PARLIAMENT OF ZIMBABWE
Wednesday, 26th March, 2025
The Senate met at Half-past Two o’clock p.m.
PRAYERS
(THE HON. DEPUTY PRESIDENT OF SENATE in the Chair)
ANNOUNCEMENT BY THE HON. DEPUTY PRESIDENT OF SENATE
SWITCHING OFF OF CELLPHONES
THE HON. DEPUTY PRESIDENT OF SENATE: Hon. Senators are reminded to put their gadgets on silence or better still switch them off.
MOTION
BUSINESS OF THE HOUSE
HON. SEN. TONGOGARA: I move that Order of the Day, Number 1 be stood over until the rest of the Orders of the Day have been disposed of.
HON. SEN. MOHADI: I second.
Motion put and agreed to.
MOTION
REPORT OF THE ZIMBABWE GENDER COMMISSION FOR THE PERIOD 2023
Second Order read: Adjourned debate on motion on the Report of the Zimbabwe Gender Commission for the period 2023.
Question again proposed.
HON. SEN. TONGOGARA: I move that the debate do now adjourn.
HON. SEN. MOHADI: I second.
Motion put and agreed to.
Debate to resume: Thursday, 27th March, 2025.
MOTION
CONDOLENCES ON THE DEATH OF FORMER DEPUTY PRESIDENT OF THE SENATE HON. CHEN. CHENHAMO CHAKEZHA CHIMUTENGWENDE
Third Order read: Adjourned debate on motion on the sudden death of the former Deputy President of the Senate, Hon. Chen. Chenhamo Chakezha Chimutengwende.
Question again proposed.
HON. SEN. TONGOGARA: I move that the debate do now adjourn.
HON. SEN. MOHADI: I second.
Motion put and agreed to.
Debate to resume: Thursday, 27th March, 2025.
MOTION
CONSTRUCTION OF DAMS AND WATER STORAGE FACILITIES
Fourth Order read: Adjourned debate on motion on climate change mitigation.
Question again proposed.
HON. SEN. MUZODA: Thank you Mr. President, for giving me the opportunity to debate on the motion brought by Hon. Senator Mavenyengwa which is about climate change. It is true that seasons have changed, which shows that there is a difference in how we used to live. As human beings, we rely on rain water even from the time we were growing up. That is how we used to notice that this is the rainy season. We used to get rain towards the end of September and we realised that changed to October. Now we are getting rain end of January. It means climate change is continuing.
We need to put our heads together, especially Government must find ways to mitigate so that the citizens of the country may not starve because of lack of rainfall. According to how I grew up where we used to live before we came to urban areas, I believe those who were there in Government leadership used to do something to preserve water in the rural areas as well as other areas where we reside. If you walk around, you can find small dams or weirs. I do not know when they were built because we found them already constructed. They used to preserve water and during the dry season, cattle would find water to drink without having to move long distances. Even human beings did not have to walk long distances but because of climate change, these weirs or dams are also silting. Sometimes you cannot even identify that there was a place that used to store water. That was important to our people.
We want to talk about preserving water after realising that the rainfall patterns are no longer in our favour. Sometimes it will not rain like the previous year. It will not rain at all. That shows that this climate change is indeed increasing. We need mitigation measures in order for us to survive as a country. This is a request that I wish to put to you all the way to Government. May we prepare well because we receive rains in this country but we remain with little water. Most of it flows to the ocean. We know that there are rules about water but if we fail to conserve water, that is essential for our survival, then we are not doing anything at all. I wish we could put systems in place.
We realise that the rainy season is now coming to an end so it gives us an opportunity as Government, to look for places that we choose so that we divide them and preserve water so that we can irrigate. That way we will have sufficient food. That on its own Mr. President, will not only assist us in irrigation but will also be able to provide for the wild animals so that they live without having to encroach towards human settlements. Due to a lot of activity that involves water, those wild animals may be attracted by the smell of water until they get to that point but in the end, they may injure humans because of that.
My biggest request especially to Government, is that we need to prepare well for the future, for a bright future…..
A journalist having passed between the Hon. Deputy President of Senate and the Hon. Member debating.
THE HON. DEPUTY PRESIDENT OF SENATE: Who is that?
The Assistant Clerk escorted the journalist out of the Senate Chamber.
THE HON. DEPUTY PRESIDENT OF SENATE: You can continue Hon. Senator Muzoda.
HON. SEN. MUZODA: Thank you Mr. President. I was saying we need to come up with plans of mitigation so that we do not continue crying foul because of inconsistencies in terms of rainwater. The patterns have changed and it is now less compared to how it was in the past. The other thing is, even if we get poor rainfall in the country, we also have abandoned our culture that contributed to food self-sufficiency as well as timeous rains.
I know that these things were mainly done by representatives of areas as well as by traditional leaders such as headmen, up to traditional chiefs. They would do their practices just before the rains. We used to see that traditional beer was brewed and it was meant to appease for rains but the powers that we used to give the chiefs as well as those who represent us in the villages and smaller areas have been reduced. People no longer obey. If a kraal head requests for traditional grains to be donated or contributed - if that village has about 100 households, you get less than 20 who comply. The request to Government is, God is one but the way we pray is different. We have our own culture which I think if we were to follow the practices, maybe one day we might only cry foul for the sake of having enough food. I know that these days, people are ashamed of doing traditional practices because of the dressing. We now put on suits and fancy clothes, use perfumes but we are only able to do that because of the rains and yet we are crying because it is no longer in abundance.
I am not encouraging people to put on those traditional clothes. I want to request you to understand me. I hereby request you to understand me. Good clothes do not mean that we should despise our culture and our traditions. Even if we have cars or whatever, be it modern buildings in urban areas where we live and where we work, let us stick to our tradition because if we do not have rain, it will be difficult and there will be no life that progresses.
Indeed Mr. President, let us go back to our traditions. If we go back to our traditional practices, I think our lives will improve. If we show respect to our traditional chiefs while they also play their part in terms of doing those rites of worshipping, I think our lives will become orderly. If we fail to respect them and fail to respect the traditional leaders who can perform the rituals and ceremonies meant to appease for rainfall to come, we will perish . We will continue talking about climate change without a solution because we have abandoned our traditions. I thank you.
*HON. SEN. MUNZVERENGI: Thank you Mr. President. I also want to add a few words from the previous speaker. Climate change affects everyone, young or old. I also would like to support the idea that Government should look at major rivers that can store water. If you look at a river like Rwenya, that is between Manicaland and East Province, it is a very big river with water flowing all the way to Mozambique and all the way to Limpopo. If we were to split a river like Rwenya, it can give irrigation schemes that are very big and can contribute to the grain in the country.
Rwenya is not a small river. It is a very big river that is well known. It is even read in the books or on the maps. If you look at Mazowe River, it flows all the way to Mozambique. Mashonaland Central receives good rains. If we were to have big dams along those rivers, they would be of great assistance to the country. Climate change affects a lot of things, including drinking water because boreholes now have to be drilled up to 150 metres, 170 in search of water. The issue about our culture and traditions, in the past, I used to see elders going onto a rock that may have a caveat. I do not know and I am not sure who they were talking to but as soon as they left that place, it would rain despite a bright sunny day.
The practice used to lead to rainfall after those ceremonies, where has it gone? Can they not sit down as chiefs and look for those mediums that would lead to rainfall? Maybe it is about tribes or other factors. The issue about climate change is very important and we want it to be considered. When we also talk about climate change, we must be brave because we will get to an extent where there will not be any food stored in the granaries or the rivers will be dry. Wild animals as well as humans will not have water at all. So this is a very important issue. The issue of climate change must be looked into and considered in its importance so that solutions are proffered and the country gets water. I thank you Mr. President.
THE MINISTER OF INFORMATION, PUBLICITY AND BROADCASTING SERVICES (HON. DR. MUSWERE): I move that the debate do now adjourn.
Motion put and agreed to.
Debate to resume: Thursday, 27th March, 2025.
MOTION
BUSINESS OF THE HOUSE
THE MINISTER OF INFORMATION, PUBLICITY AND BROADCASTING SERVICES (HON. DR. MUSWERE): I move that we revert to the Order of the Day, Number 1 on today`s Order Paper.
Motion put and agreed to.
SECOND READING
BROADCASTING SERVICES AMENDMENT BILL [H. B. 10A, 2024]
First Order read: Second Reading: Broadcasting Services Amendment Bill [H. B. 10A, 2024].
THE MINISTER OF INFORMATION, PUBLICITY AND BROADCASTING SERVICES (HON. DR. MUSWERE): Mr. President, I rise to give my Second Reading Speech on the Broadcasting Services Amendment Bill [H. B. 10A, 2024]. As the Ministry of Information, Publicity and Broadcasting Services, we are cognisant of the need to amend the Broadcasting Services Act, [Chapter 12: 06]. The objective of the Broadcasting Services Amendment Bill is principally to align the Broadcasting Services Act [Chapter 12.06] with the Constitution of Zimbabwe and also with the Public Entities and Corporate Governance Act [Chapter 10.31]. Certain sections of the Act have become inconsistent with the new Constitution, something which has necessitated the current alignment process. Technology has also evolved rapidly over the last few years, pointing to the need for the broadcasting laws to be aligned with other legislations. Mr. President, the Broadcasting Services Amendment Bill contains 21 clauses, which include the Short Title of the Bill and the following additional provisions. Clause 2 introduces additional definitions for new clauses of broadcasting services licences introduced in Section 7, to ensure that all instances of broadcasting done over the internet are also covered.
Clause 3 amends Section 2 (a) of the principal Act to enhance that the role of the Broadcasting Authority of Zimbabwe (BAZ) is to regulate and manage the broadcasting services bands for sustenance rather than controlling broadcasting service bands. The intention is to move away from a perception that the legislation is intended to stifle the freedoms guaranteed by Section 61 of the Constitution, of course, to focus on necessary regulations of the airwaves.
Clause 4 amends Section 4 of the Principal Act, which is amended to reduce the number of board members from 12 to 7. The clause also provides for gender balance within the board. This is to ensure that the number of board members is commensurate with the size of the institution and in line with other boards.
Clause 5 amends Section 7:2 of the principal Act, which provides for classes of broadcasting services and systems which may be licenced by the authority. The amendments have been necessitated by development in technology where the classification of broadcasting services should be independent of the platform from where the service is delivered or received as developments in technology result in new platforms emerging or existing platforms evolving to deliver broadcasting services which will require frequent review to the classification.
Clause 6 amends Section 10 of the principal Act to introduce predictability in the application, mainly for granting or refusal of licences. What this means is that there will be predictions which will be managed for licences that make use of the broadcasting frequency spectrum which will be applied for once a year. Amendments to Section 6 are to ensure only services that make use of band spectrum, a national public resource go through a public inquiry.
Clause 7 amends Section 11 (4) of the principal Act, by ensuring that broadcasting services licences broadcast in all languages spoken in the area they serve. This is to promote the use of officially recognised languages identified in the Constitution. The amendments in Section 11 (5) is to exempt licences whose services emanate from outside the country from the requirement of allocating to the Government, an hour weekly to explain Government policies, free of charge to the nation.
Clause 11 (7) is amended to make sure that if anyone fails to operate within 18 months, the licence is automatically deemed invalid as this makes it easier administratively for the authority to advertise since the spectrum becomes automatically available.
Clause 8 amends Section 12 to align the section with amendments that have been affected in Section 7 (2) with respect to…
HON. SEN. TSHABANGU: On a point of order. We are failing to follow the Minister. What we have is not what he is reading unless if he has presented a different Bill.
THE HON. DEPUTY PRESIDENT OF SENATE: Minister, do you want to respond?
The Minister approached the Chair and proceeded to the legal team.
HON. DR. MUSWERE: The Bill is correct. The text of the Bill is as amended by the National Assembly, which my speech speaks to but the Explanatory Memorandum attached to it speaks to the Bill in its original form, prayer to the amendments. I thank you.
THE HON. DEPUTY PRESIDENT OF SENATE: Hon. Senator Tshabangu, do you have the Bill as amended by the National Assembly?
HON. SEN. TSHABANGU: What we have is not amended. It was not circulated and in that instance Mr. President, I do not think it will be proper for us to debate something that has not really been submitted to us.
