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Debates- Friday, 19th October, 2012
DAILY PARLIAMENTARY DEBATES FOR THE SECOND SESSION OF THE ELEVENTH ASSEMBLY
Friday, 19th October, 2012
The House met at 0900 hours
[MR DEPUTY SPEAKER in the Chair]
NATIONAL ANTHEM
PRAYER
________
BUSINESS OF THE HOUSE
The Vice-President (Dr Scott): Mr Speaker, I rise to give the House some indication of the business it will consider next week.
Sir, on Tuesday, 23rd October, 2012, the Business of the House will commence with questions for oral answer, if there will be any. This will be followed by presentation of Government Bills, if there will be any. The House will thereafter resume the debate on the Motion of Supply on the 2013 Budget. Hopefully, the Opposition will be present for that session.
Hon. Government Members: Hear, hear!
The Vice-President: Mr Speaker, on Thursday, 25th October, 2012, the Business of the House will start with questions, if there will be any. This will be followed by presentation of Government Bills, if there will be any. Thereafter, the House will continue with the policy debate on the Motion of Supply on the 2013 Budget.
Sir, on Friday, 26th October, 2012, the Business of the House will commence with the Vice-President’s Question Time. This will be followed by Questions for Oral Answer, if there will be any. After that, the House will deal with presentation of Government Bills, if there will be any. The House will then continue with the policy debate on the Motion of Supply on the 2013 Budget.
I thank you, Sir.
_______
MINISTERIAL STATEMENT
`
THE INDENI PETROLEUM MAINTENANCE SHUTDOWN
The Minister of Mines, Energy and Water Development (Mr Mukanga): Mr Speaker, I would like to thank you for giving me this opportunity to make a ministerial statement on the current Indeni Petroleum Maintenance shutdown.
Sir, this statement serves to inform the general public and fuel consumers that Indeni Petroleum Refinery is currently on its annual planned maintenance shutdown, which started at midnight on 7th October, 2012. The refinery will be on shutdown until 28th October, 2012.
Mr Speaker, as of 18th October, 2012, there were ten days remaining before the refinery resumes its operations. The shutdown was postponed for one week from the initial planned date of 1st October, 2012, to enable adequate stocking of the fuel reserves. As of today, the Ndola Fuel Terminal (NFT) and Indeni Petroleum Refinery have sufficient fuel stocks to meet the national consumption for the remaining ten days.
Sir, to put this into perspective, we have 19, 144m3 of petrol, which can cover twenty four days of national consumption, and 26, 064m3 of diesel, which can cover fourteen days. We also have 1000m3 of kerosene, which can cover thirty-three days.
Mr Speaker, as regards the availability of Jet (A1) fuel, the Oil Marketing Companies (OMCs) that supply it have been authorised to import 12, 900m3 and are, currently, doing so. This is to ensure that sufficient quantities of Jet fuel are available for the recent increased demand in air traffic to Zambia.
Sir, in addition to the stocks mentioned above, the Ministry of Mines, Energy and Water Development has continued to receive imported diesel and petrol at the rate of 1, 200m3 and 525m3, respectively, per day.
Mr Speaker, the maintenance works at the refinery are proceeding well and on schedule, as they are planned works. Some of the selected maintenance works that will be carried out at the refinery during the period are inspection of seven refinery furnaces and fourteen heat exchangers as well as servicing of the main compressor, the K301.
Sir, it should be noted that the refinery shut down is mainly for re-generation of the catalyst used in the production of petrol, which usually finishes after a year of use. As has been the case in the past, the Government is appealing to all fuel bulk suppliers, retailers and consumers to go about their usual business without any anxiety at all because everything is under control.
Mr Speaker, members of the public should feel free to contact my ministry or the Energy Regulation Board (ERB) for any required clarifications. My ministry is positive that the measures taken to avoid disruptions in fuel supply are enough.
I thank you, Mr Speaker.
Hon. Government Members: Hear, hear!
Mr Deputy Speaker: Hon. Members are now free to ask questions on points of clarification on the ministerial statement made by the hon. Minister of Mines, Energy and Water Development.
Mr Hamududu (Bweengwa): Mr Speaker, I would like to inform this House that Monze is experiencing the worst fuel crisis ever seen in recent history. Every day, people are queuing for fuel, and this is hampering our conduct of business in the town. What is the ministry doing to address this critical shortage of fuel in Monze?
Mr Mukanga: Mr Speaker, I appreciate the hon. Member’s question. Currently, we have enough stocks and what is obtaining in Monze, as indicated by the hon. Member, is not supposed to be the case. However, what is happening is that, the OMCs need people who are selling this fuel to be paying cash. So, fuel is not being delivered to those who cannot pay in cash. Now that the hon. Member has brought that issue to my attention, I will follow it up and see how best the situation can be resolved.
I thank you, Sir.
````
Ms Namugala (Mafinga): Mr Speaker, the hon. Minister says that some OMCs have been allowed to import fuel, especially Jet A1. The rate of the United States (US) Dollar, today, is K5, 200 or more. If OMCs are to import oil products, is this not going to make these products very expensive? If it will, is the Government subsidising the price of fuel, and to what extent is this subsidy?
Mr Mukanga: Mr Speaker, I think that Jet A1 fuel is transacted in US Dollars all the time.
I thank you, Mr Speaker.
Mr Belemu (Mbabala): Mr Speaker, since the hon. Minister said that the Government has allowed OMCs to import Jet A1, has it checked how much quantity has come in and that which is in stock so that we are assured that there will be no disruption of supply?
Mr Mukanga: Mr Speaker, have been checking and constantly having meetings to ensure that there is no disruption. So, we have enough stocks and are in control of the situation.
I thank you, Mr Speaker.
Hon. PF Members: Hear, hear!
Dr Chituwo (Mumbwa): Mr Speaker, what measures have been put in place by the Government to ensure quality in these products that are being brought into the country by OMCs?
Mr Mukanga: Mr Speaker, we are constantly checking the products at our testing facilities to ensure that whatever is brought into the country meets the specifications. The ERB is doing everything possible to ensure that things are on course.
I thank you, Mr Speaker.
Mr Hamudulu (Siavonga): Mr Speaker, why are the OMCs that are enjoying credit facilities not extending the same to filling stations?
Mr Mukanga: Mr Speaker, all these are business transactions that have rules to follow. We do not want to start controlling business activities. However, if there are serious problems, and we feel our people will be disadvantaged, we will look into the issues as they come.
I thank you, Mr Speaker.
Mr Chishiba (Kafulafuta): Mr Speaker, each time there are rumours that the Indeni Oil Refinery is going to be shut down, there is a lot of anxiety in the country. Is the commingling process that takes places at the refinery sufficient to sustain the energy sector in this country?
Interruptions
Mr Mukanga: Mr Speaker, the hon. Member should understand that commingling is just the mixing of crude oil and diesel, which comes to the refinery and then a separation and distillation process takes place. Currently, the refinery is on shutdown, but we have enough stocks. Therefore, everybody should be at peace. The Government is in control and doing everything possible to ensure that all consumers get what they need. So, there is no need for anxiety.
I thank you, Mr Speaker.
Hon. Government Members: Hear, hear!{mospagebreak}
Mr Mweetwa (Choma Central): Mr Speaker, ever since the Patriotic Front (PF) Government came into power, it is very clear …
Hon. PF Members interjected.
Mr Deputy Speaker: Order!
Mr Mweetwa: Mr Speaker, ever since the PF Government came into power, …
Hon. UPND Members: Hear, hear!
Mr Mweetwa: … we have had acute fuel shortages in many places in the country, …
Hon. PF Members: Question!
Mr Mweetwa: … including Choma and Kalomo, yet we are told that we always have sufficient fuel stocks at national level. This is hampering businesses …
Hon. PF Members: What is your question?
Dr Deputy Speaker: Order!
I am in the Chair. Please, I do not need your help.
Laughter
Hon. Opposition Members: Hear, hear!
