- Home
- About Parliament
- Members
- Committees
- Publications
Debates- Thursday, 18th October, 2012
DAILY PARLIAMENTARY DEBATES FOR THE SECOND SESSION OF THE ELEVENTH ASSEMBLY
Thursday, 18th October, 2012
The House met at 1430 hours
[MR SPEAKER in the Chair]
NATIONAL ANTHEM
PRAYER
__________
QUESTIONS FOR ORAL ANSWER
FRA SATELLITE DEPOTS IN MANGANGO CONSTITUENCY
154. Mr Taundi (Mangango) asked the Minister of Agriculture and Livestock:
(a)how many 50kg bags of maize had been purchased by the Food Reserve Agency (FRA) in Mangango Parliamentary Constituency from 2009 to 2011, year by year;
(b)how many satellite depots had been used to purchase the maize at (a); and
(c)when the Government would open more satellite depots in the Constituency, especially in Shikombwe Ward.
The Deputy Minister of Agriculture and Livestock (Mr Kazabu): Mr Speaker, the FRA purchased the following amount of 50kg bags of maize in Mangango Parliamentary Constituency from 2009 to 2011:
Name of Quantity Quantity Quantity
Depot 50kg bags 50kg bags 50kg bags
(2009) (2010) (2011)
Mangango 3,027 21,827 12,892
ZNS Camp - - -
Nyango ZPS - - 6,958
Mushala 640 4,378 4,499
Total 3,667 26,205 24,349
Sir, four satellite depots were used to purchase the maize at (a) above. These were Mangango, the Zambia National Service (ZNS) Camp, Nyango ZPS and Mushala depots.
There are no plans to open additional satellite depots in Mangango Parliamentary Constituency as the four satellite depots that are currently operational are adequate.
I thank you, Mr Speaker.
Mr Taundi: Mr Speaker, I would like to find out from the hon. Minister whether his ministry is considering constructing storage shades at Mangango, Mushala, Nyango ZNS and Winda where the rice, which is being sold to unscrupulous farmers because of a lack of a Government market, is grown.
The Deputy Minister of Agriculture and Livestock (Mr N. Banda): Mr Speaker, the plan for the construction of storage shades is on the Government’s programme. Subsequently, we may construct storage shades for that particular place or constituency, but the current position is that we are collecting all the maize that is being bought from the small satellite depots and taking it to the main satellite depot to safeguard it. We may, in future, if need arises, construct storage shades in that area.
I thank you, Sir.
SILOS AND STORAGE SLABS
155. Mr Hamusonde (Nangoma) asked the Minister of Agriculture and Livestock:
(a)when the Government would rehabilitate all the silos countrywide; and
(b)whether it was beneficial for the Government to continue constructing slabs for storage of maize instead of building silos.
Mr Kazabu: Mr Speaker, the Government, through the FRA, has started the process of rehabilitating the five disused grain silos in Chisamba, Kabwe, Kitwe, Monze and Ndola. A consultant, Civilstructs Consulting Engineers, was contracted to undertake the engineering and upgrading of designs for the rehabilitation of the two grain silos in Kabwe and Ndola.
The designing process has been completed, and the final report and the tendering documentation have been submitted to the FRA. The agency is in the process of floating a tender to invite qualified and experienced contractors to bid for the rehabilitation works. It is hoped that the actual rehabilitation works will commence by December, 2012.
Sir, the Government, through the FRA, has also floated a tender for the provision of consultancy services for the rehabilitation of three other silos in Chisamba, Kitwe and Monze.
Mr Speaker, the tender closed on 20th July, 2012 and the received bids are now being evaluated by engineers from the FRA and the Buildings Department under the Ministry of Transport, Works, Supply and Communication.
Sir, last year, the Government, through the FRA, commenced the construction of ninety-eight hard-standing slabs as a short-term solution to its storage needs for the 2011 marketing season, with a view to upgrading the slabs into complete storage sheds in the long term.
Mr Speaker, additionally, the Government, through the FRA, has plans to construct seven new grain silos in Chinsali, Kalomo, Kaoma, Kasama, Mansa, Mufumbwe and Petauke with a total storage capacity of 225,000 metric tonnes for the storage of the national strategic food reserve.
Sir, furthermore, the construction of new storage facilities, countrywide, will continue in order to meet the national minimum storage requirement of about 2 million metric tonnes.
I thank you, Mr Speaker.
Mr Mtolo (Chipata Central): Mr Speaker, I would like to find out whether the silos that are earmarked for construction will be made out of brick and cement or they will be made out of metal. I have asked this question bearing in mind that metal silos are not good enough for long-term storage of grain.
Mr N. Banda: Mr Speaker, the construction of silos is a technical matter and we have explained that the consultants have started carrying out their work. When we reach that stage, the experts will guide us on which type of construction will be best for the storage sheds.
I thank you, Sir.
Mr Zimba (Kapiri Mposhi): Mr Speaker, I have heard from the hon. Minister that the Government will construct five silos. I would like to find out how much it will cost to construct the five silos.
Mr N. Banda: Mr Speaker, the process of consultation is on course, and all the issues, such as how much it will cost to construct the silos, will only be known at the end of the consultation process.
I thank you, Mr Speaker.
Hon. Government Members: Hear, hear!
Mr Muntanga (Kalomo Central): Mr Speaker, the question of rehabilitating silos is not new to this House. This House was informed that a Chinese company was to rehabilitate six silos. At present, only the silos in Lusaka have been rehabilitated. I would like to know which silos the Government intends to have rehabilitated and when this will be undertaken.
Mr N. Banda: Mr Speaker, my colleague, the hon. Deputy Minister of Agriculture and Livestock, has indicated that this process has already commenced in Kabwe and Ndola and this process will be extended to other areas. We expect to roll out the programme for the other silos.
I thank you, Mr Speaker.
Mr Antonio (Kaoma Central): Mr Speaker, I would like to find out what the capacity of the planned silos to be constructed in Kaoma is.
Mr N. Banda: Mr Speaker, we will only be in a position to know the capacity after that is availed to us and this will only be done at the end of the consultation process.
I thank you, Sir.
Hon. Government Members: Hear, hear!
Mr Mooya (Moomba): Mr Speaker, I heard the hon. Minister saying that the ninety-eight slabs will be turned into full storage sheds in the long run. I would like to find out whether there are provisions for super structure erections in the long run.
Mr N. Banda: Mr Speaker, the slabs that we constructed in 2011/2012 were different in terms of capacity and size, among other features. The volume of a particular slab will be given, in due course, after its suitability to be upgraded has been determined.
I thank you, Sir.
RURAL HEALTH CENTRES IN CHIPANGALI CONSTITUENCY
156. Mr V. Mwale (Chipangali) asked the Minister of Health whether the ministry had any plans to construct rural health centres at the following locations in Chipangali Parliamentary Constituency:
(a) Nguluwe and Chamasongwe in Chief Mshawa’s area; and
(b) Chamanda in Chief Chanje’s area.
The Minister of Health (Dr Kasonde): Mr Speaker, the Government has taken note of the submissions. It has, therefore, planned to construct health centres within the 2013-2015 Infrastructure Capital Investment Plan at the following locations in Chipangali Parliamentary Constituency:
(a) Nguluwe and Chamasongwe in Chief Mshawa’s area; and
(b) Chamanda in Chief Chanje’s area.
I thank you, Mr Speaker.
ZESCO POWER LOAD-SHEDDING
158. Mr Milambo (Mwembeshi) asked the Minister of Mines, Energy and Water Development:
(a) what long and short-term measures the Zambia Electircity Supply Corporation (ZESCO) had taken to reduce load-shedding; and
(b) when ZESCO expects the load-shedding to end.
The Deputy Minister of Mines, Energy and Water Development (Mr C. Zulu): Mr Speaker, ZESCO has put in place both short and long-term measures. The short-term measures that have been put in place include:
(a)completing the rehabilitation of the 180 Megawatt (MW) Generator G4 at Kariba North Bank Power Station by end of December, 2012.
(b)Ndola Energy Company Limited (NECL) is an independent power producer that is currently constructing a 50 MW Heavy Fuel Oil plant in Ndola. The plant will be commissioned by April, 2013. ZESCO has already signed a Power Purchase Agreement (PPA). This will ensure that all of the power that the NECL generates is bought by ZESCO and fed into the ZESCO network.
(c)continuing with the implementation of the Demand Side Management Programme. ZESCO has set up a fully-fledged Demand Side Management Division, headed by a senior manager. Under the Demand Side Management Programme, ZESCO has distributed almost 700,000 compact fluorescent lamps to customers. The target is to distribute one million compact fluorescent lamps by the end of 2012 and a further two million in 2013. In 2012, the compact fluorescent lamps utilisation will bring a projected saving of 40 MW.
(d) In addition, ZESCO is conducting an awareness campaign to encourage all customers to switch off idle equipment and save energy. The demand side management team has also been engaging with mining, industrial, commercial and agricultural customers to make them change to more energy-efficient equipment and processes in order to save power;
(e) the Government is also looking into the promotion of generation of energy through other forms, such as solar, biomass and wind;
(f) increasing patrols in all the townships to reduce theft of electricity. Customers who are caught are either fined or imprisoned, depending on the severity of the crime; and
(g)continuing with the installation of prepaid metres across all categories of customers, including Government buildings and offices.
Mr Speaker, the long-term measures are:
(a)completion of the generation expansion programme at Kariba North Bank Power Station, where two additional 180 MW machines are being installed. The two machines are expected to be commissioned by the end of 2013. ZESCO is also building a 330 kv transmission line from Kariba to the Kafue West Sub-station;
(b)Maamba Collieries Limited, an independent power producer, is constructing a 300 MW coal-fired facility at Maamba and ZESCO has signed a power purchasing agreement (PPA) to buy all the power to be produced;
(c)completion of the construction of the Itezhi-tezhi Hydro Power Plant. This will add a further 120 MW capacity to the power-generation system by 2015;
(d)upgrading of Lunzua Power Station to 15 MW by 2015;
(e)construction and upgrading of Lusiwasi Power Station to 85 MW by 2017;
(f)construction of the 750 MW Kafue Gorge Lower Power Plant by 2018;
(g)expansion, rehabilitation, upgrading and reinforcement of the transmission system in some parts of the country over the next three to five years; and
(h)expansion, rehabilitation and reinforcement of the distribution system countrywide over the next three to five years.
Mr Speaker, by the end of 2013, load-shedding will be reduced to a minimal level, if not stopped completely.
I thank you, Mr Speaker.
Mr Milambo: Mr Speaker, does ZESCO know the power-consumption trends in the country? If it does, why are we perpetually load-shedding?
Mr C. Zulu: Mr Speaker, I think that we should, first of all, know why we load-shed. We must understand that the power stations in Kariba were constructed between forty and fifty years ago when the population of Zambia was, maybe, 4 million. Over the years, the population of the country has gone up to 13 million. We used to export power to Zimbabwe, then, but, now, we cannot do that. Last week, I said that our generation capacity is only 1,600 MW. At the moment, the required electricity is as much as 1,850 MW when it is peak hour. Therefore, we experience a shortfall of 250 MW, which will be covered by the end of next year.
I thank you, Mr Speaker.
Mr Mbewe (Chadiza): Mr Speaker, load-shedding is not good news.
Hon. PF Members: You left it.
Mr Mbewe: Take it easy.
Mr Speaker: Order!
Concentrate on your question.
Mr Mbewe: Mr Speaker, whenever power supply is restored after an outage, many appliances of customers are damaged. Is ZESCO putting in place measures to compensate people whose appliances get damaged?
Mr C. Zulu: Mr Speaker, ZESCO does not compensate people unless there is a good reason. The company has been educating people on the need to switch off unused appliances to save power. We are carrying out a massive education programme so that communities also contribute to the efforts being made of saving power. That is what ZESCO is doing.
I thank you, Mr Speaker.
Mr Livune (Katombola): Mr Speaker, why should ZESCO continue exporting power, and yet it has failed to satisfy the local demand?
Interruptions
Mr C. Zulu: Mr Speaker, it would not make sense to export something when you need it locally. However, we should understand that we only export power during off-peak hours, such as when people are sleeping.
I thank you, Mr Speaker.
Hon. Government Members: Hear, hear!
Mr Mweetwa (Choma Central): Mr Speaker, would the hon. Deputy Minister confirm that load-shedding in Choma is exacerbated by the fact that ZESCO has installed a transformer which is smaller than is required at Munzuma Sub-Station.
Mr C. Zulu: Mr Speaker, I think, that is not correct.
I thank you, Mr Speaker.
Hon. Government Members: Hear, hear!
Mr M. B. Mwale (Malambo): Sir, it is good to learn that private companies are coming on board in this sector. What measures has the Government put in place to ensure that ZESCO does not frustrate the private companies that want to come into this sector?
Mr C. Zulu: Mr Speaker, the Government is encouraging PPAs and there is no way we can frustrate private companies that want to invest in power generation from coming into a country where there is a deficit of power. Obviously, as a responsible Government, we are doing everything possible to facilitate private investment in the sector. We are going all over the world, advertising that we need more power in the country and companies are coming in large numbers every day to make assessments. We encourage them to ensure that the projects take off as soon as possible.
Sir, only two weeks ago, we were launching the Luangwa Power Line, which was asked for by one hon. Member last year. Last month, we were also in Kasama, launching power lines that will cater for the Northern, Luapula, Muchinga and Eastern provinces. We are, indeed, encouraging PPAs.
