Speaker of the National Assembly Rt. Hon Justice Dr Patrick Matibini, SC, FCIArb, MP says Zambia and South Africa enjoy warm and cordial relations from way back and therefore it is imperative that their Parliaments learn from each other by sharing best practices.  Dr Matibini said this when a delegation from Kwazulu Natal Legislature of South Africa paid a courtesy call on him at Parliament Buildings in Lusaka, on Tuesday, 10th July, 2018.
Speaker Matibini expressed gratitude that the Kwazulu Natal Legislature had decided to visit the Zambian Parliament in order to learn on how parliamentary business is conducted with a view of adopting processes and procedure for possible implementation.    “Honourable Members, this benchmarking session is essential and I must reiterate that this is an opportunity for both Legislatures to learn from each other” said Dr Matibini.  He added that the Zambian Parliament has been on an ambitious reform programme which has resulted in achievements such as the revision and amendment of the Standing Orders, establishment of Constituency Offices spread across the country, establishment of Parliament Television and Radio, opening up of the Committee meetings to the public and enhanced public participation in the legislative process among others.  Speaker Matibini, however, pointed out that the institution is still actively undergoing further reforms and therefore, welcomed information and knowledge sharing on parliamentary processes and procedure.
Speaking at the same meeting, the Chairperson for Premier and Royal Household Portfolio Committee Honourable Nonhlanhla M Khoza, MPL stated that it is impossible to talk about the South African revolution without mentioning Zambia due to the support it rendered in the fight against apartheid.  She added that due to the well established relationship between the two countries, it is important that, from time to time, experiences and knowledge are shared hence the delegation’s visit.  She applauded the National Assembly of Zambia for its robust public participation and communication programmes such as television and radio transmission of live parliamentary debates.
The delegation from Kwazulu-Natal Legislature of the Republic of South Africa comprising of nine (09) Members of Parliament arrived in the country on Sunday, 8th July 2018 and will undertake the benchmarking visit until Saturday, 14th July 2018 when they will be expected to travel back to South Africa.