Mr Deputy Speaker: Order!
The hon. Member may continue.
Mr Mweetwa: What is the PF Government doing to ensure that the distribution of fuel is smoothened, in the interest of the nation, so that the conduct of business is not hampered by these difficulties that exist within what the hon. Minister is referring to as business transactions? The truth of the matter is that, while we are assured of the presence of adequate fuel at the national level, on the ground, the people are suffering …
Mr Deputy Speaker: Order!
I think that your question has been asked.
Mr Mukanga: Mr Speaker, I always wonder why the hon. Member wants to talk about campaign issues every time I hear him speak. I think that he always invites me to take that path and I will try to answer in the same fashion.
Hon. PF Members: Hear, hear!
Mr Mukanga: Mr Speaker, when the people of Zambia looked at what was prevailing before we came into power, they decided that they were going to change the Government.
Hon. PF Members: Hear, hear!
Mr Mukanga: They decided to do so because they looked at many factors, one of which was the problem that we had in the fuel sector. They changed the Government and put people who were going to change things and manage the situation. That is what the PF Government is trying to do.
Mr Speaker, we were told by the President that hon. Members should learn to speak. It is parle′. Instead of exchanging words in Parliament, we should be able to sit in our offices and discuss our problems. Why should an hon. Member wait for a ministerial statement if he/she has a problem?
Hon. PF Members: Hear, hear!
Mr Mukanga: The doors of our offices are open and we can discuss issues and resolve the problems of our people. It is important that we learn to communicate and discuss. We are in this boat together.
Hon. PF Members: Hear, hear!
Hon. Opposition Members: No!
Mr Mukanga: We in this together and should move together. So, it is important that, if you have a problem in your …
Interruptions
Mr Deputy Speaker: Order!
Let the hon. Minister be heard.
You may continue, hon. Minister.
Mr Mukanga: Sir, if a hon. Member of Parliament has a problem, they should not wait until the time for Parliament to come and use cheap politics so that they can be heard on radio. No!
Laughter
Mr Mukanga: It is important that our colleagues come to our offices so that we discuss and address all these things. We are looking at that issue and we will resolve it.
Thank you, Sir.
Hon. PF Members: Hear, hear!
Mr Deputy Speaker: Order!
Let me guide. The people out there want to get the best from us. I think that it is in the interest of all us that we listen and, if you have any genuine concerns, ask about those concerns. So can we, please, do what is right.
Mr Ntundu (Gwembe): Sir, this is not the …
Mr Mweetwa: On a point of order, Sir.
Mr Deputy Speaker: A point of order is raised.
Mr Mweetwa: Mr Speaker, thank you very much for giving the opportunity to raise this point of order.
Mr Speaker, my question was very succinct and specific. Is the hon. Minister in order to fail to answer it but, instead, …
Interruptions
Mr Mweetwa: … attack my privilege to ask questions on the Floor of this House, and refer to it as an opportunity to be heard on radio, when I have many platforms outside this House to be heard on radio?
Interruptions
Mr Deputy Speaker: Order!
That is what I meant when I said the people out there are listening. They want to get the best from us. However, when you start a game and other people play along, you should not complain.
Hon. Government Members: Hear, hear!
Mr Deputy Speaker: Order!
I was very attentive when the hon. Member for Choma Central asked his question.
Interruptions
Mr Deputy Speaker: Order!
He started by saying, “Ever since the PF came into Government ...” That was starting the game, and he prompted that kind of response. However, the hon. Minister should have restricted himself to the substance of his answer, which came at the end of his response, which was that the Government was looking into the matter. So, hon. Members should stick to the questions and avoid throwing jabs at each other.
The hon. Member for Gwembe can continue.
Hon. Government Members: Hear, hear!
Mr Ntundu: Mr Speaker, I thank you.
Mr Deputy Speaker: Order!
Mr Ntundu: Sir, this is not the first time that the hon. Minister of Mines, Energy and Water Development has assured this House that there are enough stocks of fuel.
Interruptions
Mr Deputy Speaker: Order!
That is the kind of thing that I do not understand. Why not wait for the question to be asked and allow the hon. Minister to respond?
The hon. Member for Gwembe can proceed, but he should go straight to the question.
Mr Ntundu: Mr Speaker, when Indeni Oil Refinery shut down last time, the hon. Minister assured the House that there were enough stocks of fuel when, in fact, the country was experiencing shortages. Can the PF hon. Minister re-assure the House, especially the people of Gwembe where there is no filling station and they are panic-buying fuel from Monze in containers. Are there enough stocks of fuel so that the people of Gwembe do not panic-buy?
Hon. Opposition Members: Hear, Hear!
Mr Deputy Speaker: Order!
Mr Mukanga: Mr Speaker, I would like to re-assure the hon. Member that we have enough stocks of fuel, as I have stipulated in the ministerial statement. No one should panic.
Thank you, Sir.
Mr Mufalali (Senanga): Mr Speaker, at what stage is the quality control done? Is it at the source or the point of delivery?
Mr Mukanga: Mr Speaker, quality control is done at the various stages, not just at the source or point of delivery.
Thank you, Sir.
Mr Deputy Speaker: I wish other hon. Members would ask questions like the hon. Member for Senanga did because, then, they would get straightforward answers.
Laughter
Lieutenant-General Shikapwasha (Keembe): Mr Speaker, what are the quantities of Jet A1 fuel available in the country? Could the hon. Minister, please, repeat the figures.
Mr Mukanga: Mr Speaker, the stocks of Jet A1 fuel, as of today, are enough for the Government to use for three days.
Thank you, Sir.
Mr Hamusonde (Nangoma): Mr Speaker, the availability of fuel is critical in agriculture. However, farmers have started ploughing their fields, but there is no fuel at the filling station in Nangoma. When will the situation be rectified?
Mr Mukanga: Mr Speaker, I will follow the situation in Nangoma up because there are enough stocks in the country.
Thank you, Sir.
Mr Mutati (Lunte): Mr Speaker, what is the lead time for the importation of Jet A1 fuel?
Mr Mukanga: Mr Speaker, I do not have that information, but I have been assured that enough quantities of the commodity are being imported and stocked because it is being taken straight to the various airports for use.
Thank you, Sir.
_______________
HIS HONOUR THE VICE-PRESIDENT’S QUESTION TIME
Mr M. B. Mwale (Malambo): Mr Speaker, do District Commissioners (DCs) have the added responsibility of forming PF party structures in districts, with a sudden abundance of PF Chitenge material as is the case in Mambwe?
The Vice-President (Dr Scott): Mr Speaker, it is an interesting allegation, and I will look into it, although I am not aware that what the hon. Member is suggesting obtains.
Thank you, Sir.
Mr Livune (Katombola): Mr Speaker, in Livingstone, a reporter was arrested for wearing bangles. What is the PF Government doing to protect its citizens who wear bangles as party of tradition and ethnic identity? A breach observed in perpetuity ceases to be law? What is the Government doing to protect people like the sister of ours in Livingstone who was arrested by the Zambia Wild Life Authority (ZAWA)?
The Vice-President: Mr Speaker, the local ZAWA officials were being overzealous. The matter has been clarified in the public media by the Director-General of ZAWA, …
Hon. Government Members: Hear, hear!
The Vice-President: … who stated that the policy will be for people who have traditional ivory of indefinite old age to be given permits to wear it while those wearing new ivory will be subject to investigation.
Thank you, Sir.
Professor Lungwangwa (Nalikwanda): Mr Speaker, a crisis is looming in the nation. Cholera cases are reported almost every week and, today, there are reports from Kapiri-Mposhi and Kabwe to the effect that forty-five cases have been recorded. What is the Government doing, strategically, to address the looming crisis?
The Vice-President: Mr Speaker, the Government is taking the appropriate traditional measures. The difficulty with this time of the year, especially in the fisheries areas, is that the bacterium or vibrio that has been deposited up-slope from the fisheries, rivers or lakes gets washed down by the first rains and are drank by the fish-mongers. There is little to be done, except to close the fisheries selectively when they have an outbreak of cholera and, of course, set up treatment centres in which we are capable of getting 100 per cent recoveries.