I thank you, Mr Speaker.
Hon. Government Members: Hear, hear!
Mr Namulambe (Mpongwe): Mr Speaker, according to the hon. Deputy Minister, ZESCO exports power when we are sleeping, but does it have a timetable of when people sleep?
Laughter
Hon. PF Members: Question!
Mr C. Zulu: Mr Speaker, I think that the hon. Member is right.
I thank you, Mr Speaker.
Mr Muntanga: Mr Speaker, the question of exporting electricity and …
Mr Namulambe: On a point of order, Sir.
Mr Speaker: A point of order is raised.
Mr Namulambe: Mr Speaker, I need your serious ruling. Is the hon. Deputy Minister in order to state that I was right to have said that ZESCO has a timetable of when people sleep? Is he in order not to give us a categorical answer to my question of whether ZESCO has a timetable of when people sleep? Is it that he does not know the answer, because I do not know if ZESCO has a timetable of when I sleep? Is he in order to answer that way?
Mr Speaker: To avoid this kind of quagmire, let us seek answers to very specific and, if I may add, realistic issues.
The hon. Member for Kalomo Central may continue.
Mr Muntanga: Mr Speaker, the hon. Deputy Minister said that power is exported when there is no load-shedding. However, we were given contrary information by ZESCO, which told us that it had a contract to export power to Botswana, and that the contract does not permit ZESCO to disconnect or discontinue power supply to Botswana even when there is a high demand here. Can this position be clarified because I am getting confused.
Mr Zulu: Mr Speaker, to the best of my knowledge, ZESCO exports power during off-peak hours.
I thank you, Sir.
Hon. Government Members: Hear, hear!
Mr Ndalamei (Sikongo): Mr Speaker, in answering the question raised by the hon. Member for Chadiza, the hon. Deputy Minister informed this House that there should be good reasons for ZESCO to compensate its customers. Can he enlighten the House on what the good reasons are for ZESCO to compensate a client.
Mr Zulu: Mr Speaker, ZESCO carries out assessments on causes of the damage in households or connection and, if convinced …
Hon. Government Members: Illegal connections.
Mr Zulu: Yes, sometimes, there are illegal connections. If it is ZESCO’s fault, the company compensates. However, if it is the fault of the owner of the property, then it does not.
I thank you, Sir.
Mr Mwiimbu (Monze Central): Mr Speaker, the people of Monze have had no water for the last three days due to the low voltage that is provided by ZESCO. This scenario is also obtaining in a number of towns and townships in Lusaka. What measures is the Government putting in place to ensure that the lives of our people are not endangered as a result of the failure by ZESCO to provide power to the water utility companies to enable them to provide water?
Mr Zulu: Mr Speaker, I talked about the short and long-term measures that ZESCO is putting in place. I agree that there is a deficit of power in the country. There is a shortfall of about 250 MW. Therefore, we are going to experience shortages of power. However, ZESCO is working round the clock to ensure that we do away with the problem of load-shedding.
I thank you, Sir.
Hon. Opposition Members: Hear, hear!
Ms Namugala (Mafinga): Mr Speaker, we appreciate the need for load-shedding. Why do the densely-populated areas, such as Garden, Mandevu, and Chawama compounds, where the majority of the people who voted for the PF live, suffer more load-shedding, …
Hon. Government Members: Aah!
Ms Namugala: … and yet there is no load-shedding in areas where hon. Ministers live?
Hon. Opposition Members: Hear, hear!
Mr Speaker: Order!
Mr Zulu: Mr Speaker, I am a Deputy Minister and live in Kabulonga where load-shedding is also experienced.
I thank you, Sir.
Hon. Government Members: Hear, hear!{mospagebreak}
CABINET PORTFOLIOS’ PRECEDENCE
159. Mr M. B. Mwale asked the Vice-President what the order of precedence is among the top six (6) Cabinet portfolios.
The Deputy Minister in the Vice-President’s Office (Mr Kalaba): Mr Speaker, the order of precedence among the top six Cabinet portfolios, excluding His Excellency the President, is as follows:
(a)His Honour the Vice-President;
(b)the hon. Minister of Finance;
(c)the hon. Minister of Defence;
(d)the hon. Minister of Home Affairs;
(e)the hon. Minister of Justice; and
(f)the hon. Minister of Health.
Mr Speaker, I thank you.
Hon. Government Members: Hear, hear!
Mr M. B. Mwale: Mr Speaker, the Government is a very big establishment with very clear and predictable systems that leave no ambiguities. May I find out from His Honour the Vice-President why, in the absence of the top three hon. Cabinet Ministers, it was not the then hon. Minister of Home Affairs who acted as President, but the hon. Minister of Agriculture and Livestock.
Hon. Opposition Members: Hear, hear!
The Vice-President (Dr Scott): Mr Speaker, it is the prerogative of His Excellency the President to appoint whoever he wishes from the Cabinet to act as President in his absence. The hon. Member knows that and I wonder why he is misusing our time.
I thank you, Sir.
Hon. Government Members: Hear, hear!
Mr Speaker: I think, in all fairness to the hon. Member, let us assume he does not know. It is a very fair assumption.
Mr Lufuma (Kabompo West): Mr Speaker, I am most obliged. I am sorry for that confusion. In the previous administrations, the hierarchy was such that, after His Honour the Vice-President, it was the hon. Minister of Defence. Has the PF Government shuffled the portfolios?
The Vice-President: Mr Speaker, I am not a historian of protocol arrangements in the Zambian Government and, I am afraid, I do not know the answer to that question.
I thank you, Sir.
Ms Lubezhi (Namwala): Mr Speaker, why do the State protocols of the PF Government place the Secretary-General of the PF before the hon. Minister of Defence? This happened at the State Funeral of the late Mama Betty Kaunda.
The Vice-President: Mr Speaker, again, it is the prerogative of His Excellency the President to establish the order of protocol he sees fit. That is only for ceremonial occasions, not any other type of occasion. The order in which hon. Ministers sit at the Cabinet Table is, likewise, established by custom. However, who sits where is open to the President’s prerogative. If he says, “Vice-President, go and sit there. Change places with the hon. Minister of Local Government and Housing”, I will do likewise. We are not dealing with an area of a firm law or even functionalities here. It is a matter of how the President wants to organise his Government. We are all his advisors. That is all.
I thank you, Sir.
Hon. Government Members: Hear, hear!
Mr Mbewe (Chadiza): Mr Speaker, His Honour the Vice-President does not act as President when the President is away. That is one way of taking the constitutional breakdown to ...
Mr Speaker: Is that a question or statement?
Hon. Government Members: Statement.
Mr Mbewe: It is a question.
Mr Speaker: I gather it is a statement.
Mr Mbewe: Aah!
Mr Speaker: We go to the next question.
INCOMPLETE MARKET STRUCTURE AT KABOMPO CBD
160. Mr Lufuma asked the Minister of Local Government and Housing:
(a)when investigations into the incomplete market structure at Musamba Market on the M8 Road in Kabompo Central Business District would be concluded;
(b)when construction works at (a) above would resume; and
(c)when the market would be opened to the public.
The Deputy Minister of Local Government and Housing (Mr Tembo): Mr Speaker, according to the Kabompo Criminal Investigations Officer (CIO), investigations into the incomplete Musamba Market structure on the M8 Road in the Kabompo CBD shall be concluded in a month’s time.
So far, the investigations have revealed that some of the materials and tools meant for the project were taken by members of the committee. Out of the 108 roofing sheets that were bought, eleven are missing and no construction tools have been found in the stores.
Sir, the challenge encountered in the investigations is that members of the project committee, who have since died, are alleged to have taken some of these materials. This has prolonged the investigations as deceased people cannot be interviewed.
Laughter
Mr Tembo: Mr Speaker, works on the said market will only commence when investigations have been concluded, most likely in November, 2012. This will also depend on the availability of the other needed materials.
Mr Speaker, the market will only be opened once works are completed. All things being equal, and if works begin in November, 2012, it can be done three months later.
I thank you, Sir.
Mr Lufuma: Mr Speaker, since some of the committee members have died and so the police cannot investigate them, how does the ministry hope to conclude this investigation?
Mr Tembo: Mr Speaker, the Ministry of Local Government and Housing is not carrying out the investigation. It is the police that is conducting the investigation. The works will, therefore, start upon availability of the report.
I thank you, Sir.
Mr Pande (Kasempa): Mr Speaker, since that project is under the Ministry of Local Government and Housing, would you not consider requesting the police to close the case so that you proceed instead of leaving it as it is?
Mr Tembo: Mr Speaker, I do not want to open a Pandora’s Box because this issue is still under investigation. However, the crux of the matter is that the building in question is not under the Ministry of Local Government and Housing. The project was sponsored by the Ministry of Agriculture and Livestock. It was supposed to be handed over to the Ministry of Local Government and Housing upon completion.
I thank you, Mr Speaker.
NUMBER OF PEOPLE REMANDED COUNTRYWIDE
161. Mr Chisala (Chilubi) asked the Minister of Home Affairs how many people were remanded in custody countrywide as of 31st December, 2011.
The Deputy Minister of Home Affairs (Dr Simbyakula): Mr Speaker, 4,188 people were remanded in custody countrywide by 31st December, 2011.
I thank you, Sir.
Mr Chisala: Mr Speaker, may I know why it takes so long for some cases to be …
Mr Mutelo: On a point of order, Sir.
Mr Speaker: A point of order is raised.
Mr Mutelo: Mr Speaker, I am really sorry for disturbing the hon. Member who is on the Floor. However, I have a serious point of order to raise.
Mr Speaker, in Serenje, the Lalas are against the Namwangas and have said they do not want to see the Namwangas. Is the hon. Minister of Home Affairs in order to remain silent over this situation? In addition, the people in Mpulungu are failing to go to church as a result of the outbreak of Cholera. I seek your serious ruling.
Laughter
Mr Speaker: Order!
I would invite the hon. Member to file a question and an appropriate answer will be given in due course.
The hon. Member for Chilubi may continue with his question.
Mr Chisala: Mr Speaker, before I was interrupted, I was in the process of firing a question.
Laughter
Hon. Opposition Members: Fire!
Mr Chisala: Mr Speaker, may I know why it takes so long for some cases to be disposed of.
Dr Simbyakula: Mr Speaker, the appropriate ministry to respond to that question is that of Justice. Nonetheless, I can attempt to answer it. Firstly, the case load has overwhelmed our courts. Sometimes, it is very difficult to secure the attendance of witnesses. In addition, we have very few prosecutors to handle some of these cases.
I thank you, Sir.
LEGAL AID BOARD REPRESENTATIONS
162. Mr Chisala asked the Minister of Justice how many people were represented by the Legal Aid Board in the Zambian courts of law from January, 2009 to December, 2011.
The Deputy Minister of Justice (Mrs Mwamba): Mr Speaker, the Legal Aid Board represented 9,660 people in the Zambian courts of law from January, 2009 to December, 2011. The breakdown of the representation, per station, during the period under review, is as follows:
District Number of Cases
Lusaka (Head Office) 2,519
Kitwe 1,379
Chipata 1,096
Livingstone 1,088
Kabwe 812
Ndola 779
Mansa 597
Kasama 568
Solwezi 483
Mongu 339
Mr Speaker, I thank you.
Mr Chisala: Mr Speaker, little is known about ‘au’ someone can acquire legal aid.
Laughter
Hon. Opposition Members: ‘Au’?
Mr Chisala: Mr Speaker, should I repeat the question?
Hon. Members: Hear, hear!
Mr Speaker: Order!
Hon. Member, I am sure that you are communicating. You may continue.
Mr Chisala: Mr Speaker, little is known about ‘au’ (how) someone can acquire legal aid, particularly in rural areas such as Chilubi. That being the case, can the hon. Minister state the procedure that should be followed for someone to acquire legal aid.
The Minister of Justice (Mr Kabimba): Mr Speaker, it is true that the people in rural areas know very little about the Legal Aid Board. This is one of those institutions that should be part of our judicial reforms, when the reforms are in place.
As for the procedure, one needs to find the offices of the Legal Aid Board where ever they are, in the provinces or in Lusaka, for one to access legal aid. One also has to pay a fee. If there are any people from Chilubi who need legal aid, the hon. Member has to inform them that they need to pay a fee. Lastly, let me say that the Legal Aid Board was principally intended to help the poor or indigent to access justice. Our core principle is to make sure that justice is accessible to our people at a lower cost.
I thank you, Sir.
Hon. Government Members: Hear, hear!
Mr Mbewe: Mr Speaker, does the hon. Minister have any plans to sensitise rural people about the Legal Aid Board he has talked about?
Mr Kabimba: Mr Speaker, sensitising the people is part of the programme of the judicial reforms. We cannot do that now because the Legal Aid Board is working on a shoestring budget. However, when the board will have the capacity to do so, we will inform our people so that they can access justice through it.
I thank you, Sir.
Mr Chishiba (Kafulafuta): Mr Speaker, justice in this country is very costly. Is there any measure that the Government will put in place to reduce the representation fees that are charged by private lawyers?
Mr Kabimba: Mr Speaker, we cannot regulate private lawyers because they are in private business. However, what is important is that we make legal aid accessible to the poor in this country, and we have made this very clear in our party manifesto. There is a programme that will address this issue.
I thank you, Sir.