THE HON. DEPUTY PRESIDENT OF SENATE: Okay, you have a point. Did the Hon. Members get [H. B. 10A 2024], the A stands for amended? You did not get 10A? Can you check in your emails? Hon. Minister approach the chair.
HON. SEN. CHIEF SIANSALI: I got it Hon. President. It was circulated at 1328 hours this afternoon.
THE HON. DEPUTY PRESIDENT OF SENATE: Today?
HON. SEN. CHIEF SIANSALI: Yes, on the Senators group. On the 10th Parliament Senators group it was circulated at 1328.
HON. SEN. TSHABANGU: Even if that is the case Hon. President, we cannot debate something that was circulated two hours before….
THE HON. DEPUTY PRESIDENT OF SENATE: Hon. Tshabangu, I have not given you the floor. Order! In the interest of ensuring that everybody is reading from the same page, the Minister is going to finish presenting the Second Reading but there will be no debate. You will then go and read it and next week, we then debate it. I think that is a fare proposition. Thank you, I really appreciated your understanding.
THE MINISTER OF INFORMATION, PUBLICITY AND BROADCASTING SERVICES (HON. DR. MUSWERE): Clause 7 amends Section 11(4) of the principal Act by ensuring that broadcasting services licencees broadcast in all languages spoken in the area they serve. This is to promote the use of officially recognised languages identified in the Constitution. The amendment in Section 11 (5) is to exempt licencees whose services emanate from outside the country from the requirement of allocating to the Government, an hour weekly to explain Government policies, free of charge to the nation.
Clause 11 (7) is amended to make sure that if anyone fails to operate within 18 months, the licence is automatically deemed invalid as this makes it easier administratively for the authority to advertise since spectrum becomes automatically available.
Mr. President, Clause 8 amends Section 12 to align the section with amendments that have been affected in Section 7 (2) with respect to the validity period of the licences. Licences in paragraphs (a) to (e) are given periods because accessing the frequency spectrum is expensive, hence the need to recoup their investments. The rest of the classes uses the internet.
Clause 9 amends Section 18 to allow for the transfer of a licence subject to the approval of the Authority to facilitate corporate rescue.
Clause 10 amends Section 30 of the Act by the insertion of a new paragraph whose effect is to promote the establishment and sustenance of community broadcasting services. In view of the non-profit making nature of community radios, the amendment seeks to allow the Authority to utilise the Fund to also support the sustenance of Community Radios, among others.
Clause 11 amends the section by repealing Subsection (2) and replacing it with a new Subsection (2) which mandates the Authority to issue public broadcasting licences in consultation with the Minister. This gives the Minister an oversight role to remain in the issuing processes.
Clause 12 amends section 38A by broadening the definition of “dealer” in an effort to enhance compliance and boost revenue collection of ZBC.
Clause 13 amends section 38B by inserting a new provision which prohibits the sale of a motor vehicle licence and motor insurance policy to persons who do not have ZBC radio licences. This will enhance compliance.
Clause 14 amends Section 39 by deleting Subsection (50 and replacing it with a new Subsection (5) which requires every subscription broadcasting service licences and subscription management service licences to transmit up to three channels of the public broadcaster. This has been necessitated but the growth of the public broadcasting
Clause 15 amends Section 46 adding new regulatory powers of the board to include areas currently omitted in the Authority’s regulatory function. This is done in order to capacitate the board to regulatory reviews in response to technological advancement.
Clause 16 amends various paragraphs of the Third Schedule to the principal Act to bring the provision applicable to the Authority in line with the provision of the Public Entities Corporate Governance.
Clause 17 amends paragraph 9 of the Fourth Schedule to the principal Act provide the appointment of the Chief Executive Officer and other employees of the Authority in line with sections 17 to 21 and Section 23 of the Public Entities Corporate Governance Act [Chapter 10:31].
Clause 18 deletes paragraph 9 (1) (f) of the Firth Schedule which requires that a licence commences providing broadcasting services within six months of being allocated a licence. This is to cure the inconsistency between the paragraph being deleted and Section 11 (7) of the Act which provides that provision of the service licenced must commence within 18 months. It also amends paragraph 10 (1) (c) of the Fifth Schedule to the principal Act to make it mandatory to ensure that members of the community that it serves participate in the operations and selection of programmes and membership of its governing body. The amendment is on deletion of the word ‘encourage’ and replacement with ‘ensure’. This will ensure community participation in the class of licence.
Mr. President, Clause 19 amends the Sixth Schedule to the principal Act by deleting paragraph 2 (2) and substituting it with a new section which allows the Minister to prescribe through regulations, the per centum of local and African content for sports channels. The amendment seeks to foster the growth of local sports while also allowing broadcasters to unlock the commercial value of already popular international sport.
Mr. President, Clause 20 is a transitional provision with respect to the terms of office of current senior officers. The terms of office of the officers will be subject to the limits introduced by this Bill and will therefore be reckoned from the dates of appointment. The provisions are meant to ensure continuity with regards to the regulator as well as its licencees in the context of the amendments made.
Mr. President, Clause 21 inserts a new schedule which contains the declaration to be signed by those who opt not to equip their cars with radios. It is not punitive for people who do not have radios in their vehicles as they can get exemption through signing of these declaration forms.
I therefore submit and urge the Senate to support and pass this Bill. I submit and move that the Bill be now read a second time.
THE HON. DEPUTY PRESIDEN OF SENATE: Thank you Hon. Minister, like I said earlier on, I would like to enable the House to go through this, read it, understand it so that you can debate from an informed position. So, we will not debate today, I will hear from the Minister when he proposes that we reconvene to debate this Bill. Hon. Minister, can you please propose to adjourn …..
HON. SEN. CHIEF SIANSALI: On a point of order Mr. President. I would like to withdraw my previous position. I had confirmed that the Bill was shared at 1328 hours but after carefully listening to the Minister now, the Bill that was shared at 1328 hours is [H. B. 10A.2024]. The sections that he is citing are not in tandem with the instructions that he is amending with what we have. With that Mr. President, may be the Minister or whoever should share the correct Bill not this that we have – [HON. SENATORS: Hear, hear.] –
THE HON. DEPUTY PRESIDENT OF SENATE: Thank you Hon. Senator Chief Siansali. It buttresses the point which I am making that we will not debate it today so that Hon. Senators can read the Bill and understand it. Whoever is responsible for sharing it with the Hon. Senators should do it today so that people can get it on their gadgets.
THE MINISTER OF INFORMATION, PUBLICITY AND BROADCASTING SERVICES (HON. DR. MUSWERE): Thank you Mr. President, I move that the debate be now adjourned.
Motion put and agreed to.
Debate to resume: Tuesday, 1st April, 2025.
MOTION
LEGALISATION OF TERMINATION OF PREGNANCY
Fifth Order read: Adjourned debate on motion on access to safe legal abortion services.
Question again proposed.
HON. SEN. TONGOGARA: I move that the debate be now adjourned.
HON. SEN. MOHADI: I second.
Motion put and agreed to.
Debate to resume: Tuesday, 1st April, 2025.
MOTION
REPORT OF THE THEMATIC COMMITTEE ON CLIMATE CHANGE ON THE ENQUIRY INTO THE IMPACT OF CLIMATE CHANGE ON HUMAN-WILDLIFE CONFLICT
Sixth Order read: Adjourned debate on motion on the Report of the Thematic Committee on Climate Change on the enquiry into the impact of Climate Change on Human-Wildlife Conflict induced by Climate Change in 2024.
Question again proposed.
HON. SEN. TONGOGARA: I move that the debate be now adjourned.
HON. SEN. MOHADI: I second.
Motion put and agreed to.
Debate to resume: Tuesday, 1st April, 2025.
MOTION
OVERHAUL OF DILAPIDATED STADIA
Seventh Order read: Adjourned debate on motion on the deplorable sports infrastructure in the country.
Question again proposed.
+HON. SEN. SIBANDA: Thank you Mr. President. I also want to thank the Hon. Member who tabled this motion. If you have taken into consideration Mr. President, you will realise that our sports facilities are no longer in good state. You take note that most of the sport facilities are places that people use sometimes even for resting. For example, we have sport facilities under soccer, netball, hockey, athletics, swimming and many others that I cannot mention now. However, most of those sport centres are in a deplorable state and need to be rehabilitated.
Mr. President, long back, I remember I used to go and watch soccer at different stadia, for example, Gwanzura Sports Stadium, Rufaro Stadium, Chipadze, Dulibadzimu and many other stadia that I cannot mention now. All these are in a deplorable state and you realise that most of the time they try to choose stadia that are in a better state. If I recall, in the year 1995, we once had All Africa Games which was hosted by Zimbabwe. Yes, we rehabilitated some sporting recreational facilities. The question that I then pose and sometimes ask myself is, if countries that participated want to come back again, what are they going to say if they find our sporting facilities in a deplorable state in which they are? Is it something that will put the nation in a good state or we will become a laughing stock? The White City Sports Stadium in Bulawayo, you realise that at a certain point, was renovated and it was looking good, that is a hockey stadium that I am referring to. However, you note that it is now a white elephant. It is a nice place but it is in a deplorable state. Mr. President, most of our sports facilities, you realise that most people take their time to go and sit there just to rest. It is difficult now even to go and watch soccer in any stadium because of the state of our grounds. Our stadia are in a very deplorable state and a few people now participate and now go to watch the soccer matches. One would then have to question themselves before going to the stadium if their lives are safe for them to go there. It is only a few who participate.
Musicians are the ones who now use the stadia, for example, if it is a music gala. However, I question myself on the state of our sports facilities for they are not even safe for people to use. Some of them were even used for weddings. People would hire the sport grounds as venues for their weddings. For a wedding ceremony, you need a big area.
I remember that we used to joke to say, how did you manage to do whatever you would have done? The response was, I managed to do it even when it was difficult. When you mention areas such as Gwanzura Stadium, you realise that our children nowadays do not even know that there is a place that exists which is called Gwanzura. Some of the swimming pools are also in a deplorable state. They become white elephants and they are not being used anymore. I believe once we rehabilitate those centres, it will give an opportunity for us even as the elderly people to use them. People used to hire swimming areas to take pictures, especially during weddings.
As a way of occupying our youths, they would go to such grounds for different sporting activities to relax or to play different sport disciplines. Now, we end up having our youths engaging in drugs and sitting on bridges. It is because they do not have anywhere where they can relax or where they can go and play any sporting activities. Participating in sports is another way of relieving stress. This is medically proven. Sporting activities are very important in one's health as they improve our health.
We used to have good sporting activities that were conducted in different stadiums. Our soccer teams from the army or police used to have a specific ground called One Commando. No one wanted to go and play in One Commando because it was in a deplorable state. I believe even the ones that were in a better state are now in a deplorable state more than One Commando. We are a very good nation, why can we not consider rehabilitating our sporting grounds? This can also increase the foreign currency that we get if many people come and participate in our sporting facilities. Thank you.
*HON. SEN. KATUMBA: Thank you Mr. President. I would like to add a few words on the motion brought by Hon. Senator Tshabangu referring to the soccer stadia in the country. This is a very important motion because as we grew up, the stadiums were working. Soccer was played and a lot of tournaments were organised. Even our country would earn revenue from that.
We also saw people going around, for example, to Rufaro Stadium in the morning from 10am and 11am and there would be a lot of congestion because people enjoyed watching the matches and that was a source of revenue. Some of our kids who are growing up no longer know that. The country is now full of maboozers tournaments. Kids are only watching localised matches. We got to know Hon. Kirsty Coventry through sports and that was a very good thing and very popular, it was very important. Even marriages were sorted because if the father was disappointed, he would go and watch a match. When he came back, he would have relaxed. As a country, we no longer have recreational facilities, which is why we now have a lot of drug and substance abuse. Men no longer have other forms of entertainment except extramarital affairs.
Mr. President, the issue of stadia is very important. I remember when the Olympics were about to be held in Zimbabwe around 1995, that changed because we failed to construct venues for sports. Since this is a source of revenue, why can we not invest in it? We used to know several teams like Dynamos versus Caps, Highlanders versus Black Aces. These days they are no longer popular because of the venues.