I thank you, Sir.
Mr Chishimba (Kamfinsa): Mr Speaker, we have heard …
Interruptions
Mr Deputy Speaker: Order!
The hon. Member can continue.
Mr Chishimba: Sir, we have heard media reports about the President of one political party that was kicked out of office by the Zambian people because of its mischievous activities that he will use some hon. Members of this House to frustrate Government programmes. Thus, he is trying to hold the Zambian people at ransom and sabotage our economy. What is the Government’s position on such questionable characters?
Mr Deputy Speaker: Order!
The Vice-President: Mr Speaker, frustrating the Government’s programmes is a two-edged sword because that also includes frustrating the release of the Constituency Development Fund (CDF) and other disbursements for which provision is being made in the Budget.
Hon. Government Members: Hear, hear!
The Vice-President: So, I wish the gentleman in question good luck. He joined the party of which His Excellency, the President, Mr Michael Sata, and I were founder members in 1991 much later. He does not have the hang of multi-party democracy.
I thank you, Sir.{mospagebreak}
Mr Muntanga (Kalomo Central): Mr Speaker, I would like His Honour the Vice-President to give a clear position on an issue in the Ministry of Home Affairs. In 2010, the Prisons Service over-recruited prison wardens by fifty-seven. After graduation, the fifty-seven were left at the training school. To date, they have not been deployed and continue to be fed at Government expense. Yesterday, when one of them tried to complain about their non-deployment, he was locked up in the guard-room. What will happen to these wardens?
The Vice-President: Mr Speaker, I thought I had struck a deal with the hon. Member for Kalomo Central for him to walk out early today to go and attend to his daughter’s wedding.
Laughter
The Vice-President: However, he, obviously, wanted to stay and fire, at least, one bullet at me.
Laughter
The Vice-President: That is what he has done. I have passed this question on to the hon. Minister of Home Affairs who is seated next to me. He will come with the answer to the House.
I thank you, Sir.
Dr Chituwo: Mr Speaker, on many occasions, his Honour the Vice-President has assured me on the Floor of this House of a solution to the massive encroachments on Game Management Area (GMA) No.14 in Mumbwa. Does the Government want to promote tourism, as it claims, or the wanton degradation of that area so that the GMA ceases to exist in the next year or so?
The Vice-President: Mr Speaker, the questioner says that he has been re-assured many times. So, this is evidence that he has asked the question many times whereas, technically speaking, questions are supposed to be asked once. However, we understand that this particular issue seems to stem from the displacement of farmers from the Kalomo area, who are now settling in the Itezhi-tezhi and Mumbwa East GMAs. We know about it. However, there is an on-going land audit that has been fast-tracked. Therefore, the hon. Member is welcome, if I may, on behalf of the Chair, give him the dispensation to ask the question every time or every second time there is the Vice-President’s Question Time.
Mr Speaker, I thank you.
Laughter
Mr Deputy Speaker: Hon. Members, we have little time to ask questions, but as many people as possible would like to participate. Therefore, be brief and do not make long-winded statements before you ask your question.
Mr Miyutu (Kalabo Central): Mr Speaker, in the Link Zambia 8, 000km Road Project, there is no high demand road in six provinces. Our road in Kalabo has been placed in the medium-demand road category. What criterion was used to classify the demands for the roads so that the road that we want most in Kalabo fell into the medium-demand category? Who made it a medium-demand road?
Laughter
The Vice-President: Mr Speaker, I presume that the hon. Member is referring to the Phase I Programme as being high-demand. There are some questions about the language that I am uncertain about. Basically, you have to prioritise some things before others if you are going to have to do them in sequence. You cannot start off each one of the roads simultaneously as if it was some kind of race. I will, certainly, be prompted to see if there are any anomalies in the road prioritisation. However, as it stands, it is a normal procedure.
I thank you, Sir.
Mr Namulambe (Mpongwe): Mr Speaker, two weeks ago, His Honour the Vice-President promised, in the presence of the hon. Minister of Chiefs and Traditional Affairs, that we were going to have the chiefs’ maps within a week. However, to date, we have not received anything. Was the Vice-President just making the continuous promises or we are going to have the 1958 maps for the chiefs?
The Vice-President: Mr Speaker, I was assured by the officials in question that the maps would be distributed and I am very surprised to hear from the hon. Member that they have not. I will, certainly, take this matter up immediately.
I thank you, Sir.
Mrs Namugala (Mafinga): Mr Speaker, issues of good governance are very important for Zambia’s development. The PF has formed a company, which it only did after it assumed power. Could His Honour the Vice-President assure me that this company is not going to be used to siphon money from the Government or to intimidate the private sector to contribute to it.
Interruptions
The Vice-President: Mr Speaker, a can of worms would be a good way to describe what the hon. Member is inviting me to open. This is not the first time that a party has formed a company with a view to taking some of the profits of that company to support its operations. We can go back to the United Federal Party (UFP), which was well-funded by the financial establishment of the Anglo-American Corporation (AAC), the British South African Company (BSACO) and also others that were part of the same establishment. The United National Independence Party (UNIP) took a leaf from that book and set up several companies, some of which it still owns, if I am not mistaken.
Hon. Government Members: Yes.
The Vice-President: The Movement for Multiparty Democracy (MMD) had – what was it called? MOFED or something.
Hon. Government Member: MOPED.
The Vice-President: The MMD tried MOPED and, now, the PF is doing it. Besides, this is the Vice-President’s Question Time. The Vice-President in question is the Vice-President of the Republic of Zambia and it is Question Time, not assurance time.
Laughter
The Vice-President: Therefore, for me to give her an assurance regarding the proper use of a company by the Governing Party would be inappropriate. However, off-the-record, I will be as keen as you are to make sure that there will be no siphoning of public resources going on.
I thank you, Sir.
Ms Lubezhi (Namwala): Mr Speaker, what is the PF policy on the Zambia Development Agency (ZDA), which was created by an Act of Parliament, now that it has transferred some departments to the Citizens Economic Empowerment Commission (CEEC) and the Public-Private Partnership (PPP) Unit at the Ministry of Finance?
The Vice-President: Mr Speaker, we are in the process of looking at options. None of the transfers that the hon. Member has referred to have been finalised. They will have to be brought to Parliament for ratification.
I thank you, Sir.
Mr V. Mwale (Chipangali): Mr Speaker, it has been reported in some sections of the media that the self-confessed killer of a National Institute of Public Administration (NIPA) student, Ruth Mbandu, is an ex-convict who was pardoned recently by the President. Can you assure us that, when it is time to pardon convicts, the State will be more careful in advising the President on whom to pardon.
The Vice-President: Mr Speaker, the hon. Member is going beyond the information that I have. The convict was pardoned in 2009. Who pardoned him?
Laughter
The Vice-President: Mr Speaker, I think that it is unclear …
The Deputy Speaker: Order!
The Vice-President: I do not know the facts of the case sufficiently well to be able to a comment further on it. However, I do not believe the insinuation that this convict was released by President Michael Sata and promptly went out to commit the heinous crime.
I thank you, Sir
Mr Mbewe (Chadiza): Mr Speaker, Zambian students are suffering or starving in Russia because they have not been paid their up-keep allowance for the last few months. What is the PF Government doing to sort out this problem?
The Vice-President: Mr Speaker, the hon. Member is a little behind time. This is like an overweight cat chasing a small and agile mouse.
Laughter
The Vice-President: Mr Speaker, …
Hon. Government Member: Tom and Jerry.
Laughter
The Vice-President: … let the hon. Member be assured that the matter has been dealt with.
I thank you, Sir.