Mr Ntundu (Gwembe): Mr Speaker, can the hon. Minister of Justice shed more light on the small fee that a poor person from Gwembe is required to pay to access legal aid. How small is this fee, hon. Minister.
Mr Kabimba: Mr Speaker, a small fee is relative. If I am not mistaken, the fee is about K150,000. That is a lot of money if you come from Gwembe. However, if you are like Hon. Brian Ntundu, who may not even qualify for legal aid, it is certainly a small fee.
I thank you, Sir.
Dr Kazonga (Vubwi): Mr Speaker, may I know what will happen to those who cannot raise the K150,000, like those in areas such as Vubwi, Zozwe …
Laughter
Dr Kazonga: Mr Speaker, what will happen to them?
Mr Kabimba: Mr Speaker, I said that the issue of accessibility of justice by the poor or indigent – I used two adjectives – is a matter of concern to this Government. Therefore, I want to assure the hon. Member …
Interruptions
Mr Speaker: Order!
Mr Kabimba: Mr Speaker, I would like to assure the hon. Member of Parliament for Vubwi that the people of Zozwe will have access to justice very soon.
I thank you, Sir.
Mr Mwanza (Solwezi West): Mr Speaker, in Solwezi, I paid K20,000 as the small contribution that the hon. Minister of Justice has talked about. How uniform is this fee?
Mr Kabimba: Mr Speaker, I do not know how the hon. Member qualified to access legal aid because he does not qualify, going by the laid down benchmarks.
Interruptions
Mr Kabimba: Mr Speaker, I said that the issue of the fees payable is relative. We are reviewing the structure of the fees so that everybody can afford to access legal aid.
I thank you, Sir.
Mr Mweetwa (Choma Central): Mr Speaker, legal aid is a good concept. Hon. Minister, how soon do you intend to decentralise the operations of the Legal Aid Board that I am aware, at the moment, is only operating at provincial level, making the majority of people unable to access legal aid. This is because it is operating at this high level.
Mr Kabimba: Mr Speaker, I stated earlier that legal aid will soon be a subject of judicial reforms. One of the problems we have had in the past is that we addressed remedial measures piecemeal. This time, we would like to ensure that legal aid is part of the major reforms of the judicial system so that justice can be accessible to all. The answer to how soon that will be is quite soon.
I thank you, Sir.
Professor Lungwangwa (Nalikwanda): Mr Speaker, reforms take a long time to establish and, consequently, benefit the people. The indigent or poor people you are concerned about as regards access to justice need the hon. Minister’s quick action. Hon. Minister, I still want to know how soon, given his immense power as hon. Minister of Justice, measures to comfort the indigent or poor people in our country on their accessing justice will be put in place.
Mr Kabimba: Mr Speaker, I think I answered that question. Very soon means soon.
Laughter
Mr Kabimba: Mr Speaker, let me add that this is a priority programme for the Government. We are concerned about the accessibility of justice by our people, not only the elite, but also the majority of the poor people of this county who are unable to access justice.
I thank you, Sir.
NEWLY-CREATED DISTRICTS
163. Mr Ntundu asked the Vice-President:
(a) how many districts were created by the Government between September,
2011, and June, 2012;
(b) how much money would be spent on constructing infrastructure in all the
newly-created districts;
(c)what type of infrastructure would be constructed in each new district; and
(d)whether contractors for the above-mentioned projects had already been identified and, if so, who they are.
Mr Kalaba (Bahati): Mr Speaker, I wish to inform this august House that between September, 2011 and June, 2012, the Government created thirteen new districts, namely Sinda and Vubwi in the Eastern Province; Chembe and Lunga in Luapula Province; Chilanga, Chirundu, Rufunsa and Shibuyunji in Lusaka Province; Nsama in the Northern Province; Chikankata, Pemba and Zimba in the Southern Province; and Mulobezi in the Western Province.
Sir, the House may also wish to know that two other districts, namely Chipili and Mwansabombwe in Luapula Province were created in July, 2012.
Mr Speaker, the exact amount of money to be spent on the construction of infrastructure in the newly-created districts will be known once the planning and tendering process has been completed.
Sir, the newly-created districts will have modern standards and infrastructure. However, no contractors to undertake these jobs have been identified so far.
I thank you, Sir.
Mr Ntundu: Mr Speaker, I am surprised that the Patriotic Front (PF) Government can create districts without planning how much it is going to spend. When it was creating these districts, did it not plan how much it was going to spend?
The Vice-President: Mr Speaker, I can see no reason detailed planning and costing should precede the creation of administrative arrangements. Clearly, a new district cannot cost any more than an old district once the infrastructure has been put in place. The answer was very clear that the plan is being made. Thereafter, we will come to the budgeting and, then, to the contracting stage.
I thank you, Sir.
Mr Habeenzu (Chikankata): Mr Speaker, I would like to find out from His Honour the Vice-President whether the Government has already identified a place where to build offices for the new district.
Interruptions
Hon. Government Members: That is your job!
The Vice-President: Mr Speaker, in general, the answer is yes. In most cases, we have fairly obvious places such as Chikankata. Clearly, Chikankata is the place because it has a hospital, a village and the Chieftainess’ palace.
Hon. Government Members: Hear, hear!
The Vice-President: It is the center of that new district.
In other areas, there may be disputes because there may be more than one suitable place. Generally, it is a fairly common sense procedure to find the best and most central place that may have some form of existing infrastructure. I do not know what is so funny about building a Boma of Chikankata in Chikankata. I find it very strange to learn.
I thank you, Sir.
Hon. Government Members: Hear, hear!{mospagebreak}
Mr Mwiimbu: Mr Speaker, I would like to find out whether the Government will not provide for any funding for this venture in this year’s Budget, considering that it does not know the required funds to construct the infrastructure.
Interruptions
The Vice-President: Mr Speaker, I think there is a provision for that, but I will have to check and bring a detailed answer to the hon. Member. There are some provisions for infrastructure development in the 2013 Budget although where the line is, I am not entirely certain.
I thank you, Sir.
Mr Mufalali (Senanga): Mr Speaker, may I know the Budget line from which the District Commissioners have been drawing the monies for activities that are not budgeted for.
The Vice-President: Mr Speaker, all I have to say is that, that is a new question. I do not have the information required to answer it.
I thank you, Sir.
Mr Chisala: Mr Speaker, the creation of fifteen districts in this country is a blessing in disguise …
Hon. Opposition Members: Question!
Hon. Government Members: Hear, hear!
Mr Chisala: … because many Zambians will get the jobs they have been demanding for quite a long period.
Interruptions
Mr Chisala: Mr Speaker, may I know whether the Government has exhausted the process of appointing District Council Secretaries.
Hon. Government Members: Hear, hear!
The Vice-President: Mr Speaker, the new questions are coming thick and fast. I simply do not have that information available.
I thank you, Sir.
Mr Muntanga: Mr Speaker, regarding the earlier answer on Chikankata, is His Honour the Vice-President aware that there are two chiefs in Chikankata? There is Chief Naluwama and Chief Mweenda, who do not agree on the site for the district. If so, what is the Government doing to resolve the two chiefs’ problem?
The Vice-President: Mr Speaker, the chiefs in any districts are not responsible for deciding where a Boma, hospital or anything else must be located. We have a whole ministry devoted to Chiefs and Traditional Affairs which takes up matters such as when there is a disagreement between the Government and the chiefs. We take the views of our chiefs very seriously.
I thank you, Sir.
Mr Mweetwa: Mr Speaker, regarding the already existing districts vis-à-vis those that the PF created, may I know the specific timeframe within which the PF Government will construct the basic infrastructure required of a district and its status such as a district hospital and police stations, among others. We need to know so that we do not run into another era of creating districts which do not get developed like Mufumbwe.
Hon. Members: Hear, hear!
The Vice-President: Mr Speaker, I said earlier that I am not aware of how precise or how far planning for these districts has gone, but I am sure there is a process there.
I thank you, Sir.
Mr M. B. Mwale: Mr Speaker, if I heard the response correctly, no new district was created in the North-Western Province. May I know whether there will be pronouncements that new districts will be created in the North-Western Province now that there will be a by-election in Mufumbwe?
Hon. Opposition Members: Hear, hear!
Interruptions
The Vice-President: Mr Speaker, that is a very good idea.
Hon. Government Members: Hear, hear!
The Vice-President: There have already been pronouncements about new districts in the North-Western Province. We are waiting for the dust to settle. We are waiting for the disputes among the different factions in the North-Western Province on where the district should be positioned to come to a conclusion. If, however, it will come up in the course of the by-election, I am sorry, but I do not know this. I do not have the crystal ball required to foretell the future.
I thank you, Sir.
IMPORTED VEHICLES
164. Mr Ntundu asked the hon. Minister of Transport, Works, Supply and Communication:
(a)how many motor vehicles were imported into Zambia in 2010; and
(b)how much revenue was raised, in the form of taxes, from the imports at (a) above.
The Minister of Transport, Works, Supply and Communication (Mr Yaluma): Mr Speaker, the Zambia Revenue Authority (ZRA) collects motor vehicle registration fees on imported vehicles on behalf of the Road Traffic and Safety Agency (RTSA) at the points of entry into Zambia. The ZRA, then, declares the revenue collected to the RTSA periodically.
Sir, in 2010, the ZRA declared almost K10 billion as motor vehicle registration fees on imported motor vehicles. This translates into 34,303 vehicles imported in 2010.
Mr Speaker, we are all aware that the ZRA is also responsible for the collection of other excess duty and other taxes on imported vehicles. To this effect, it also collected about K4.97 billion in the same year.
I thank you, Sir.
Mr Ntundu: Mr Speaker, if one was to import a motor vehicle that costs as little as US$500 and freights it into Zambia at a cost of $1,100, giving a total of US$2,900, how much will the ZRA for it?
Laughter
Mr Yaluma: Mr Speaker, I thank the hon. Member for that question. I believe the hon. Member is aware of the fact that I do not work for the ZRA. However, I will give him a bonus answer.
Sir, may I ask the hon. Member to clarify what type of vehicle he wishes to import so that I may give him a proper estimate.
Mr Speaker: I will not allow the dialogue.
Mr Yaluma: Mr Speaker, in that case, I will just tell him the information that he needs to know. For a small semi-luxury vehicle, one will pay 20 per cent duty.
I thank you, Sir.
DAM CONSTRUCTION AT KAMENYANI IN MULOBEZI CONSTITUENCY
165. Mr Sililo (Mulobezi) asked the hon. Minister of Mines, Energy and Water Development:
(a) when the Government would construct a dam at Kamenyani on Machile River in Mulobezi Parliamentary Constituency;
(b) what the estimated cost of the project was; and
(c) what the estimated timeframe for the project was.
The Deputy Minister of Mines, Energy and Water Development (Mr Zulu): Mr Speaker, a feasibility study for a possible construction of a dam on Machile River in Mulobezi Parliamentary Constituency will be completed by the end of the year. The cost of the project will be ascertained upon completion of the feasibility study. Equally, the timeframe for the project will be determined when the feasibility study has been completed.
I thank you, Sir.
Mr C. Livune: Mr Speaker, can the hon. Minister outline the procedural requirements for a dam to be constructed at a particular place.
Mr Zulu: Mr Speaker, our experts look at the water demand, volume of water to be stored, physical features of the area, accessibility of the area, evaporation losses and siltation segments of the stream.
I thank you, Sir.
Mr Hamududu (Bweengwa): Mr Speaker, the money that we approve in this House must be broken into clear work plans. Some ministries, such as the Ministry of Health and the Ministry of Education, Science, Vocational Training and Early Education, do that. We know which schools and clinics are going to be built.
Sir, what is the problem with this ministry responsible for water affairs? Why can we not have work plans so that we know which dams we are going to build by name, their costs and the year? We need to have such data given to us with names and costs because we are not making any progress in this regard.
The Minister of Mines, Energy and Water Development (Mr Mukanga): Mr Speaker, we have been looking at the various assessments that have been taking place and are trying to come up with a plan. Once this is completed, we will give a comprehensive programme of how many dams will be constructed where and when.
I thank you, Sir.
Mr Mufalali: Mr Speaker, may I find out when the feasibility studies for this dam began.
Mr Mukanga: Mr Speaker, the feasibility study for this particular dam started in October and will end in November this year.
I thank you, Sir.
SKILLS TRAINING CENTRE IN MULOBEZI CONSTITUENCY
Mr Sililo asked the hon. Minister of Education, Science, Vocational Training and Early Education:
(a) whether the Government had any plans to establish a skills training centre in Mulobezi;
(b) if so, when the centre would be established; and
(c) what the estimated cost of the centre was.
The Deputy Minister of Education, Science, Vocational Training and Early Education (Professor Willombe): Mr Speaker, the ministry has plans to construct trades training institutes and skills training centres throughout the country. The Government will, therefore, consider establishing a skills training centre in the newly-established Mulobezi District, in future, as and when funds become available.
Sir, the estimated cost of establishing a fully-fledged trades training institute is approximately K37 billion. However, skills training centres, which are smaller in scope and are sometimes considered at constituency level, depending on the need, cost much less. The cost depends on the size and scope of the skills that are to be offered.
I thank you, Sir.
Mr Mufalali: Mr Speaker, through you, may I find out if the ministry has identified any place in Mulobezi District for a training centre?