As women, we were beginning to support these famous teams but they no longer have stadiums. I pray that this situation will be rectified and all those things are reintroduced in the country. Right now, we are crying foul because of drugs and substance abuse because of lack of recreation. That was a source of recreation that would actually ease stress. May the Minister of Finance allocate funds to the Ministry of Sport and Recreation so that all sporting venues will be spruced up? Why do we have to go out of the country to play our matches? Our country is very beautiful. If we rectify that, we can earn the foreign currency that we need. This is a very important motion. In my view, the Hon. Minister must find something to do to restore the lost glory. I thank you.
*HON. SEN. MUZODA: Thank you Mr. President. I applaud the motion brought by Hon. Senator Tshabangu that talks about the dilapidation of sports venues, especially stadia, which can actually attract people to come and compete or play in this country. It is very good to be honest with each other. We no longer have any sport venues.
Looking at what is happening in other countries, especially soccer stadia and other sports which are also sources of recreation, entertainment and source of livelihood, we can mention stadia in this country. Actually, I say they used to be there. At the moment, we no longer have because there is nothing more to talk about as we compare with other countries, for example, South Africa. Do we have any place or any soccer stadium that even matches a venue in Soweto or a stadium in Soweto in the high-density suburbs such as Mbare, like the National Sports Stadium that is being renovated and bucket seats being procured? According to our research, the National Sports Stadium cannot be renovated. It is all because of its construction.
We can come here and mislead each other. As a country, we need to look for venues or places to construct stadiums that can actually put us on the map on the international arena. In the past, sports were embarrassing but these days they are a source of livelihood. School going children, that is where you get the likes of Musona, Khama Billiat and some of the famous players that we have currently. They come from such areas. They are the richest people compared to those who go to work and are formerly employed because their jobs emanate from their talents that they showcase.
The request is, may Government not go around in circles? Let us look for land or places to construct world-class stadiums and we close these ones. If you go to Gwanzura Stadium today, you can be bitten by a black mamba. They are no longer stadiums. They are just places to relax as people smoke cigarettes and take mutoriro, like what was earlier on alluded to.
What relieves stress is entertainment and sports. In its absence, even families are affected because of lack of entertainment. My request is, we need to unite and be honest to each other. Right now, we no longer have entertainment or sports centres. We now use other countries as home grounds, yet we have our own country.
If possible, the rainy season has just ended. Prepare to construct stadiums that are recognised by FIFA instead of being banned except Rufaro and Barbourfields because they are not good enough. Those are my few words Mr. President on this motion brought by Hon. Senator Tshabangu. It is very sad. It also takes away an opportunity for us to get revenue because no one can come and even play a friendly match. They may choose to come to the National Sports Stadium. It is no longer possible because those places are not fit to host sports. I thank you.
+HON. SEN. RITTA NDLOVU: Thank you Mr. President Sir.
The previous speaker mentioned all my points. I do not have much to say. However, I will just add a few points that he left out.
+HON. SEN. RITTA. NDLOVU: Thank you Mr. President Sir. The previous Speaker mentioned all my points. I do not have much to say. However, I will just add a few points that he left out. I have learned that you are not supposed to share your points with your neighbour. First and foremost, I want to thank Hon. Senator Tshabangu for the motion that he tabled in this House for the rehabilitation of our stadia to an extent that we have to conduct our matches in other neighbouring countries; which is not a good thing and does not put us in a good position as a country. I remember there was a time when the Hon. Minister came here and one Hon. Member asked about the status of the stadia.
The response from the Hon. Minister was that they are renovating all the stadia. However, I am not happy with that because we realise that the information that the Minister gave to the House was not true and we are being told that there is no way we can renovate, especially the National Sports Stadium and there is need to get another place where we can construct a stadium like Manchester United Stadium. I know Zimbabwe is a country with enough land to construct such stadia. I also want to speak on the Barbourfields Stadium which is in Bulawayo and is the second biggest stadium after the National Sports Stadium.
We also need to consider such. We need to renovate all the stadia that are there so that we can attract even other nations to come and play their friendly matches in our country. The Hon. Member who contributed before me alluded to that, that as long as our stadia are in line with the FIFA regulations, we can use them even to host other countries for friendly matches. In Zimbabwe, we are only left with football matches as a sporting discipline that is prioritised. You realise that there are so many people who love that sporting activity and they even watch such matches in bars. My request is, when honourable Ministers come here, can they present the exact position of what would have been asked so that we know exactly the status, especially of our sporting grounds. Thank you Mr. President.
*HON. SEN. CHIEF CHARUMBIRA: Thank you Mr. President. Indeed, most of the points have been raised so far. I would like to thank Hon. Senator Tshabangu for this motion. I first of all would like to congratulate the International Olympic Committee President, Hon. Kirsty Coventry, since we are talking about sports. Congratulations! -[HON. MEMBERS: Hear, hear.]- Zimbabwe is shining. I would like to congratulate the National Team yesterday for pulling a draw with Nigeria at home. We thought we were going to lose, so I am very glad that we won. My points with regards to soccer is, yes, you are saying the truth, soccer unites people, people get activities and it reduces drug and substance abuse as well as extramarital affairs. However, I want this issue to come back to the House, to Parliamentarians. Where were we as Parliamentarians when all those stadia that you mentioned that were good enough in the past, were collapsing? What happened to the early warnings? Do we not have a vision to notice that this thing will deteriorate in the future? As Parliamentarians, let us look at sports, stadia, roads because we come from people, let us forewarn the country. Let us not be reactionaries. Now the stadia are closed. We come here and debate. It is good that we open each other's eyes but this issue has raised a lot of questions for the future.
Why do we have to get to this extent? Where were the MPs and the Senators that if this stadium continues at this trajectory, it will close in the future? Let us start from those who write, what are the mechanisms of early warning systems as Parliamentarians? We should foresee disaster in the future. We have Portfolio Committees. Yes, in Senate we have Thematic Committees but we do not have sports. We must find some way to sort it. It will be good but at the National Assembly, we have a Portfolio Committee on Sports. Where was it? When they go out for tours and hearings and all other things, do they not see that this is an eye-opening situation so that in the future, it may not necessarily be about visits but let us look at institutions also so that we are better prepared in the future instead of reacting to a crisis. That is a very important thing.
In Thematic Committees, part of the business does not only attend to problematic areas like prisons where there are no clothes and we attend to rectify the crisis but we need to foresee the situation and convince the Minister to invest in the stadia because three or four years from now, they may close. Let us debate before they close. Right now, the Hon. Minister only says the money that you give to me which you vote as Parliament is very little. There are a lot of good stadia. We went to South Africa, Mandela Stadium. Who constructs those stadia? It is very important as we debate this motion. Who constructs those stadia? Is it necessary from the taxpayer?
For the success of the sports that we know, the private sector such as mines is heavily involved. They come with money to sponsor and we may construct those sporting arenas. So, as we debate this, let us look into what is happening, where it is successful, who pays the players, how are they paid?
We need to know as citizens, especially the private sector. What are we doing about it so that it moves well? Finally, I would like to say as we debate on sports in this country, when we talk of sponsorship, be it players or infrastructure, we are very low, we do not support very much, especially the players. If Zimbabwe is beaten by Lesotho for example, you see that it is because the players are not motivated at all. So, it goes back to sports. What is the attitude towards sports as well as infrastructure? Let us work hard. As I sit down, I think we have learnt a lesson that Parliament must have early warning mechanisms so that in any sector, Parliament sees well in advance the situation that may become bad in future so that it does not deteriorate. I thank you.
HON. SEN. TSHABANGU: I move that the debate do now adjourn.
HON. SEN. MDHLURI: I second.
Motion put and agreed to.
Debate to resume: Thursday, 27th March, 2025.
MOTION
RECAPITALISATION OF PUBLIC HEALTH CARE INSTITUTIONS
Eighth Order read: Adjourned debate on motion on the state of the health care system in the country.
Question again proposed.
HON. SEN. MDHLURI: I move that debate do now adjourn.
HON. SEN. KABONDO: I second.
Motion put and agreed to.
Debate to resume: Thursday, 27th March, 2025.
MOTION
SUPPORT FOR LIVESTOCK FARMERS THROUGH PROVISION OF SUPPLEMENTARY STOCK FEEDS AND VACCINES
Nineth Order read: Adjourned debate on motion on the importance of livestock production in Zimbabwe.
Question again proposed.
HON. SEN. MOHADI: I move that the debate do now adjourn.
HON. SEN. TONGOGARA: I second.
Motion put and agreed to.
Debate to resume: Thursday, 27th March, 2025.
MOTION
BLENDING OF IMPORTED GASOLINE WITH LOCALLY PRODUCED ETHANOL
Tenth Order read: Adjourned debate on motion on the blending of fuel with ethanol.
Question again proposed.
HON. SEN. TSHABANGU: Thank you Mr. President. It is unfortunate that my brother, Hon. Senator Zvidzai is not in the House but I will put a print in the debate that has been extensively debated by fellow Senators. I would like to put across certain elements to this important and valuable debate. Statutory Instrument 17 of 2013 was amended by Statutory Instrument 150 of 2023. This has created serious operational challenges in the Southern Region, which has a potential in the near future to reduce fuel supply in that region. It costs 0.08 cents to move a litre from Beira to Harare. It further costs 84 cents to move a litre from Johannesburg in South Africa by road, even far less in places like Gwanda and Filabusi. It costs 0.6 cents to move a litre from Harare to Bulawayo. This means it will cost USD1.44 to move fuel from Beira to Bulawayo and it will cost USD1.30 to move the same fuel from Beira to Harare.
As such, it disadvantages the people in the southern region. However, Statutory Instrument 17 of 2013 created an opportunity that fuel that is transported by road or rail should be exempted from the duty thereby reducing its cost. Only fuel that is transmitted through pipeline should be levied with duties. It is unfortunate that the Statutory Instrument 150 of 2023 has levied the fuel that is being transported by rail or road. This creates problems because it does not give those who are in proximity to the plants or to the fuel like in South Africa, to access the fuel without this excessive duty payments. Ethanol is a by -product of sugar cane. There is no reason why this Government of today should really sell the ethanol in USD. Absolutely no reason. One of the most fundamental things Mr. President is that we thought ethanol, was going to be sold in local currency, since it is a by-product, was going to create employment opportunities within the agricultural sector. Then by stimulating economic growth, it was going to stabilise the prices because everything, whether it is in the production sector, is hinged on fuel. Everything that happens in any country, the higher the fuel is, it increases all the basic commodities, the conditions of service and the production chain of everything. We thought, if ethanol as a by-product was to be sold in local currency. It was going to stimulate the economy and to increase the accessibility of ethanol.
We were going to see more plants, especially in region 4, so that the sugarcane and maize is planted Mr. President. It was going to give us environmental benefits because it reduces the emissions in natural gas. All these things, were going to be contributed by having the ethanol being sold in Zimbabwe's local currency. If it was going to be sold in US Dollars, we were going to see more players coming in, buying the ethanol, thereby subsidising the fuel. We were going to reduce the smuggling of fuel, which is another point that I am going to come to. It has actually parachuted the smuggling aspect in this country, thereby reducing the collection of our revenue through the taxation of the fuel revenue.
Mr. President, it was also going to improve our balance of payments because there was nothing to lose. It was going to reduce even the freight charges for importing the ethanol for a landing cost here. All these things were going to be reduced. There is absolutely no justification whatsoever, as speakers have alluded that ethanol is a by-product in our industry, agriculture industry and in producing sugar cane. There is no reason for us to sell it in foreign currency. I will give you the examples of ethanol in the region or worldwide. We do not know whether our ethanol is super special, different and grown or is squeezed through sugar cane which is not planted in Kenya and Brazil.
It does not really make sense at all Mr. President. The prices of ethanol in countries around the world, like in Brazil, it costs 65 cents. You get ethanol in India at 55 cents. In Kenya, which is not far from us, it costs 40 cents. In Zimbabwe, it costs USD1.10. Surely, you are taking that burden to the final consumer. The poor man who is driving his 305 has to inherit the burden of USD1.10. We have water, we have got the land. There is no labour at all.