Mr Mutati (Lunte): Mr Speaker, there is no provision for development of infrastructure in the new districts in the current Yellow Book. This notwithstanding, can His Honour the Vice-President assure us that, without this provision, we will still have the opportunity to have districts like Senga Hill …
Mr Mwila: On a point of order, Sir.
The Deputy Speaker: Order!
A point of order is raised.
Mr Mwila: Mr Speaker, is the hon. Member of Parliament for Lunte in order to start discussing the details of the 2013 Budget prematurely? I need your serious ruling.
Interruptions
The Deputy Speaker: Order!
I do not have a ruling to make at this point. I reserve ruling for a later date. His Honour the Vice-President was about to answer a question raised by the hon. Member for Lunte. If he still remembers it, he may go ahead.
The Vice-President: Mr Speaker, the provisions for the new districts are there in this extremely large and heavy document. When we get to discussing it in the Committee of Supply, we will show him the information, provided he will be here to be shown.
I thank you, Sir.
Mr Ndalamei (Sikongo): Mr Speaker, why has the Government delayed in publicising the findings of the commissions of inquiry it formed, which have wasted a lot of taxpayers’ money? Why has it not made the findings public within ninety days of coming to power?
The Vice-President: Mr Speaker, that is not a specific question. Which commission of inquiry does the gentleman have in mind? I, really, cannot comment on that.
I thank you, Sir.
Mr Lufuma (Kabompo West): Mr Speaker, I would like to assist my colleague, hon. Member of Parliament for Sikongo, who is on the other side. I think that the commission of inquiry he referred to is the Barotse Commission. Can His Honour the Vice-President answer that.
The Vice-President: Mr Speaker, I hope that the commission has been correctly named. Anyway, we know what he means. We have not yet considered it and cleared it for release at the Cabinet level. The problem revolves, as anybody in this House can surmise, around the insidious or insistent demands of various people in the Western Province for concessions that go way beyond the terms of reference of that commission of inquiry. I do not want to, and cannot, comment on on-going overtures or dialogue that is taking place. However, this House should, please, give us the time to do this job properly.
I thank you, Sir.
Mr Katambo (Masaiti): Mr Speaker, will the Government consider re-possessing the Kawambwa Tea Company from the Zimbabwean investor who currently owns it because workers have not been paid for over a year and this situation has resulted in women going into prostitution to support their families?
The Vice-President: Mr Speaker, I think that re-possession is not the word that we like to use in this Government.
The Deputy Speaker: Order!
His Honour the Vice-President is answering the question. Hon. Members at the back, please, keep quiet.
The Vice-President: Mr Speaker, re-possession is not a word that we like to use; neither is it a concept we like to employ. We are engaging the investor and he has some genuine problems. We hope to find an amicable solution that will not undermine our standing as a destination for foreign direct investment (FDI) and, at the same time, take care of the long-suffering workers at Kawambwa Tea Company, which was started more than forty years ago and has never run very smoothly.
I thank you, Sir.
Reverend Sikwela (Livingstone Central): Mr Speaker, when will the works on the roads in Livingstone commence, especially that we are nine months away from co-hosting the United Nations World Tourism Organisation (UNWTO) Conference?
Interruptions
The Vice-President: Mr Speaker, the Road Development Agency (RDA) has a programme for roads and, very shortly, it will be rolled out in Livingstone. It was rolled out in Kabwe yesterday. Therefore, he can expect it to happen within a few days.
I thank you, Sir.
Mr Mtolo (Chipata Central): Mr Speaker, does the Government have any plans to re-visit the law on registration of companies in Zambia so that no company without Zambian partners is allowed to operate?
The Vice-President: Mr Speaker, we are looking into that, but it is a difficult area. We are FDI and, at the same time, putting shackles on it and trying to find the right balance, which, I think, some of our neighbours have failed to do in their enthusiasm for this form of nationalisation. There are good Zambian and foreign companies. We hope that, generally, they co-operate. However, this matter is under active consideration.
I thank you, Sir.
Mr Simbao (Senga Hill): Mr Speaker, how does the Government intend to deal with the belief that law and order has broken down in the country, as evidenced by the appointment of a junior hon. Minister to act as President when His Honour the Vice-President and two senior hon. Ministers are in the country?
Hon. Opposition Members: Hear, hear!
The Vice-President: Mr Speaker, if the hon. Member would care to refer me or any expert in this House to the Article in the Constitution that specifies who takes over from who or who is appointed, temporarily, to fulfil some of the ceremonial functions of the President when the President is away on the other end of a cellular phone, we may be able to discuss the break-down of law and order. However, if the hon. Member cannot do that, there is no answer I can give. We are on Pocheza M’madzulo. The whole thing becomes just hot air.
I thank you, Sir.
Laughter
Mr Sianga (Sesheke Central): Mr Speaker, is the CDF in our accounts today?
Interruptions
Mr Deputy Speaker: Order!
The question is for His Honour the Vice-President.
Mr Kambwili: No. He has to be helped. That is why we are a team.
Laughter
The Vice-President: Mr Speaker, all the money is out of the Treasury and in the custody of the Ministry of Local Government and Housing. I am not sure if it has left the Ministry of Local Government and Housing and been deposited in the individual CDF accounts. Whether the process is too slow for some people’s satisfaction I really cannot comment. However, I know, because I checked it out prior to the last Vice-President’s Question Time, that it is an on-going process and the target is to get rid of every last ngwee by the end of the year. By ‘get rid of’, I mean ‘disburse’.
I thank you, Sir.
Lieutenant-General Shikapwasha (Keembe): Mr Speaker, what progress has the Government made in sorting out the chiefdom boundary disputes involving chiefs in Central, the Eastern, Southern, Copperbelt and other provinces?
The Vice-President: Mr Speaker, at least, we have a ministry to attend to those kinds of problems. The tradition in this country seems to be that, once there is a dispute, even if it goes back to 1957, it is still on-going today. We must bring an end to such disputes. The same applies to disputes about the chieftainships, vis-à-vis the legitimacy of some chiefs. Those cases never seem to be brought to a conclusion. The ministry has, as one of its priorities, the bringing of a new breath of air and wind of change into this area by finally resolving some of the problems.
I thank you, Sir.
Mr L. Ngoma (Sinda): Mr Speaker, following the question by the hon. Member for Chipangali, may I find out what measures the Government has put in place to monitor ex-convicts released on presidential parole to prevent them from committing further heinous crimes as was the case in the slain NIPA student, Ruth Mbandu.
The Vice-President: Mr Speaker, the first line of defence against what the hon. Member is suggesting is not to release prisoners who have a heinous crime on their record. The question of releasing prisoners in amnesties tends to apply to those who are not guilty of crimes of violence against other people, especially, not the kind of horrible thing that we have in the case of the victim, Ruth, who was a NIPA student.
Sir, the second line of defence is routine surveillance on these people. They are known. When any crime is committed, they are suspects. The police know these people unless the hon. Member has no trust in the Zambia Police Force. I will, certainly, bring this question to the attention of the Inspector-General of Police, just to remind him. However, it is routine, basically.
I thank you, Sir.
Mr Antonio (Kaoma Central): Mr Speaker, what is the plan of the Government on the failing Kalumwange Farming Block, which has been rocked by differences between our two royal establishments in Kaoma District, the Nkoya Royal Establishment (NRE) and the Barotse Royal Establishment (BRE)?
The Vice-President: Mr Speaker, that is another question for the ministry responsible for chiefs’ affairs. It is very similar to the earlier one which concerned the disputes of chiefs over traditional territory. The hon. Minister in question will address that issue.
I thank you, Sir.
Hon. Government Members: Hear, hear!
Mr Kambwili: Well done, Sir.
¬¬__________
QUESTIONS FOR ORAL ANSWER
MINING CONTRACTS AND JOBS FOR ZAMBIANS
174. Mr S. Chungu (Luanshya) asked the hon. Minister of Mines, Energy and Water Development what measures the Government had taken to ensure that the mining companies offer contracts to local contractors and employ Zambians as opposed to giving preference to foreigners.
