter is replaced.

 

I thank you, Madam.

 

Mr Samakayi: Hear, hear!

 

Mr Muchima (Ikeleng’i): Madam Speaker, I would like to get the hon. Minister of Energy clearly and establish what the problem is. Firstly, he talked about the manufacturer having difficulties in manufacturing these meters. Secondly, he said that Zambia Electricity Supply Corporation (ZESCO) has run out of stocks. Thirdly, I do not know whether he has tried engaging the private sector. My question, therefore is: Where is the problem regarding the shortage of these meters in the country? Further, has he estimated how many meters are required for the entire country in terms of shortfall?

 

Mr Nkhuwa: Madam Speaker, I have stated that we bought some meters that developed a fault and that is what has created the shortfall. We bought 50,000 meters, but when we installed the first few, they had a factory fault. So, we sent them back to the manufacturers on a claim.

 

I thank you, Madam Speaker.

 

Mr Simfukwe (Mbala): Madam Speaker, Zambia Electricity Supply Corporation (ZESCO) has embarked on a very aggressive electrification programme, especially in rural areas, and that has made the Patriotic Front (PF) Government very popular, especially in Mbala.

 

Hon. Government Members: Hear, hear!

 

Mr Simfukwe: However, that momentum is being threatened at by a lack of some of the small items like meters and conductors. Could the hon. Minister tell this House how he intends to maintain that aggressive momentum in almost all the rural areas, including Mwinilunga and Mbala, so that the popularity of the electrification programme is maintained?

 

Mr Nkhuwa: Madam Speaker, as I mentioned in my earlier response, the Government of the Republic of Zambia (GRZ) is giving guarantees and helping ZESCO financially to procure prepaid meters, transformers, conductors, service cables, wooden poles, line hardwires and other consumables. So, we are actively involved in making sure that ZESCO is up to speed with the electrification of this country.

 

Madam Speaker, I thank you.

 

Mr Simbao (Senga Hill): Madam Speaker, I would like to mention that the metering of powered houses is a brilliant idea by the Patriotic Front (PF) Government, and I commend the hon. Minister of Energy for it. However, in doing so, I would like him to realise that this is a very big project on which he has embarked. By 2030, we are saying that 5 million houses should have been electrified. When he looks at that, and with the present problem of shortage of meters, is it not necessary that he finds a way of having the meters manufactured in this country?

 

Mr Nkhuwa: Madam Speaker, I thank the hon. Member of Parliament for Senga Hill for that question or contribution. I think it is a good idea to encourage people to manufacture the meters locally. The current meters are imported from Zimbabwe, but I have not found out yet whether they are manufactured there. However, the idea is good and the Government of the Republic of Zambia (GRZ) will take it up and ensure that we create employment in Zambia by manufacturing the meters locally since they are on very high demand.

 

I thank you, Madam Speaker.

 

Hon. Government Member: Hear, hear!

 

Mr Mbulakulima (Milenge): Madam Speaker, I wish to echo the hon. Member of Parliament for Mbala’s statement that the Patriotic Front (PF) Government has embarked on a massive rural electrification programme. Equally, the people of Zambia have responded aggressively in terms of the construction of houses. So, the demand for the meters is high and I want to believe that the demand from the new housing schemes will outstrip the stocks we have for replacing meters. I must also let him know that I have been waiting since October, 2017, in Mansa, but Zambia Electricity Supply Corporation (ZESCO) does not have the meters. Are we, as a Government, in a position to let ZESCO know that it should treat this issue as a priority?

 

Mr Nkhuwa: Madam Speaker, like I stated earlier, had the meters we bought not developed a fault, we would not have a shortage of meters. We were ordering 100,000 meters and when the stock levels dropped, we would order some more. So, we would have been up to speed with the installations.

 

Madam, I agree with the hon. Member of Parliament for Milenge that, at the moment, we are not making new connections because of the lack of meters, but within the next three weeks, we should be back on course.

 

Madam Speaker, I thank you.

 

Mr Lufuma (Kabompo): Madam Speaker, I seek clarification on this issue. Zambia Electricity Supply Corporation (ZESCO) claims that the shortage …

 

Mr Miyutu: On a point of order, Madam.

 

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

 

Mr Miyutu: Thank you, Madam Speaker, for according me this chance to raise a point of order concerning the welfare of pupils at Sihole Secondary School in Kalabo District.

 

Madam Speaker, you may be aware that the Government deliberately upgraded 220 primary schools to secondary school status, which is a commendable move. Even we, in Kalabo, commended the move because our children did not have this facility previously.

 

Madam, Sihole Secondary School is one of the 220 former primary schools that were upgraded to secondary school status and, this year, the pupils are writing their Grade 12 examinations. However, the Government has not accorded an examination centre status to the same school, hence making the children walk 60 km from Sihole to write their examinations at Kalabo Secondary School.

 

Madam, is the Government in order to make the children write the examinations in a foreign land, a place where there are no boarding facilities or houses for rent?