We charge it in USD1.10. All this Mr. President, creates a problem in the industry. There is no reason that a region in Southern Africa, I mean, in the southern region, pays more than the people in the northern region. I mean, we cannot have laws like that. I mean tax should be uniform. Why should we have someone who is staying in Binga paying more because of his geographical location and someone who is closer to the Beira, whoever is getting the fuel, pays less? This has to be uniform. We need to adjust this, revisit this special instrument 15 so that everyone is given an opportunity based on their geographical location.
Now, coming to this mapping Mr. President, because bringing ethanol from Harare to Bulawayo is expensive, it gives an advantage to a person or dealer who is in Harare because it is closer to the Beira.
But a person who is in Victoria Falls, Binga, Beitbridge and Bulawayo cannot make profits. It cannot balance to bring ethanol at USD1.10. What do the people in the southern region do now? They smuggle the fuel in Botswana. Zimbabwe as a country is losing a lot of money through smuggling of fuel because we know that fuel produces something like three billion annually. That is a lot of money through revenue.
The country is losing quite a significant amount. They smuggle the fuel because it is cheaper to smuggle. It is cheaper to bring fuel from Botswana and South Africa. They smuggle it to Bulawayo, Victoria Falls is even closer to Kazungula, closer to Zambia through all these entries . They are now the entries of smuggling fuel. This is why today the southern region is still surviving because of smuggling fuel. When they smuggle fuel, they will then bring in the ethanol. They dilute it themselves so that when the reserve officer comes and tests if the fuel in the reserves is compliant, there is a compliance of about 5-10% of ethanol. It is cheaper because a load of truck of ethanol is going to dilute maybe 10 trucks of smuggled fuel in South Africa.
It gives them that fair advantage. What does it do to the Government as a whole? What does it do to the fiscus? What does it do to the Treasury? It really burns the bridges of collection of the fuel.
Mr. President, I genuinely feel, that we need to rationalise the laws. We need to look closer with a long lens in terms of how then do we stabilise the imbalances in supply of our fuel in Zimbabwe. Our modern vehicles are even written that this vehicle needs this type of unleaded fuel. Sooner or later, with these emissions of blending with ethanol, it defeats the whole purpose of why it is there in the first place and it is eroding our engines. It is giving us an unnecessary expense as motorists.
Mr. President, I witnessed it myself. One day I went to buy lawn and these lawn mowers, the recent one, this hand lawn mower, the grass cutter, that is the term that I am trying to use…
THE TEMPORARY PRESIDENT OF SENATE (HON. SEN. KAMBIZI): Order Hon. Senator Tshabangu, you have four minutes. Thank you Mr. President. I would love if you can extend but nevertheless, I will try to squeeze my submissions in four minutes. I bought that and the attendant tells me that this machine uses unleaded. You use unleaded and it is written ‘to use unleaded fuel’. Where do I get unleaded fuel? There is no garage in Bulawayo that says unleaded fuel but the machine that I am buying is written unleaded. I bought it and I used it for a week and it packed because of the fuel.
Mr. President, what does this do to our tourism? We have got many tourists that are coming from South Africa, Zambia, Botswana and within the region. When they drive Mr. President, some of us are privileged because we come from the southern region. Our fellow compatriots, Zimbabweans who are in South Africa, when they come around December and they use that fuel, the moment they get to South Africa, they have got a crisis. It is because the engines cannot sustain the leaded fuel of ethanol and in some instances, it is not even. You find at another garage, it is 5%, the other garage is 10% and another one is 15%; that is unacceptable Mr. President. We are destroying our economy ourselves. Who is benefiting from this ethanol? That should be the biggest question that we should ask ourselves.
Mr. President, why is ethanol sold in foreign currency and who is benefiting? Is the Government of Zimbabwe benefiting and in what sense, yet we are opening doors of the smuggling of fuel in this country? Are we going to be known? Today, everyone is trying to survive but why is the Government, why does the Minister produce such pieces of legislation that does not bring this country together? Mr. President, I am standing here heartbroken that this industry is a key industry. It contributes five to six billion annually and we are losing through leakages that five to six billion a year. There is nothing, any economy is built on energy.
Mr. President, for the survival of this country and to grow, we need to address the fuel pricing. In South Africa, every year or every quarter, three times a year, you will see the reduction of fuel by certain percentages. Five rand, 10%, there is a fuel reduction. You look at the index in the stock exchange, it grows because the fuel has been reduced. In Zimbabwe, it is ever rising, Mr. President. There is no regulation. I do not think ZERA is doing enough. I do not think the Minister is doing enough and this cannot be allowed to continue, having these disparities of fuel.
Mr. President, if you go to South Africa, if you go to Bulawayo, the fuel is 10 points higher than the fuel in Harare. You go to Victoria Falls, the fuel is 15.20 points higher than the fuel in Harare. You go to South Africa in Kwazulu Natal, the fuel, maybe the difference is just two points, it is the same, Mr. President. This disparity creates divisions in terms of production, economic growth and I think we need some sense of semblance, some sense of real introspection. I wish if the mover of this motion was here so that by the time he wraps up his motion, he would have really tapped into two sense of my contribution. I thank you Mr. President.
HON. SEN. MUDLURI: I move that the debate be now adjourned.
HON. SEN. KABONDO: I second.
Motion put and agreed to.
Debate to resume: Tuesday, 1st April, 2025.
MOTION
REPORT OF THE INTER-PARLIAMENTARY UNION (IPU) MEETING HELD AT THE TWENTY NINTH SESSION OF THE CONFERENCE OF THE PARTIES HELD IN BAKU, AZERBAIJAN
Eleventh Order read: Adjourned debate on motion on the Report of the Inter-Parliamentary Union (IPU) meeting held at the Twenty Ninth Session of the Conference of the Parties (COP 29).
Question again proposed.
HON. SEN. TONGOGARA: I move that the debate be now adjourned.
HON. SEN. MOHADI: I second.
Motion put and agreed to.
Debate to resume: Tuesday, 1st April, 2025.
MOTION
REPORT OF THE DELEGATION TO THE 2ND ORDINARY 2024 SESSION OF THE SENATE OF THE REPUBLIC OF COTE D’IVOIRE AND THE INTERNATIONAL SYMPOSIUM OF AFRICAN SENATES
Twelveth Order read: Adjourned debate on motion on the Report of the Delegation to the Second Ordinary 2024 Session of the Senate of the Republic of Cote D’lvoire and the International Symposium of African Senates.
Question again proposed.
HON. SEN. TONGOGARA: Thank you Mr. President, for giving me the opportunity to contribute on this important debate on the recent participation of the Zimbabwean delegation in the Second Ordinary 24th Session of the State of the Republic of Cote d'Ivoire and the International Symposium of African Senates held in Yamoussoukro.
Mr. President, it is important to acknowledge that the objectives of the Symposium were indeed noble. The discussions centred on strengthening African Senates, enhancing democratic institutions and fostering inter-parliamentary cooperation. These are goals that resonate with our aspirations for a strong, effective and independent legislative system. However, we must carefully scrutinise the actual outcomes of the Symposium and the potential implications for Zimbabwe and the continent at large.
One of the key outcomes of the Symposium was the establishment of the Association of African Senates headquartered in Cote d'Ivoire with its first President appointed from that country. While this might seem like a step towards unity and collaboration, we must critically assess whether this association will truly serve African interests or it could become a vehicle for advancing external influences, particularly those of Francophone bloc and their historical connections with France. It is telling that the President of the French Senate was the only non-African delegate present and was deeply involved in the discussions.
We must ask, is this association designed to strengthen African self-reliance or does it risk entrenching historical patterns of dependency? The active participation and endorsement of the French Senate raises legitimate concerns about whether these initiatives serve as an extension of French interests in the continent. Zimbabwe, as a sovereign nation with a strong historical stance on independence and self-determination, must remain vigilant against any arrangements that could compromise our national interests.
Zimbabwe has already demonstrated commitment to inter-parliamentary cooperation through various well-established platforms. We are active members of the Association of Senates, Shoora and Equivalent Councils in Africa and the Arab World (ASSECAA) which brings together upper houses from both African and Arab countries for meaningful collaboration. Additionally, our Senate engages with the Southern African Development Community Parliamentary Forum, (SADC-PF) and the Pan-African Parliament (PAP). These institutions provide adequate platforms for regional and continental cooperation without necessarily creating new financial and structural obligations.
Furthermore, it is imperative that any new initiative should not impose additional financial burdens on our Government. We must carefully evaluate whether this membership is necessary and whether it provides tangible benefits that warrant the expenditure. Zimbabwe's history has taught us valuable lessons about the dangers of dependency on external actors. The struggle for independence was centred on self-governance and self-sufficiency. We must not allow ourselves to be drawn back into arrangements that could undermine our sovereignty or subject us to foreign influence.
Rather than joining associations that may serve external interests, Zimbabwe should prioritise strengthening our existing regional and continental parliamentary bodies. We must also focus on domestic capacity building to ensure that our legislative institutions remain independent, robust and effective in addressing national challenges. This is a matter of strategic importance to Zimbabwe and the African continent at large. Let us remain vigilant, independent and steadfast in our pursuit of genuine and mutually beneficial inter-parliamentary collaboration. I thank you.
HON. SEN. TONGOGARA: I move that the debate do now adjourn.
HON. SEN. MOHADI: I second.
Motion put and agreed to.
Debate to resume: Thursday, 27th March, 2025.
MOTION
REPORT OF THE THEMATIC COMMITTEE ON SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT GOALS ON THE STATE OF DRUG AND SUBSTANCE ABUSE
Thirteenth Order read: Adjourned debate on motion on the Report of the Thematic Committee on Sustainable Development Goals on the state of drug and substance abuse treatment and rehabilitation centres
Question again proposed.
HON. SEN. TONGOGARA: I move that the debate do now adjourn.
HON. SEN. MOHADI: I second.
Motion put and agreed to.
Debate to resume: Thursday, 27th March, 2025.
MOTION
PRODUCTION, DISTRIBUTION, SALE AND CONSUMPTION OF DANGEROUS ALCOHOLIC BEVERAGES
Fourteenth Order read: Adjourned debate on motion on the production of cheap illicit alcoholic beverages.
Question again proposed.
HON. SEN. CHABUKA: I move that the debate do now adjourn.
HON. SEN. MDHLURI: I second.
Motion put and agreed to.
Debate to resume: Thursday, 27th March, 2025.
On the motion of HON. SEN. TONGOGARA, seconded by HON. SEN. MOHADI, the Senate adjourned at Sixteen Minutes to Five o’clock p.m.
PARLIAMENT OF ZIMBABWE
Wednesday, 26th March, 2025
The National Assembly met at a Quarter-past Two o’clock p.m.
PRAYERS
(THE HON. DEPUTY SPEAKER in the Chair)
ORAL ANSWERS TO QUESTIONS WITHOUT NOTICE
*HON. NYABANI: Thank you Madam Speaker. My question is directed to the Minister of Health and Child Care. In his absence, any Minister who is able to respond may do so. Where we come from…
*HON. MAKUMIRE: On a point of order Madam Speaker Ma’am. May you please assist us to know the Ministers who are there and those who are absent? Also, let us know who will be the acting Leader of Government Business today.
ANNOUNCEMENT BY THE HON. DEPUTY SPEAKER
APOLOGIES RECEIVED FROM MINISTERS
THE HON. DEPUTY SPEAKER: I have a list of Hon. Ministers and Deputy Ministers who have sought leave of the House:- Hon. Gen. Rtd. Dr. C.D.G.N. Chiwenga, Vice President; Hon. Col. Rtd. K.C.D. Mohadi, Vice President; Hon. T. Machakaire, Minister of Youth Empowerment, Development and Vocational Training; Hon. B. Rwodzi, Minister of Tourism and Hospitality Industry; Hon. M. N. Ndlovu, Minister of Industry and Commerce; Hon. Z. Soda, Minister of National Housing and Social Amenities; Hon. J. Paradza, Deputy Minister of Environment, Climate and Wildlife; Hon. Brig. Gen. Rtd. L. Mayihlome, Deputy Minister of Defence; Hon. C. Sanyatwe, Deputy Minister of Home Affairs and Cultural Heritage; Hon. P. Kambamura, Deputy Minister of Mines and Mining Development; Hon. A. Gata, Deputy Minister of Primary and Secondary Education; Hon. R Modi, Deputy Minister of Industry and Commerce; Hon. V. Haritatos, Deputy Minister of Lands, Agriculture, Fisheries, Water and Rural Resettlement; Hon. D. Marapira, Deputy Minister of Lands, Agriculture, Fisheries, Water and Rural Resettlement.
