Friday, 30th April, 2021

Friday, 30^th April, 2021

The House met at 0900 hours

[Mr Speaker in the Chair]

NATIONAL ANTHEM

PRAYER

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BUSINESS OF THE HOUSE

The Vice-President (Mrs Wina): Mr Speaker, I rise to give the House an idea of the business it will consider next week.

Sir, on Tuesday, 4^th May, 2021, the Business of the House will begin with Questions for Oral Answer. That will be followed by the presentation of the Government Bills, if there will any.

Mr Speaker, on Wednesday, 5^th May, 2021, the Business of the House will start with Questions for Oral Answer. Thereafter, the House will consider Private Member’s Motions, if there will be any, and that will be followed by the presentation of Government Bills, if there will be any.

Sir, on Thursday, 6^th May, 2021, the Business of the House will commence with Questions for Oral Answer. That will be followed by presentation of Government Bills, if there will be any. Thereafter, the House will consider the Second Reading Stage of the following Bills:

The Cannabis Bill, N. A. B. No. 31 of 2021;

The Industrial Hemp Bill, N. A. B. No. 32 of 2021;

The Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (Amendments) Bill, N. A. B. No 33 of 2021;

The Acts of Parliament (Amendment) Bill, N. A. B. No. 34 of 2021; and

The Correctional Service Bill, N. A. B. No. 35 of 2021.

Mr Speaker, on Friday, 7^th May, 2021, the Business of the House will commence with The Vice-President’s Question Time. Thereafter, the House will consider Questions for Oral Answer, which will be followed by presentation of Government Bills, if there will any.

I thank you, Sir.

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THE VICE-PRESIDENT’S QUESTION TIME

Mr Ng’ambi (Chifubu): Mr Speaker, there have been media reports to the effect that, next month, gold mining at Kasenseli Gold Mine in Mwinilunga District will increase following successful explorations by the Zambia Consolidated Copper Mines Investments Holdings (ZCCM–IH). What is Her Honour the Vice-President’s comment on how this development will help to turn around the economy of this country?

The Vice-President (Mrs Wina): Mr Speaker, next month, the production of gold at Kasenseli Gold Mine in Mwinilunga is expected to increase from an average of 12 kg per month to about 40 kg per month due to the reduction in rainfall and acquisition of additional mining equipment. The increase is not a result of successful explorations by the Zambia Consolidated Copper Mines Investments Holdings (ZCCM–IH), as the exploration activities at the mine are ongoing. Production will further increase because Zambia Gold Company Limited, a ZCCM-IH subsidiary is installing a new processing plant with higher capacity compared with the equipment currently in place.

Sir, the increase in production will promote job creation and help us in building up our gold reserves as a strategic mineral for the country.

Mr Speaker, I thank you.

Mr Ngulube: Hear, hear!

Mr Mutale (Chitambo): Mr Speaker, watching the Vice-President of the United Party for National Development (UPND) on a television interview and listening to Mr Mucheleka on radio yesterday, it seems they are trying to paint the picture that the Zambia Police Service is a Patriotic Front (PF) surrogate institution. The two said that the police only gets instructions from the PF. What is Her Honour the Vice-Present’s serious comment on this matter? I ask because the police is very important, especially at this time of the political calendar, that is, when we are about to go into elections. The picture the UPND is trying to paint is making Zambians very worried. Is it true that the police works under instructions of the PF?

The Vice-President: Mr Speaker, there are some political parties in this country that specialise in misinforming the public to prepare the minds of Zambians to accept without concrete facts claims of electoral malpractice that will be made by the parties should they lose the elections.

Sir, were the police service not there, how would this country be protected? It is the duty of the police to protect all of us, Zambians regardless of whether we belong to political parties or not. The fact that the Patriotic Front (PF) is in power and, therefore, the agencies of the Government are led by it does not necessarily mean that the party dictates to the agencies, and that is why we have said before that all Zambians should protect the institutions of Government they create for themselves. If we continue undermining these institutions, we will undermine the governance of our country, and whoever comes into power will not be trusted by the people. So, I urge those who are coming out with such preannouncements to swallow their pride and ensure that we go into the elections with open minds and the acceptance that the police will be there to protect the elections and every Zambian before, during and after the elections.

I thank you, Sir.

Mr Mwiimbu (Monze Central): Mr Speaker, Her Honour the Vice-President may be aware that the value of the Kwacha to the United States (US) Dollar keeps falling. As of today, the Kwacha is at K23.5 to a US Dollar. As a result of the fall in the value of the Kwacha, the cost of living is escalating and most Zambians are unable to meet the necessities of life. However, the Government has been telling Zambians that it is in control and that it will ensure that every Zambian is able to meet the basic needs of their lives. Is the Vice-President still telling the nation that her Government is completely in charge of the economy and that Zambians are currently able to meet the basic needs of their lives despite the escalating situation in the country?

The Vice-President: Mr Speaker, the country is experiencing some economic challenges just like many other countries not only in Africa, but also globally. I cannot deny the fact that Zambians are also experiencing the challenges. However, I can assure the hon. Member for Monze Central that this Government is in control of everything in the country, including the way the economy is run.

I thank you, Sir.

Hon. PF Members: Hear, hear!

Mr Speaker: Hon. Members, in addition to the list highlighted on the e-Chamber, I have also received requests on the Zoom platform from the hon. Members for Serenje, Mapatizya, Chilanga, Itezhi-Tezhi, Kaumbwe, Vubwi, Chasefu, Keembe, Msanzala, Moomba and Mitete. So, I will alternate between the two lists.

Mr Michelo (Bweengwa): Mr Speaker, in the recent past Her Honour the Vice-President mentioned on the Floor of this House that those who were dishing out money to the people were from opposition political parties, in particular, from the United Party for National Development (UPND). However, last week, I saw the Vice-President with my two eyes dishing out money in Solwezi to woo voters. Is she telling the people of Zambia today that she is a UPND member, since she has started dishing out money?

The Vice-president: Mr Speaker, I am extremely shocked by the manner in which this issue has been sensationalised by some sectors of the country, including by some politicians.

Sir, I challenge those who are sensationalising this matter to watch the whole clip and see everything that transpired that day, not just the part of the video that they want to make capital out of.

Mr Speaker, during my tour of the North-Western Province, I was in Kasempa that same day and, on my way back, I decided to stop at the market and buy some items from there. Indeed, when I stopped, I immediately bought some groundnuts from a lady who was carrying a basket on her head. Then I saw a small boy with a bucket of vitumbuwa or scones, and I bought those scones. Since the marketeers were coming to me and demanding that I buy things from them, I gave them the money that was left in my hands, some small change in K100 and K50 notes.

Sir, this I do: wherever I travel to the provinces, I stop in markets and buy vegetables, sweet potatoes and whatever else I want to buy. That is not different from what transpired that morning. However, what I noticed is that I was captured giving something to somebody, just one person, instead of taking video footage of everything else that transpired. That was mainly for purposes of politicking, a chance for some Opposition leaders and non-governmental organisations (NGOs) aligned to political parties to malign my name.