 

I seek your serious ruling.

 

Madam First Deputy Speaker: The ruling by the Chair is that the hon. Member should file in a question under Standing Order No. 31 and it will be responded to by the relevant hon. Minister.

 

May the hon. Member for Kabompo, who was on the Floor, continue, please.

 

Mr Lufuma: Madam Speaker, I was seeking clarification on this issue. Zambia Electricity Supply Corporation (ZESCO) Limited claims that the shortage of meters has been partly caused by a lack of support through loans, which are granted by the Government, and mainly caused by the Government’s failure to pay huge sums of money it owes the company, which could have been used to purchase the meters to alleviate the shortages whenever the threshold for stock replenishment was not reached. What is the hon. Minister’s comment on that claim?

 

Madam First Deputy Speaker: Did the hon. Minister of Energy get the question?

 

Mr Nkhuwa: Madam Speaker, the Government is not failing to pay for the meters. As I said earlier, the Government bought 50,000 meters, but they developed a common fault and have since been sent back for remanufacturing. We will get the meters back in three weeks. Therefore, the Government is not failing to pay ZESCO.

 

I thank you, Madam Speaker.

 

Mr A. B. Malama (Nchelenge): Madam Speaker, I seek clarification from the hon. Minister on what is making Zambia Electricity Supply Corporation (ZESCO) fail to provide full services to our people, those in Nchelenge inclusive, including the provision of items like meters, cables and conductors, which most rural districts do not have. I would like the hon. Minster to be clear and categorical on when ZESCO will have those items in stock so that it can reconnect people who have had no power for the last seven months, particularly those in Nchelenge.

 

Mr Nkhuwa: Madam Speaker, like I said earlier, the only constraint that ZESCO has, at the moment, is a lack of meters, which I said we will have in three weeks. Thereafter, we will be able to start the reconnections, including in Nchelenge.

 

I thank you, Madam Speaker.

 

GENERATION OF ENERGY FROM SOLID WASTE

 

209 Mr C. M. Zulu (Luangeni) asked the Minister of Energy:

 

  1. whether there were any companies that had shown interest in setting up energy-generating plants using solid waste;

 

  1. if so, what the names of the companies were; and

 

  1. what measures had been taken to promote the establishment of such plants.

(Mr Nkhuwa): Madam Speaker, yes, there are companies that have applied to set up energy-generating plants using solid waste. The number of companies that have applied is ten, with a possible combined capacity of 1,851 mw.

 

Madam, the companies that have applied are as follows:

 

Company                                 Proposed Capacity                                Project Status

 

Afro Renewable Energy                     50 mw                 Feasibility study rights granted in Lusaka

(AREZA)                                                                     and feasibility study underway

 

Wesbeck Renewable Energy             25 mw                 Feasibility study rights granted in Kitwe

Limited                                                                         and feasibility study underway

 

Horizon                                             10 mw                 Feasibility study rights granted in Lusaka and Kitwe, and feasibility study underway

 

MAGCOR                                   1,000mw                  Feasibility study rights granted for Lusaka and Copperbelt provinces, and study underway

 

GN Renewable Power                       10 mw                 Feasibility study rights for manure to

Limited                                                                         power plant granted in Namwala District

 

GENNIS                                        525 mw                  Prefeasibility study report for generation of power in Chongwe District using municipal waste from Lusaka City received by the Government

 

Mpishi Biomass Plant                   25 mw                       Feasibility study rights granted for Lusaka. The Project involves the setting up of a feedstock plantation in Chiawa Chiefdom. The ministry awaits the feasibility study report before a decision can be made

 

Western AgriPower                     10 mw                       Feasibility study rights granted for development of agricultural waste biomass power plant in Mkushi, Kapiri Mposhi, Kabwe and Mpongwe districts. The ministry awaits the feasibility study report before a decision can be made

 

NORCART                               100 mw                      The developer has submitted a concept for the development a solar hybrid power plant in Shang’ombo District, with 50 mw projected to be consumed by a plantation owned by PADIC Programme Limited and the balance of 50 mw expected to be exported to the

                                                                                     neighbouring Angola. The ministry is reviewing the application

 

African Energy Ventures              96 mw                       Feasibility study report for development of an 8 x 12 mw biomass power projects in Luapula, Muchinga, Central and Northern provinces received from the developer. The ministry is reviewing the application.

Limited            

                                                            

Madam Speaker, the measures put in place by the ministry to promote renewable energy include:

 

  1. formulation of the National Energy Policy, which promotes the diversification of energy sources, including waste-to-energy generation;

 

  1. the implementation of the renewable Feed-in Tariff strategy (REFIT), which was launched in October, 2017, to facilitate the integration of renewable energy, including waste-to-energy onto the grid;

 

  1. the ministry will also launch the Global Energy Transfer Feed-in Tariff (GETFiT) to facilitate the implementation of the REFIT strategy.