Those who are present, you can see them. The Acting Leader of Government Business is Hon. Prof. Murwira.
*HON. NYABANI: Thank you Madam Speaker. My question is directed to the Minister of Health. In his absence, I will direct it to the Leader of Government Business. Patients who are transferred from rural clinics to referral hospitals here in Harare are asked for cash upfront before receiving treatment. What is Government policy in ensuring that these patients receive treatment and pay later after they have been attended to?
*THE MINISTER OF FOREIGN AFFAIRS AND INTERNATIONAL TRADE (HON. PROF. MURWIRA): Thank you Madam Speaker. I would like to thank Hon. Nyabani for the pertinent question on what Government policy is concerning the treatment of patients transferred from different areas to Harare and are requested to pay money before receiving treatment. The Government policy is that a patient must be treated and money will be paid later. That is the correct Government policy. If there are situations where people were requested to pay first before treatment, it means it is a completely different issue that does not consist of the issue of Government policy.
*HON. NYABANI: I would like to thank the Minister for the response. What steps can be taken by those who would have failed to be attended to when they visit hospitals where they will be asked to pay first before receiving treatment?
*HON. PROF. MURWIRA: Thank you. There are two issues. There are those who do not have money but are in need of assistance. They can get help from the Social Welfare. Secondly, if there is someone being denied treatment before payment, it is an issue which can be reported to the officials so that steps can be taken against that hospital. I am talking of Government hospitals, not private hospitals.
*HON. MASHONGANYIKA: Thank you Madam Speaker. I also want to add my voice to the question asked by Hon. Nyabani. We see that if someone has some few dollars and wants to pay but having already paid consultation fee and is given a prescription, where they are required to buy the medication, those medications must be bought urgently, what is Government policy in terms of providing medicines to those who are treated at Government health facilities?
*HON. PROF. MURWIRA: Thank you Madam Speaker. I am going to answer the question in two parts. Firstly, currently if a person needs help without money and the hospital has no medication, it means the patient is expected to go and buy medication. If there is a problem of not having money, that is when I mentioned the Social Welfare. Going forward, there is a Bill which is going to be brought to this august House, the National Health Insurance. This country would like to eliminate problems that occur in the healthcare system. When you as Members of Parliament work together and make sure that the Bill is passed, the hospitals would be funded by the National Health Insurance. This is another way of making sure that we resolve these challenges. I thank you.
HON. V. MOYO: Thank you Madam Speaker. My supplementary question is with regard to the Government policy on the payment of ambulance fees. There are cases where people are referred from district hospitals to referral hospitals. Is it Government policy for the patients to pay for the fuel to enjoy those services? Thank you.
*HON. PROF. MURWIRA: Thank you Madam Speaker. My response would be similar to the answers that I was giving. If there is a particular case of buying fuel, it could be a particular case but an ambulance must have its own fuel. The issue is, after it has been billed, who pays? If they fail to pay, what happens? So, first and foremost, the work of the Ministry of Health and Child Care, which is the work of Government, is to look after the health of its residents and citizens. Therefore, therapy first and payment later because mari hairapwi, anorapwa munhu. If there is a problem, then Social Welfare can pay. Otherwise, we look after the patient first. That is the policy. If there is a diversion to this, it is a diversion which should be attended to using different means, which is non-compliant to the established policy. Otherwise, the policy is clear, look after the person’s life first. I thank you.
THE HON. DEPUTY SPEAKER: List of Hon. Ministers who are present in the House: - Hon. Minister Mhona, Transport and Infrastructural Development; Hon. Minister Prof. M. Ncube, Finance, Economic Development and Investment Promotion; Hon. Minister Prof. Murwira, Foreign Affairs; Hon. Minister T. Mnangagwa, Deputy Minister of Tourism; Hon. Minister Kazembe Kazembe, Home Affairs; Hon. M. Ncube, Deputy Minister of National Housing and Social Amenities; Hon. Sacco, Deputy Minister of Transport and Infrastructural Development; Hon. S. Sibanda, Deputy Minister of Higher and Tertiary Education.
*HON. MABURUTSE: Thank you Madam Speaker, My question is directed to the Minister of Lands, Agriculture, Fisheries, Water and Rural Resettlement. The Government came up with a very good programme of village business units in every village but we see that most of the areas did not see these programmes. They have not reached the villages. What is Government policy or modalities which have been put in place in line with the vision of the Government of having the village business units with 330 boreholes throughout the country by the time we reach 2030, the boreholes must be there and business units will be operational throughout the country? Thank you.
THE MINISTER OF FOREIGN AFFAIRS AND INTERNATIONAL TRADE (HON. PROF. MURWIRA): I want to thank Hon. Maburutse for asking a pertinent question. The Government policy is to make sure that this programme reaches all the villages throughout the country. We have got about 35 000 villages throughout the country. The programme cannot reach all areas at once but it can develop stage by stage. It is difficult to do that programme in one day or a short period but this is a programme for the whole country.
However, the Government is going to make sure that the programme is progressing and is spreading to other areas so that by 2030, every village has got this business unit. If the programme has not yet reached the Hon. Member's area, it is definitely going to come. Thank you.
HON. S. TSHUMA: Thank you Madam Speaker. My supplementary question to the Minister is, what is the Government's policy of making sure that these boreholes reach the constituencies equally or maybe when they are deployed to the province, the province distributes perhaps five or ten per constituency? As we are debating right now, there are constituencies which do not have even one borehole but other Members of Parliament have more than ten. Their boreholes are now more than a hundred. What is the distribution policy on these boreholes? Are they looking at the status of the Hon. Members or they are looking at people who are in the rural areas so that they can get water and be able to develop at the same time rather than for other villages in other areas to benefit twice this year whilst others are waiting to benefit in 2030?
HON. PROF. MURWIRA: Thank you Madam Speaker Ma'am. I also want to thank Hon. Tshuma for the supplementary question. I want to mention that there is a beginning for everything and it is going to spread to all other areas. Yes, there may be other areas that have already got these boreholes but we are going to make sure that the programme spreads throughout the country and all the 35 000 intended villages are going to benefit.
In terms of His Excellency’s mantra that living no place and no one behind, we are going to move forward all together. No one is expected to be left behind or an area that is going to be omitted in terms of development. Section 30 of our Constitution clearly states that there must be development.
Madam Speaker, we are not going to benefit all of us at once. Hon. Members, can you kindly wait. Development is going to reach all villages. Thank you.
HON. HWENDE: On a point of order. The Minister is not addressing the question. He is repeating what he has already said.
The question and the plea of the Hon. Member is that the programme must be distributed equally. If those Members from the ZANU PF Party are crying foul of not receiving the boreholes, what about us Members of the Opposition? Minister, face the question and answer it properly rather than continuing to repeat what he has already said.
THE HON. DEPUTY SPEAKER: Before the Hon. Minister answers, we have already announced the Ministers who are present in this august House. However, we have been joined by Hon. Makwiranzou, Deputy Minister of Mines and Mining Development; Hon. S. Chikomo, Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Trade; Hon. K. D Mnangagwa, Deputy Minister of Finance, Economic Development and Investment Promotion.
Hon. Minister, you are being asked to address the issue that others are getting more boreholes whilst others do not have boreholes.
HON. PROF. MURWIRA: Thank you Madam Speaker. I am saying, if a bus departs from Harare to Beitbridge, these things have got time and place. If the programme does not start from your area, it may not necessarily mean the programme is not there – [HON. MEMBERS: Inaudible interjections.]
HON. TOGAREPI: Madam Speaker, I think Hon. Members on your left, maybe some of them may have taken musombodhyia – [HON. MEMBERS: Inaudible interjections.] – because Madam Speaker, we are asking the Minister questions and when the Minister is answering, they make noise. It could be that they have taken mutoriro and I think we need to ensure that we protect the Minister.
*THE HON. DEPUTY SPEAKER: May we give the Minister the opportunity to respond to the question? If you did not understand properly, you are free to ask another question as a supplementary.
*HON. HAMAUSWA: On a point of order Madam Speaker. The Government Chief Whip spoke about the issue of mutoriro, is it parliamentary language?
THE HON. DEPUTY SPEAKER: Hon. Hamauswa and Hon. Bajila, please take your seats.
HON. BAJILA: No, Madam Speaker, we are requesting that you make a ruling – [HON. MEMBERS: Inaudible interjections.] –
THE HON. DEPUTY SPEAKER: Order! Please may we have order? Hon. Togarepi, please may you withdraw your statement? In this august House, we do not use terms like someone has drunk musombodhiya.
HON. TOGAREPI: I withdraw – [HON. MEMBERS: Inaudible interjections.] – if one of them is drunk.
+HON. S. MAHLANGU: Thank you Madam Speaker. My supplementary question is directed to the Minister. There are boreholes that were sunk in the year 2023. What is the Government programme pertaining to completing these boreholes so that each and every place should have a borehole? There are a lot of boreholes that were drilled in 2023 and they were left incomplete. When are you planning to complete the process of making these boreholes usable? Thank you.
HON. PROF. MURWIRA: Thank you Madam Speaker. My answer will be that budgets are proposed and approved through this House. It is our collective responsibility to prioritise this programme through the budgetary process because the policy has no deficiency. The policy says everyone, every place should not be left behind. However, this is always constrained by budgets and budgets are a collective responsibility where this House has got a primary responsibility to give this programme money. When you are asking about the policy, there is no deficiency. We want 35 000 boreholes today but the next question is, how possible is it?
It is possible based on the availability of the budget and a country cannot stretch itself beyond what it can do. Therefore, this is our response, policy- no deficiency. Things always start somewhere. It cannot always start at your own particular home. I thank you.
*HON. MATANGIRA: Supplementary question Madam Speaker. Thank you Madam Speaker. My supplementary is an issue concerning boreholes. We had not seen a programme which is good like this but we are saying that Minister, the boreholes in our area were sunk and most of them are dry holes. There is no water. Is it not possible for the responsible Ministry and the Government…?
*THE HON. DEPUTY SPEAKER: Hon. Matangira, can you kindly use one language?
*HON. MATANGIRA: Is it possible to have people who do hydro-geophysical surveys? – [HON. MEMBERS: Inaudible interjections.] – Madam Speaker, if you could please protect me.
HON. BAJILA: On a point of order Madam Speaker. While I have no problem with African attire, Standing Order Number 80 (5) reads as follows, ‘the attire for male Hon. Members shall include suits, jackets and tie as well as safari suit’. African attire is only mentioned as permissible for female Members. This is in terms of the Standing Orders. So, I am rising, with respect to male Members wearing hats and wearing African attire – [HON. MEMBERS: Inaudible interjections.]–
THE HON. DEPUTY SPEAKER: Hon. Matangira is properly dressed. Hon. Matangira, please go ahead with your question.
*HON. MATANGIRA: Thank you Madam Speaker for the protection. My question is, is it possible for the Government…
HON. CHIGUMBU: Point of order Madam Speaker.
THE HON. DEPUTY SPEAKER: What is your point of order?
*HON. CHIGUMBU: Madam Speaker, can you come up with a proper ruling? If all of us come dressed like Hon. Matangira, is it proper?
THE HON. DEPUTY SPEAKER: Your point of order is overruled. Hon. Matangira, may you please proceed.
*HON. MATANGIRA: My question is, is it possible for the Government to have the expertise, those who are going to identify the amount of water underground before the drilling of the boreholes so that the boreholes are targeted where there is enough water and that the village businesses are going to go forward properly? We might drill maybe 20 boreholes and end up having dry holes without water. May we start by doing a survey and know the amount of water before drilling the borehole? Is it possible to do geophysical?