Mr Speaker, some hon. Members who have followed my life know that I have been fighting for the rights of people and that demeaning people is the last thing I would do. Corruption is not in my system.

Sir, I would like to find out from all the political players whether none of them has ever given some little change to anyone at the market or bus stop when requested to buy something. I respect Zambians and would not be in a position to demean their integrity. I also respect my fellow women and visit markets to support them. So, if that is a crime, I am all ready to be crucified for it.

Mr Speaker, I thank you.

Hon. PF Members: Hear, hear!

Mr Kabanda (Serenje): Mr Speaker, thank you very much for allowing the people of Serenje to pose a question to the Vice-President.

Sir, State Counsel John Sangwa has petitioned the Constitutional Court to set aside the prescribed Judges’ salaries. What is Her Honour the Vice-President’s comment on that issue.

The Vice-President: Mr Speaker, I confirm that a petition was filed before the Constitutional Court on 16^th April, 2021, regarding the financial autonomy of the Judiciary. The Government, through the Attorney-General, will accordingly deal with the matter before the court.

I thank you, Sir.

Ms Tambatamba (Kasempa): Mr Speaker, Her Honour the Vice-President’s party reported that all the promises made in its past manifesto were fulfilled. Can she tell this House and the nation to what extent her party has fulfilled the promise on page 18 of its previous manifesto, which was to enact a law for tobacco control in compliance with the World Health Organisation’s (WHO) Framework on Tobacco Control.

The Vice-President: Mr Speaker, a manifesto is a road map of where an individual or a party wants to be at a certain point and how the party will carry out certain activities to achieve its goals. In a manifesto, one cannot achieve everything but, at least, one has a document to work with and be guided by.

Sir, in the last ten years, the PF Government has done a lot. Due to many constraints induced by nature or human error, some of the promises the party made could not be fulfilled, but the desire is there to fulfil most of them.

Sir, the new manifesto launched by our President outlines a number of developmental issues that this party will address between 2021 and 2026. Therefore, I encourage the Opposition hon. Members on your left to get hold of that beautiful document, read it and compare it with what they call a manifesto in their camp, and it will shock them to see how much effort and thought has been put into it and how this country will develop in the next twenty years under the PF.

I thank you, Sir.

Hon. PF Members: Hear, hear!

Mr Miyanda (Mapatizya): Mr Speaker, we have taken note that the farmers under the Farmer Input Support Programme (FISP) have been told to start depositing monies. My question to Her Honour the Vice-President is: Will the farmers on the Electronic Voucher (e-Voucher) system, still get three 50 kg bags of fertiliser and, probably, one 10 kg bag of seed while those on direct input supply get eight 50 kg bags of fertiliser and seed, or will it be the same for both categories?

The Vice-President: Mr Speaker, the Electronic Voucher (e-Voucher) system is still on trial because it was only implemented in a few provinces. So, the Ministry of Agriculture is reviewing its performance and to ascertain how it can be introduced to the whole country.

Sir, as regards the quantity of agricultural inputs farmers will access under the Farmer Input Support Programme (FISP), the hon. Minister of Agriculture will explain that, hopefully before the dissolution of Parliament, so that the country can be informed about the new mechanisms the ministry has looked at for supporting farmers under FISP.

I thank you, Sir.

Mr Mbangweta (Nkeyema): Mr Speaker, if today the exchange rate is at K23 to US$1 and inflation is quite high, what specific measures has the Government taken or is taking to mitigate the situation for the vulnerable people and those who do not work?

The Vice-President: Mr Speaker, this Government has adopted the motto of leaving no one behind and, in order to achieve that, it had to embark on putting in place systems that will address the plight of the most vulnerable in our society, those who are in business and those who are in employment of one type or another. The Social Cash Transfer Scheme has been upscaled in all the districts to alleviate poverty, and the programme is helping the most vulnerable in all the parts of Zambia. There is not a single part of this country where one cannot find a programme for empowering the most vulnerable in many sizes and shapes.

Mr Speaker, the Government is aware of the economic challenges that people face, and that is why it has come up with many interventions to ensure that no one starves. In the agricultural sector, it has already distributed farming inputs in most districts. As such, we expect another bumper harvest in the 2021/2022 Farming Season. So, at least, no one will starve.

Sir, this Government cares for Zambians and this we will continue to do.

I thank you, Sir.

Hon. PF Member: Hear, hear!

Mrs Phiri (Chilanga): Mr Speaker, the Economics Association of Zambia (EAZ) has said that there is a need for Zambia to export more agricultural products if the country is to see a sustainable exchange rate gain. What practical measures has the Government put in place to increase agricultural exports?

The Vice-President: Mr Speaker, increased production and diversification in all manners of agriculture is the way for this country to go because it is agricultural products that will enhance our export capacities.

Sir, currently, the Government does not restrict the export of agricultural commodities except for maize products because maize is the national staple food and it forms part of national food security.

Mr Speaker, the Government, through the Ministry of Agriculture, undertakes crop forecast surveys and stock monitoring to make projections on the availability of stocks. The projections inform the Government’s decisions on whether to restrict imports or exports by way of quotas. For example, the Government, working with the Millers Association of Zambia (MAZ) and the Grain Traders Association of Zambia (GTAZ), is currently exporting 30,000 metric tonnes of mealie meal and 40,000 metric tonnes of maize. As for soya beans, the quota that was allocated has been exhausted and a new one will be determined after the crop forecast survey results are out. So, you can see that this is the beginning of the export of commodities that the Government is encouraging the private sector to go into so that we can earn some foreign exchange from the exports. It is incumbent upon every Zambian to produce something, no matter how small, for the household or for export, and ensure that our country is not only an importer, but also an exporter of commodities that will help our economy to grow and cushion the fluctuation of our local currency.

I thank you, Sir.

Mr Fungulwe (Lufwanyama): Mr Speaker, the Government of the Patriotic Front (PF) gave contracts for feeder roads in Lufwanyama, specifically for Fungulwe and Mukutuma/Lumpuma roads. However, after the commencement of the Rainy Season, the contractors demobilised from the sites. Now that the Rainy Season is over, is the Government assuring the people of Lufwanyama that the contractors will mobilise on to sites very soon so that they continue with the works after the Government pays them the funds they are supposed to use during the period of working on the roads?

The Vice-President: Mr Speaker, the hon. Member for Lufwanyama has already given us the answer by informing the House that the contractors demobilised due to rainfall. Now that the rains are over, I am sure the contractors will go back on site.

I thank you, Sir.

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QUESTIONS FOR ORAL ANSWER

KACHULU MARKET CONSTRUCTION IN KABWE

187. Mr Chiyalika (Lufubu) asked the Minister of Local Government:

whether the Government had any plans to construct modern infrastructure at Kachulu Market in Kabwe Central Parliamentary Constituency;
if so, when the plans would be implemented;
what the total cost of the project was;
whether the shop owners at the old market would be compensated; and
if so, what the estimated cost of compensating the shop owners was.