The Deputy Minister of Mines, Energy and Water Development (Mr Musukwa): Mr Speaker, to ensure that the mining companies offer contracts to local contractors and employ Zambians, as opposed to giving preference to foreigners, the Government included a provision in the Mines and Minerals Development Act of 2008 to compel holders of mining and mineral processing licence holders to give preference to Zambian products. Section 13 of the Mines and Minerals Development Act of 2008 reads:
“(1) A holder of a Mining Right or a Mineral Processing Licence issued under this Act shall, in the conduct of operations under the mining rights or Mineral Processing Licence and in the purchase, construction and installation of facilities, give preference to the maximum extent possible to:
(a) materials and products made in Zambia; and
(b) service agencies located in Zambian and owned by Zambian citizens or
citizen-owned companies.
(2) A holder of a Mining Right or Mineral Processing Licence shall, in all phases of the operations, give preference of employment to citizens of Zambia to the maximum extent possible.”
Mr Speaker, in order to strengthen the enforcement of this provision in the Act, my ministry is developing regulations to ensure that the mining companies do not pay lip service to this matter, but commit themselves to the Government by indicating figures and monetary value of these contracts and employment. These regulations will be coming soon in order to ensure that our people get the benefit.
I thank you, Sir.
Mr Ng’onga (Kaputa): Mr Speaker, is there anything the ministry could do to help the many Zambians who would wish to register their businesses so that they could supply to the mines? As the hon. Minister could be aware, the process of registering to become suppliers to these mining firms is very complicated and selective to the extent hindering Zambian companies.
Mr Musukwa: Mr Speaker, I would like to inform the House that the hon. Minister of Mines, Energy and Water Development, Mr Yamfwa Mukanga, has held several meetings with chief executive officers (CEOs) of various mining houses to urge them to ensure that our people are encouraged to register their companies and be given business without difficulties. This is something that the Government is committed to doing.
I thank you, Sir.
Mr Mtolo (Chipata Central): Mr Speaker, is the hon. Minister aware of the system that is being used in South Africa, in which people who do not come from the area where that mine is located, even if they are South Africans, are not allowed to supply to that mine. Why can we not do that here, instead of using the term ‘preference’?
Hon. Government Members: Aah!
Mr Musukwa: Mr Speaker, this is a responsible Government, and it will take measures to encourage Zambians. However, it will not use those kinds of measures. It will use reason to attract investment and encourage local suppliers and contractors to take part. That is why the hon. Minister has issued a circular to the mining houses to give us figures on how many contracts they are giving to Zambians, including the monetary value of the contracts.
I thank you, Sir.
Hon. Government Members: Hear, hear!
Mr Kapyanga (Kabwe Central): Mr Speaker, what specific incentives are there for the small-scale Zambian miners?
Mr Musukwa: Mr Speaker, the Government gets its support from small entrepreneurs. We have put in place mechanisms to encourage our local contractors and suppliers to register and do business with the mining houses. If they encounter any problems, they are free to come to the ministry so that we aid them to get business and move forward.
Sir, we have been holding several stakeholders’ meetings with suppliers and contractors across the country and they have told us the many problems that they have been facing in accessing business from mining houses. This is what the hon. Minister has been discussing with mine CEOs. We want to have a direct ripple effect in terms of business with local contractors.
I thank you, Sir.
Mr Chishimba (Kamfinsa): Mr Speaker, I heard the hon. Minister state that the Government will be getting figures from the mining companies for it to see whether its policies are being implemented by the mining companies. However, it is sad to note that the mining companies prefer to get all major mining companies like British Petroleum (BP), Sandvik, Tamrock and others to inflate the figures to give the illusion that Zambian companies are benefiting. How will the stakeholders be monitoring the implementation policies that he has mentioned so that Zambian contractors benefit from the mines?
Mr Musukwa: Mr Speaker, I thank the hon. Member of Kamfinsa for that good question.
Sir, it is because of complaints like the one the hon. Member has made that the ministry was compelled to call for stakeholders’ meetings to ensure that we have business for our people. You must be comforted that, apart from just getting the figures, the ministry will be physically inspecting the mining houses to ensure that they conform to what we have put in place. Our key intention is to ensure that our local suppliers and contractors are given the job because this is their country.
I thank you, Sir.
Mr Mutati (Lunte): Mr Speaker, one of the major problems that the contractors and suppliers face with the mines is delayed payment. What measures does the hon. Minister want to put in place? Further, will the regulations that he talked about be part of the measures?
Mr Musukwa: Mr Speaker, I thank the senior hon. Member of Parliament for that question.
Sir, it is true that most of our local contractors and suppliers have not been paid on time in the past. However, the Contractors Association of Zambia (CAZ) was also present at the meetings we have held with mine CEOs and there was an exchange of information, and the complaint which has been raised by the hon. Member came out strongly. We urged the mining companies to pay local contractors on time in order to build their capacity to meet their obligations.
I thank you, Sir.
Mr Siamunene (Sinazongwe): Mr Speaker, considering the fact that the minerals and land belong to the people of Zambia, is the ministry considering helping Zambians who have mining licences to form joint ventures with foreign partners?
Mr Musukwa: Mr Speaker, the ministry is encouraging joint ventures between mine licence holders for small-scale and other operations in order to create this rapport and secure funding for these operations. We have gone a step further, for our small-scale miners, and used the Zambia Consolidated Copper Mines Investment Holdings (ZCCM-IH) investment to provide funding and logistical support to our small-scale miners.
I thank you, Sir.
Mr Mutale (Kwacha): Mr Speaker, is the hon. Minister aware that, when the mine suppliers are tendering, some of the people who submit bids have the dealership of the goods needed? At the same time, Zambians go and get highly inflated quotations from the same dealers, who are also quoting bidding for the same business.
Mr Musukwa: Mr Speaker, as a Government, we will ensure that we create a platform that will support everybody in terms of doing business professionally.
I thank you, Sir.
SMART BOARDS FOR LEARNING INSTITUTIONS
175. Mr Chisala (Chilubi) asked the Minister of Education, Science, Vocational Training and Early Education whether the Government has any plans to procure smart boards for learning institutions to assist in the prevention of silicosis disease among teachers and lectures.
The Deputy Minister of Education, Science, Vocational Training and Early Education (Mr Mabumba): Mr Speaker, the ministry has an Information Communication Technology (ICT) Draft Policy …
Interruptions
The Deputy Speaker: Order!
We are not listening. Please, let us consult quietly so that the hon. Deputy Minister can be heard.
You may continue, hon. Deputy Minister.
Mr Mabumba: … whose implementation plans are being reviewed and should be implemented starting 2013. The implementation will be done in a phased manner. Among other things, the project aims to digitise the curriculum and teaching and learning materials as well as promote the use of the ICTs in delivering lessons. In light of this, several technologies will be used, such as computers, phones, radios, smart boards and emerging technologies.
I thank you, Mr Speaker.{mospagebreak}
Mr Chisala: Mr Speaker, smart boards fall under ICTs. However, many rural schools are much backwards in the dispensation of the ICTs. What is the hon. Minister doing to normalise the situation in rural schools?
Mr Mabumba: Mr Speaker, I was attending a conference in Cape Town not too long ago and the major challenges that we face, not only in Zambia, but also in many African countries, are about rural schools. Schools have no infrastructure in many rural areas and most are inaccessible due to lack of roads. As a country, we are collaborating with the Zambia Information and Communication Authority (ZICTA) to provide ICT platforms to the schools. In terms of rural schools, we need to commend the Government for allocating a significant amount of money for road infrastructure, which will make it easier to access rural areas.
Mr Speaker, there is also a significant amount of money that has been provided in the Budget to enable the Zambia Electricity Supply Corporation Limited (ZESCO) invest in the generation and distribution of power because one of the major challenges that the schools in the rural areas are facing is lack of electricity. The Government is taking care of that by investing in the road infrastructure development and power generation so that rural schools can also benefit. Nevertheless, in terms of market for ICT platforms, there are companies that are even able to provide ICT solutions in rural schools using solar energy. At the time the ICT Draft Policy will be completed, I think that all those issues would have been dealt with.