*HON. PROF. MURWIRA: Thank you Madam Speaker. Underground water in Zimbabwe, in areas which are not Nyamandlovhu or in areas which are not Kalahari Sands, especially in the stones area which we call basement complex, they have got some vents or some ventricles which are there underground. We do not have what we call clear aquifers. We have got shutter belts which come up with this pump. So it is difficult for them to sink water. This is the case when you see the borehole being drilled, they would have already tried using machinery. Sometimes there is an issue of probability that the things which are underground are only known to God. As humans, we try to use machines. The machines only show us the probability and we cannot win most of the time. So it means that we can fail. I want to give a promise that when you see them drilling, it means that they have tried by all means to do some surveying. They must not lose heart. We are going to drill more boreholes until we get enough water.
HON. MAKOPE: On a point of privilege Madam Speaker. Thank you Madam Speaker. The issue being discussed is an issue which touches the hearts of many. May the Minister come up with a written document in response to where we come from with the programme of drilling boreholes, where we are and where we are going? How are we going to reach 2030 at the pace indicated? It is going to eliminate most of the questions which are being asked. We can also be able to see where most boreholes are being drilled and where they are lacking. We must also address the issue of boreholes which are supposed to be drilled for cattle, especially for Matabeleland South, Mwenezi and other areas. The programme was just mentioned but there was nothing much which was done. A written response can address all these issues. I thank you.
THE HON. DEPUTY SPEAKER: I believe the Acting Leader of Government Business has heard the plea.
+HON. NKALA: My question is directed to the Minister of Primary and Secondary Education. What is the Government policy on the shortage of teachers, especially for the schools that are in rural areas? Most of these schools end up employing their teachers and they get paid through the SDC Committees. What is the Government policy on fully furnishing schools with enough teachers so that our children can have proper education?
THE MINISTER OF FOREIGN AFFAIRS AND INTERNATIONAL TRADE (HON. PROF. MURWIRA): Thank you Hon. Speaker Ma’am. The Government’s programme for making sure that all our schools are well staffed is ongoing. There is a phased recruitment of teachers. I think this year we increased the number of teachers being recruited. As you would know, Zimbabwe does not have a shortage of trained teachers. It is a budgetary issue. This issue is being looked into progressively through the Treasury and the Public Service Commission.
So, our policy is very clear that we are having the policy of making sure that every school is well staffed with well trained-qualified teachers. We are just working on the phases based on the availability of resources. The programme is ongoing. The policy is clear. The path is to be walked. I thank you.
+HON. NKALA: Thank you Madam Speaker. We are talking of other schools that have spent about three to four years without a teacher. We are glad enough that we are hearing of the Government’s programmes on which they are trying to eradicate this issue of the lack of teachers including the engagement with the Ministry of Finance. We are speaking of this concerning children who have spent about three years without a teacher, for example, a Maths teacher, a Science teacher or a Geography teacher. While this programme is being implemented, what is the temporary solution to addressing this issue? Some of them are going to be sitting for their ‘O’-Level or ‘A’-Level examinations this year or next year. While we are waiting for this process, what is the short-term measure that we can use to address this situation in various districts currently? I thank you.
THE MINISTER OF FOREIGN AFFAIRS AND INTERNATIONAL TRADE (HON. PROF. MURWIRA): Thank you Hon. Speaker Ma’am. We appreciate the need to make sure that every school and every child has access to a well-trained teacher. This year alone, the programme could be called short-term, 8 000 teachers have been authorised for recruitment. I am sure talking about the future, this programme is going to alleviate these problems. Talking about the past, what we can only say is that we are progressing on this issue. Just to have that patience to say we might have missed last year but this year we are progressing to the next level which is the 8 000 teachers that are going to be recruited.
We believe that by using this movement, as a country we are going to have more access to trained teachers. In terms of policy, as I said, it is Government policy that we have adequate teachers everywhere and well-trained teachers for that matter. There is no policy inadequacy. It is a budgetary issue. This budgetary issue has been worked on and this year 8000 teachers are going to be recruited. Progressively so, this is going to happen and this is our response. I thank you.
*HON. MADZIVANYIKA: I want to thank the Hon. Minister for the response on the issue of increasing the number of teachers. Our parents are suffering paying extra lessons because there are no teachers. Is it Government policy of requesting children to pay USD1 for civic days to cover the Independence Day Celebrations whilst they are struggling to pay examination fees and extra lessons?
THE HON. DEPUTY SPEAKER: Can you kindly mention where these issues are happening?
*HON MADZIVANYIKA: These issues are happening throughout the country, especially in Midlands Province. I have a letter from the DSI in Midlands writing to PED.
*HON. PROF. MURWIRA: There is no Government policy which talks about extra lessons. If there is an area where this is happening, may the question be a written question so that we can research on the matter and answer the question properly. When we are talking about an issue of policy, there is nothing like that but if we are talking about an event which happened at a certain area, we must mention where the incident happened so that the question can be answered through a written response.
*HON. C. HLATYWAYO: Thank you Madam Speaker. The issue of lack of teachers in rural areas is being caused by conditions of service, especially when we look at the accommodation of teachers. Most teachers want transfer from rural to urban schools due to poor working conditions. What is Government policy with regard to the issue of improving the working conditions?
HON. TOGAREPI: On a point of order. The Hon. Member is telling us a story and not asking a question. Madam Speaker, let us have Hon. Members asking questions.
THE HON. DEPUTY SPEAKER: Hon Member, the question you asked is different from the original question asked earlier. That is a totally new question. The matter cannot be asked as a supplementary question to the first question.
HON. MUTIMBANYOKA: My question is directed to the Minister of Higher and Tertiary Education. What policies has the Ministry put in place to ensure the financial stability and operational efficiency of the State-owned enterprises under its purview, particularly in light of its strategic role in advancing research, innovation and skills development? I so submit.
THE DEPUTY MINISTER OF HIGHER AND TERTIARY EDUCATION, INNOVATION, SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY DEVELOPMENT (HON. S. SIBANDA): With regards to the question that has been asked by the Hon Member, in terms of the operations of the entities under the purview of the Ministry, they are guided by the corporate governance statutes. Therefore, everything that is done is in line with corporate governance statutes. That is the reason why there are AGMs that are held every year where all the stakeholders and shareholders meet and discuss issues to do with corporate governance where issues to do with innovation are raised. If there are issues that are not in line with the expectations of the corporate governance statutes, they are raised and rectified.
*HON. MAPIKI: My question is directed to the Minister of Energy and Power Development. What is Government policy on the issue of selling gas which is being done by people in the rural areas, especially those who are not trained? Some are now selling gas everywhere under the trees and there are issues of mishandling the gas. What is Government policy in alleviating these challenges?
*THE DEPUTY MINISTER OF ENERGY AND POWER DEVELOPMENT (HON. SIMBANEGAVI): Government policy is that we do not encourage people to sell gas from undesignated areas but gas must be sold from registered agents. Due to lack of electricity in the country, we are encouraging people to use gas for cooking. People must buy LP gas from registered dealers to reduce accidents which are associated with the mishandling of gas. If there are areas or places where gas is being sold from undesignated areas, may you kindly put forward the names of those people so that we can go there, train them and encourage them to follow proper procedures?
*HON. HAMAUSWA: Is it difficult for Government to do research of what is expected for someone to sell gas? When issues are now being brought in this august House, it means that the procedures for selling gas are not being followed. May the Minister come up with a programme where he is going to publish and reduce the regulations considering that people must sell gas? May the Minister work with the people who are selling gas and reduce the regulation in terms of paper work?
*THE DEPUTY MINISTER OF ENERGY AND POWER DEVELOPMENT (HON. SIMBANEGAVI): Thank you Hon. Hamauswa. I might not know the difficult procedures needed but as far as I know, selling gas does not need many regulations to be followed. It is different from selling fuel which has to be sold at service stations. Gas can be sold in many places. The requirement is for the seller to be in a designated area and to follow the prescribed requirements which are not many. As you know, we do not have adequate electricity in the country, hence we are encouraging people to use gas which is easily accessible in their areas. However, people selling gas should be given the authority to do so and be trained to ensure that gas tanks being brought for filling do not have leaks and must meet the required standards. The gas sellers should teach their customers how to use the gas tanks properly and prevent their children from tampering with the gas tanks. We are encouraging all those selling gas to be equipped with enough knowledge to impart to the end users. They must sell in as many areas as possible so people can easily access gas.
*HON. ZVAIPA: Supplementary Madam Speaker. I want to thank the Hon. Minister for the response. She said it is not that difficult for people to get a permit to sell gas but looking at her explanation, it is very difficult for us to acquire the permit or licence. Secondly, what plans has Government put in place to curb the shortage in electricity? We are not allowed to cut down trees for firewood and the gas is not easily accessible as it is not allowed to be sold anywhere. What should the poor people do to also have power in their houses?
*HON. SIMBANEGAVI: I cannot say gas is not being sold everywhere. It is actually recommended for people to have access to gas but it cannot be anywhere but in authorised places. We would want to have as many gas outlets as possible so people have easy access. We have a department called ZERA which understands that gas has to be used for cooking, for fridges and much more. So, they need to know where one is conducting the gas business and I think that is the most important thing for anyone who wants to sell gas.
*HON. KUKA: Thank you Madam Speaker. My supplementary question is to find out what plans our Government has in place to ensure that we electrify the whole nation. We have gas being sold everywhere but people are not being sensitised on how to use gas properly. As a result, many dangers have been experienced such as burning of properties and people. So, there is probably need to reduce the use of gas in favour of electricity. I thank you.
*HON. SIMBANEGAVI: Thank you Hon. Member for your question. As Ministry of Energy, we usually explain to people that we have limited hydro-electricity because of very low water levels in Kariba. We all know that…
*HON. MAKUMIRE: On a point of order Madam Speaker. The issue to do with low water levels should not be a problem now because we received vast amounts of rainfall this year.
THE HON. DEPUTY SPEAKER. Point of order overruled.
*HON. SIMBANEGAVI: Let me clarify the issue of rainfall. If we have rains today, we do not expect water levels to rise by tomorrow. The water which feeds Kariba Dam comes from countries like Zambia and Angola. It may take up to two or three months to start seeing the water rise, that is if the amount of rainfall in those countries is substantial. We also have other rivers feeding into Kariba but it does not mean that if we have rainfall this year, it will fill the dam. The rainfall that falls in Masvingo does not go into Kariba Dam, so it will take time for the dam to fill up. As Government, we do not just sit and wait for the dam to fill up but we look at other options to get power. At the moment, citizens can buy solar panels at low prices because we have a lot of sunshine in our region. A law has been introduced to buy products for the installation of solar tax-free. Everyone should be able to install solar so they can power their houses. Another law is there to motivate those companies that want to invest in solar to be able to feed excess power into the grid. Most of our farmers are urged to have mini-grids in their households which they can use and feed the surplus into the grid to assist others. Those in industries have been told not to only rely on hydro-electricity but to look into having solar power. We have a reasonable amount of wind in this country and people can generate electricity using wind. We also have a law which says Zimbabweans should be free to generate electricity using any of the ways mentioned above to ensure adequate electricity. I thank you.
HON. JIMU: Thank you Madam Speaker. My question is directed to the Minister of Finance. What is Government policy regarding the annual disbursement of the Constituency Development Funds (CDF)?
THE MINISTER OF FINANCE, ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT AND INVESTMENT PROMOTION (HON. PROF. M. NCUBE): Thank you very much. There are basically two ways in which we can impact more directly at constituency level to support our citizens. As Members of this august House, they have elected us to support them. Those include devolution funding and also include the Constituency Development Fund (CDF). I am pleased to report that after a long process of administrative work in the background, we have kind of workout things such as vendor numbers and so forth. We have finally been able to allocate vendor numbers for 71 constituencies. The disbursements of those funds will occur soon, certainly I have been assured that by end of next week there will be quite a bit of movement in disbursement of these funds.
In terms of policy, our policy is to disburse and support the constituencies through the CDF mechanism. I do hope the Hon. Member is one of those who have submitted their requests, their projects and they are ready to go. I hope they have done that. If they have not, they should do so, so that they can benefit from the CDF funding. I thank you.
*HON. MATSUNGA: Thank you Madam Speaker. My supplementary question to the Minister of Finance is, it is now three years since you promised this august House that we will receive CDF funds but there is nothing up to now. Kindly give us a response with dates and days because from the information which you are sending to the general public, they are thinking that we are abusing those funds. I am kindly asking you to say it clearly so that those people whom we represent in our constituencies know that we have not yet received anything from the Ministry of Finance. You are still in your way planning the disbursement of the funds and the funds are not disbursed yet. The way you speak Hon. Minister sounds as if we received those funds. Some of us have big bodies because of poverty and they think it is the CDF that we are spending.