The Minister of Local Government (Dr Banda): Mr Speaker, the Government has plans to construct a market at Kachulu in Kabwe Central Parliamentary Constituency.

Sir, the plans will be implemented in the 2022 to 2024 work plan, subject to the availability of funds.

Mr Speaker, the cost will only be known when the designs have been made.

Sir, the need for compensation will only be established when the designs have been completed.

Mr Speaker, the cost of compensation will only be known when the need for compensation has been established.

I thank you, Mr Speaker.

Mr Muchima: Mr Speaker, each time –

Dr Musokotwane: On a point of order, Sir.

Mr Speaker: A point of order is raised.

Dr Musokotwane: Mr Speaker, thank you very much. I apologise to the gentleman who was on the Floor for disturbing his line of thought.

Mr Speaker, you are aware that there is always a lot of competition to ask questions to Her Honour the Vice-President. This morning, I indicated on the e-Chamber platform and, according to the list that was in front of me, I was No. 1 on the list. So, I am puzzled that the announced list kept missing me until the very end. I brought this matter to the attention of your clerical staff and they sent me a list that showed me as being No. 12, but on the list that was on my screen, which I sent to them, I was No.1. So, are we in order to use a system that is confusing us by giving different information to different people on the order of indication to speak?

Mr Speaker, I need your ruling.

Mr Speaker: I would like to seize this opportunity to inform the House that I transcribe indications physically on a sheet of paper immediately they are made. I am sure you have also noticed that whenever requests are made on the Zoom platform, I not only list them, but also announce them. According to the data I have in front of me, you were actually No. 17 and, so far, in this session, we have only been able to give the Floor to nine hon. Member. So, if you were No. 12 or No. 17, I would still not have called on you. Nonetheless, I am surprised that according to your screen, you were No. 1. I need to investigate this, as I am also at a loss because if you were, indeed, No. 1, surely, without hesitation, I would have called on you to ask a question. I believe even your hon. Colleagues who are in the House are also following the screens, and they should be able to confirm the list I am following. However, whatever the case, I take note of your lamentation that we probably have a technical problem. I cannot fathom it now; I need to engage the information and communication technology (ICT) specialists so that they explain this phenomenon to me properly. Suffice it for me to assure you that since you are a member of the House Business Committee, I will report my findings to the Committee

That is my ruling.

Mr Muchima: Mr Speaker, I heard the hon. Minister say that the Government will commence the project when funds are made available. However, we operate on a Budget, which is an estimation of what is likely to be done in a particular year. Why is the hon. Minister saying that the market will only be constructed when funds are made available? Was the project part of the 2021 Budget or are people supposed to just believe that it will be constructed?

Dr Banda: Mr Speaker, I thank the hon. Member for Ikeleng’i for agreeing with me, the House and the Government that a budget is just an estimation, which does not mean availability of funds. We estimate what we may collect and spend and, at times, we are able to collect as much as estimated but, at other times, we are not. So, when we say works will commence when funds are made available, it means we will only implement the project when we raise the money. A budget is an estimate, plan or road map.

I thank you, Sir.

Mr Livune (Katombola): Mr Speaker –

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

Mr Speaker: A point of order is raised

Mr Kambita: Mr Speaker, thank you very much for allowing me to raise this point of order.

Mr Speaker, it seems the situation that the hon. Member for Liuwa experienced during Her Honour the Vice-President’s Question Time is similar to that of many other hon. Members in the House. I had a similar situation as the hon. Member for Liuwa. I indicated and, according to my list, I was No. 1. I am aware that you have ruled, but I would like to augment the point that an investigation needs to be made because we seem to be having a different list from yours.

Mr Speaker, I need your serious ruling on how the Information Communication Technology (ICT) Department is managing the system.

Mr Speaker: Hon. Member for Zambezi East, you are actually flogging a dead horse. I indicated in my ruling that I will investigate this matter. Of course, I am also surprised and amazed that you were No. 1 together with the hon. Member for Liuwa. I am sure the people in the Information Communication Technology (ICT) Department are listening and have heard that there were two No. 1s. As for you, according to my list, you were No. 22.

At the risk of repeating myself, the ICT Department is following these points of order, and I have already given instructions even to the Deputy Clerk responsible for procedure to investigate this matter and report to the next meeting of the House Business Committee.

I hope I will not have another point of order raised by another No. 1.

The hon. Member for Katombola may continue.

Mr Livune: Mr Speaker, is there any deliberate policy that attaches importance to having infrastructure like markets in big cities or towns like Kabwe? As it is said, what you see is what you get, and the bigger cities and towns are on the front page of Zambia. Is there any policy puts a premium on having infrastructure that paints a good picture of mother Zambia?

Dr Banda: Mr Speaker, the answer is ‘yes’, and that is the reason I stated in my answer to part (a) of the question that the Government has plans to construct a market at Kachulu in Kabwe Central Parliamentary Constituency. However, we build markets everywhere, not only in the bigger towns, because we know that they are required in all places. For example, a market has been constructed in the hon. Member’s constituency with the help of our Co-operating Partners, and we will soon commission it together with the Kazungula Bridge. It is Government policy to put up conducive infrastructure where people can go and ply their trade.

I thank you, Sir.

Mr Speaker: I will take the last two interventions from the hon. Member for Kafue and thereafter the hon. Member for Mumbwa. We will move on to the next question thereafter.

Ms Chinyama (Kafue): Mr Speaker, I would like to find out from the –

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

Mr Speaker: A point of order is raised.

Mr Nkombo: Mr Speaker, I am grateful to you for allowing me this opportunity to raise a point of order on Her Honour the Vice-President.

Sir, during the Vice-President’s Question Time, Her Honour the Vice-President indicated that her activity of giving out money at the market was limited to a young person whom she gave what she termed “the little change” from her shopping spree at the market.

Mr Speaker, we are guided by Cap 12 of the Laws of Zambia, which is directive, that as much as possible, a witness on the Floor of the House or in a Committee Room must not misguide this House. According to the video clip that I am looking at now on my phone, Her Honour the Vice-President was dishing out money not to one individual, but through an individual who is wearing a green shirt. In the stampede, the security officers ... (Inaudible) Her Honour the Vice-President because she is the second most important person in this land. According to what I am seeing here now, there are more than eight people, not children, but women and men, to whom the man in green was passing what she calls, “the little change”, which is the biggest denomination of money in this country.

Mr Speaker, is Her Honour the Vice-President, therefore, in order to mislead this House that she only gave one young boy what she calls “the little change”?

I will lay this phone on the Table of the House for you to see the clip I am referring to. I would like to have the phone back as soon as you are dispensed with it.

Mr Speaker, I need your ruling on this matter.

Mr Nkombo laid the phone on the Table.

Mr Speaker: I reserve my ruling.

The hon. Member for Kafue may continue.