The Minister of Education, Science, Vocational Training and Early Education (Dr Phiri): Mr Speaker, the ministry is, currently, constructing a trades training institute in Sesheke which, not so long ago, enveloped Mulobezi which is a new district. The new district of Mulobezi is just being established. Therefore, the ministry is looking into how we can now begin seeing this new district as a separate entity from Sesheke in terms of building trades training institutes and putting in place the various skills training centres.
I thank you, Sir.
Ms Siliya (Petauke): Mr Speaker, while appreciating the answer that has been given by the hon. Minister in relation to the question on the Order Paper, I wish to find out whether it would not be prudent to give this more thought.
Mr Speaker, during the United National Independence Party (UNIP) era, it was very fashionable to try to solve all youth problems by putting up skills centres for young people. However, over time, they became white elephants. Are we trying to reinvent the wheel or are there other innovative ways for us to address the problems of young people as regards skills provision, job creation and entrepreneurship development. Have we given this enough thought?
Dr Phiri: Mr Speaker, yes, we have given enough thought to that. We will continuously do that because the centres are constructed for our youths to continue with their education and be equipped with lifelong skills. These will include school leavers from Grades 7, 9 and 12. This will be a continuous process and we will continue looking at what could be done to the various centres. There is no clear-cut syllabus. Much will depend on the location, size and scope of the skills to be offered to the school leavers.
I thank you, Sir.
Dr Kazonga: Mr Speaker, is there any set criterion or factor that is taken into account before establishing a skills training centre, especially in areas such as Kavumo in my constituency?
Laughter
Dr Phiri: Mr Speaker, the hon. Member for Vubwi is quite right. Not all areas will demand the same scope and size of skills training centres. As I pointed out, Mulobezi is a new district and we are looking at what type of skills the district will want for its youths. After a decision is made, we will work with the District Education Board Secretaries (DEBSs) to establish the type of centre we can set up. There are various criteria that are used to set up these centres.
I thank you, Sir.
Mr Lufuma: Mr Speaker, is it the PF Government’s policy to establish skills training institutes in every district?
Dr Phiri: Mr Speaker, the hon. Deputy Minister has rightly said that we are focused on establishing trades training institutes in every district. We also want to establish as many centres as we can, depending on the budgetary allocations, all over Zambia.
I thank you, Sir.
Mr Mbewe: Mr Speaker, will the graduates from these institutions be given loans to start their own businesses?
Dr Phiri: Mr Speaker, our mandate is to provide as much skills training as we can to the youths. It would be good if, upon graduation, we could look for funds to give these students something they can begin with. We have already started doing that in some of the skills training institutes, but it is still at a very rudimentary level. We would like to improve that and, then, see how we can empower the young men and women with both skills and seed money with which they can build their lives.
I thank you, Sir.
CERTIFICATES OF TITLE IN CHILUBI DISTRICT
167. Mr Chisala asked the Minister of Lands, Natural Resources and Environmental Protection why the Government had not issued certificates of title to applicants in Chilubi District since 2000.
The Vice-President (Dr Scott) on behalf of The Minister of Lands, Natural Resources and Environmental Protection (Mr Simuusa)): Mr Speaker, since 2000, the Government has not issued any certificates of title to applicants in Chilubi District as Chilubi District Council has not submitted any recommendations in favour of the applicants to the ministry for processing of certificates of title during the stated period.
Further, in 2010, the Government, through the ministry, gave the council K300 million under the Land Development Fund (LDF) to help it open up new areas for development. Likewise, the ministry has not received any recommendation for this land.
Mr Speaker, the ministry will carry out sensitisation to all councils on the procedure for acquiring land.
I thank you, Sir.
Mr Chisala: Mr Speaker, how long does it take the Ministry of Lands, Natural Resources and Environmental Protection to prepare title deeds?
The Vice-President: Mr Speaker, in the absence of any application, it will take forever.
I thank you, Sir.
Laughter
LAND UNDER LEASEHOLD IN THE NORTHERN PROVINCE
168. Mr Chisala asked the Minister of Lands, Natural Resources and Environmental Protection how much land was currently held under leasehold in the Northern and Luapula provinces.
The Vice-President: Mr Speaker, it is difficult to give an accurate hectarage on how much land is currently held under leasehold in the Northern and Luapula provinces as most of the land in these provinces has not been surveyed. Perhaps, I could just interpose, here, from my own experience, that title deeds for these northern areas are issued in, at least, three places, namely Kasama, Ndola and Lusaka. The basic problem is that the ministry has not collated this information yet.
Sir, however, the ministry is in the process of undertaking a comprehensive national land audit from which statistics on land ownership and utilisation patterns, including statistics on land in the province held on lease, will be collected. It is only after the implementation of this programme that the ministry will be in a position to give accurate information on the hectarage under leasehold in the Northern and Luapula provinces.
Sir, may I point out that I clarified that the Northern Province, which is being referred to, is the old one, which included Muchinga that is now a province. We will do the same for other provinces.
Mr Speaker, I thank you.
Mr Chisala: Mr Speaker, I would like to know how soon our Government intends to present the report to this august House?
The Vice-President: Mr Speaker, the land audit is a priority of this Government. That means that it will be done, certainly, in the hon. Member’s lifetime and, preferably, in the lifetime of a small rodent in his hut, for example. We will live to see the results of the audit.
I thank you, Sir.
Ms Namugala: Mr Speaker, is His Honour the Vice-President aware that most of our traditional leaders are giving away huge tracts of land to the so-called foreign investors in rural areas, thereby depriving their subjects of the land? If so, what is his Government doing to ensure that traditional leaders do not abuse their authority and give away land?
Hon. Opposition Members: Hear, hear!
The Vice-President: Mr Speaker, I think, the right way to answer the first part of the question is that we are acutely aware. We have migrations not just of foreign investors, but also local investors, moving around the country, acquiring land from chiefs under a variety of arrangements. This problem does not date from the last twelve months. It existed even in the days when the hon. Member of Parliament for Mafinga was on this side of the House. The people must be assured that we are going to take action on it because it is very dangerous and, believe it or not, we could suddenly end up with a land shortage, not one caused by colonial ex-soldiers, but by a variety of greedy influences, inside and outside the country.
I thank you, Mr Speaker.
Mr Siamunene (Sinazongwe): Mr Speaker, will the Government consider decentralising the issuance of title deeds, since it takes long for this to be done?
The Vice-President: Mr Speaker, this has already been done, at least, to the provincial level and, in part, it is actually what is creating the problem in answering this question. As I explained earlier, in order to determine how many pieces of land there are in Mpika, of what size and to which sort of investor they have been given, there would be a need to travel around the Northern Circuit to gather this information because it has not been digitised. That is the order of priority.
I thank you, Sir.
Mr Mweetwa: Mr Speaker, in line with the answer given by His Honour the Vice-President that the issue of expropriating land by chiefs is a long-standing issue, what immediate measures is the Government putting in place to stop this vice which is quiet rampant across the nation, but especially in Choma?
The Vice-President: Mr Speaker, there are limits on the amount of land chiefs can give away. Proper administration, even of such minimally functional legislation as there is, is part of the answer. However, the real answer is that the 1995 Land Act needs to be amended.
I thank you, Sir.
STATE OF SIOMA HIGH SCHOOL IN SHANG’OMBO DISTRICT
169. Mr Njeulu (Sinjembela) asked the Minister of Education, Science, Vocational Training and Early Education:
(a) whether the Government was aware that the following facilities at Sioma High School in Shang’ombo District are in a dilapidated state and unfit for human habitation:
(i)pupils’ dormitories;
(ii)laboratories; and
(iii)teachers’ houses.
(b)if so, when the Government would undertake major rehabilitations; and
(c)when more dormitories, especially for girls who rent houses in nearby villages, would be constructed.
The Deputy Minister of Education, Science, Vocational Training and Early Education (Mr Mabumba): Mr Speaker, the Government is aware of the dilapidated state of the infrastructure at Sioma High School. As a result, in the 2012-2013 Infrastructure Operational Plan (IOP), Sioma High School has been included among the seven high schools to be built and renovated in the Western Province. Therefore, the structures at Sioma High School will be renovated.
Mr Speaker, as indicated in (a) above, Sioma High School has been included in the 2012-2013 IOP and will be renovated in 2013 as funds are made available. Further, the Government will construct more dormitories that will also cater for girls when the funds are made available.
I thank you, Mr Speaker.
Mr Njeulu: Mr Speaker, when, exactly, will these funds be made available?
Mr Mabumba: Mr Speaker, the consolation that the hon. Member of Parliament for Sinjembela should have is that Sioma High School has been provided for in the 2012-2013 IOP. Therefore, depending on the money that will be appropriated to the ministry in the 2013 National Budget, the school will be considered. As I earlier indicated, seven sites have been identified for construction in the Western Province and all of them are a priority. We will first look at the amount of money that will be made available to us and, then, a decision will be made.
I thank you, Sir.
Mr Mutelo (Lukulu West): Mr Speaker, which are the seven sites earmarked for construction in the Western Province?
Ms Kalima: On a point of order, Sir.
Mr Speaker: A point of order is raised.
Ms Kalima: Mr Speaker, is the PF Government in order to comfortably go against the Constitution by allowing His Honour the Vice-President, Dr Guy Scott, to continue in his position when he cannot act as the President? As a result of this, the hon. Minister of Finance cannot be in the House to listen to the debates on the Budget, resulting in the hon. Opposition Members walking out of the Chamber for two consecutive days as they cannot debate without the presence of the hon. Minister of Finance.
I seek your ruling.
Hon. Opposition Members: Hear, hear!
Mr Speaker: Order!
In my opinion, there are two issues that have been mixed up. These are the appointment of the Acting President, on one hand, and the procedure for processing the Budget debate in the House, on the other. As regards the first issue, all I can say is that it is the prerogative of the President to appoint an Acting President when he is out of the country. Regarding the latter, I made a very extensive ruling yesterday. If the hon. Member would like to refresh her memory, she may visit the verbatim record.
That is my ruling.
The hon. Member for Lukulu West may continue.
Hon. Government Members: Hear, hear!
Ms Kalima left the Assembly Chamber.
Mr Mutelo: Mr Speaker, which are the seven sites that have been earmarked for construction in the Western Province? Further, is any of them in Lukulu West?
Mr Mabumba: Mr Speaker, the seven sites in the Western Province are Tatima, Matauka, Mongu, Nalolo, Sioma, Kaoma and, lastly, Micheche Secondary School, which is of interest to the hon. Member of Parliament for Lukulu West.
I thank you, Mr Speaker.{mospagebreak}
BRIDGES IN SHANG’OMBO DISTRICT
170. Mr Njeulu asked the Minister of Transport, Works, Supply and Communication:
(a)when Maziba Bridge in Shang’ombo District would be constructed; and
(b)whether the Government had any plans to construct a bridge across the Zambezi River at Kalongola or Nangweshi.
Mr Yaluma: Mr Speaker, the contract to design and construct Maziba Bridge in Shang’ombo District was awarded to China Henan on 28th August, 2012, and the works are expected to start in four months from now, that is, in January. The bridge will be constructed at a cost of K79.5 billion. While the bridge is under construction, the Engineering Services Corporation (ESCO) Limited has secured a pontoon which will be utilised in the interim.
Mr Speaker, currently, there are no plans to construct a bridge across the Zambezi River at Kalongola or Nangweshi.
I thank you, Sir.
Mr Mooya (Moomba): Mr Speaker, if I heard the hon. Minister correctly, he said that the contractor will design and construct the bridge. Is it possible for a contractor to design and construct it? I need clarification.
Mr Yaluma: Mr Speaker, it is possible, especially if one is going for a turn-key solution. It is possible to design, construct and commission.
I thank you, Sir.
Hon. Government Members: Hear, hear!
Mr Mufalali: Mr Speaker, construction of the bridge at Maziba has delayed. I would like to find out from the hon. Minister why the ministry has changed the design of the bridge by giving it to another person to re-design. Why is there this change?
Mr Yaluma: Mr Speaker, I am not aware that there has been a change in the design of the bridge. This is something I will have to find out because I do not have this information at the moment.
I thank you, Sir.
PARAMEDICS ON HIGHWAYS IN THE COUNTRY
171. Mr B. Mutale (Kwacha) asked the Minister of Transport, Works, Supply and Communication whether the Government had any plans to introduce paramedics on the country’s highways in order to save lives, following road traffic accidents.
Mr Yaluma: Mr Speaker, the Government has no plans to introduce paramedics on the country’s highways in order to save lives as a result of accidents. However, the House may wish to note that the Government, through the Ministry of Health, has, so far, conducted a training programme for medical officers, nurses, clinical officers, the police and fire brigade in trauma management and emergency response. Currently, the ministry is conducting training in trauma management in Ndola.
In order to provide adequate and timely ambulatory services, the Ministry of Health is in the process of procuring a total of 106 ambulances to be used for emergency purposes across the country. It is expected that the staff to provide these ambulatory services will be trained in emergency response. The Ministry of Health has further trained personnel in intensive care nursing and intensive care units have been opened at all provincial hospitals in the country.
Mr Speaker, the House may wish to further note that trouble spots have also been identified and these include: Kabwe, Mazabuka, Nyimba and Monze and staff in these trouble spots have been trained in emergency response. This is done in order to ensure that the staff is competent in trauma management.
Mr Speaker, the House may wish to note that all these efforts are being made with the active participation and engagement of the Road Traffic and Safety Agency (RTSA), as the key stakeholders in road safety matters.
Mr Speaker, I thank you.