HON. PROF. M. NCUBE: Thank you Madam Speaker. I thank the Hon. Member for the passionate presentation on this important issue. It is unfortunate and I sympathise with her if she is being accused or anyone is being accused of squandering CDF funds, instead of directing them at projects that are designed to support our citizens in the various constituencies. Clearly, the citizens at the constituencies should be told that most of the time our Members are very honest and decent people, they have no business in dipping their hands into CDF funding.
The issue has just been resource constraints from time to time. That has been the issue but also just delays in getting the administrative work going. If you know how this process works, it is a pool and push process in the sense that a Member of Parliament also ought to do their work and be ready to support projects on the ground and a lot of admin work to put in place. I have a list here and I hope that again the Hon. Member is on that list of those that will begin to receive funding as of next week.
We do go through cash constraints cycles. Like this week, we are cash constrained for anything other than salaries. Do not expect anything this week unless it has got to do with salaries. Why? Because there are certain times when we have to pay salaries and cash turns to go towards that. Next week we would have completed the salary payment cycle and we will then begin to make payments towards the CDF. I am aware that some Members have done well out of development, supporting projects using CDF funding. I hope that the Hon. Member who spoke with such passion has also managed to develop projects. Those of you who are not sure of how to go about it, do work with your chiefs and ask your colleagues how it is done so that you can improve the lives of your supporters or citizens on the ground. I thank you.
*HON. HWENDE: On a point of order Madam Speaker.
THE HON. DEPUTY SPEAKER: May we have order? What is your point of order Hon. Hwende?
*HON. HWENDE: Thank you Madam Speaker. The Hon. Minister, the question which was asked was only for you to state a day for next week because there is a ruling which was made by the Speaker of Parliament on a motion of contempt of Parliament which he wanted to pass against yourself. This is because you came to Parliament on three occasions and then you misled Parliament, resulting in pressure being put on Members of Parliament.
In Bulawayo, in our budget meeting, you even gave a date and that was in November. You then came here, in this august House and that was in December. On three occasions misleading Parliament and misleading Parliament is a serious offense. I want the Minister to take this seriously. If you are going to pay next week, we understand the resource constraints this week but we want to know which day next week? Is it on Friday so that we are free, if he does not meet his deadline, to proceed with the motion of contempt against the Minister because this is a serious matter?
If you lie to Parliament, what about other Votes that we allocate to hospitals. That is why there are no drugs in hospitals because you promise to provide drugs in hospitals – [HON. MEMBERS: Inaudible interjections.] –
THE HON. DEPUTY SPEAKER: Order, order!
HON. PROF. M. NCUBE: Thank you Madam Speaker. First of all, I was not aware of the details and fact that Hon. Hwende has explained regarding this issue. Since he is looking for a date, let us work on the date of 10th April to begin these payments. I thank you.
*HON. MUGWADI: Thank you Madam Speaker. I would like to thank the Minister of Finance for the promise he gave us. I wanted to say as we speak, of these issues, let us try our level best to take these issues seriously. Madam Speaker, we sometimes think that in this 10th Parliament, do we have the correct legislators in here? I think in other previous Parliaments, Nineth or Eighth Parliament, I do not think this has ever happened, that Members of Parliament go into the third year without receiving Constituency Development Fund disbursements. I would like to ask the Minister of Finance to comment on the letter that was published last year stating that they were disbursing the funds. I was expecting them to send the same letter apologising to people that they did not disburse this CDF.
When we get to our rural areas, they will simply ask what happened from the first year you got into Parliament with regards to CDF? I am kindly asking for such responses, to respond to such letters, for people to be notified that we did not receive those CDF funds. I thank you.
HON. PROF. NCUBE: I must say, Madam Speaker, I could not tell whether that was a statement or a question but I thought that in terms of payments, I said that we will start paying from the 10th of April. I was asked for a date, I have given a date. Thank you very much.
*HON. TOBAIWA: Hon. Minister, as Honourable Members, we opened our accounts and some of the accounts have now been closed for non-activity. As Members of Parliament, we do not have funds to keep on depositing into those accounts to activate those accounts. There is not even bonus to ensure that we keep the accounts active.
Hon. Minister, in those accounts which were then closed, what should be done? You are now saying you will start disbursing funds on the 10th of April, 2025 but some of the accounts are closed. You said in this august House that CDF was once disbursed. Will you write another letter to those banks to let them activate those accounts? You told us to deposit some funds into those accounts and we once deposited $10 to activate those accounts. Thank you.
HON. PROF. NCUBE: I need to understand something. If your account was opened in the last two weeks, which is when the vendor numbers were released, I do not understand why your account would have been closed. Opened two weeks ago, and then it was closed, that is very interesting. I think I need to understand the real details of what is going on here. However, as to the administrative work of me writing to banks and so forth, that is not typically what the Minister would do.
I would leave that administration work in the background to the Clerk of Parliament and its staff to assist Members to make sure that their accounts remain active so that money can be paid into those accounts but then if a bank is being difficult, maybe they are violating some policy. Where I need to intervene, I would be very happy to intervene on violation of policy by some bank.
HON. MUTIMBANYOKA: Point of privilege! My question is very simple for the Hon. Minister. Is the Constituency Development Fund going to cover just this year or are you going to cover all the other years that we have been receiving from 2023 up to date? I so submit and I thank you.
HON. PROF. NCUBE: Thank you very much. They will only cover this year, I thank you.
*HON. ZVAIPA: Thank you Madam Speaker. My point of priviledge was directed to the Hon. Minister, the issue of CDF, may he kindly give us the names of those 71 people who are benefiting. Kindly notify the august House that so and so received CDF funds. I thank you.
*THE HON. DEPUTY SPEAKER: Hon. Members, let us proceed with our work. The issue of CDF has been in discussion for quite some time. The Minister promised that he will start disbursing the funds on the 10th of April, 2025.
*HON. ZIKI: My question is directed to the Minister of Health. We have been observing for quite some time that we did not have anything to do with the upgrading of institutions that focus on the training of nurses. Like now, we have just discovered that the number is gradually going down.
I was of the view that it was good for the nation that we increase and upgrade the nurse training places which will then ensure that they assist us as a nation. What programmes do we have to ensure that we upgrade and uplift the places where nurses and doctors are trained? I thank you.
*THE MINISTER OF FOREIGN AFFAIRS AND INTERNATIONAL TRADE (HON. PROF. MURWIRA): Thank you Madam Speaker. I will simply say, the Government's policy says we must be able to train as many nurses as possible. Also, in some other colleges, like universities and hospitals which are independent, the Government is there to ensure that as many nurses as possible be trained. We will continue working in collaboration and following the rules and laws of the country to ensure that these places continue enrolling more and more nurses. Rome was not built in one day. We will try our level best to ensure that we continue upgrading them. Thank you.
HON. HAMAUSWA: Thank you Madam Speaker. I would like to thank the Minister for his response. I would like to ask the Minister, is it Government's policy to ensure that the gap there be fulfilled by other countries which have a different way of nurse training which does not satisfy us? Like now we discover that some of the nurses are being trained in countries like Zambia. Those citizens of Zimbabwe are now paying the Government of Zambia. Is it good for our Government or is it not good for our Government to work in collaboration with the universities so that we do not export those students to learn in other countries? What is your view on that Hon. Minister?
*HON. PROF. MURWIRA: Thank you Madam Speaker and I would like to thank the question from Hon. Hamauswa to add on to the same question which was asked before which says that we have other citizens from this country who are now undergoing training in other countries.
We have a law in the Ministry of Health and Child Care and also in the Ministry of Higher and Tertiary Education, Innovation, Science and Technology Development, to see and ensure that what was learnt, is it good? We have such a responsibility to look into it.
He then further asked to say, is it not good to ask to continue teaching even in universities? Yes, it is good. That is the way to go because most of these colleges which teach these nurses will be overseen by universities. Just like what I said, Rome was not built in a day. We cannot be stationary, we will continue ensuring that we recruit more of those nurses for training. His idea was, what do we think? I think it is a good idea. I thank you.
*HON. NYABANI: Thank you Madam Speaker. My supplementary question is, do you see it, as a Government, for us to have quite a number of nurses? A lot of nurses are being trained here but at the end they end up going out of the country for greener pastures. What plan does the Government have to ensure that we have good remuneration for those nurses so that they cannot go out of the country? I thank you.
*HON. PROF. MURWIRA: Thank you Madam Speaker. I would like to thank Hon. Nyabani for the question. His question has got two parts. Today we had those Ministers of Foreign Affairs and International Trade. We were discussing the same issue. It is not bad at all to educate people. We continue educating people. If they stay in or if they go out of the country, we continue educating them and teaching them because as I am speaking, the Minister of Finance can simply tell you, like now, these people whom we trained here are the people who are bringing in USD2 billion which comes annually. If we had not taught them, they would not have gone out of the country. So, as they go out of the country, we said we do not continue speaking to going to foreign countries as a bad habit, no. I will simply say, country X, if somebody goes from this country and comes, goes to the other country, that person will be called an expatriate. If a skilled someone comes from this country, they will simply say you are running away from the bad economy in this country. No, that is not it. It is an expatriate from this country.
That is the issue which we would like to continue speaking to. We should continue saying we have our very own engineers, we have our very own nurses who are forking in USD2 billion, which will ensure that we have enough electricity in this year. I would like to clear that.
The second issue is that we will continue teaching and training those Zimbabweans to ensure that if you feel like you want to work in this country, they can work in this country. If you want to go out of the country, they will simply go. Even in Foreign Affairs, we have a group which is called the Diaspora. People are here, people are there. Yes, there is nothing wrong with that. If they are there, yes, we are okay if they are there according to the law. We have to think deeply before we start talking. We would like to ensure that we have adequate numbers of people who work in the health sector and we continue having more funds but remember, money does not come from nowhere. People have got to work for it. That is why we are saying as a country, we have to do farming, mining and innovation. Even if we have rain, it can evaporate from the sea. Let us work for our country. I thank you.
HON. SAGANDIRA: Thank you very much. I want to direct my question to the Leader of Government Business. Which steps does Government plan to take in terms of addressing those who have been working for three years to get certificates of good standing as nurses and professionals? I thank you. Thank you.
THE MINISTER OF FOREIGN AFFAIRS AND INTERNATIONAL TRADE (HON. PROF. MURWIRA): Certificates of good standing are given to nurses who have good standing. That is the first point. This implies that when nurses request or apply for such certificates, they are then evaluated for good standing and if there are others who have spent a long time, the issue will be looked into. Not everyone is given a certificate of good standing but character and the delivery that they do determines whether they are given a certificate of good standing or not. So these issues really need to be looked into. It might not be palatable but this is the fact. Thank you.
+HON. S. NDEBELE: My question is directed to the Minister of Women Affairs. Following the withdrawal of USAID from supporting organisations that were working with safe shelters or one-stop centres, what measures has the Government put in place to make sure that there is food and transport for would-be victims? I so submit.
THE MINISTER OF WOMEN AFFAIRS, COMMUNITY, SMALL AND MEDIUM ENTERPRISES (HON. SEN. M. MUTSVANGWA): Thank you Madam Speaker. I would like to thank Hon. Ndebele for that question. In the first place, I want to say the Government of Zimbabwe has always put in resources to make sure that our gender equality and women empowerment issues are taken seriously. Yes, the Ministry works together with development partners. We work together with NGOs. We work together with civil society organisations. Some of them were benefiting from the USAID. I want to say as a country, we have upscaled our engagements, especially with corporate companies in this country, with the private sector kuti nyika inovakwa nevene vayo – [HON. MEMBERS: Hear, hear.] –
We want to make sure that all those safe shelters which are critical in terms of reducing Gender-Based Violence in this country are maintained. Sustainability of one-stop centres is very critical for gender equality and women empowerment in this country. We all know that investing in gender equality and women empowerment is not the right thing to do. It is the smartest thing to do for a country’s economy to develop. I thank you.