 

Madam Speaker, I thank you.

 

CONSTRUCTION OF POLICE POST AT MIZE

 

210. Ms Kucheka (Zambezi West) asked the Minister of Housing and Infrastructure Development:

 

  1. why the construction of a police post at Mize in Chief Ndungu’s chiefdom in Zambezi West Parliamentary Constituency had stalled;

 

  1. when the construction works would resume;

 

  1. who the contractor for the project was;

 

  1. what the total cost of the project was; and

 

  1. what the time frame for the completion of the project was.

 

The Minister of Housing and Infrastructure Development (Mr Chitotela): Madam Speaker, the construction of a police post at Mize in Chief Ndungu’s chiefdom in Zambezi West Parliamentary Constituency has stalled due to financial constraints.

 

Madam, the construction will resume once funds are secured from the Treasury.

 

Madam, the contractor for the project is Pavesi Marketing and General Contractors Limited.

 

Madam, the cost for the project is K4,118,788.80.

 

Madam, the time frame for the completion of the project was nineteen months, from 29th February, 2015, to 20th September, 2016. That time frame will be reviewed upon the mobilisation of finances and resumption of the project.

 

Madam Speaker, I thank you.

 

Ms Kucheka: Madam Speaker, is the hon. Minister aware that police posts were supposed to be constructed in Senior Chiefs Nshindi’s and Ndungu’s areas? If I am not mistaken, the police post in Chief Nshindi’s area has been completed, but the one in Chief Ndungu’s area is still at trench level with only holes having been dug on the site. Why is that so?

 

Mr Chitotela: Madam Speaker, I assure the people of Zambezi West that the Government is committed to constructing a police post in the area. The contractor moved on site after the first claim for the interim payment certificate on the advance payment was made, but the Treasury did not make the resources available. Therefore, the contractor could not continue with the works and had to demobilise. Nonetheless, we are engaging the contractor to get back on site.

 

Madam, the two projects the hon. Member has mentioned are at two different stages of construction because of the difference in terrain and financial challenges. However, the assurance I want to give to the good people of Zambezi West is that a police post will be constructed in the area without delay once the funds are secured.

 

I thank you, Madam Speaker.

 

Mr Lufuma: Madam Speaker, it might be true that there is a difference in terrain for the two mentioned projects, but the finances for both come from the same source, which is the National Treasury. So, that should not be an excuse for the projects being at different stages of construction.

 

Madam Speaker, I was of the view that the Government always implements projects on a cash basis, meaning that it enters into contracts for projects only when it has enough money to fully finance them. Therefore, I am surprised that it signed a contract without money and could not pay the contractor, resulting in the project being abandoned. Can the hon. Minister explain what mechanisms are used to finance these contracts. What we are seeing is that some projects are going ahead while others have stalled and financial challenges are being cited as the reason for the lack of progress. Could the hon. Minister, please, clarify.

 

Mr Chitotela: Madam Speaker, the clarity I want to give on this matter is that contracts are entered into based on the provisions of the National Budget, of course, with the anticipation that the money will be made available. We do not implement an output-based budget in the Ministry of Housing and Infrastructure Development. We base our programmes on the budgetary disbursements. Once the ministry’s budget is approved, we prioritise what we call an infrastructure work plan and, then, begin implementing our programmes. We do not enter into contracts without seeking Treasury authority and we make sure that the projects we procure are provided for in the National Budget. That is how we enter into contracts.

 

Madam Speaker, it should, however, be noted that budgetary provisions and financial releases are different. However, that is not to say that projects that are budgeted for are not implemented. There are so many competing needs. I think the House remembers that the Government announced that the nation had embarked on many projects. That resulted in too many demands because every hon. Member of Parliament wanted a road, school, hospital or police post somewhere. Yes, we need to deliver development to every part of Zambia because that is a precursor to economic growth, but we must come up with a programme on how to start and finish projects. When we start getting benefits from completed projects, we can embark on other projects so that the people of Zambia start seeing the benefits of the investments that their Government is making. We should not spread our investments across Zambia and, then, at the end of the day, fail to finish anything. That is wasteful expenditure.

 

Madam Speaker, I assure the House that the project in question has been captured in this year’s annual work plan and that we will make sure that it is implemented and delivered to the people of Zambezi West so that security can be enhanced in that part of Zambia and people can get the benefits of having the police near where they live.

 

I thank you, Madam Speaker.

 

Ms Kucheka: Madam Speaker, if the Government will surely do what the hon. Minister has promised, the people of Zambezi West will appreciate very much because that police post will be the very first in the constituency. As I speak, Zambezi West is completely cut off from the rest of the country due to flooding and, whenever there are criminal activities there, police officers are unable to reach the area. People are being killed by Karavinas, but nothing is being done. Does the hon. Minister not think this is a matter of urgency?

 

Mr Chitotela: Madam Speaker, I agree with the hon. Member that this is a matter of urgency, and that is why we initiated the project. The Government has a duty to preserve life and protect property. So, a police post will be constructed in Zambezi West for the benefit of the people in the area.