Mrs Chinyama: Mr Speaker, is the hon. Minister in a position to share the work plan for 2022-2024 with us so that we may confirm whether, indeed, Kachulu Market is planned for along with other modern markets that have been outstanding, such as Kalukungu in Kafue? That way, the people of Kabwe and, indeed, the people of Kafue can be assured that this Government is serious about fulfilling its promises. I am saying this because on Kalukungu, a Presidential assurance was given, but the people of Kafue are still working.

Dr Banda: Mr Speaker, this information was extracted from the work plan for 2022-2024. I am, therefore, willing to bring the plan for the hon. Members of Parliament.

I thank you, Sir.

CONSTRUCTION OF A DIP TANK IN MASIKETI VILLAGE

188. Mr Hamusonde (Nangoma) - to ask the Minister of Fisheries and Livestock:

(a) when the construction of a dip tank in Masiketi Village in Mwembezhi Parliamentary Constituency would be completed;

(b) what the cause of delay in completing the project was;

(c) who the contractor for the project was; and

(d) what the estimated cost of the project was.

The Minister in the Office of the Vice-President (Mrs Mwansa) (on behalf of the Minister of Fisheries and Livestock (Prof. Luo)): Mr Speaker, the construction of the dip tank in Masiketi Village in Mwembezhi Parliamentary Constituency has been completed.

Sir, there was no delay in the construction of the dip tank.

Sir, the contractor was A. K. Electrical Jobbing and Construction Limited.

Mr Speaker, the cost for the construction of the dip tank was K188,105.85.

Mr Speaker, I thank you.

Mr Muchima: Mr Speaker, I thank the hon. Minister in the Office of the Vice-President for that satisfying response. Nevertheless, I want to know if there are any dip tanks that have not been completed throughout the country, and I request that she brings a schedule to the House so that hon. Members can see it for them to stop wondering and find a way forward.

Mrs Mwansa: Mr Speaker, since that is a new question, I will consult and bring the answer to the hon. Member of Parliament.

I thank you, Sir.

Dr Malama (Kanchibiya): Mr Speaker, I commend the hon. Minister of Fisheries and Livestock and her ministry for the efficiency in their work. I also encourage Zambian women, especially those who want to participate in politics, to emulate her, as only 17 per cent of Parliamentarians are women, and I hope that there will be close to 50 per cent women representation when we come back. I, therefore, urge the women of Kanchibiya and Monze to take heed.

Mr Speaker, has the completed dip tank been handed over to the public for use?

Mrs Mwansa: Mr Speaker, yes, it has been handed over.

I thank you, Sir.

Mr Speaker: The last two questions will be from the hon. Members for Nangoma and Katombola.

Mr Hamusonde: Mr Speaker, I think the hon. Minister got a wrong answer to this question. I passed through the area last week and found that the dip tank is not working. Of course, it was completed, but it was found to be leaking. Actually, it has not worked from the time it was completed. I, therefore, urge the hon. Minister to investigate this matter more so that she finds out whether the dip tank is working or not. Of course, it completed well, but it does not hold water.

Mr Speaker: Is that your question.

Mr Hamusonde: Mr Speaker, my question is, the ministry has to go back and check again. The truth is that the dip tank is not working.

Mr Speaker: That is a statement you are making, hon. Member. You are telling the hon. Minister that the ministry should go back and work on the dip tank, and that is not a question. Anyway, the hon. Minister has taken note of your statement.

Do you want to respond, hon. Minister? Anyway, it is not a question.

Mr Livune: Mr Speaker, according to the hon. Minister, is constructing a dip tank at over K120,000 prudent and sustainable? Does it make sense in terms of value for money? Is the Government satisfied that spending so much on such a facility is the way to go?

Mrs Mwansa: Mr Speaker, when a person wants to construct a house or a dip tank, he or she asks for quotations. In our case, the amount mentioned was the lowest bid because it included the sinking of the borehole.

I thank you, Sir.

ELECTRIFICATION OF SCHOOLS IN KABOMPO DISTRICT

190. Mr Lufuma (Kabompo) asked the Minister of Energy:

why the construction of power lines to electrify the following primary schools in Kabompo District had stalled:

Kalambo;
Samununga;
Nkulwashi;
Biyeko; and
Kabulamema;

b. when works on the project would resume;

c. who the contractor was; and

d. what the total cost of the project was.

The Minister of Energy (Mr Nkhuwa): Mr Speaker, the works have not stalled. The construction of the 11kv overhead power line to Kabompo District, which was scoped to supply only Kalambo School, was undertaken through the Increased Access to Electricity Supply (IAES) Project. The construction of the line was part of a wider scope to construct distribution lines to Mufumbwe, Kabompo, Zambezi, Mumbezhi and Chavuma districts under the IAES projects.

Mr Speaker, the contractor, Northlands Investment did the works, and Kalambo School is now on supply. However, the scope for the electrification of Samununga, Nkulwashi, Biyeko and Kabulamema schools has not yet been done, and the schools are encouraged to formally apply to Zesco Limited for power supply, after which Zesco Limited will do the scoping and issue quotations to the schools. The connection of the respective schools will be done upon payment of the full quoted amounts.

Sir, as stated, the works at Kalambo School are complete and the school is on supply. A transformer has been installed, and an 11kv 400v network was constructed and commissioned.

Sir, the contractor for the 11kv power line in Kabompo District for the electrification of Kalambo School was Northlands Equipment Limited.

Sir, the total cost of constructing the distribution line to Mufumbwe, Kabompo, Zambezi, Mumbezhi and Chavuma districts is US$2,165,656.80.

I thank you, Sir.

Mr Kambita (Zambezi East): Mr Speaker, with your indulgence, I will ask the hon. Minister of Energy a question since I am an interested party.

Sir, in his response, the hon. Minister mentioned that the project is part of a programme in which my district is also covered. What I want to know from the hon. Minister of Energy is whether the supply of power under this programme is restricted to Government institutions like the schools mentioned in his response, namely Samununga, Nkulwashi and Kabulamema. Similarly, in Zambezi District, there is Chitokoloki, Dipalata and other places. Does the package include extensions to some of the villages that were mentioned, which would be an example to show connectivity to the community so that they benefit, apart from the Government institutions like school?

Mr Nkhuwa: Mr Speaker, I mentioned those places because they were in the question at hand. However, I must say that once we put a line, everybody in the vicinity of it is at liberty to connect to it. Therefore, there are no restrictions at all.

I thank you, Sir.

Mr Lufuma: Mr Speaker, the hon. Minister has confused me because the programme that was announced was one in which Zesco would take lines from Kabompo through Kalambo, and, yes, because of the time that has passed since the question was filed in, the works in Kalambo have since been executed. However, the line is supposed to continue to Samununga, Nkulwashi, Biyeko and Kabulamema.

Mr Speaker, is the hon. Minister saying that the programme is no longer in place and that each of those schools will now have to individually apply to Zesco Limited and pay for the connections? Is that project not under the Rural Electrification Authority (REA) programme? Can the hon. Minister clarify this issue?