Mr Mpundu (Nchelenge): Mr Speaker, from the answer given …
Mr Speaker: Order!
Business was suspended from 1615 hours until 1630 hours.
[MR DEPUTY SPEAKER in the Chair]
Mr Mpundu: Mr Speaker, has the Government considered setting up toll-free lines so that people can use them to alert RTSA about occurrences of accidents on highways.
Mr Yaluma: Mr Speaker, this is a very good idea because it will enable emergency services to be notified in time in an event of an accident on the highways. Plans are underway to set these up.
I thank you, Sir.
Mr Chisala: Mr Speaker, a number of accidents have occurred on major roads such as the Great East and Great North roads due to anthills which have caused curves. What is the Government doing to reduce the number of accidents as a result of the anthills which normally block the roads which, in turn, results in certain vehicles not being able to pass through …
Mr Deputy Speaker: Order!
Hon. Member, your question is clear.
Laughter
Mr Deputy Speaker: The hon. Minister may respond.
Mr Yaluma: Mr Speaker, as a matter of fact, the question is not so clear. The hon. Member talked about curves on the Great East and Great North roads which cause accidents.
Hon. Government Member interjected.
Mr Yaluma: Oh, so the anthills are more of an obstruction?
If that is the case, we have servitude clearance now and again through various contractors. We will maintain the roads by cutting grass along the curves as well as clear the anthills so that motorists have clear vision of traffic or curves ahead.
I thank you, Sir.
Hon. Government Members: Hear, hear!
Mr Hamusonde: Mr Speaker is the hon. Minister aware that the toll-free line already exists?
Mr Yaluma: Mr Speaker, the toll-free line is there, but not for the purpose we are trying to initiate. We need many unclogged effective channels which will be accessed at any time when one picks up the phone. Furthermore, there will be a call centre where people can take their complaints.
I thank you, Sir.
DRAINAGE SYSTEM IN LUSAKA
172. Mr Hamusonde asked the Minister of Local Government and Housing when the entire drainage system in Lusaka would be improved permanently.
Mr Tembo: Mr Speaker, the Government has developed a Drainage Investment Master Plan for the City of Lusaka. The implementation of the drainage construction will be done in phases, starting with the main outfall drainage system which includes the Bombay Drainage and Los Angeles Road Drainage in Kanyama Compound. Funding for the main outfall drainage has been sourced under the Millennium Challenge Corporation (MCC).
Sir, as for the other phases, the Government is in the process of looking for funding. This includes the construction of the primary and secondary drainage systems.
I thank you, Mr Speaker.
Mr Deputy Speaker: Order!
________
ANNOUNCEMENT BY MR DEPUTY SPEAKER
DELEGATION FROM THE PARLIAMENT OF UGANDA
Mr Deputy Speaker: Hon. Members, I wish to acquaint the House with the presence, in the Speaker Gallery, of the following hon. Members of the Committee on Government Assurances from the Parliament of Uganda:
(i)Hon. Odonga Otto, MP – Chairperson
(ii)Hon. Nakawande Sarah, MP – Member
(iii)Hon. Kyewalabye Kabayo James, MP – Member
(iv)Hon. Atiku Bernard, MP – Member
(v)Ms Martha Mwandha Kaganzi – Principle Clerk Assistant
(vi)Ms Nambubiru Justine – Research Officer
On behalf of the National Assembly of Zambia, I wish to receive our distinguished guests and warmly welcome them in our midst.
Thank you.
Hon. Members: Hear, hear!
_________
Mr Hamusonde: Mr Speaker, how much money has the hon. Minister sourced, so far, for the drainage system in Lusaka.
Mr Tembo: Mr Speaker, I have already indicated that US$340.7 has already been sourced from the Millennium Challenge Corporation. This is where the money will be sourced.
I thank you, Sir.
Mr Ng’onga (Kaputa): Mr Speaker, the drainage along Thabo Mbeki Road that leads to Arcades through to the Mass Media Complex is already blocked. I would like to find out whether this road will also be attended to before the beginning of the rains.
Mr Tembo: Mr Speaker, in fact, what we have done, in the interim, is engage the Lusaka City Council (LCC) to advertise the project. The advertisements have already been run and contractors have forwarded their bids. Sooner or later, the bids will be opened for evaluation and we will pick a contractor who will open up these blocked drainages.
I thank you, Sir.
Laughter
Mr Kakoma (Zambezi West): Mr Speaker, the hon. Deputy Minister has informed this House that there is over US$300 million from the Millennium Challenge Account for drainages in Lusaka. Can he further inform this House, apart from the drainage system, which other projects will be funded through this account?
Hon. Opposition Members: Hear, hear!
Mr Mwamba entered the Assembly Chamber.
Hon. Opposition Members: GBM, GBM! Hear, hear!
Mr Deputy Speaker: Order!
Hon. Members, we should put an end to this habit. Our conduct is really degenerating. We need to have order in the House.
The hon. Member may continue, please.
The Minister of Youth and Sport (Mr Kambwili) (on behalf of the Minister of Local Government and Housing (Mrs Kabanshi): Mr Speaker, the question was specifically on drainages. As to how many other projects will be funded by the Millennium Challenge Account, I would suggest that the hon. Member lodges a new question so that we can answer appropriately.
I thank you, Sir.
Hon. Government Members: Hear, hear!
Ms Namugala: Mr Speaker, our friends, the Patriotic Front (PF), who are now in Government, used to visit Kanyama Compound with boats and would carry gumboots. I would like to find out whether, this year, now that they are in power and have not dealt with the problem, they are, again, going to visit Kanyama Compound in boats?
Laughter
Hon. Opposition Members: Hear, hear!
Mr Kambwili: Mr Speaker, it is, indeed, true that this problem has been with the country for a long time. However, it must be noted that this is our first Budget and so, it was difficult for us to resolve this problem within this current year. Nevertheless, as can be seen, there is money provided for that programme in next year’s Budget. Therefore, we are going to do what you failed to do.
I thank you, Mr Speaker.
Hon. Government Members: Hear, hear!
Mr Mooya: Mr Speaker, we all know that the geology of Lusaka has a flat lime stone underground that is causing a problem in relation to the gradient. Is that money enough for these challenges?
Mr Kambwili: Mr Speaker, my brother is a qualified civil engineer and he knows that in such circumstances, miners would have to blast. So, it is enough. We will use explosives to blast to make a gradient.
I thank you, Sir.
Hon. Government Members: Hear, hear!
Ms Kalima (Kasenengwa): Mr Speaker, …
Hon. Government Members: Yah! Dolika!
Mr Deputy Speaker: Order!
Ms Kalima: … the problem in Kanyama Compound is the blockage of drainages. Hon. Kalaba has warned the people of Kanyama Compound, time and again, that the Office of the Vice-President will not come to their aid if the people in flood-prone areas will not relocate. I would like to know if that is really the stance of the Ministry of Local Government and Housing.
Mr Kambwili: Mr Speaker, the problem is that we tend to misrepresent the facts. Hon. Kalaba made announcement about people who are residing in illegal places that are prone to flooding. I do not think the people of Kanyama Compound are illegal settlers. Therefore, it is important to present the facts correctly. We are only talking about those who are legally residing in flood-prone areas.
I thank you, Mr Speaker.
Hon. Government Members: Hear, hear!
Dr Chituwo (Mumbwa): Mr Speaker, can the hon. Minister confirm that they are not inventing the wheel, considering that a lot of work, which one can see, was undertaken on drainages in Lusaka, starting from Kamwala, Misisi …
Interruptions
Mr E. C. Lungu: Misisi!
Mr Deputy Speaker: Order!
This is indiscipline. I do not think …
Order! Even you! (pointing at Dr Chituwo).
Laughter
Mr Deputy Speaker: There has to be discipline in the House. We cannot proceed like this.
Can you, please, continue.
Dr Chituwo: Thank you, Mr Speaker, I would like the hon. Minister to confirm that, actually, a lot of work with regard to alleviating the flooding situation in places like Chawama and Lusaka South has already been done, as evidenced by the drainages from Kamwala through Chawama, down to Makeni, downstream. Can he confirm that this is the situation?
Mr Kambwili: Mr Speaker, to some extent, some work was done, but the problem that the previous regime had was that these jobs were only done when they foresaw elections. However, this Government, will do this job with or without elections.
I thank you, Sir.
Hon. Government Members: Hear, hear!
Professor Lungwangwa: Mr Speaker, the LCC has been dominated by the PF for close to ten years now. Can the hon. Minister confirm that, actually, the clogging of the drainage system in Lusaka is a clear failure of the LCC under the PF that has been running the council for close to ten years?
Mr Kambwili: Mr Speaker, at the moment, all councils in Zambia, including those in Monze and Choma, belong to the PF Government because it is the PF that is ruling, and the hon. Minister of Local Government and Housing is a PF Minister. The councillors hold and run the councils for, and on behalf of the Government. Equally, in the previous regime, the PF councillors were running the councils for, and on behalf of the hon. Minister of Local Government and Housing. If, indeed, it is a failure, it is a shared failure.
I thank you, Sir.
Hon. Government Members: Hear, hear!
Mr Muntanga: Mr Speaker, one of the causes of problems of the drainage system in Kanyama Compound is that the people have been building houses on top of the drainage systems, thereby clogging them. I would like to find out what the hon. Minister will do to the people who have illegally built their houses on top of drainage systems?
Mr Kambwili: Mr Speaker, that is a simple matter. We shall demolish the houses.
I thank you, Mr Speaker.
Ms Siliya: Mr Speaker, in view of the answer given to Hon. Namugala’s question that the drainage systems have been budgeted for and, maybe, even conceding that when we were in Government, we did not do enough in terms of this problem, I would like to mention that the experts say that the problem is the geology that cannot permit any drainage system.
Sir, when the Movement for Multi-party Democracy (MMD) was in Government, we did everything possible to try to solve the problem of the lack of a proper drainage system. In this case, as the PF Government, are you doing enough and looking at this problem correctly? Since the geology is the greatest challenge in solving this problem, should we really be thinking outside the box and looking for another solution? Should we not be looking at the possibility of relocating all these people to an area where they will not be flooded year in and year out because even if the Government has changed, the people are the same?
Mr Kambwili: Mr Speaker, I wish relocating people were as easy as the hon. Member has put it. If it were easy, their Government could have done it. However, the mere fact that it did not do it, shows how complicated this issue is. Moving people raises issues of compensation, and so, it needs to be budgeted for. We are going to look at this issue in a holistic manner and approach in the same way.
I thank you, Mr Speaker.
Interruptions
Mr Deputy Speaker: Order!
‘Order’ means let us be quiet. Simple.
The hon. Member may continue.{mospagebreak}
OIL EXPLORATION IN THE NORTH-WESTERN PROVINCE
173. Mr Lufuma asked the Minister of Mines, Energy and Water Development what progress the Government had made in relation to oil exploration in the Kayombo area in Kabompo, Chavuma and Zambezi Districts in the North-Western Province.
The Deputy Minister of Mines, Energy and Water Development (Mr Musukwa): Mr Speaker, I would like to thank you for giving me this opportunity to inform this House and the nation about the PF Government’s commitment to ensuring success in oil and gas explorations in all parts of the country and the North-Western Province in particular.
Sir, the Government, through the Geological Survey Department, conducted oil and gas explorations, using Microbial Prospecting for Oil and Gas (MPOG) techniques in the three districts between 2007 and 2010.
Mr Speaker, the areas that were found to have potential to host oil and gas were demarcated into blocks and advertised to enable interested companies to bid. The blocks in Kabompo, Chavuma and Zambezi Districts were awarded to exploration companies in 2011.
Sir, the Government is, now, awaiting the companies that got these blocks to report on the progress made on the exploration details and activities in these areas.
I thank you, Mr Speaker.
Mr Lufuma: Mr Speaker, I would like to thank the hon. Minister of Mines, Energy and Water Development for that elaborate answer. Has the ministry attempted or given these companies a timeline within which they should report back so that we can make progress on this issue?
Mr Musukwa: Mr Speaker, I am very grateful to the hon. Member for that question because oil and gas explorations have a huge potential to help the country and the Government to diversify its dependency from minerals such as copper and cobalt.
Sir, yes, we have given them a time limit. In fact, upon giving them the licences, they must be able to move on site within ninety days.
Interruptions
Mr Musukwa: Mr Speaker, I am very glad because I was very optimistic about addressing this issue in the presence of our colleagues who have been very magnanimous, today, by not walking out of the Assembly Chamber.
Sir, the ninety days, regarding the exploration of oil and gas is stipulated in the Mines and Minerals Act. I would like to take this opportunity to inform the House and the nation that the Government is in the process of entering default notices for companies that have not moved on site within ninety days, as stipulated in the Act.
I thank you, Sir.
Hon. Government Members: Hear, hear!
Mr M. B. Mwale: Mr Speaker, the exploration licences were issued in 2011 and, now, 2012 is about to end. The hon. Minister is saying the Government is awaiting responses from the companies that are exploring for oil and gas. Is the hon. Minister informing this House and the nation that the companies that have been exploring for oil and gas have not been submitting monthly, quarterly and annual reports?
Mr Musukwa: Mr Speaker, I would like to thank the hon. Member for that question. However, the hon. Member, who is also the former Minister of Mines and Minerals Development in the previous Government, lamentably failed to implement the Mines and Minerals Act.
Hon. Government Ministers: Hear, hear!