 

I thank you, Madam Speaker.

 

Mrs Chonya: Madam Speaker, is the hon. Minister in a position to tell us how many police posts are targeted for construction in the 2018 Budget? The people of Kafue need the same relief as the people in Zambezi West.

 

Madam First Deputy Speaker: That question is unrelated to the one we are dealing with. 

 

We will move to the next question.

 

ZAMIM OWNERSHIP

 

211. Mr Chali (Nchanga) asked the Minister of Higher Education:

 

  1. who the shareholders in the Zambia Institute of Management (ZAMIM) were;

 

  1. what percentage of shares was owned by the Government; and

 

  1. how the ZAMIM Chingola Campus was acquired from the Zambia Consolidated Copper Mines (ZCCM).

 

The Minister of Higher Education (Prof. Luo): Madam Speaker, the Zambia Institute of Management (ZAMIM) was established under the Ministry of Science and Vocational Training through Statutory Instrument (SI) No. 142 of 2011. Prior to its establishment as a public institution, it existed under a trust deed and the oversight of a board of trustees appointed by the Government of the Republic of Zambia. However, the board was dissolved on 26th July, 2011, to pave way for the Government takeover of the institution. Currently, the institute comprises four campuses, namely:

 

  1. Emmasdale Campus, located off Kabwe Road in Lusaka;

 

  1. City Campus, located on Buyantanshi Road in Lusaka;

 

  1. Chilanga Campus, located in Mimosa, Chilanga; and

 

  1. Chingola Campus, located on Third Street in Chingola.

 

Madam Speaker, ZAMIM is under the sole ownership of the Government of the Republic of Zambia.

 

Madam Speaker, in 1999, the Zambia Consolidated Copper Mines (ZCCM) donated the institution previously known as the Accountancy Training College (ATC) to ZAMIM through a deed of gift. The gift comprised of the main campus, hostels and the annex building next to Nchanga North General Hospital. That facility is what became the Chingola Campus of ZAMIM.

 

I thank you, Madam.

 

Mr Chali: Madam Speaker, the Chingola Campus, formerly known as the Accountancy Training College (ATC), produced many accountants who are currently in very high positions. Is the hon. Minister aware of the condition of the campus? Why has it been allowed to be in that state? 

 

Prof. Luo: Madam Speaker, I am aware of the condition of the institution. If the hon. Member of Parliament had listened to me attentively, he would have heard me say that our institutions of higher learning are running in a manner that is not acceptable to the Patriotic Front (PF) Government. That is why we are trying to do all we can to bring them to the level on which they should be in order to be celebrated as institutions of higher learning.

 

I thank you, Madam.

 

Mr Lufuma: Madam Speaker, it is very good to hear that the Patriotic Front (PF) Government wants better-looking colleges. However, the hon. Minister is not matching her words with her deeds, and that is the problem. The college in Chingola is dilapidated to the extent that it is no longer fit to be a college, yet the people who go there pay. Why has the Government not been able to use the money students pay to maintain the colleges? 

 

Prof. Luo: Madam Speaker, my words match my deeds.

 

Madam, again, had the hon. Member of Parliament listened to me attentively, he would have heard me bemoan the poor management of our higher learning institutions on several occasions. I have gone to the extent of laying an audit report on one of the institutions on the Table to show our displeasure with the manner our people are managing these institutions. In time, I will lay more audits reports on higher learning institutions on the Table. We have started auditing the institutions because some of the money the students are paying should go to the improvement of our institutions. 

 

Madam Speaker, I am on record saying that the professionals in higher learning institutions think that they are part of the Civil Service and, so, they like to focus on how much money they should be paid. An institution of higher learning is a place where members of staff are supposed to use their critical mass to raise their institution to a level where the Government does not need to step in. I have gone to shake up everybody in the institutions, becoming extremely unpopular in the process, because I am trying to bring these institutions up to speed.

 

I thank you, Madam.

 

Mr Chali: Madam, is the hon. Minister aware that the Chingola Campus is no longer an accountancy training college, as teaching courses have been introduced there? Were the new courses introduced with the blessing of her ministry? If not, who allowed that decision?

 

Madam First Deputy Speaker: The hon. Minister will give a bonus answer to that question.

 

Prof. Luo: Madam Speaker, to reiterate what I have been saying in this august House, it is not only ZAMIM which is in trouble. Institutions of higher learning, starting from the University of Zambia (UNZA) to the lowest trade school, are in trouble and have to change their mindset. I have asked managements in the institutions to step back, look at opportunities around them and refocus their curricula on what they were established for even as they take advantage of opportunities around them. I can promise the hon. Member that we are focusing on changing the way our institutions are run to improve their situation.

 

Madam, some institutions started offering more programmes so that they can rake in more money. I even had to ban some programmes they introduced, such as parallel student registration programmes in which they enrolled students who did not perform well so that they could get money. Institutions of higher learning are not for business, but for developing the future of this country. All the technocrats we need will come from those institutions.