Mr Nkhuwa: Mr Speaker, as I said, the whole project is under the IAES Project, which is funded, and the main lines will be installed accordingly. Therefore, the applications and payments that must be made to Zesco Limited are for tapping power from the main line if it passes on top of the building. The lines will be built, and the schools will be able to tap power from them. The schools will not pay for the entire distribution line. I hope I have made this issue clear.

I thank you, Sir.

Mr Lufuma: Mr Speaker, the main line has only gone up to Kalambo; it has not reached the rest of the schools, namely Samununga, Nkulwashi, Biyeko and Kabulamema. When will the main line be extended to the other schools I have mentioned?

Mr Nkhuwa: Mr Speaker, I am not able to state when the lines will be installed. Suffice it for me to say that work is ongoing, as part of the scope of the project, and it will be completed.

I thank you, Sir.

Mr Speaker: I will take the last two interventions from hon. Members for Moomba and Ikeleng’i constituencies.

Mr Chaatila (Moomba): Mr Speaker, the hon. Minister seems to be contradicting himself in saying that the project is funded and, at the same time, indicating that the mentioned schools should apply to Zesco Limited, get quotations and pay to be connected. Why should that be when the programme is funded? I want to believe that the Government is involved because the schools are Government facilities.

Mr Nkhuwa: Mr Speaker, the funding is for the main line, not the final connection to the school. I hope that is clear.

I thank you, Sir.

Mr Muchima: Mr Speaker, the educational requirement for electricity is a given. Further, the hon. Minister has stated on the Floor of the House that the owing to the current educational environment in which there is use of computers, schools will be electrified but, like Hon. Lufuma has put it, the Ministry of General Education is unable to fund the connection of the schools to the power lines. Does the hon. Minister not think it an exercise in futility for him to put a main line in place when there is no money to connect the schools? Is there any deliberate action, through Rural Electrification Authority (REA) and the hon. Minister, to connect the schools?

Mr Nkhuwa: Mr Speaker, the connection of all the schools will be at a subsidised rate. The electricity access programme has made some provisions for those schools to not be required to pay the full amounts they would otherwise be required to pay. Therefore, if the hon. Member of Parliament is really keen to see the schools, which are in his area, connected, he can even use the Constituency Development Fund (CDF) for that purpose if the projects are really critical to the people in that area. People from other constituencies have approached my office and the Rural Electrification Authority (REA), and we have been able to assist them, although they have had to use part of their CDF.

Mr Speaker, I thank you.

Mr Speaker: The last question will be from the hon. Member for Zambezi West.

Mr Kucheka (Zambezi West): Mr Speaker, I was off air for a bit. So, I hope I am not asking question that has already been asked.

Sir, I would like to know from the hon. Minister whether this project has a time frame.

Mr Nkhuwa: Mr Speaker, like I said earlier, I am not able to give the time frame now, but I can get it from the people that are implementing the project and bring it to this House.

I thank you, Sir.

YOUTH SPORTS CENTRE FOR BWEENGWA

192. Mr Michelo (Bweengwa) asked the Minister of Youth, Sport and Child Development:

whether the Government had any plans to construct a youth sports centre in Bweengwa Parliamentary Constituency;
if so, when the plans would be implemented; and
if there were no such plans, why.

The Minister of Youth, Sport and Child Development (Mr Mulenga): Mr Speaker, the hon. Member may wish to note that in line with the National Sports Policy, the Government, through my ministry, is promoting the construction of sports infrastructure in all the provinces, districts and constituencies in Zambia, which will also benefit Bweengwa Constituency.

Sir, the implementation of the programme will depend on the availability of funds.

I thank you, Sir.

CONSTRUCTION OF PAUL MUSHINDO UNIVERSITY

193. Mr Mukosa (Chinsali) asked the Minister of Housing and Infrastructure Development:

when the construction of Paul Mushindo University in Chinsali District would be completed;
at what stage of completion, in percentage terms, the project was as of July, 2020;
how much money was owed to the contractor in terms of certified interim payment certificates (IPCs) as of the same date; and
what measures the Government was taking to ensure that the project is completed on schedule.

Mr Mwale: Mr Speaker, the construction of Paul Mushindo University in Chinsali District will be completed when funding for it is made available.

Sir, as at July, 2020, the project was at 80 per cent.

Mr Speaker, as of today, the Government owes the contractor K13,269,532.09, in yet-to-be-honoured interim payment certificates (IPCs).

Sir, the House may wish to note that most infrastructure projects, including this one, have been negatively affected by the financial challenges the country is experiencing. However, the Government is committed to completing projects that are at or above 80 per cent and, being above 80 per cent, Paul Mushindo University is one of the projects that have been prioritised for completion once funds are mobilised.

I thank you, Mr Speaker.

Mr Mukosa: Mr Speaker, I thank the hon. Minister for that answer. Clearly, we have seen the progress that has been made on that project. That said, does the hon. Minister have an idea of when the finances will be mobilised?

Mr Mwale: Mr Speaker, we have been engaging the Ministry of Finance to secure funding for the project and the Ministry of Finance promised to keep mobilising resources. Our colleagues may not raise the whole amount, and they have asked us to negotiate for the contractor to continue with the works after being paid whatever amount we will raise instead of first waiting to be paid the whole amount we owe, and we have agreed to do that. As we speak, the Ministry of Finance is mobilising the resources needed for the project to be completed. However, I cannot give an exact date on which the funds will be made available.

I thank you, Sir.

Mr Livune: Mr Speaker, in the hon. Minister’s view, is it correct thinking on the part of the Government to build two universities, namely Paul Mushindo and Robert Makasa, in one district when some provinces, such as the Eastern, Western and Southern province, have no Government university? Is it reasonable thinking or is it a case of being bewitched?

Mr Speaker: Hon. Member for Katombola, withdraw the reference to the practice of witchcraft.

Mr Livune: Sir, I withdraw that reference. However, is the Government thinking properly?

Mr Speaker: Withdraw the insinuation that the Government is not thinking properly, too.

Mr Livune: Mr Speaker, I withdraw that. However, why build two universities in one district and one province when the rest have no universities?

Mr Speaker: That is a totally new question because it has nothing to do with the stage of development of the university in question.

Mr Ng’ambi (Chifubu): Mr Speaker, I thank the hon. Minister for his response. I also commend the Patriotic Front (PF) Government for building two universities in that area.

Mr Speaker: Order, hon. Member for Chifubu!

Let us not politick over this issue.

Do you have a supplementary question in relation to Question No. 193?

Mr Ng’ambi: Mr Speaker, yes, I do.

Mr Speaker: What you are referring to is not a supplementary issue; it is a new question, which I have proscribed already.

Mr Ng’ambi: Mr Speaker, since we have challenges in terms of funding for this project, which is at 80 per cent, does the ministry have any plans to segment the project so that young people can continue receiving the desired knowledge from that strategic institution?

Mr Speaker: Sorry, what is your question? Can you repeat your question?

Dr Ng’ambi: Mr Speaker, my question is: Does the ministry have any intention of segmenting the project so that part of the institution can be opened to start providing strategic services to young people?