I thank you, Mr Speaker.
Dr Kazonga (Vubwi): Mr Speaker, available literature indicates that crystalline silicon dust is emitted when one uses chalk. As a result, those exposed to chalk dust end up having this disease known as silicosis. What is the ministry doing to educate our teachers on the need for regular check-ups because the disease only shows its signs and symptoms after a long time?
The Minister of Education, Science, Vocational Training and Early Education (Dr Phiri): Mr Speaker, that is a very good question and, maybe, it is by providence that I am seated next to the hon. Minister of Health. It is a subject area that needs serious research so that we come up with the solution. Maybe, I am also endangered, having taught for a very long time. Let us not start raising alarms until we sit down with the health authorities. I will engage the hon. Minister of Health, Dr Kasonde, so that we see how we can look at the matter more closely.
I thank you, Sir.
Mr Bwalya (Lupososhi): Mr Speaker, is there a type of chalk that does not contain silica so that it can be used in areas where we are not able to provide the new technologies?
Dr Phiri: Mr Speaker, currently, there is a dust-free chalk that is being promoted in our schools, although not all schools can access it. As I said, until serious research is done, we do not know whether the dust-free chalk is the answer to this situation. On the original question about the use of smart boards, I think that it is worth emphasising that our investment should be in the direction of ICTs. At the same time, since the arrival of ICTs in our schools might take long, we could also do serious research on the effects of the chalk that teachers use.
I thank you, Sir.
Mr Mbewe (Chadiza): Mr Speaker, is there any risk allowance to teachers who are exposed to this disease?
Dr Phiri: Mr Speaker, I wish things could be done as haphazardly as is being suggested but, until we have specific results and data from research, it will be difficult for us to do. Nevertheless, that is quite a good point for the trade unions to advance in their discussions with the Government.
I thank you, Sir.
Mr Kapyanga: Mr Speaker, could it take advantage of the fact that the hon. Minister of Education is seated next to his counterpart at the Ministry of Health and ask what the symptoms of silicosis disease are.
Dr Phiri: Mr Speaker, I will not encourage myself to answer that question until the Ministry of Health helps us and enough research is done. I will be gambling my integrity if I attempted to give an answer.
I thank you, Sir.
UNLAWFUL POLICE DETENTIONS
177. Mr Chisala asked the Minister of Justice how may Zambians were unlawfully detained by the Zambia Police Force from January, 2009, to December, 2011.
The Deputy Minister of Justice (Mrs Mwamba): Mr Speaker, the Zambia Police Force unlawfully detained 120 Zambians between January, 2009, and December, 2011, as indicated below:
Year Number of Detainees
2009 38
2010 30
2011 52
Mr Speaker, the Government, through the Community Services Directorate (CSD) of the Zambia Police Force has embarked on a sensitisation and education programme to encourage officers to desist from unprofessional conduct that results in the violation of people’s human rights.
Mr Speaker, I thank you.
Mr Chisala: Mr Speaker, are there some individuals or groups of people who are seeking compensation for having been unlawfully detained?
Mrs Mwamba: Mr Speaker, the people who have been unlawfully detained are at liberty to seek legal redress, in the form of damages, in the courts of law. However, for this particular question, I will urge the hon. Member to bring it as a new question so that we can avail him a well-researched on the figures and, probably, amounts.
I thank you, Mr Speaker.
Mr Mufalali (Senanga): Mr Speaker, what constitutes unlawful detention? Could it be denial of bond or bail?
Mrs Mwamba: Mr Speaker, unlawful detention simply means that someone was detained when he was not supposed to have been detained. This could be in a case where he was wrongfully detained or was detained for a longer period than was necessary.
I thank you, Mr Speaker.
TAXES COLLECTED FROM ZAMBIA BOTTLERS AND VARUN BEVERAGES
178. Mr Ntundu (Gwembe) asked the Minister of Finance:
(a) how much money in the form of the following taxes the Government collected from the Zambia Bottlers Limited in 2011:
(i) corporate tax;
(ii) value added tax; and
(iii) excise duty; and
(b) how much of the taxes above were collected from Varun Beverages Zambia Limited, the manufactures of the Pepsi drink, from January to June, 2012.
The Vice-President (Dr Scott) (on behalf of the Minister of Finance (Mr Chikwanda)): Mr Speaker, Zambia Bottlers was acquired by Zambian Breweries PLC in 2002. Therefore, all tax matters relating to Zambia Bottlers are reported under Zambia Breweries PLC. In this respect, I wish to report that the following amounts were collected in tax from Zambia Breweries in 2011:
Tax Amount (K’ Billion)
Corporate Income Tax 3.26
Value-Added Tax 142.25
Excise Duty 241.29
Mr Speaker, the Government did not collect any corporate income tax from Varun Beverages Limited, the manufacturers of the Pepsi drinks, from January to June, 2012. This is because the company is still benefiting from the five-year tax holiday incentive that is applicable to all new companies registered under the Zambia Development Agency (ZDA) Act. With regard to value-added taxes and excise duties, the Government collected from the company K1.7 billion and K67 million, respectively from January to June, 2012.
I thank you, Mr Speaker.
Mr Ntundu: Mr Speaker, can I find out from the PF Vice-President in disguise, ...
Laughter
Mr Ntundu: Of these taxes that he has mentioned, how much money was lost because of the tax holiday given to Varun Beverages Limited?
Mr Mwila: On a point of order, Sir.
Mr Deputy Speaker: A point of order is raised.
Mr Mwila: Mr Speaker, I rise on a very serious point of order. Is the hon. Member of Parliament for Gwembe in order to refer to His Honour the Vice-President as the PF Vice-President, when he is the Vice-President of the Republic of Zambia?
I need your serious ruling, Sir.
Mr Deputy Speaker: As Presiding Officers, when we let certain remarks pass, that does not always mean that they are acceptable. I decided to let that remark pass hoping that no one was going to raise a point of order. However, since a point of order has been raised, I will advise hon. Members of Parliament to be sober. Obviously, the remarks that the hon. Member of Parliament for Gwembe made are unacceptable. His Honour the Vice-President is Vice-President for this country, not only for the PF. I think that we have to be respectful to each other. The hon. Member was definitely out of order.
Hon. Government Members: Hear, hear!
Mr Ntundu: Mr Speaker, thank you for the guidance and I apologise for saying that. In fact, what I should have said was, ‘a Vice- President who does not act as President ...’
Laughter
Mr Deputy Speaker: Order!
Hon. Ntundu, I have known you to be sober and to accept when you have done wrong. I think that the matter you are bringing up is the prerogative of the President. So, please, do not push things too far. Ask your follow-up question because your people out there want to know what it is.
Mr Ntundu: Mr Speaker, the question that I am posing to His Honour the Vice-President, Dr Guy Scott, the Vice-President of the Republic of Zambia, is: How much money was lost as a result of having given Varun Beverages Zambia Limited a tax holiday since its inception?
Dr Scott: Mr Speaker, from the information that I have, the only money that was lost was the corporate income tax, which companies that register under the ZDA Act are exempted from paying for five years. So, I do not know whether the questioner knows of some other tax holiday that was given. I recall that the Varun case was a controversial one, but we are, currently, talking about bringing the tax up to date in 2012. I believe that no money has been lost.
I thank you, Sir.
POWER GENERATION AT VICTORIA FALLS AND KAFUE GORGE POWER STATIONS
179. Mr Ntundu asked the Minister of Mines, Energy and Water Development:
(a) what the total output from power generation, in mega watts, was at the following power stations, as of May, 2012:
(i) Victoria Falls; and
(ii) Kafue Gorge;
(b) what the total cost of running each station, per month, was; and
(c) whether there were any improvements being undertaken at the two stations to increase their output.