 

I thank you, Madam.

 

KITWE ABATTOIR

 

212. Mr C. M. Zulu (Luangeni) asked the Minister of Local Government:

 

  1. why the abattoir in Kitwe District was converted to a warehouse;

 

  1. who the new occupants of the former abattoir were;

 

  1. whether the Government had any plan to construct a new abattoir in Kitwe;

 

  1. if so, when the plan would be implemented; and

 

  1. where livestock traders slaughtered their animals from.

 

The Minister of Local Government (Mr Mwale): Madam Speaker, the former abattoir in Kitwe was converted into a warehouse by a contractor engaged by Japan International Co-operation Agency (JICA) when urban roads were being constructed in Kitwe in 2010 because it got dilapidated and became unfit for use after it had ceased to be used as an abattoir in early 1990. The premises were in a state of disrepair and the council could not rehabilitate them. In addition, new residential areas in Chachacha had developed very close to the premises and the foul smell emanating from the abattoir was not compatible with the new land use.

 

Madam Speaker, the current occupant of the premises is a company called Mama Africa.

 

Madam, the Government has plans of constructing a new abattoir on the outskirts of the city on the Ndola/Kitwe Dual Carriageway or the Chingola/Kitwe Highway, which will be far from residential areas.

 

Madam Speaker, the project will be implemented in 2018, once funds are made available. There is K800,000 in the 2018 budget of the council for the construction of the abattoir.

 

Madam, most livestock sold in Kitwe is slaughtered from outside the district, especially at the Chisamba Zambeef Abattoir, and abattoirs in Luanshya. The Kitwe City Council (KCC), however, inspects the carcasses taken into the district for public health compliance and safety.

 

I thank you, Madam Speaker.

 

Mr C. M. Zulu: Madam Speaker, the abattoir was a very good source of revenue for the Kitwe City Council (KCC). Having worked for the KCC, I know what used to happen there. How did the Government arrive at the decision to give away the abattoir? Did it advertise the premises before giving them to the current occupant?

 

Mr Mwale: Madam Speaker, as I said, the place was not fit to be used as an abattoir because it was dilapidated. Further, there were some houses that had been constructed close to the place and the foul smell was not good for the residents in that area. Therefore, it was decided that such an area was not good to be used as an abattoir. The new abattoir must be far away from the residential areas.

 

Madam, I need to go back to the records to see if any advertisement was issued before allowing JICA to use the premises.

 

I thank you, Madam Speaker.

 

Mr Mbulakulima: Madam Speaker, the hon. Minister has just informed us that the carcasses from Luanshya and Chisamba are inspected by Kitwe City Council (KCC) officers. Where is the inspection conducted from? Further, how clean is the place where the inspection is conducted?

 

Mr Mwale: Madam Speaker, I am informed that the public health officers from the council carry out regular inspections of all the carcasses sold in butcheries and supermarkets like Shoprite. However, I do not have the details of how and how often the tests are conducted. However, I have been assured that public health inspectors do that.

 

Ms Mulenga indicated assent.

 

Mr Mwale: Madam Speaker, I can see the hon. Minister of Fisheries and Livestock indicating assent.

 

I thank you, Madam.

 

Mr Ngulube (Kabwe Central): Madam Speaker, I am aware that the Government is trying to do all it can to prevent diseases like cholera. I am also aware of the problems that the ministry is facing. Does the Government have plans of reconverting the warehouse into an abattoir?

 

Mr Mwale: Madam Speaker, as I said, the place is not fit to be an abattoir anymore because of its geographical location. An abattoir should not be in a residential area because the foul smell from it is not good for any people residing nearby. Therefore, the council made a decision to construct an abattoir on the two alternative locations I mentioned, which are very far from residential areas. That way, there will be no inconveniences caused to the members of the public in that particular area.

 

Madam Speaker, I thank you.

 

Mr C. M. Zulu: Madam Speaker, who made the decision to discontinue using that premises as an abattoir? I ask this question because I know that the council used to raise a lot of money from the facility and that money could have invested in the rehabilitation of the structure. Was it the health inspectors or the council management who made the decision?

 

Mr Mwale: Madam Speaker, the environmental health technologists made the decision and it was agreed to by the council, which is the planning authority.

 

I thank you, Madam.

 

LUANO POLICE POST MOTOR VEHICLE

 

213. Mr Chisopa (Mkushi South) asked the Minister of Home Affairs:

 

  1. when the motor vehicle for Luano Police Post in Mkushi South Parliamentary Constituency, which had been sent for repair, would be returned;

 

  1. why it had taken long to return the motor vehicle;

 

  1. whether the Government had any plan to procure a new vehicle for the police post; and

 

  1. if so, when the new vehicle would be procured.