Mr Mwale: Mr Speaker, we have actually entertained that thought, and not only in relation to the universities. I think I have suggested here before that we can open some infrastructure that we are building, such as secondary schools, before it is completed. However, it is hard to imagine that we could enrol students if we completed the lecture theatres, for example, but left out the boarding or dining facilities. So, it is very difficult to segment such projects. Maybe, we can try to accommodate fewer students than planned and complete the facilities needed to accommodate the few students. Thereafter, we can gradually expand both the facilities and the enrolments. So, when we have a clear plan about this idea, we can implement it and open the institution.

I thank you, Mr Speaker.

Mr Kambita: Mr Speaker, in his response, to the question about Paul Mushindo University, the hon. Minister mentioned that once funds are sourced, the Government would resume the construction of the university. From his response, I take it that the Government will prioritise that institution and, in fact, he mentioned that. My interest is in the University College of Mathematics and Science in Kabompo, which the Government assured us, would be constructed. In terms of prioritisation, how does the hon. Minister compare the funding for Paul Mushindo University with that for the university college in Kabompo?

Mr Speaker: That is a new question.

Before we move on to the next question, which will be asked by the hon. Member for Liuwa, there were some indications on the Zoom platform that I need to recognise on Question No. 193.

The hon. Member for Kantanshi may ask his question on the Zoom platform.

Mr A. C. Mumba (Kantanshi): Mr Speaker, I want to take the hon. Minister back to the outstanding interim payment certificate (IPC) of K13 million. From June, last year, to date, is there any interest that has accrued on that IPC that might affect the Ministry of Finance negatively in releasing funds to the project? Is there any interest fee that will be paid to the contractor?

Mr Mwale: Mr Speaker, no, there is no interest that has been charged for delayed payment. The amount stands as it was from the beginning.

I thank you, Sir.

Ms Tambatamba (Kasempa): Mr Speaker, since the Government has to prioritise old projects and complete them before moving on to new ones, where do the priorities for the other universities, for instance, Kabompo University, which is very important for the people of the North-Western Province, lie?

Mr Speaker: That is also a new questions; it is not related to Question No. 193.

DECLARATION OF BAROTSE FLOOD PLAIN AS WORLD HERITAGE SITE

194. Dr Musokotwane (Liuwa) asked the Minister of Tourism and Arts:

whether the Government had any plans to declare the Barotse Flood Plain in the Western Province a world heritage site;
if so, when the plans would be implemented;
whether there were any activities that the local people would be prohibited to undertake upon the declaration of the plain as a world heritage site; and
if so, what the activities were.

The Minister of Tourism and Arts (Mr Chitotela): Mr Speaker, yes, the Government of the Republic of Zambia has plans to declare the Barotse Flood Plain in the Western Province as a world cultural landscape in line with the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation (UNESCO) World Heritage Convention.

Sir, the plan to declare the Barotse Flood Plain as a cultural landscape is under implementation and will be concluded next year. The implementation should have been completed this year, but key stakeholders were of the view that all efforts needed to be directed towards the sensitisation of the local communities.

Mr Speaker, the local people or any other persons may only be prohibited from engaging in activities that threaten the culture of the people or the attributes that convey the outstanding universal value, which include the historical canals and the royal burial mounds.

Sir, the motivation for the declaration is based more on the benefits or the good rather than on the limitations. Therefore, the local people will not be prohibited from any activities as a result of the declaration, as already stated above.

I thank you, Mr Speaker.

Dr Kopulande (Chembe): Mr Speaker, could the hon. Minister help educate the people of Zambia, through this House, on the implications of declaring an area a world heritage site.

Mr Chitotela: Mr Speaker, I do not know whether he means the positive or negative implications, but I will try to tackle both.

Sir, the positive implication is that the area will be protected from encroachment, and any developments would be guided; not implemented without proper planning. Further, during the process of declaring a place a heritage site, all the people would be consulted, and the local people must consent to the idea.

Sir, the declaration disturb the environment or restrict the activities of the people who live in the affected area, and the Victoria Falls, the only world heritage site in Zambia, is the best example I can give. The people of Livingstone have not been prohibited from conducting activities, but the area has been preserved for future use and the developments that take place around the falls are guided. The same will be the case with regard to the Barotse Flood Plains.

Sir, we were supposed to declare the Barotse Flood Plain a cultural landscape site this year, but we were informed that all the Senior Chiefs in the Western Province and all other stakeholders were needed to append their signatures to the application before it could finally be deposited with UNESCO for consideration. Therefore, there will be more benefits for the local people once the plains are declared a heritage site. However, activities like illegal methods of fishing and illegal logging will be discouraged in the Western Province, and the traditional authority and the local people in the Western Province will be involved in the planning of any development activities around that area.

I thank you, Sir.

Dr Musokotwane: Mr Speaker, the hon. Minister has cited the Victoria Falls as an example of a part of Zambia that is protected as a world heritage site. In this regard, I recall that when some investments were proposed around that area in the past, they were often contrary to the rules prescribed under the world heritage site agreement. In short, it became difficult to make any investments in the area because of those rules. Could the hon. Minister confirm to us that investments in and around the flood plains, which are desperately needed, will not be in conflict with the rules that will come with the world heritage site status?

Mr Chitotela: Mr Speaker, I will begin with the declaration of the Victoria Falls as a world heritage site because the hon. Member referred to it.

Sir, I cannot speak for the people who declared the Victoria Falls a heritage site because I am not privy to the negotiations that they made. However, from the time I was privileged to be transferred to the Ministry of Tourism and Arts, we have seen a number of developments around the falls. For example, His Excellency the President recently broke ground for the construction of Mosi-O-Tunya Executive Lodge, which will be operated and managed by Radisson Blu.

Sir, as regards the Western Province, the Lozi cultural manifestation and tradition have a long surviving history of a tradition management system that has, in a unique way, made the Lozi people to interact with their environment in a manner that transcends humanity. It is in this vein that the traditional management system of the Lozi sits at the centre of management and utilisation of the resources in a manner deemed responsible and acceptable by the people, and avoids the unsustainable loss of resources, which we currently witness, especially in the fisheries and forestry sectors. The objective is to ensure that the local people enjoy the benefits that accrue from taking care of their resources and natural environment through tourism, identity, guided development and preservation of the outstanding culture. Therefore, people will not be denied by the nomination, except by what they themselves will agree as the best way to utilise and benefit from the endowment now and for the future generations.

Mr Speaker, I thank you.

Dr Ng’ambi: Mr Speaker, will there be boosted economic activities for the people in the Western Province, particularly those who will be affected by the declaration of the Barotse Flood Plain as a world heritage site?

Mr Chitotela: Mr Speaker, yes, guided development and controlled investment by the people of the Western Province is going to attract a lot of planned investment to that area like we have seen happen in Livingstone around the Victoria Falls. The world will be excited because that will be the second world heritage site to be declared in Zambia. As I have stated, there will be more accrued benefits for the local people of the Western Province.