The Deputy Minister of Mines, Energy and Water Development (Mr Zulu): Mr Speaker, in May, 2012, an average of 101mw was generated at the Victoria Falls Power Station while an average of 901.1mw was generated at Kafue Gorge.
Mr Speaker, the monthly running costs for Victoria Falls and Kafue Gorge power stations are K2, 455, 687, 114.69 and K6, 384, 233, 319.11, respectively.
Mr Speaker, all major works at the Victoria Falls Power Station were concluded in November, 2006 under the Power Rehabilitation Project. No further improvements to the station have since taken place. Further, all major rehabilitation works that began at the Kafue Gorge Power Station in January, 2001, including up-rating, were completed in mid-March, 2009. No further improvements to increase the power output have since taken place at the station.
Mr Speaker, I thank you.
Hon. Government Members: Hear, hear!
Mr Ntundu: Mr Speaker, the Zambia Electricity Supply Corporation (ZESCO) spends billions of kwacha to run these stations. What services gobble these billions?
What I know is that when a plant is generating power, there is just water passing through the turbines, workers being paid and other running costs like diesel for vehicles …
Laughter
Mr Ntundu: These sums of money are huge. What other services do the monies go to?
Mr Deputy Speaker: The hon. Minister of Mines, Energy and Water Development may respond.
Mr Ntundu: I thank you, Sir.
Mr Deputy Speaker: No. You are late.
Laughter
The Minister of Mines, Energy and Water Development (Mr Mukanga): Mr Speaker, when it comes to machines, it is not just a matter of switching on and expecting them to run smoothly continuously. There are maintenance costs and spare parts to take into consideration.
Mr Ntundu: Every time?
Mr Mukanga: Yes, every time.
Interruptions
Mr Deputy Speaker: Order!
I do not think that it is proper for the questioner to engage the hon. Minister while he is responding. Please, give him a chance to answer so that he is heard.
The hon. Minister may continue.
Mr Mukanga: Mr Speaker, I thank you for your protection.
Sir, we have to have money for spares and operational overheads. We also have to ensure that the infrastructure is good. These costs, therefore, are the total running costs for that particular period. Money should be there for the smooth operation of the machines. This is in order, and it is how systems and power stations are run world-wide.
I thank you, Sir.
Hon. Government Members: Hear, hear!
Mr Sing’ombe (Dundumwezi): Mr Speaker, the hon. Minister indicated that the monthly running costs at the two power stations are about K2 billion and K6 billion, respectively. How much money is realised, per month, from the two power stations?
Mr Mukanga: Mr Speaker, we do not have those figures. However, we will work them out and give them to the hon. Member.
I thank you, Sir.
Hon. Government Members: Hear, hear!
CONSTRUCTION OF MULOBEZI HIGH SCHOOL
180. Mr Sililo (Mulobezi) asked the Minister of Education, Science, Vocational Training and Early Education:
(a) Whether the Government was aware that the contractor working on Mulobezi High School was using sub-standard materials; and
(b) if so, what action had been taken against the contractor.
Mr Mabumba: Mr Speaker, in the early stages of the project, the contractor had challenges in getting appropriate aggregates, such as river sand and crushed stones. However, the problems were resolved and the contractor is using the correct materials. Similarly, the contractor was using hand moulds to make blocks, but was instructed to acquire an electrical block-making machine that is now in use. However, the ministry will undertake a quality assurance visit to the school to verify the hon. Member’s assertions.
Mr Speaker, I thank you.
Mr Mufalali: Mr Speaker, what is the ministry doing to ensure that there is no recurrence of what happened in Mulobezi, where the ministry had to re-build the school, yet it has building supervisors who should have monitored the initial works?
Dr Phiri: Mr Speaker, there are two corrective measures that we have put in place, as the hon. Deputy Minister informed the House, as a result of increased surveillance of these projects nationwide. We will intensify the inspection and monitoring of all these projects as we near their completion.
I thank you, Sir.
Mr Hamudulu (Siavonga): Mr Speaker, the hon. Minister said that surveillance would be increased. It is, however, common knowledge that prevention is better and cheaper than cure. Can the ministry thoroughly assess would-be contractors before they are engaged, rather than monitor them after they have already started working?
Dr Phiri: Mr Speaker, the assumption that there is no thorough inspection of would-be contractors is wrong. This is an isolated case amongst the forty-four projects countrywide. However, let me assure this House that all contractors undergo serious reviews before they are given the contracts. I would also like to add that, in future, the reviews will be more thorough. I want to re-iterate that this is an isolated case that I hope will not recur in the near future.
Mr Speaker, I thank you. {mospagebreak}
PREGNANCIES AND EARLY MARRIAGES IN MULOBEZI
181. Mr Sililo asked the Minister of Education, Science, Vocational Training and Early Education:
(a) whether the Government was aware of the rampant pregnancies and early marriages amongst school girls in Mulobezi; and
(b) if so, what measures the Government had taken to discourage the practice of early marriages and protect the girl child.
Mr Mabumba: Mr Speaker, indeed, the Government is aware of the problem of early pregnancies and marriages not only in Mulobezi, but in Zambia as a whole.
Mr Speaker, the Government is working with traditional leaders and Civil Society Organisations (CSOs) to sensitise communities on the importance of education, in general, and girl child education, in particular. To remedy the situation, the Government is implementing the following measures:
(a) consolidating the implementation of the Re-entry Policy in the school system. This policy allows the girl-child to return to school after giving birth;
(b) encouraging the formation of Student Alliance for Female Education (SAFE) Clubs. These are school-based clubs that are meant to increase learners’ assertiveness and knowledge on the ‘dos and don’ts’ of sexuality; and
(c) enforcing provisions contained in the Education Act of 2011, which prohibit the withdrawal of girls from school for whatever reason.
I thank you, Sir.
Hon. Government Members: Hear, hear!
Mr Mufalali: Mr Speaker, in countries like Mauritius, girls as young as nine years are given contraceptives. Why are the girls in this country not given contraceptives to avoid pregnancies?
Dr Phiri: Mr Speaker, the use of contraceptives in schools is a subject that has yet to be tabled before the stakeholders. At the moment, there is no clear guideline on whether the ministry should go in that direction.
I thank you, Mr Speaker.
Mr Hamudulu: Mr Speaker, while I agree that the re-entry policy is a good one, the question the hon. Minister was asked is: What measures has the ministry taken to prevent or discourage the practice? I do not see how the re-entry policy discourages the problem. Actually, it does the opposite.
Dr Phiri: Mr Speaker, the hon. Deputy Minister mentioned some of the preventive measures that are in place. He indicated that we have serious sensitisation programmes on this issue. We are working with traditional leaders, civil society organisations, such as the Forum for African Women Educationists of Zambia (FAWEZA) and the Campaign for Female Education (CAMFED), which are doing a commendable job in sensitising communities and helping vulnerable children in schools. We are also, as we have already indicated, implementing the re-entry policy, not that we want the girls to misbehave, but because, when there are pregnancies and the girls are able to go back to school, it gives them a lifeline. I think, let us commend the Government for this policy.
Interruptions
Mr Deputy Speaker: Order!
The hon. Minister is answering ...
Dr Phiri: Sir, in addition, …
Mr Deputy Speaker: Order, hon. Minister!
I am just advising the hon. Members seated at the back on my right to consult quietly.
You may continue.
Dr Phiri: Another preventive measure that is in place is the formation of SAFE clubs. We are encouraging this in all schools. However, let me add that the girl child needs inspiration and models. For this reason, I urge hon. Members of Parliament, once they are in their constituencies, to visit and talk to the girls in schools, particularly high or secondary schools, to encourage them that their only saving grace is getting some education. The female hon. Members of Parliament are, particularly, great role models who may inspire girls to stay on in school. The girls face many challenges but, maybe, when they hear of hon. Members’ experiences from them, they could see a little light at the end of the tunnel.
I thank you, Mr Speaker.
Ms Lubezhi indicated.