Interruptions
Mr Musukwa: Mr Speaker, the PF Government is committed to ensuring that it moves on site in terms of this programme. The hon. Member …
Mr M. B. Mwale: On a point of order, Sir.
Mr Deputy Speaker: Since the hon. Member raising the point of order is the one who asked the question, I am reluctant to give him the Floor.
The hon. Member may continue.
Hon. Government Members: Hear, hear!
Mr Musukwa: Mr Speaker, I am trying as much as possible to be polite because our colleagues use any opportunity to walk out. Sir, I would like to …
Interruptions
Mr Deputy Speaker: Order!
I think, to be very honest, let us not provoke situations. I would rather, hon. Minister, you zero-in on the question.
You may continue.
Mr Musukwa: Mr Speaker, I would like to thank the hon. Member for that question …
Ms Siliya: On a point of order, Sir.
Mr Deputy Speaker: A point of order is raised.
Ms Siliya: Mr Speaker, we come to this House because this is the only place we meet, as Zambians, and because we are the elected Members who are here to represent the other Zambians. For most of us, this function is more emphasised on the Executive, who are the custodians of the resources of this nation. At this particular time, …
Mr Deputy Speaker: Order! Order!
You have made your preliminary remarks. Can you come to your point of order?
Ms Siliya: My point of order is: Is the hon. Minister who is answering the question, at a time we are about to discuss the Budget for which they need our support, in order to play politics and refer to a former Cabinet Minister, who was very successful, whereas he is failing to answer questions appropriately?
Interruptions
The Deputy Speaker: Order!
Let us not use points of order to debate and, like I ruled earlier, hon. Minister, zero-in on the answer to avoid opening a Pandora’s Box.
You may continue.
Mr Musukwa: Mr Speaker, what is very clear is that we did not receive any reports from the companies exploring for oil and gas for the period our colleagues have asked about. However, the Government is very proactive. It ensures that we send them default notices so that we can move on.
I thank you, Mr Speaker.
Mr Deputy Speaker: I give you credit for that. That is good.
Laughter
Mr Kakoma: Mr Speaker, Zambia started talking about oil exploration almost at the same time as Uganda did, and Uganda has gone ahead to mine its oil deposits, but Zambia is still talking about exploration.
Interruptions
Mr Deputy Speaker: Order!
Mr Kakoma: Mr Speaker, regarding the oil blocks that the hon. Minister referred to, the Government reserved the best oil block for itself. What is the progress on that oil block in Kabompo, which the Government reserved for itself? How far have the explorations gone?
Mr Musukwa: Mr Speaker, the hon. Member of Parliament is very well-informed about his area. Yes, the Government reserved blocks for itself in that area. It is not just one, but four blocks which have been reserved for the Zambia Consolidated Copper Mine – Investment Holdings (ZCCM-IH). In the last few weeks, the Government has been precipitating the ZCCM-IH to get into partnerships and move into this area so that the Government can lead the way in this exercise.
I thank you, Mr Speaker.
Hon. PF Members: Hear, hear!
Ms Lubezhi (Namwala): Mr Speaker, the hon. Deputy Minister said that the PF Government has been proactive and is seeing to it that it gets reports from the companies that are exploring for oil. It has been in office for one year, now, but has not received any reports. What has it been doing?
Mr Musukwa: Mr Speaker, in following your advice very seriously, I would like to tell the hon. Member of Parliament that we found many issues that needed to be cleared. As a working Government, we wanted to do things in a civilised manner so that we do not create confusion.
I thank you, Mr Speaker.
Hon. Government Members: Hear, hear!
_________
MOTIONS
REPORT OF THE PARLIAMENTARY SELECT COMMITTEE ON THE PRESIDENTIAL APPOINTMENTS OF HON. (RTD) CHRISTOPHER SICHIMWA MUSHABATI AND DR FREDERICK MWANSA NG’ANDU TO SERVE AS MEMBERS OF THE ELECTORAL COMMISION OF ZAMBIA
Mr Mweetwa (Choma Central): Mr Speaker, I beg to move that this House do adopt the Report of the Parliamentary Select Committee appointed to scrutinise the Presidential appointments of Justice Christopher Sichimwa Mushabati (Rtd) …
Interruptions
Mr Deputy Speaker: Order!
I have a problem. Somebody is moving a Motion and consultations are going on loudly. I cannot hear what the person on the Floor is saying. Please, if you have to consult, do so quietly. I am lost as a result of your noise.
The hon. Member may continue.
Mr Mweetwa: Mr Speaker, I will start all over, again, so as to carry everyone on board.
I beg to move that this House do adopt the Report of the Parliamentary Select Committee appointed to scrutinise the Presidential appointments of Justice Christopher Sichimwa Mushabati (Rtd) and Dr Frederick Mwansa Ng’andu to serve as members of the Electoral Commission of Zambia (ECZ).
Mr Speaker: Is the Motion seconded?
Mr Bwalya (Lupososhi): Mr Speaker, I beg to second the Motion.
Mr Mweetwa: Mr Speaker, may I begin by stating that, in view of the pivotal role played by the ECZ in conducting peaceful and credible elections in Zambia, your Committee resolved that only persons who are competent with unquestionable integrity, diligence, eminence and sound character should serve as members of the ECZ. In addition, your Committee resolved that the nominees must be persons with suitable professional qualifications and experience that will enable them to manage the electoral process in a manner that conforms to internationally accepted democratic principles of the process.
In this regard, your Committee carefully selected the witnesses to assist it to scrutinise the suitability of the nominees. Your Committee requested written memoranda from the relevant State security agencies, professional bodies and other stakeholders, as well as the appointing authority. The witnesses also appeared before your Committee to make oral submissions. Further, your Committee interviewed the nominees and carefully scrutinised their curricula vitae.
As regards the findings of the Committee, I wish to inform the august House as follows:
Mr Speaker, let me begin with Justice Christopher Sichimwa Mushabati (Rtd). All the State security agencies cleared the nominee, stating that their records did not show any adverse reports against Justice Christopher Sichimwa Mushabati (Rtd) that could prevent his appointment as a member of the ECZ. Your Committee learnt from the witnesses that not only did Justice Christopher Sichimwa Mushabati (Rtd) hold the requisite qualifications for a person to be appointed as a member of the ECZ, but that he also had a distinguished career in the practice of law. He had served diligently as a Judge of the High Court and Supreme Court of Zambia and is, currently, a member of the Judicial Complaints Authority.
Mr Speaker, your Committee was also informed that during the period that he served as a judicial officer, the Judicial Complaints Authority had not received any adverse reports on Justice Christopher Sichimwa Mushabati (Rtd) regarding his conduct, as defined under the Judicial (Code of Conduct) Act, No. 13 of 1999 of the Laws of Zambia. The Judicial Complaints Authority was, therefore, also in support of his appointment.
On the question of impartiality, your Committee was informed that Justice Christopher Sichimwa Mushabati (Rtd) had, over the years, practised law as a Judge; a job which required him to always be impartial. Your Committee was, therefore, confident that he would discharge his duties in an impartial manner, owing to his vast experience as a Judge.
Mr Speaker, let me now talk about Dr Frederick Mwansa Ng’andu. The records held by the State security agencies revealed that there were no adverse records against him which would hinder his eligibility for appointment to serve as a member of the ECZ. Your Committee noted that Dr Frederick Mwansa Ng’andu had worked extensively in the academic field at the University of Zambia (UNZA), where he served in various capacities, including that of Dean of the School of Law, Dean of Students’ Affairs and Assistant Dean Responsible for Post Graduate Programmes. He also served as a member of the Council of the Zambia Institute of Advanced Legal Education (ZIALE) and of the Judicial Service Commission in 2005. Your Committee learnt that Dr Ng’andu was, currently, serving as Registrar at the Zambia Open University. Your Committee learnt that throughout his career, as an academician, the nominee had distinguished himself by writing several scholarly articles.
Mr Speaker, from the witnesses’ submissions, your Committee observed that the nominee is an honest person, and one who is dedicated to duty. His rich professional background, thus, makes him well-placed to serve on the ECZ.
Your Committee also made observations on the scrutiny process. Your Committee observed that in an attempt by Parliament to raise the bar in approving Presidential appointments, there is a need to cast the net wider in selecting nominees. Your Committee has noted that, in the recent past, most appointees have been people who belong to the older generation.
Sir, our nation has abundance of vibrant middle-aged persons who are qualified and have sufficient experience to hold high public office. These persons should be given an opportunity to blend with the older generation in order to familiarise themselves with the management of critical bodies such as the Electoral Commission of Zambia (ECZ). Your Committee, therefore, recommends, very strongly, that in future, the Government seriously considers appointing qualified middle-aged persons to decision-making positions in the Public Service, such as at the ECZ, instead of restricting such appointments to the elderly.
Further, Sir, your Committee expresses concern over the failure by the Law Association of Zambia (LAZ) and the church mother bodies, namely the Evangelical Fellowship of Zambia (EFZ), Council of Churches in Zambia (CCZ) and the Zambia Episcopal Conference (ZEC), to appear before your Committee to present their views or findings on the suitability of the nominees to serve as members of the ECZ. The input of these bodies is critical as they possess grassroots structures that are effective in monitoring people in communities. Your Committee, therefore, recommends that these bodies be reminded of the need for their input in the various processes of parliamentary work.
Sir, your Committee is also concerned with the persistent failure by the State investigative wings to carry out thorough investigations on nominees. Your Committee observed that, despite being cautioned on this, in the past, the security wings have continued to submit routine reports that are restricted to information that is already on their database. This narrows the ability of your Select Committees to properly scrutinise Presidential appointments. In view of this, your Committee recommends that the security wings strengthen their search processes so as to be more detailed and, thus, effective in assisting your Select Committees to make correct recommendations on the suitability of nominees for appointment to constitutional and other high public offices.
Mr Speaker, this notwithstanding, after due and thorough evaluation of the written and oral evidence presented to it by the witnesses, and the interviews with the nominees, your Committee is of the view of that the two nominees are suitably qualified to serve in the positions they have been nominated for appointment. Your Committee, therefore, urges the House to ratify the presidential appointments of Hon. Justice Christopher Sichimwa Mushabati (Rtd) and Dr Frederick Mwansa Ng’andu to serve as members of the ECZ.
In conclusion, Sir, allow me to place on record your Committee’s gratitude to you, Mr Speaker, for appointing it to undertake the important task of scrutinising the nominees. Your Committee is also thankful for the services and advice rendered to it by the Office of the Clerk of the National Assembly during its deliberations. Your Committee further wishes to thank all the witnesses who appeared before it for their oral and written submissions that assisted it in making an informed recommendation to the House.
Mr Speaker, I beg to move.
Hon. Members: Hear, hear!
Mr Deputy Speaker: Does the seconder wish to speak now or later?
Mr Bwalya: Now, Mr Speaker.
Mr Speaker, I thank you for affording me the opportunity to second this important Motion to adopt the Report of the Parliamentary Select Committee appointed to scrutinise the Presidential appointments of Hon. Justice Christopher Sichimwa Mushabati (Rtd) and Dr Frederick Mwansa Ng’andu to serve as members of the ECZ.
Mr Speaker, let me also take this opportunity to congratulate the Chipolopolo Boys on having beaten Uganda 9-8 on penalties.
Hon. Government Members: Hear, hear!
Mr Deputy Speaker: Order!
There are visitors from Uganda in the Speaker’s Gallery. Therefore, that issue should not be mentioned.
The hon. Member may continue.
Hon. Government Members: Hear, hear!
Mr Bwalya: Sir, I note that the mover of the Motion has sufficiently addressed the important issues that are in your Committee’s report. I also would like to believe that hon. Members have read the report of your Committee. I shall, therefore, be brief in seconding the Motion that is on the Floor of the House.
Sir, from the outset, your Committee had to be satisfied that the nominees were persons capable of discharging the duties of the ECZ in line with Article 76, Cap. 1 of the Constitution of Zambia, under which the ECZ is established.
As the House is aware, the ECZ plays an integral role in the promotion of democracy in our country. It is for this reason that it is important for the ECZ to command public confidence. In this regard, it is cardinal that persons appointed to serve as members of the ECZ are those held in high esteem by the public, and who have demonstrated that they can manage the electoral process without being compromised in any way. You will note that the academic and professional qualifications that the nominees possess, though not a prerequisite to their appointments, will be valuable to the commission.
Sir, as the report of your Committee has shown, all the witnesses were satisfied that the nominees would ably discharge their duties as members of the ECZ. Your Committee, however, in recommending the two nominees, re-iterates the importance of appointing qualified middle-aged persons to constitutional and other high public offices, as opposed to restricting such appointments to the elderly.
Finally, Mr Speaker, allow me to thank the Chairperson of your Committee for the efficient manner in which he presided over the Committee’s meetings and all the members of your Committee for the unity and hard work exhibited in discharging your Committee’s task.
Sir, I urge this august House to support the Motion on the Floor and ratify the nominees.
Mr Speaker, with these remarks, I second the Motion.
I thank you, Sir.
Hon. Government Members: Hear, hear!
Mr Namulambe (Mpongwe): Thank you, Mr Speaker, for giving me this opportunity to contribute to the debate on the Motion on the Floor. I will be brief.