I thank you, Sir.

Dr Imakando (Mongu Central): Mr Speaker, I heard the hon. Minister say that the developments that will take place will only be those that are approved through properly developed plans. Who will be responsible for approving those plans? If United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation (UNESCO) authorities will be involved, does the hon. Minister not think that the approval process will be very long, which will result in delayed development in the proposed heritage site?

Mr Chitotela: Mr Speaker, earlier, I stated that the community will be involved. We have been consulting the community and involving it, and some of the issues that will be included in the declaration are that the communities are going to be at the centre in approving the kind of investment they would welcome in that part of the country.

I thank you, Sir.

Mr Nanjuwa (Mumbwa): Mr Speaker, will the declaration of the Barotse Flood Plains as a world heritage site result in displacement of some people? If so, have plans been put in place to ensure that the people who will be displaced are secured and compensated?

Mr Chitotela: Mr Speaker, the world heritage conventions as well as other international and local policies will simply enhance the traditional strategies for governance and conservation of the cultural landscape rather than override them and, thus, open the way for sustainable development. The proposed boundary of the landscape has taken into consideration the need to protect the outstanding universal value of the landscape whilst allowing as much economic activity, such as mining, as possible outside the proposed property area and its buffer. That will allow for sustainable livelihoods.

Sir, inscribing world heritage status entails that any large-scale development has to be subjected to close scrutiny so that the cultural heritage of the area is not needlessly lost. So, we will not go and impose boundaries where the people are. Instead, everything will be done in consultation with the Lozi people of the Western Province, and with due regard for the other economic activities in the area.

I thank you, Mr Speaker.

Dr Musokotwane: Mr Speaker, could the hon. Minister clearly state the benefits that will arise from the proposed arrangement. I listened to him carefully, and some of the benefits that he has indicated, such as the protection of the environment and culture are sufficiently provided for under Zambian laws, and there are institutions mandated to do that. The institutions may be weak, but the laws are definitely there. So, what additional benefits should the people of the Western Province expect to derive from the arrangement?

Mr Chitotela: Mr Speaker, the additional benefit is that as a world heritage site, the plains will attract international attention the same way the Victoria Falls, which is an international heritage site, not a Zambian heritage site, does. So, the international community will have greater interest in the area, and the investment that will bring will greatly benefit the people of the Western Province. The initiative will make more people know about the Barotse Flood Plains, its benefits and the type of investments that will need to be taken there. We are certain that the initiative will also create employment for the local people, which will benefit them in the same way our brothers and sisters around the Victoria Falls have benefited. We foresee that happening in the Western Province.

Mr Speaker, I thank you.

Mr Mutaba (Mwandi): Mr Speaker, the hon. Minister is only talking about benefits to the people of Barotseland. If the benefits are not going to be achieved, will there be a provision in the agreement that will enable the people of Barotseland to opt out of the agreement?

Mr Chitotela: Mr Speaker, during the consultations, we engaged many stakeholders, and many hon. Members of Parliament from the Western Province attended some of the engagements we had at Government Complex. They were also represented by the hon. Minister for the Western Province and a number of traditional leaders. So, my encouragement to my brother is that as the consultations continue, that must be one of the important issues that the people of the Western Province should consider.

Mr Speaker, the fact that the Victoria Falls has been beneficial to the people of the Southern Province gives us comfort that even the declaration of the Barotse Floodplain as a world heritage site will be of economic benefit to the local people and, eventually, to the country at large.

Mr Speaker, I thank you.

Mr Kundoti (Luena): Mr Speaker, the hon. Minister talked about the preservation and protection of the rich Lozi culture in the Barotse Flood Plain in the Western Province. Will that come with funding, maybe, from United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation (UNESCO) or, probably, the Zambian Government?

Mr Chitotela: Mr Speaker, once an area is declared a world heritage site, UNESCO helps with technical and financial assistance. So, we believe that financial and technical support will be provided for the preservation and protection of the Barotse Flood Plain.

I thank you, Mr Speaker.

Mr Mwila (Chimwemwe): Mr Speaker, the hon. Minister stated that the Victoria Falls have been declared a world heritage site and that if the Barotseland Flood Plains are declared a world heritage site, it will be the second site in Zambia.

Sir, in the case of the Victoria Falls, we are aware that it is actually one of the seven natural wonders of the world. In the case of the Barotse Flood Plains, what exactly is eye-catching about them for them to be declared a world heritage site when there are many cultures throughout the country? The hon. Minister has talked about preserving the plains, but there are also Nsumbu and Kasanda flood plains. What is eye-catching about the Barotse Flood Plains to place it in the same category with, for example, the Victoria Falls?

Mr Chitotela: Mr Speaker, there are a number of eye-catching activities on the Barotse Flood Plains that deserve to be recognised, and we, as Zambians, must be happy celebrate the fact that the area is being considered for declaration as a world heritage site by UNESCO. There are things like canals and the flood plain itself. I wish my brother, the hon. Member for Chimwemwe, had been to the Western Province so that he could see that there is a difference between the Bangweulu Flood Plain and the Barotse Flood Plain, and agree with me that we need to preserve that culture.

Mr Speaker, as I stated, the Barotse have one of the longest living cultures, which has outlived humanity. When I was in Luapula, I visited Senior Chief Mwata Kazembe and was told that in the past in Zambia, there were only two traditional ceremonies that were celebrated, namely the Kuomboka of the Lozi people and the Mutomboko of the Lunda people of Mwata Kazembe. That was before other cultures started having traditional ceremonies. So, that is why we need to start identifying what we can preserve so that the world can begin to celebrate with us.

Sir, the Barotse Flood Plain and the culture of the Lozi people constitute one unique identity that we must all celebrate. By the way, this is only the second site that has been identified and approved by UNSECO for consideration of registration as a world heritage site. As we go on, we may identify and propose other plains, such as those in Mpulungu, Nsumbu, in the Eastern Province, where our friends come from, and in the North-Western Province, where my in-laws live. When our flood plains are identified and ascribed to UNESCO, we will attract investment from around the globe. So, there are a number of things, to cut the long story short, that are encouraging us to recognise the Barotse Flood Plains, whose landscape, as I have stated, is very unique in itself. There are also the beautiful canals and the culture our people in the Western Province celebrate.

Mr Speaker, I thank you.

CHITAMBO LOCAL COURTS REHABILITATON

195. Mr Mutale (Chitambo) asked the Minister of Justice:

whether the Government had any plans to rehabilitate the following Local Courts in Chitambo Parliamentary Constituency:

Muchinka; and
Kafinda;

b. if so, when the plans would be implemented; and

c. if there were no such plans, why.

The Minister of Housing and Infrastructure Development (Mr Mwale) (on behalf of the Minister of Justice (Mr Lubinda)): Mr Speaker, yes, the Government has plans to rehabilitate Muchinka and Kafinda Local Courts in Chitambo Parliamentary Constituency. The assessments and preparation of cost estimates and scope of works have been prepared and captured in the 2021 Budget.