 

The Minister of Home Affairs (Mr Kampyongo): Madam Speaker, Luano Police Post does not exist on the Zambia Police Service establishment. However, assuming that the hon. Member was referring to Mboroma Police Station, which is in the same location, and whose motor vehicle was taken for repairs, I would like to inform the House that the vehicle was repaired and returned to the police station.

 

Madam Speaker, it did not take long to return the vehicle to Mboroma Police Station. The vehicle was returned to the station immediately after being repaired.

 

Madam Speaker, the Government does not have immediate plans of procuring a motor vehicle for Mboroma Police Station because there is no provision for the procurement of motor vehicles in the 2018 Budget. However, Mboroma and the new district of Luano will be considered as soon as we have a fleet of motor vehicles so that the district can serviced.

 

I thank you, Madam Speaker.

 

Mr Chisopa: Madam Speaker, I thank the hon. Minister, who is also my uncle ...

 

Madam First Deputy Speaker: Order, hon. Member!

 

There are no uncles here. He is the hon. Minister of Home Affairs.

 

Laughter

 

Mr Chisopa: Madam Speaker, I thank the hon. Minister for repairing the old vehicle. However, the terrain in Luano is so bad that the vehicle will not be able to cover three quarters of the area. Is it possible to swap it with a four wheel drive vehicle?

 

Mr Kampyongo: Madam Speaker, outside these perimeters, the hon. Member is, indeed, what he has stated.

 

Laughter

 

Mr Kampyongo: Madam Speaker, I appreciate the hon. Member’s concerns. We know how difficult it is for our officers to patrol the district of Luano, as it is in an escarpment. Like I have said, we are aware that Luano is a new district and we have plans of establishing a full police station that will be equipped with motor vehicles suitable for the kind of the terrain there. In the meantime, the hon. Member will have to bear with us. We are alive to the needs of Luano District and he will soon see how we shall establish ourselves in the new district and ensure that the four wheel drive vehicles required there are given to our officers in the area.

 

I thank you, Madam Speaker.

 

SKILLS TRAINING INSTITUTE FOR MUSHINDAMO DISTRICT

 

214.  Mr Kintu (Solwezi East) asked the Minister of Higher Education:

 

  1. whether the Government had any plan to construct a skills training centre in Mushindamo District;

 

  1. if so, when the plan would be implemented; and

 

  1. if there was no such plan, why.

 

Prof. Luo: Madam Speaker, there is no immediate plan to construct a skills training institution in Mushindamo District. However, the Government has embarked on a programme to construct a trades training institute in each district in Zambia. Currently, the focus is on completing on-going projects before embarking on any new ones. Recognising that there are many school leavers who need to be absorbed in skills training institutions and taking into account its limited capacity to establish skills training institutions across the country, the Government is encourages school leavers in Mushindamo District to access the trades training institutes in Solwezi and Mwinilunga districts of the North-Western Province.

 

Madam Speaker, plans to construct skills training institutions will be made upon completion of the on-going projects, which include the construction of new trades training institutions, completion of the projects works in Mumbwa, Sesheke, Mwense, Milenge, Isoka, Kalabo, Mporokoso and Lundazi districts; the construction of additional infrastructure at Evelyn Hone College of Applied Arts and Commerce (EHCAAC), and at the Luanshya, Ukwimi and Chipata institutes.

 

Madam Speaker, the ministry will delay the commencement of new projects until the completion of on-going projects in line with Government guidelines in that regard.

 

I thank you, Madam Speaker.

 

Mr Miyutu: Madam Speaker, to create a chance for other skills centres to be ...

 

Mr Mutelo: On point of order, Madam Speaker.

 

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

 

Mr Mutelo: Madam Speaker, this is a House of order and dignity, and I want us to have the right order.

 

Mr Ngulube: Order!

 

Mr Mutelo: Madam, every Friday, we are given an indication of what the Business of the following week will be. Last Friday, 2nd March, 2018, the Leader of Government Business gave us the Business of the House for this week, from Tuesday to Friday, 9th March, 2018. However, today, the House has been informed that Friday, 9th March, 2018, will be a public holiday. What is the correct position? Is Friday, 9th March, 2018, a public holiday or not? This House should conduct itself in an orderly manner.

 

Mr Ngulube: File a question!

 

Madam First Deputy Speaker: What is the point of order, hon. Member for Mitete?

 

Mr Mutelo: Madam Speaker, is the House in order to, on one hand, to say we shall conduct Business on Friday and, on the other hand, tell us the day will be a public holiday?

 

Madam First Deputy Speaker: The hon. Member for Mitete should be aware that the people of Zambia have given a mandate to the Executive to make decisions on their behalf.

 

Hon. Government Members: Hear, hear!

 

Madam First Deputy Speaker: In this regard, the Executive decided to make Friday a public holiday, but the decision was made after Her Honour the Vice-President had already given an indication of the Business that the House would conduct this week.

 

That is my ruling

 

Mr Miyutu: Madam Speaker, the hon. Minister stated that the construction of new training centres would only be embarked on upon completion of the on-going construction of skills centres. When will the ...