Sir, first of all, I would like to support the mover and seconder of this Motion and, in so doing, raise two issues. The nominees are eminent persons. They are also over-qualified people, capable of discharging their functions for the above-stated appointments. However, my concern is the observation by your Committee on the failure by the three church mother bodies to submit to your Committee. We know that the three bodies are cardinal to issues of such appointments and we, therefore, need to hear their voice. Their silence should send a serious concern to the Government. The Government has to wonder why the three bodies could not come to support or give evidence on its nominees. What is the problem?
Sir, I, equally, would like to advice the three church mother bodies that keeping quiet is not solving any problem. They must point out the issues that they are dissatisfied with. Let them speak out. When we were in the Government, they used to speak day in and day out. What has changed now? Let them bring out the issues that the people want to hear. I would like to request the three church mother bodies to speak out on the issues that they are not happy with so that their flock are able to follow.
Mr Speaker, the two nominees we are ratifying, today, will add value and dignity to the ECZ. Therefore, when they are conducting elections, we ought to ensure that we help them by not sending cadres that may cause violence.
Hon. Opposition Member: Hear, hear!
Mr Namulambe: Mr Speaker, I am informed that the police command intends to send 250 police officers to Mufumbwe, yet the people of Mufumbwe are very peaceful. The tribal groupings in the area, which include the Kaonde, Chokwe, Luvale, Luchazi and Lunda, are very peaceful.
Interruptions
Mr Namulambe: Therefore, to send that large number of officers is an attempt to intimidate these peaceful people. In order for the Government to help preserve peace, it can send the police officers. However, I would like to ask the Government to ensure that the police officers are paid their daily subsistence allowance for the time they will be in Mufumbwe, …
Hon. Opposition Members: Hear, hear!
Mr Namulambe: … as opposed to sending them there, buying them mealie-meal and forgetting about them. Those people have families. Let them get what they are entitled to receive.
Hon. Opposition Members: Hear, hear!
Mr Chisala: On a point of order, Sir.
The Deputy Speaker: A point of order is raised.
Mr Chisala: Mr Speaker, I thank you for giving me the opportunity to raise a point of order. Is the hon. Member of Parliament on the Floor in order to debate the Zambia Police Force issues and avoid the Motion on the Floor of the House?
I need your serious ruling, Sir.
The Deputy Speaker: Can the Hon. Member take that point of order into account as he debates?
The hon. Member may continue.
Mr Namulambe: Mr Speaker, the reason the police are being deployed to Mufumbwe in big numbers is that there is an election and the people we are ratifying, today, are the ones who conduct the elections. Therefore, I would like to justify my submission by saying that the people we are ratifying, today, are eminent. When people see Justice Mushabati in Mufumbwe, they will look at him like a judge; as though he were still in court. They will sober up. However, while sending this sober-minded person to Mufumbwe, we are also sending police officers. What are they going to do there? I am simply saying that the police officers who will monitor the elections or maintain peace must be paid their subsistence allowance on a daily basis.
Hon. Opposition Members: Hear, hear!
Mr Namulambe: Mr Speaker, I support this Motion whole-heartedly.
I thank you, Sir.
Mr Mufalali (Senanga): Mr Speaker, in supporting the Motion on the Floor, I would like to thank the Committee for a job well done.
Mr Speaker, I hope that the two new members of the ECZ will help to manage the electoral process better. I also hope that they will be able to ensure accountability for the resources of the commission. What we have seen during elections and at the commission is unfortunate. The abuse of resources there is normally rampant. We have seen that happen in the past and even during the elections that have been held recently.
Mr Speaker, the other issue is that, with the appointment of the new commissioners, we want to see the timely release of election results. The delays in the release of election results create tension, and that is not right in a democracy. We need to declare the winner as soon as the results are known.
Mr Speaker, as we look at the Motion on the Floor, we would like to see electoral reforms come through. I know that, when the PF was in the Opposition with us, it fought for electoral reforms. We want to see representation of stakeholders in the commission as opposed to the Presidential appointments. We want to see the reforms come through so that every stakeholder will be represented in the commission to avoid the unnecessary mistrust that comes with having members who are answerable to only one individual.
Mr Speaker, it is cardinal that the public have confidence in the commission. However, the petitions that we saw in the previous elections rendered the commission useless. Under normal circumstances, we should have dissolved the commission and held another election because the petitions showed that there was no confidence. Over 50 per cent of the parliamentary election results were petitioned. This means that the electoral process is not right. There is something wrong with the electoral process that cost it the people’s confidence. The petitions of over 50 per cent of the elected hon. Members of Parliament were a vote of no confidence. We want to see a commission that can give confidence to those who are looking up to it when the reforms are implemented.
Lastly, we want to see a continuous voter registration exercise through the men whose nominations as commissioners we are ratifying. We want to see a process that will be on-going in all areas rather than one which is based in Lusaka. There has to be continuous voter registration in other places as well.
Mr Speaker, with those few words, I thank you.
The Minister of Sport and Youth (Mr Kambwili): Mr Speaker, let me take this opportunity to thank our colleagues on the left for supporting the Presidential nominees who will sit on the ECZ Board. In doing so, I assure our colleagues and the nation that the PF Government is committed to electoral reforms. We are going to make sure that the wrongs we saw in the ECZ while we were in the Opposition are corrected for, and on behalf of, the people of Zambia. It would be wrong for the PF to continue on the path of the MMD in as far as elections are concerned. We are more than committed to making sure that Zambians are given an opportunity to elect leaders of their choice without any interference which results in archaic electoral laws.
Mr Speaker, my friend, Hon. Namulambe, talked about sending police officers to Mufumbwe. Where I come from, there is a saying that goes, “Akanwa ka milandu kalaibala.” This means that when one is guilty of an offence, one starts to talk about it before he/she is questioned. We saw that, in the past, in Mufumbwe, our colleagues in the MMD and the United Party for National Development (UPND) fought like nobody’s business.
Mr Speaker, the Government has thought of a preventive measure of sending police officers to Mufumbwe to make sure that the people vote freely and fairly. This should not be condemned unless my colleague has an intention of sending hooligans from Lusaka to go and cause confusion. If that is so, then, he should be worried about the presence of police officers. However, if the intention is to go there and conduct themselves in a civil manner, there should be no apprehension, whatsoever, about the presence of police officers in Mufumbwe.
Mr Speaker, with these few words, I would like to thank everybody for supporting this Motion.
I thank you, Sir.
Hon. Government Members: Hear, hear!
Mr Deputy Speaker: Order!
I beg your pardon. The mover of the Motion should always look at me when I go wrong. He can wind up.
Mr Mweetwa: Mr Speaker, I would like to thank all the hon. Members who debated this Motion. Going by the number of the hon. Members who debated, it is very clear that there was little to debate because the House is unanimous in support of this Motion. I would like to say that there are a few issues that were raised in the report that have not been debated and I would like to urge the Executive to address them. With this overwhelming unanimity in the House, it is apt for me to put the record straight. The hon. Members from the UPND, MMD, PF, Alliance for Democracy and Development (ADD), Forum for Democracy and Development (FDD) and one Independent hon. Member of Parliament worked together in this House for the good of our country.
Hon. Government Members: Hear, hear!{mospagebreak}
Mr Mweetwa: Mr Speaker, there should be no reason for anybody to think that we are not working together. Today, it has been demonstrated that we do work together.
Mr Speaker, with these few words, I thank you, Sir.
Hon. Government Members: Hear, hear!
Mr Deputy Speaker: Order!
I am on my feet.
Question put and agreed to.
Interruptions
Mr Deputy Speaker: The Clerk will now read the orders of today.
Interruptions
Mr Deputy Speaker: Order!
The Clerk should be heard.
Hon. Opposition Members left the Assembly Chamber.
Hon. Government Members: Hear, hear!
BUDGET 2013
(Debate resumed)
Mr B. Mutale (Kwacha): Mr Speaker, thank you …
Mr Mwaliteta: On a point of order, Sir.
Mr Deputy Speaker: Order!
A point of order is raised.
Mr Mwaliteta: Mr Speaker, I rise on a serious point of order. Are my colleagues on the left in order to take Zambians for granted? Zambians sent them to this House to debate issues concerning this country, including the Budget that was presented by the hon. Minister of Finance. All the Government hon. Ministers are here listening to the debate on the Budget. Are the hon. Opposition Members in order to walk out each time the Budget is to be debated just because their small presidents have told them that they should be here to frustrate this Budget?
I need your serious ruling because Zambians are listening and watching.
Hon. Government Members: Hear, hear!
Mr Deputy Speaker: Order!
In this House, the rules are clear. When there is a quorum, the debate continues.
Hon. Government Members: Hear, hear!
Mr Deputy Speaker: Order!
The hon. Member for Kwacha may continue.
Mr B. Mutale: Mr Speaker, thank you for giving me this opportunity to contribute …
Interruptions
Mr Deputy Speaker: Order!
The hon. Members on my right must listen. The hon. Member is on the Floor. He may continue.
Mr B. Mutale: Mr Speaker, I would like to thank you for giving me this opportunity to contribute to the debate on the 2013 Budget.
Mr Speaker, I totally support the 2013 Budget which was ably presented by the hon. Minister of Finance to this August House. This Budget looked at the plight of the people and it is basically a pro-poor Budget.
Hon. Government Members: Hear, hear!
Mr B. Mutale: Mr Speaker, it looked at how to improve the lives of the people in Zambia. This Budget tackles a number of issues. However, I will restrict myself to certain areas.
Mr Speaker, His Excellency the President, Mr Michael Chilufya Sata, has put more money in people’s pockets by reducing the tax further, from last year’s. The people of Zambia are listening to what we are saying in this House.
Hon. Government Members: Hear, hear!
Mr B. Mutale: Mr Speaker, this is the people’s Budget. Some people who do not want the Zambian people to benefit from this Budget …
Hon. Kalaba was on the wrong side of the House.
Mr Deputy Speaker: Order!
Hon. Kalaba, can you move to your side of the House.
Laughter
The Deputy Speaker: Order!
The hon. Member may continue.
Mr B. Mutale: Mr Speaker, I was saying that this Budget is targeted at the people of Zambia, especially the poor like those in Kwacha Constituency where I come from.
Hon. Government Members: Hear, hear!
Mr B. Mutale: Mr Speaker, putting more money in people’s pockets does not mean giving handouts. The money has to be earned. By reducing taxes, there will be more money in people’s pockets.
Mr Speaker, the hon. Minister of Finance said that he will increase funding to the local government. On Page 12, Paragraph 99 of the Budget Speech, the hon. Minister of Finance said:
“Mr Speaker, in order to tangibly improve the quality of life of our people, I have allocated a total of K1 trillion to invest in housing and community amenities. With this allocation, K783.8 billion will be used to enhance access to safe water and good sanitation for our people.”
Mr Speaker, the people of Kitwe, Kwacha and Wusakile constituencies, in particular, have been crying for better services. Sanitation is a big problem. People were crying over this, but nobody heard their cries then, especially the people on your left.
Hon. Government Members: Hear, hear!
Mr B. Mutale: Not the hon. Ministers seated on the left side of the Chamber, but the hon. Members who have walked out of the House.
Laughter
Mr B. Mutale: They were in power. In Kwacha Constituency, from 1956 to date, people have been using pit latrines.
Sir, the allocation of this money to the local government will uplift the living standards of the people of Kwacha Constituency.
Hon. Government Members: Hear, hear!
Mr B. Mutale: Proper toilets will be constructed, using the money that the Government has given to the people. This will prevent the spread of water-borne diseases.
Hon. Government Members: Hear, hear!
Mr B. Mutale: Mr Speaker, what more can we ask for?
Sir, the two sources of water in Kitwe have not been improved since their construction. The population has increased, but the facilities are the same. Again, the money that has been allocated to that sector will be used to improve these facilities so that the people of Kitwe and Kwacha Constituency, in particular, do not have water shortages.
Hon. Government Members: Hear, hear!
Mr B. Mutale: This is a plus to the PF Government and His Excellency the President, Mr Michael Chilufya Sata.
Hon. Government Members: Hear, hear!
Mr B. Mutale: He is the man of action.
Hon. Government Members: Hear, hear!
Mr B. Mutale: We are seeing things happen in Kwacha Constituency which we never used to see before.
Hon. Government Members: Hear, hear!
Mr B. Mutale: Mr Speaker, recently, we launched the Mufushani Bridge. This bridge had not been attended to by the United National Independence Party (UNIP) and MMD governments. The PF Government, with our President, Mr Michael Chilufya Sata, has launched the Mufushani Bridge after being in office for only one year.
Hon. Government Members: Hear, hear!
Mr B. Mutale: Is that not a plus? It is. Well done, PF Government!
Hon. Government Members: Hear, hear!
Mr B. Mutale: Sir, the people who live around the area where the bridge will be built are will benefit from the houses that will be built for them. Fifty-seven houses and two churches will be built. A 1.5 km road will be constructed and 200 pit latrines will also be constructed, but we hope that those will be upgraded to proper toilets in future.
Hon. Government Members: Hear, hear!
Mr B. Mutale: Mr Speaker, that is why we are calling our President a man of action. Within a year, these things are evident.
Sir, Kwacha Constituency wants to thank His Excellency the President for giving it a present in the form of the Mufushani Bridge. We are very grateful.
Mr Speaker, the President mentioned that he has given a road, which is the Bottom Road, to the Southern Province. This road used to be the song of the day in this honourable House. Nobody even mentioned a word of appreciation to the President for the Bottom Road which he has given them.
Hon. Government Member: Tabatasha!
Mr B. Mutale: They should learn to appreciate when they are given something good. They are not saying anything about it except to look for faults in people. Is that the way to show appreciation? No.