Mr Speaker, the works will commence as soon as funds are made available through the Treasury.

I thank you, Sir.

________

BILLS

HOUSE IN COMMITTEE

[THE CHAIRPERSON OF COMMITTEES in the

Chair]

THE HEALTH PROFESSIONS (Amendment) BILL, 2021

Clauses 1, 2 and 3 ordered to stand part of the Bill.

CLAUSE 4 – (Amendment of section 12)

The Minister of Works and Supply (Ms Chalikosa) (on behalf of the Minster of Health (Dr Chanda)): Madam Chairperson, I beg to move an amendment in Clause 4, on page 4, after line 8, by the insertion of the following new sub-clause immediately after sub-clause (2):

“(3) For the purposes of this section, a post-graduate qualification shall include a fellowship programme as recognised by the Council.”

Amendment agreed to. Clause amended accordingly.

Clause 4, as amended, ordered to stand part of the Bill.

CLAUSE 5 – (Amendment of section 32)

Ms Chalikosa: Madam Chairperson, I beg to move an amendment in clause 5, on page 4, in line 11, by the deletion of the words “training institution shall not” and the substitution therefor of the words “higher education institution shall not advertise,”.

Amendment agreed to. Clause amended accordingly.

Clause 5, as amended, ordered to stand part of the Bill.

CLAUSE 6 – (Repeal and replacement of section 33)

Ms Chalikosa: Madam Chairperson, I beg to move an amendment in clause 6, on page 4, in line 17, by the deletion of the word “training” and the substitution therefor of the words “higher education”.

Amendment agreed to. Clause amended accordingly.

Clause 6, as amended, ordered to stand part of the Bill.

CLAUSE 7 – (Amendment of section 51)

Ms Chalikosa: Madam Chairperson, I beg to move an amendment in clause 7, on page 4, in lines 30 and 31 by the deletion of clause 7 and the substitution therefor of the following:

“Amendment of 7. Section 51 of the principal Act is amended

Section 51 by the deletion of subsection (3) and the substitution

therefor of the following:

(3) the minister may, by statutory instrument,

on the recommendation of the Council, prescribe the

category of a health practitioner and professional

experience required of a registered health practitioner

who is to supervise the operations of a health facility of

a particular licence class.”

Amendment agreed to. Clause amended accordingly.

Clause 7, as amended, ordered to stand part of the Bill.

Clause 8 ordered to stand part of the Bill.

Title agreed to.

_______

HOUSE RESUMED

[MR SPEAKER in the Chair]

The following Bill was reported to the House as having passed through Committee with amendments:

The Health Professions (Amendment) Bill, 2021

Report Stage on Tuesday, 4^th May, 2021.

THIRD READING

The following Bill was read the third time and passed:

The Higher Education (Amendment) Bill, 2021

_______

MOTION

ADJOURNMENT

The Government Chief Whip and Acting Leader of Government Business (Mr Mundubile): Mr Speaker, I beg to move that the House do now adjourn.

Question put and agreed to.

_______

The House adjourned at 1058 hours until 1430 hours on Tuesday, 4^th May, 2021.

____________

WRITTEN REPLIES TO QUESTIONS

ELECTRIFICATION OF VILLAGES IN CHIPOKA WARD

189. Mr Chalwe (Bahati) asked the Minister of Energy:

(a) whether the Government had any plans to electrify the following villages in Chipoka Ward in Bahati Parliamentary Constituency under the Rural Electrification Programme (REP):

(i) Mikaeli; and

(ii) Moloshi;

(b) if so, when the plans would be implemented; and

(c) if there were no such plans, why.

The Minister of Energy (Mr Nkhuwa): Mr Speaker, the Rural Electrification Authority (REA) has plans to electrify Mikaeli and Moloshi villages in Chipoka Ward in Bahati Parliamentary Constituency under the Rural Electrification Programme (REP). Officers are scheduled to visit the area before the end of 2021 to ascertain the scope of works and cost of electrification.

Sir, the electrification of villages will be implemented after the scope of works and the associated cost have been established. However, the implementation of the project will be subject to the availability of funds.

I thank you, Mr Speaker.

ZAMBIA CONSOLIDATED COPPER MINES INVESTMENT HOLDINGS SHARES IN LUMWANA MINE

191. Dr Chibanda (Mufulira) asked the Minister of Mines and Minerals Development:

how many shares, in percentage terms, were held by the Zambia Consolidated Copper Mines Investment Holdings (ZCCM-IH) in Lumwana Mines as of December, 2020; and
if there were no shares held, why.

The Minister of Mines and Minerals Development (Mr Musukwa): Mr Speaker, the Zambia Consolidated Copper Mines Investment Holdings (ZCCM-IH) did not hold any shares in Lumwana Mines as at 31^st December, 2020. In 2006, ZCCM-IH acquired 5.25 per cent shareholding in Equinox Minerals Limited, which wholly owned Lumwana Mining Company Limited at that time. Therefore, ZCCH-IH had an indirect shareholding in Lumwana via its shareholding in Equinox Minerals Limited. However, in June, 2011, Barrick Gold Corporation acquired the majority stake in Equinox Minerals Limited, which triggered a mandatory acquisition of all minority shareholdings, including ZCCH-IH’s. Consequently, ZCCH-IH disposed of its shares in Equinox Minerals Limited at US$167 million and ceased to have any sort of equity participation, direct or indirect, in Lumwana Mines. However, in its 2020-2026 strategic plan, ZCCH-IH is considering Brownfield and Greenfield opportunities to invest in the copper mining sector, and Lumwana Mines is a potential target.

I thank you, Sir.

CHIEF CHITANDA/CHIEF KAINDU BOUNDARY DIPUTE

196. Ms Kasune (Keembe) asked the Minister of Chiefs and Traditional Affairs:

whether the Government was aware of the boundary dispute between Chief Chitanda of Chibombo District and Chief Kaindu of Mumbwa District;
what the cause of the dispute was; and
what measures the Government was taking to resolve the dispute.

The Minister of Chiefs and Traditional Affairs (Mr Sichalwe): Mr Speaker, the Government is aware of the boundary dispute between the chiefdoms of Chitanda of Chibombo District and Kaindu of Mumbwa District. The dispute between Chief Kaindu and Chief Chitanda is a long-standing one, dating back to more than twenty years ago. The disputed area, known as Kanyemu, consists of communities and headmen under both Chitanda Chiefdom and Kaindu Chiefdom. This area also runs along the boundary between Chibombo and Mumbwa districts from the South to the North near the Kafue River.

Sir, the two chiefs have differed over the boundary, with each giving their own historical narration of ownership of the area.

Mr Speaker, the two chiefs were called to appear before the Committee of Chiefs during the October, 2020, House of Chiefs Session so that they could be engaged on the need to pursue peaceful methods of resolving the boundary conflict between them. During the meeting, the two agreed to pursue peaceful methods of resolving the dispute.

Mr Speaker, I thank you.

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