 

Madam First Deputy Speaker: Order!

 

Business was suspended from 1640 hours until 1700 hours.

 

[MADAM FIRST DEPUTY SPEAKER in the Chair]

 

ANNOUNCEMENT BY MADAM FIRST DEPUTY SPEAKER

 

Madam First Deputy Speaker: Hon. Members, I wish to remind you that the Executive Director of the United Nations Programme on HIV/AIDS (UNAIDS), Mr Mitchell Sidibé, will address you on the Integrated Health Situation Room, a programme that the Zambian Government is implementing, in the Amphitheatre here, at Parliament Buildings, tomorrow, 7th March, 2018, starting at 1000 hours.

 

Mr Sikazwe: Hear, hear!

 

Madam First Deputy Speaker: All hon. Members are requested to attend this very important meeting.

 

I thank you.

 

_________

 

Mr Miyutu: Madam Speaker, before business was suspended, I was asking when the Government will complete the on-going projects so that students can start learning in the institutions and new projects can be embarked on. Some of the projects, like the one in Kalabo, have been under implementation since 2010.

 

Prof. Luo: Madam Speaker, I want to confirm to the hon. Member that we have assessed the project in Kalabo and found that 85 per cent of the work has been done. I have been very concerned, as your Minister, that we have not received the certificate to help us pay so that we finalise the work. The hon. Minister of Housing and Infrastructure Development has since asked his staff to ensure that we get the certificate. If that happens, I am very confident that we will be recruiting students at Kalabo Trades School in the second quarter of this year. The school is very important because the people from Sikongo and nearby districts will benefit from it. The same goes for Sesheke and Isoka, where 85 per cent of works have also been completed.

 

I thank you, Madam.

 

KASABA DAY SECONDARY

 

215. Mr Mecha (Chifunabuli) asked the Minister of General Education:

 

  1. whether the Government had any plan to transform Kasaba Day Secondary School in Chifunabuli Parliamentary Constituency to a boarding school;

 

  1. if so, when the plan would be implemented;

 

  1. if there were no such plan, why; and

 

  1. when an accountant and a secretary would be deployed to the school.

 

The Minister General Education (Mr Mabumba): Madam Speaker, yes, the Government plans to transform Kasaba Day Secondary School in Chifunabuli Parliamentary Constituency into a boarding school due to its ideal location and distance from feeder schools.

 

Madam Speaker, the provision of boarding facilities at the school will only be done once the Government mobilises funds for the construction of the required infrastructure. For now, the Government is concentrating on completing on-going projects, which includes the school in question.

 

Madam Speaker, the ministry will deploy an accounts assistant and a typist at the school once the province receives officers under this cadre of staff.

 

I thank you Madam Speaker.

 

Mr Mecha: Madam Speaker, I thank the hon. Minister for the response. Given his reference to the strategic location of the school, I just want to give a background before I ask a supplementary question.

 

Madam, the school enrols children from as far as Lupososhi Constituency because of its strategic position, yet it has no boarding facilities. Consequently, the children rent houses in villages around the school, and the result is obvious. Three years ago, nine pupils fell pregnant. In 2016, eight girls fell pregnant while, last year, four girls fell pregnant, and all the children who fell pregnant dropped out of school. I also had the opportunity to peruse the statistics at Kasaba Hospital and discovered that there were alarming rates of Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) infections among our children. Does the hon. Minister not think that the situation at the school should be considered an emergency?

 

Mr Mabumba: Madam Speaker, just like I said in answering part (b) of the question, Kasaba Day Secondary School is among about thirty day secondary schools that are being constructed in phases. After completing Phase I, then, we will consider transforming some of the schools into boarding facilities depending on their location and distances from feeder schools. That will be done with due regard to what the hon. Member has said about pregnancies and Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) cases.

 

I thank you, Madam Speaker.

 

REHABILITATION OF KALOMO CENTRAL CONSTITUENCY TOWNSHIP ROADS

 

216. Mr Kamboni (Kalomo Central) asked the Minister of Local Government:

 

  1. what the progress on the rehabilitation of township roads in Kalomo Central Parliamentary Constituency was;

 

  1. what the time frame for the completion of the project was; and

 

  1. what the name of the contractor for the project was.

 

Mr Mwale: Madam Speaker, the contract for the rehabilitation of township roads in Kalomo Central Parliamentary Constituency has not been signed because the Treasury has not granted authority for us to do so.

 

Madam Speaker, the time frame for the completion of the project will only be known once the contract is signed.

 

Madam, like the time frame, the name of the contractor for the project will only be known once the contract is signed.

 

I thank you, Madam Speaker.