Sir, a lot of things have been looked at, such as the health sector, for example. In my constituency, we have been calling for ambulances because there are no ambulances in the area where I live. Ambulances can now be imported duty free. We can even use part of the Constituency Development Fund (CDF) to purchase ambulances …
Hon. Government Members: Hear, hear!
Mr B. Mutale: ... so that we support the people in our constituencies. We know that some hon. Members here have already bought ambulances.
Interruptions
Mr Deputy Speaker: Order!
I urge the hon. Ministers of Youth and Sport, and Home Affairs to consult quietly. I am being distracted.
May the hon. Member continue, please.
Mr B. Mutale: Mr Speaker, I was talking about the health sector. We need to have facilities, such as clinics, which operate for twenty-four hours. The hon. Minister of Health has promised, on the Floor of this House, that Kwacha Clinic will start operating for twenty-four hours. This never used to happen before. Kwacha Clinic will be opened before the end of this year, as the hon. Minister of Health has promised.
Mr Speaker, the Link Zambia 8,000 km Road Network Project will also help to open up Zambia to the tourism sector. The people who are unable to go to Shang’ombo will be able to go there because of this road. This will also bring investment to Zambia because a road network will be in place. What has been inhibiting people from coming to invest in Zambia is the access to places where they want to conduct business. So, this Link Zambia 8,000 km Road Network Project will help the nation greatly.
Sir, we used to have community centres. The buildings are still in existence. We want to use the money that has been given to the local government to renovate them so that our youths and mothers can start learning how to sow. Children will also be learning how to garden. They will also play games. This will help us to keep them off the streets. We need these centres. In fact, in my constituency, the buildings are still in existence. The only unfortunate part is that the swimming pool has been dug out. However, we can still construct swimming pools so that we provide these services to our people.
Mr Speaker, Sir, I do not want to dwell on this because when I was young, we used to go to the community centres …
Mr Deputy Speaker: Order!
Do not say ‘Mr Speaker, Sir’.
Laughter
Mr B. Mutale: Mr Speaker, I thank you for your guidance.
Sir, regarding the road infrastructure in Kitwe, each ward was asked to submit three township roads for rehabilitation to the local council. Three roads will be worked on each year. This is also another good gesture from the PF Government. We really appreciate what the Government is doing for its people. They have been driving in potholes for many years, but, now, we want to see to it that development gets to the people.
Hon. Government Members: Hear, hear!
Mr B. Mutale: Mr Speaker, as regards public places, such as markets and town centres, we need to have public toilets with running water that will be managed by the council. The MMD Government did very little about the provision of public toilets. At town centres, you hardly see places of convenience. Some of the money that the Government has allocated to the local government should be used to put up such facilities.
Sir, with all these good things given to us, can hon. Members still walk out of the House. Whom are they representing?
Hon. Government Member: It is a shame!
Mr B. Mutale: Are they representing themselves or the voters? They will de-campaign themselves in future. Once they are not elected, they will find it difficult to come back to this House.
Mr Speaker, some of them have just come here to clock in so that they get an allowance tomorrow or the day after. That is not why we came to Parliament. We came here to speak and work on behalf of the people.
Hon. Government Members: Hear, hear!
Mr B. Mutale: If you are not happy, there are procedures to follow …
Hon. Government Members: Hear, hear!
Mr B. Mutale: … which are better than walking out. You can represent someone in his absence and speak on his behalf, however, today, it has become a joke. Every day people rise and leave the Chamber. The people of Zambia are listening and will make a distinction between those who are here to work and those who are not here to work.
Sir, I urge the Opposition not to continue walking out of the House because it is a House of dignity. You do not just walk out when people are discussing issues …
Mr Deputy Speaker: Order!
I think you have exhausted your debate.
Mr B. Mutale: Mr Speaker, with these few words, I thank you and beg to …
Laughter
Mr Mpundu (Nchelenge): Mr Speaker, I thank you for according me this opportunity to contribute to the debate on the Motion on the Floor.
Hon. Government Member: Hear, hear!
Mr Mpundu: Sir, allow me to begin by thanking His Excellency the President for being consistent with his vision of developing this country as a way of getting our people out of this dry and anguished existence.
In addition, I would like to thank him for his strong stance on employment creation and provision of social services. By embracing a team spirit, as he showed when he came to open this House during the Second Session of Parliament, he has demonstrated that he is a true Statesman.
Sir, he has equally embraced the Vision 2030, the Sixth National Development Plan (SNDP) and the Medium Term Expenditure Framework (MTEF) that is a framework for delivering development both in the short and medium term. He has clearly demonstrated that he is very humble in nature, and this is what is required of a servant of the people.
Hon. Government Member: Hear, hear!
Mr Mpundu: Mr Speaker, the hon. Minister of Finance, Hon. Chikwanda, must be given credit for the maintenance of macro-economic stability.
Hon. Government Members: Hear, hear!
Mr Mpundu: He has held the economy on the same path whilst making changes to carefully incorporate the PF Manifesto. Under his tutelage, the economy has not experienced the shocks that are associated with the change of Government. He has maintained investor confidence and he, too, can be described as a Statesman. I admire his stupendous stamina and energy.
Hon. Government Members: Hear, hear!
Mr Mpundu: Mr Speaker, I can describe the 2013 Budget as a development, growth and stimulus Budget. It focuses on employment creation and targets the sectors that have huge potential. The hon. Minister of Finance has matched this by allocating K8.9 trillion which represents 27 per cent of the Budget. This clearly shows that the economy is off to a good start.
Hon. Government Member: Hear, hear!
Mr Mpundu: Mr Speaker, allow me to urge the hon. Minister of Finance not to walk alone. He should walk with several stakeholders in the economy, such as the banks. He should compel banks to lend a certain portion of their money to the private sector, especially to the Small-Medium Enterprises SME’s and let this be the basis for them to claim incentives.
Sir, an example of this is the 5 per cent corporate tax reduction which was awarded to them in the 2012 Budget. When this happens, the banks should not be allowed to claim these incentives on the basis that they had lent money to large corporates because they have internal capabilities to access off-shore funds.
Sir, to enable these banks to have more access to liquidity, the hon. Minister may, perhaps, exclude them from participating in the bond as well as the Treasury bills market. I am told that there is strong evidence that individuals and corporate bodies rather than banks, can marshal the K1.8 trillion which we anticipate to borrow from the domestic market.
Mr Speaker, the hon. Minister of Finance should make use of co-operatives which can assist the country to create employment as well as wealth.
Hon. Government Member: Hear, hear!
Mr Mpundu: There is strong evidence that co-operatives were the third largest employers in this country after the Government and the Zambia Consolidated Copper Mines (ZCCM). Co-operatives need stimulus from the Government. Underlying this stimulus, should be a package to each district to set up a district fund from which an array of projects, especially those related to agriculture, can be funded.
Mr Speaker, there is further evidence that co-operatives performed very well when they were still functioning, especially the Zambia Co-operative Federation (ZCF) finance services. I am basing my argument on a research that was carried out by the University of Bath, a university based in the United Kingdom. The research attests to ZCF’S good performance, despite its collapse. The major reason it collapsed is that it fell victim to the bad politics of the Government at the time. The few individuals in the movement took advantage of the situation that was prevailing at the time and pushed it into a hole.
Sir, added to this, the Government may wish to consider fanning out procurement of inputs, particularly fertiliser. If it cannot go to the co-operative movement, then let it be directed to the Nitrogen Chemicals of Zambia (NCZ). The NCZ, and not middlemen, should be advised to procure directly from manufactures. The rationale behind this is to produce maize efficiently.
Sir, I am of the view that during the process of crop diversification, the Ministry of Agriculture and Livestock should urge people to produce more maize because experimentation with new crops might not yield fruit. Let us produce more maize efficiently because it may be the second largest foreign exchange earner after copper.
Mr Speaker, by producing this efficiently and allowing co-operatives to undertake functions related to production and marketing, we will reduce the subsidy to maize production. Whilst we are trying to make use of the co-operatives, we may have to be careful about how we handle them because the current legal and regulatory framework is not sufficient to manage issues of good governance surrounding their activities.
In short, I would urge us to repeal the Co-operatives Societies Act No. 20, of 1998 and benchmark its re-enactment on the 1970 Act. This way, the issues of good governance, such as accountability, probity and transparency, will be enhanced in this sector.
Mr Speaker, the hon. Minister of Finance and the rest of the Cabinet may also wish to look at the issue of housing development in this country, particularly in urban areas. The bulk of the money that our people earn, especially those that earn little, goes towards rentals. Therefore, the larger portion of their income, which is called transitory income, is spent that way. As a result, there is little autonomous income left to go into savings.
Sir, many houses are being built throughout the country, especially in the urban areas. Therefore, we should try to strengthen the savings function in the people and this will go towards private investment. I am sure everyone is aware that private investment is a function of the gross national product (GNP) as well as the GDP. I wish the bulk of K1 trillion in the 2013 Budget would be given to the National Housing Authority (NHA) to be spent on this function whilst they are trying to get additional resources. At this point, I wish to urge our able hon. Deputy Minister of Finance, who is trying to do something in the municipality of Lusaka, to extend this generosity to other municipalities across the country to raise money for housing bonds.
Hon. Government Members: Hear, hear!
Mr Mpundu: It would help us a lot.
Mr Speaker, with regard to the Government purchases, if people cared to look through, they would see that what is contained in the National Budget is in excess of K9 trillion. This will go into procurment of goods and services for this country. This is in the form of investment in roads, health, power and water and sanitation infrastructure. I would like to make a proposal that the Government considers prioritising awarding of contracts to well-established companies that have a large labour force and potential to employ more workers. This way, we will avoid a lot of casualisation which is quite rampant in this sector. We will also elevate the profile of permanent and decent jobs.
Mr Speaker, let me make comments on a number of issues which are topical in our country. These are windfall tax, imported cheap products, support to the cotton sector, the current debt stock and the current borrowing of US$750 million.
Mr Speaker, on windfall tax, I have taken time to consult with a number of stakeholders. Our conclusion is that this issue is just an illusion. The perception is that we can make a lot of money, as a country, which is very true, and there is no doubt about it. Since windfall tax is not fashionable globally, I think we can end up getting ourselves into a fix because two things are likely to happen. The first will be that there will be a scaling back of investment in the mines. It may not be seen in the short term, but in the medium and long term, it will show. Exploration business may almost come to a halt immediately. Therefore, the catchword here is that this kind of tax is not fashionable. It remains an illusion and we should not implement it.
Hon. Government Members: Hear, hear!
Mr Ng’onga: Tell them, mwana!
Mr Mpundu: Mr Speaker, with regard to imported cheap products, I am of the view that this country is a victim of cheap products. Cheap products usually have an element of impoverishing our people because they keep buying the same goods, time and again. Whereas the hon. Minister of Commerce, Trade and Industry is considering the industrialisation strategy, I think we should think in terms of reverse engineering so that some of the products could be produced locally. If we manufacture cheap products, that is our problem. At least, we will be doing that ourselves rather than having other people do it. I know that the Zambia Bureau of Standards (ZBS) could raise the standards of this country. It has this on its statute already and it could assist us in this area. I urge the Ministry of Commerce, Trade and Industry to rise to this challenge.
Sir, as for the cotton sub-sector, what has started happening is good. I appreciate what I heard from our colleagues from the Ministry of Agriculture and Livestock that the Government has also started supporting this crop.
Mr Speaker, if we follow closely what has been happening in the cotton sector, we will find that the ginners pre-finance cotton growing by providing inputs to our people. Those inputs have a profit element in them and you can see the extent to which our farmers are hit. At times, the ginners borrow money from offshore entities and have to pay interest. Subsequently, it is our people who pay this interest. If the Government gives support to the cotton sector, it will benefit the people. We, therefore, expect this sector to continue to develop.
Mr Ng’onga: Hear, hear! Mwaume, uyu!
Mr Mpundu: Mr Speaker, let me now comment on the debt stock. The country’s debt sustainability analysis, as we are classified as a low-income country, clearly shows that at our projected level of debt of about US$2.4 billion, we are still very conservative. We are supposed to borrow more. We can even borrow to up to 100 per cent of our GDP because the future cash flows, as projected, clearly show that we will continue to have funds for a long time to come, ...
Hon. Government Members: Hear, hear!
Mr Mpundu: … hence my calling the US$750 million Eurobond extremely conservative. If I were you, Hon. Sampa, I would have collected all that money which was over-subsidised.
Hon. Government Members: Hear, hear!
Mr Mpundu: Mr Speaker, it is not correct for anyone to say that we are over-borrowing. This is leverage and extremely minimal except that we want to match the borrowing with our current programmes. We do not want to keep money waiting while some programmes are in the medium and long-term stage.
Mr Speaker, with these few words, I wish to support this Motion and urge the hon. Minister to be very steadfast as he implements the 2013 Budget, the PF’s first Budget. That is why we are saying that we will create 1 million jobs within the next five years.
Hon. Government Members: Hear, hear!
Mr Mpundu: That is, up to 2017. In fact, the level of employment that we intend to create during this period is an understatement.
Mr Speaker, I thank you.
ADJOURNMENT
The Vice-President (Dr Scott): Mr Speaker, I beg to move that the House do now adjourn.
Question put and agreed to.
______
The House adjourned at 1802 hours until 0900 hours on Friday, 19th October, 2012.