Mr Deputy Speaker: Hon. Member of Parliament for Namwala, I hope the people in front of you will be kind enough to give you time to be heard.
You may continue.
Ms Lubezhi (Namwala): Mr Speaker, why does the Government not provide sanitary pads for girls in schools?
Dr Phiri: Mr Speaker, that subject matter is difficult because I am a traditionalist.
Laughter
Dr Phiri: However, she is right. One of the obstacles in the education of girls is lack of sanitary pads, apart from the lack of suitable toilet facilities. It is one aspect we could begin a debate on and see whether it could also help in promoting the education of girls.
I thank you, Sir.
Ms Namugala (Mafinga): Mr Speaker, one of the reasons the re-entry policy has not succeeded is stigmatisation. When a girl has had a baby and she goes back to school, the other girls tend to stigmatise her. I would like to find out from the hon. Minister what measures the ministry is putting in place to ensure that stigmatisation does not take place?
Mr Deputy Speaker: Order!
Business was suspended from 1045 hours until 1100 hours.
[THE DEPUTY CHAIRPERSON in the Chair]
Dr Phiri: Mr Speaker, when business was suspended, I was about to answer a question which is quite pertinent, considering the cultural and traditional setup of Zambia. I agree that most of the girls the policy allows to return to school fail to do so because of stigmatisation. Although there is no conclusive research data, some of the measures schools have employed are to give these girls counselling services before they take up the offer of re-entry and, in many cases, they give them an opportunity to continue their schooling at alternative schools in the communities.
Sir, through continuous sensitisation, we also hope that the various communities will begin to appreciate the importance of this policy and give girls an opportunity to advance their education. Falling should not mean the end of the world, but a chance to learn and move on in life.
I thank you, Mr Speaker.
BITUMEN PRODUCTION AT INDENI PETROLEUM REFINERY
182. Mr S. Chungu (Luanshya) asked the Minister of Mines, Energy and Water Development:
(a) whether Indeni Petroleum Refinery produces high quality bitumen; and
(b) if so, why the Government continues to allow the importation of bitumen into the country.
Mr Zulu: Mr Speaker, currently, Indeni Oil Refinery does not produce bitumen because the Bitumen Plant is not functional. The plant was de-commissioned in April, 2005.
Sir, in recognition of the importance of bitumen in our road construction works, the Government, through the Mines, Energy and Water Development, embarked on a programme to revamp the operations of the plant in 2012. The works are expected to be completed during the first quarter of 2013.
Mr Speaker, the importation of bitumen is allowed because none of it is, currently, being produced locally.
I thank you, Sir.
Mr Hamusonde: Mr Speaker, where we buy bitumen from?
Mr Zulu: Mr Speaker, this bitumen is imported either from South Africa or the Middle East.
I thank you, Sir.
Mr S. Chungu: Mr Speaker, with the refurbishment of the bitumen production plant, are we likely to satisfy the demand by our local contractors in the road construction industry?
Mr Zulu: Mr Speaker, hopefully, it will satisfy the demand because we expect Indeni to produce about 360m3 per day. If that will be enough for the country, then, local demand will be satisfied. We must also know that, with the road construction works that the President launched, about two to three weeks ago, we hope that the cost of constructing roads will go down because bitumen will be produced locally by the plant at Indeni in Ndola.
I thank you, Mr Speaker.
Mr Kapyanga: Mr Speaker, since the cost of bitumen is very high, why can the Government not waive duty on it because it is a major component in the construction of roads?
Mr Zulu: Mr Speaker, I agree with the hon. Member that the cost of bitumen is quite high but, with the anticipated resumption of production at the Indeni plant, we hope that even imports will go down because the local plant will, hopefully, be producing cheaper bitumen. So, there will be no need to import if our own bitumen is cheaper than the imported one.
I thank you, Sir.
Professor Lungwangwa (Nalikwanda): Mr Speaker, the hon. Deputy Minister is not giving confidence to the people of Zambia by using terms like ‘hopefully’. Can he be specific and re-assure the nation whether the quantity of bitumen coming into the country will satisfy the demand, especially, given the ambitious infrastructure development programme that is in place?
Mr Zulu: Mr Speaker, the plan to construct about an 8000km road network in the country is not an ambitious project. It is real, and we are committed to implementing it.
Sir, we are going to be producing about 360m3 of bitumen per day. If, as we proceed, the amount of bitumen becomes insufficient to satisfy the demand, we will still have an option to import additional stocks, except we will import reduced quantities.
I thank you, Sir.
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ANNOUNCEMENT BY THE DEPUTY CHAIRPERSON
BANK OF ZAMBIA WORKSHOP FOR HON. MEMBERS OF PARLIAMENT ON THE RE-BASING OF THE KWACHA
The Deputy Chairperson: Hon. Members, I have an announcement to make.
I wish to remind the House that the Bank of Zambia (BoZ) will hold a half-day workshop for all hon. Members of Parliament on the Kwacha Re-basing exercise on Monday, 22nd October, 2012, in the Auditorium, Parliament Buildings, at 0930 hours. The aim of the workshop is to update hon. Members of Parliament on the status of the project and discuss how hon. Members can assist with the dissemination of vital information on re-basing in their respective constituencies.
I urge all hon. Members to attend this important workshop.
I thank you.
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BOREHOLES FOR KABOMPO EAST
183. Mr Chingimbu (Kabompo East) asked the Minister of Local Government and Housing:
(a) how many boreholes were earmarked to be sunk in Kabompo East Parliamentary Constituency in 2012;
(b) when the exercise would commence; and
(c) how much money would be spent on the project.
The Minister of Sport and Youth (Mr Kambwili) (on behalf of the Minister of Local Government and Housing (Mrs Kabanshi)): Mr Speaker, thirty new water points have been allocated to Kabompo District Council, of which fifteen will be sunk in Kabompo East Parliamentary Constituency.
Sir, the awarding of contracts for constructing the water points has begun and advertisements will be placed in the media. The Ministry of Local Government and Housing is awaiting approval from the Zambia Public Procurement Authority (ZPPA) following the submission of the tender documents to the organisation.
Mr Speaker, the cost of the project will be known after the procurement process has been completed. This is because the actual figures can only be ascertained after bids from prospective drillers are submitted to the ministry. However, we approximate that K450 million will be spent on the project.
I thank you, Sir.
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MOTIONS
BUDGET 2013
(Debate resumed)
The Deputy Chairperson: Any further debate?
Hon. Opposition Members left the Assembly Chamber.
ADJOURNMENT
The Vice-President: Mr Speaker, I am not clear whether you are inviting me to wind up the debate or to propose a Motion of adjournment, but I presume the latter.
Sir, I beg to move that the House do now adjourn.
Question put and agreed to.
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The House adjourned at 1113 hours until 1430 on Tuesday, 23rd October, 2012.
APPENDIX
WRITTEN REPLY TO QUESTION
WRITTEN REPLY TO QUESTION
BULYAMBEBA HEALTH POST
176. Mr Sing’ombe (Dundumwezi) asked the Ministry of Health why the construction of a health post at Bulyambeba in Dundumwezi Parliamentary Constituency had not been completed.
The Minister of Health (Dr Kasonde): Mr Speaker, the construction of Bulyambeba Health Post started in 2011 and was to be done through materials supplied by the Government as well as community contribution in the form of sand, stone and burnt brinks. Materials were procured and supplied by the Government in 2011 and funds were provided for labour contracts for the works. The main works to be done were the construction of the health post, staff house and toilets. Currently, the health post and the staff house are at gable level, awaiting roofing.
Mr Speaker, the delays in completing the works are due to the fact that the Ministry of Health had challenges in making the community to come through with its contribution. In order to make progress on the project, the Ministry of Health has provided funds for the purchasing of materials that the community failed to contribute and the contractor is ready to move on site as soon as the materials are procured and delivered to the site. The contractor has also indicated that the remaining works will be completed within the next two months.
Mr Speaker, I thank you.