 

Mr Kamboni: Madam Speaker, the township roads in Kalomo Central Parliamentary Constituency were budgeted for in 2015. Further, the President directed that all the projects that were budgeted for be completed and, last year, we were told that the Government would concentrate on projects that had not been completed. However, the last time I sought to know when the roads would be worked on, I was told that they would be worked on once money was made available. Unfortunately, that did not answer my question. Today, the hon. Minister has told me the truth that was withheld the last time I inquired about this matter, and the truth is that this contract has not been signed despite being budgeted for in 2015, yet newer projects are being implemented. Why is that the case?

 

Mr Mwale: Madam Speaker, the hon. Member has asked too many questions. However, I want to say that the Ministry of Finance could not give us the go-ahead on this contract because it did not have the money. Although the project was budgeted for, the Ministry of Finance had to raise the money before the contract was signed to avoid a situation where a contractor charges the Government liquidated damages for not being able to meet its obligations on time because of not having money, as that is what often happened at the time.

 

I thank you, Madam.

 

Mr Kamboni: Madam Speaker, I do not know how the Government operates, but I am surprised to see newer projects funded. For example, compared to the project in question, the Ndola/Lusaka Dual Carriageway project is newer, yet it has been funded. Currently, one can hardly drive on the roads in Kalomo. I have pictures of ball joints falling from cars right in the middle of the road because the portholes are as big as rivers. Those roads are in a bad state, yet the Government finds money for fire tenders at the expense of good roads. I am only asking for 20 km of roads, but that is not being provided and it is business as usual for the Government. Why are new projects being implemented at the expense of older ones? Does the Government not implement projects on a first-come-first-serve basis?

 

Mr Mwale: Madam Speaker, again, the hon. Member has raised too many issues in one question. However, the truth of the matter is that there are different ways of funding road projects. Therefore, we cannot compare the Kalomo township roads to the Ndola/Lusaka Dual Carriageway because the two have different modes of financing. The Ndola/Lusaka Dual Carriageway is not funded by our Treasury while the rehabilitation of the Kalomo township roads will be. However, the Ministry of Finance said it did not have the money to meet that obligation. Further, we cannot compare fire tenders to roads. Just as there is a budget for roads, there is also one for fire tenders, medicine, agriculture and other things. One has to compare like with like. In the road sector, there are roads in the Southern, Western and other provinces that had to be prioritised. Perhaps, what we need to do is find money from the Ministry of Finance to attend to the roads in Kalomo. However, at the time we wanted to implement the project, the Ministry of Finance said it did not have the money. So, we could not sign the contract.

 

Madam Speaker, I thank you.

 

Mr Machila (Magoye): Madam Speaker, could the hon. Minister assure the people of Kalomo Central Parliamentary Constituency that the roads in their area will be worked on some day.

 

Mr Mwale: Madam Speaker, the procurement process for the project had started. However, it is now three years since that process began. So, it is now not just an issue of money. We also have to re-do everything from the beginning. We need to re-engage a contractor and re-cost the project. We will also have to go through the whole process of requesting the Ministry of Finance to consider funding it. Thereafter, we will be able to know whether the project will be undertaken or not.

 

I thank you, Madam.

 

Mr Miyanda (Mapatizya): Madam Speaker, firstly, history tells us that Kalomo was the first capital city of this country. Secondly, the district is the gateway to the Dundumwezi Gate into the Kafue National Park. Can the Government not find money elsewhere and use it to rehabilitate the township roads so that tourists transiting through the town can appreciate it more?

 

Mr Mwale: Madam Speaker, that is a very noble plea. It is true that just like any other town, Kalomo deserves good roads. I think that the people of Kalomo also deserve a fair share of development, and this Government will look into this matter. As Ministry of Local Government, we would love to see all townships have good roads. However, like I said earlier, that will depend on the Treasury’s ability to fund such projects.

 

Madam Speaker, I thank you.

 

Mr Mwiimbu (Monze Central): Madam Speaker, the issue of the tarring of township roads has been raised on the Floor of this House by a number of hon. Members of Parliament. When will hon. Minister give this House the schedule of road projects in the various townships so that questions of this nature are not raised on the Floor of this House repeatedly?

 

Mr Mwale: Madam Speaker, I can provide this House with that information as soon as possible. I will issue one or two statements, possibly next week. Therefore, this subject could be addressed the following week. There is no harm in doing that.

 

I thank you, Madam Speaker.

 

Madam First Deputy Speaker: The hon. Minister will issue that statement the week after next.

 

Mr Mwiinga (Chikankata): Madam Speaker, how much will the project cost?

 

Mr Mwale: Madam Speaker, it costs approximately US$1million to rehabilitate a kilometre of a road. Therefore, 20.9 km will cost about K209 million. It all depends on the engineers’ estimates, the kind of road that exists, the amount of compacting to be done and the kind of drainage system needed on the road.

 

I thank you, Madam.

 

Madam First Deputy Speaker: Order!

 

_________

 

MOTION

 

ADJOURNMENT

 

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

 

Question put and agreed to.

 

_________

 

The House adjourned at 1720 hours until 1430 hours on Wednesday, 7th March, 2018.

 

__________