*HON. NJANJI: Thank you very much Madam Speaker Ma’am. I want to direct my question to the Minister of Industry and Commerce. What steps is the Government planning to take in promoting the local textile industry? I thank you.
*THE MINISTER OF FOREIGN AFFAIRS AND INTERNATIONAL TRADE (HON. PROF. MURWIRA):
Thank you Hon. Speaker Ma’am. I want to start by saying that the Minister of Industry and Commerce is there to ensure that local products are produced. The Ministry has a cotton value chain, which uses the approach that there is a cotton value chain, maize value chain, mawuyu value chain and different value chains. In terms of promoting the production of local goods, the Ministry supports all stages from primary production, from the production of maize, cotton and others. This is meant to promote local products so that they are promoted and sold after being refined. I thank you.
HON. M. ZIYAMBI: Thank you Madam Speaker. My question is directed to the Minister of Justice, Legal and Parliamentary Affairs. My question is about trademark copyrights or patents specifically looking at youthful people in Zimbabwe, our young and upcoming artists, whether they are in the entertainment industry or even in the music industry. What is Government policy on making sure that these young artist are not abused or their content is not being imitated by other artists who are a bit older and have the information on the market, on where to market this content?
Madam Speaker, this question is of utmost importance because the intellectual property and content of these issues are not actually being protected by the Government. What is the Government policy on protecting these young people in terms of awareness and their content? I thank you.
THE MINISTER OF FOREIGN AFFAIRS AND INTERNATIONAL TRADE (HON. PROF. MURWIRA): Thank you Madam Speaker. Hon. Ziyambi is asking on the issue of protecting intellectual property. Zimbabwe has an infrastructure of laws that are meant to protect intellectual property. Zimbabwe is also a signatory to (ARIPO) Zimbabwe, the African Regional Intellectual Property Organisation and we house (WIPO) World Intellectual Property Organisation and Zimbabwe is also a part of WIPO,
Zimbabwe Intellectual Property Office; when you look at the knowledge production areas and copyright laws, we have that infrastructure. The issue could be enforcement but enforcement is normally done after complaints are lodged. In terms of the legal, we have the legal infrastructure and we have the policy infrastructure because for any country to progress and industrialise, it has to protect its intellectual property. After all, it starts from the head. Zimbabwe is quite aware of that and our laws punish people who copy without acknowledgement and punish people who earn from other people’s intellectual property rights. I want to say unless there is something else, when it comes to the legal and policy infrastructure we have those including the physical infrastructure and human capital infrastructure to make sure that this happens, they are all there. If there are particular issues, I think they can be tackled in that particular manner. In terms of the legal and policy infrastructure, we have. If there are any gaps, we will be happy to review them. I thank you.
HON. MOLOKELA –TSIYE: Hon. Minister, the issue is not whether Zimbabwe has adequate legal framework. The issue is enforcement of those laws. We have one of the worst enforcement processes in this country and that is the real major concern.
Our artists and all our creative people in this country are crying left, right and centre because they are not benefiting at all from their hard work. The issue is not the law. The issue is enforcement and making sure that food is not taken out of the mouths of hard-working creatives and artists.
THE TEMPORARY SPEAKER (HON. TSITSI ZHOU): That is not a question. It is a comment but do you want to comment further?
HON. PROF. MURWIRA: I want to thank Hon. Molokela for that comment. I want to say, that it is a philosophical issue. We own this country all of us and we have a responsibility to apprehend any wrongdoer and report. If enforcement has been identified as a problem, us as a people with our country, let us take care of it and let us report all misdemeanours so that we stop them all of us. So, I agree with you, if there is a problem with enforcement, let us report these cases and let the legal infrastructure look after it. I agree with the comment but action must be taken by all of us and not a section of society, the whole society.
HON. MAKOPE: I understand the attachment component in Higher and Tertiary Education is very critical. It is my observation that we have seen many students struggling to secure placement leading to some of the students deferring their programmes. What policy or programme is in place to make sure that our students get attachment, particularly in the polytechnics and universities just like what the teachers’ colleges and health institutions are doing?
THE DEPUTY MINISTER OF HIGHER AND TERTIARY EDUCATION, INNOVATION, SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY DEVELOPMENT (HON. S. SIBANDA): I would like to thank the Hon. Member for this important question. Indeed, the issue of attachment is of paramount importance in line with the achievement of human capital development. I would like us to view this issue of human capital development as an ecosystem where there is interaction of different ministries and players. The mandate of the Ministry is, colleges and universities train students in second or third year depending on the level, whether it is a diploma or first degree, the students are required to go for attachment. That is where I would like to bring the issue of ecosystem into play.
Unlike the Ministry of Health where the training is carried out within the same Ministry and the attachment is done within the same Ministry when we look at the universities and colleges, I will put aside teachers' colleges where there is ready placement for attachment in terms of the attachment being done in the schools. There is need for different players to be aware of the importance of human capital development, that it does not serve the Ministry of Higher and Tertiary Education alone but the industry and other players also benefit from this.
When it comes to attachment, they are not attached within the Ministry but they should be attached in the industry. When I say industry, I am talking about agriculture assuming that student is being trained in line with agriculture. It can also be in the manufacturing sector when that student is being trained in line with manufacturing and also HR issues. It is a broader aspect. It does not touch the Ministry of Higher and Tertiary Education alone.
For us to achieve this, there is need for collective effort. They cannot be attached within the same Ministry simply because the Ministry is supposed to go out through the colleges and do an assessment when they are attached in the industry there. We are happy to report that there was a meeting two days ago between the industry and the Ministry of Skills Audit. One of the issues that was discussed was to do with the need for the industry to participate in terms of human capital development and also in line with identifying the gaps or skills requirement. In line with the question that has been asked, the issues that were discussed were the importance of the industry in terms of attaching students.
What probably this House can assist us in terms of achieving important issues, is to come up with a statutory issue whereby we put a cap to say, for example, 2% of the manpower that is within a certain company should be students that are on attachment coming from the understanding that the employees are coming from the colleges and universities. Therefore, all the players should play a role in terms of developing prospective employees who are going to get into those companies.
We really understand the challenge that is there but what we should realise is that it cannot be solved by the Ministry of Higher and Tertiary Education but by the broader aspects of our economy in different sectors where the students are supposed to be attached. I so submit.
HON. MAKOPE: My understanding is that he has talked about the ecosystem where all the players put their initiatives to make sure that the students get attachment. What is being done by the universities or colleges themselves to make sure that a child they are training is securing the place for attachment, because they cannot just train someone and just leave that student alone to look for attachment for themselves? There is a gap there where the university or the college should take the initiative to make sure that the students are training get that secondment.
HON. SIBANDA: Over and above the issue of engaging the industry in terms of conscientising the industry on the importance of taking students on attachment, the colleges and universities through the entities that they have developed are absorbing some students on attachment. But as alluded to before, I want the Hon. Member to realise that attachment is supposed to be done in the industry while the Ministry, through its entities and institutions can come up with the companies where the students can be attached. The students are supposed to be attached in the industries that are in line with their particular profession. Attachments should be done in the industry and not within the Ministry. Whilst the Ministry can engage the industry to realise the importance of attaching students, the Ministry does not have direct control but what we can think around is how, as this august House, can we revamp our industries so that they can attach some students. I so submit.
HON. BONDA: Thank you Madam Speaker. Cognisant of the drought that was induced by El-Nino, I would like to ask the Minister of Lands and Agriculture if Government has any plans to resume the Presidential Heifer Pass on Scheme to give relief to the peasant farmers who lost a sizeable number of their herds during the drought and empower the rural communities who lost their herds to the drought induced El-Nino. I thank you.
Questions Without Notice were interrupted by THE TEMPORARY SPEAKER in terms of Standing Order No. 68.
HON. C. MOYO: Thank you Madam Speaker, if it pleases you, can the time for Questions Without Notice be extended by 10 minutes.
HON. KAMBUZUMA: I second.
Motion put and agreed to.
HON. PROF. MURWIRA: We are aware of the problems that were caused by the El-Nino last year. Fortunately, this year, we have had very good rains, which means our pastures are recovering. However, we also lost some livestock during the drought although the loss was a bit limited that particular year because of the mitigation measures that we had taken. But still we lost, so Government continues to have a policy of empowering farmers from small scale to large scale farmers using different methods. The pass on scheme that the Hon. Member is talking about is a very important scheme for restocking that Government adopted and has never dropped. It continues even during good years, so it is important but we emphasise the consistency of the Government of Dr. E. D. Mnangagwa’s policies that we continue following our logical policies as long as they are still making sense and review them when they are no longer making sense. However, for now, the restocking policy makes sense, so it continues.
*HON. CHINODAKUFA: Thank you Madam Speaker, my question is directed to the Minister of Agriculture. What plans does Government have on the upcoming winter wheat crop?
*THE MINISTER OF FOREIGN AFFAIRS AND INTERNATIONAL TRADE (HON. PROF. MURWIRA): Thank you Madam Speaker. The Government was given a programme by the Ministry of Agriculture on what we want to do with winter crop. We are expecting about 120 000 hectares or more. The issue to do with electricity was also discussed and the Ministry of Energy promised to work on that. Water issues were also discussed and we have enough water. The programme that we have focuses on farming only. This year we are expecting a bumper wheat harvest. I thank you.
*HON. JONGA: My question is directed to the Minister of Agriculture. I want to start by thanking His Excellency for the good initiatives. My question is that the President bought rigs and deployed them to the provinces but the challenge is that we are not accessing these rigs as we are told they were taken for service. We do not know how long the servicing will take.
THE TEMPORAY SPEAKER: Hon. Member, this question might need some research, so I am not going to allow it.
HON. C. SIBANDA: My question is directed to the Minister of Primary and Secondary Education. What is Government policy on labour justice on the protection and integrity of our public examinations given that the teachers who marked the 2024 examinations have still not been paid their allowances? I so submit.
THE MINISTER OF FOREIGN AFFAIRS AND INTERNATIONAL TRADE (HON. PROF. MURWIRA): Thank you very much Hon. Speaker Ma’am. The year 2024 in the Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education, in our junior education, has been a very good year because we recorded zero leakages for the first time. So, examination security improved drastically for that year and we keep on improving our examination security. So, the policy is to continue safeguarding the integrity of our examination system. Zimbabwe is known for its very good education system and we continue improving and now we are on heritage-based education. When it comes to the policy of paying our examiners, we pay them as per contract. That particular case of delay could be very particular but the policy is stable in terms of the integrity of our examinations. I want to assure you Hon. Speaker that our examination system has high degrees of integrity and we safeguard those exams and this education system very jealously through stringent policies and practices to ensure that we are good.
*HON. MAKUMIRE: Point of privilege Madam Speaker. The Minister has spoken well. Also, there was good intention by the Government that there was extension of time given for payment of examination fees. However, there is a problem people are facing…
*THE TEMPORARY SPEAKER: Hon. Makumire that is a different question.
*HON. MAKUMIRE: No, it is not.
*THE TEMPORARY SPEAKER: The owner of the question has requested for a supplementary question and I thought you wanted to say something which was in line with the question which was asked. Hon. Sibanda, proceed.
HON. SIBANDA: I would like to thank the Minister for the response, particularly on the policy. Now that we are almost getting to a point where you need to rehire the same markers, soon I know the June examinations will be due and you need to rehire them. Can you assure the exam markers that they will get their payment soonest? Thank you.
*THE TEMPORARY SPEAKER: Your supplementary question is not a proper question. I would like to applaud the Hon. Ministers for having responded to the so many questions that were on the Order Paper. This is commendable and I would like to urge Hon. Ministers who have questions still on the Order Paper to respond to the questions.
ORAL ANSWERS TO QUESTIONS WITH NOTICE
HON. MAKUMIRE: Thank you Madam Speaker. Last week, the Minister of Primary and Secondary Education made an announcement to the media that the Government has extended registration deadline to the 16th May. The challenge that is happening across the country is that the schools are saying they have not received a circular from Government to effect this change. I just wanted the Leader of Government Business to assure the nation that indeed the registration dates have been extended. Thank you.
THE TEMPORARY SPEAKER: You are requesting for the Leader of Government Business to make the statement again when the statement was already made by Hon. Minister Moyo. There is no need for over emphasis. The message was sent.
*HON. HAMAUSWA: On a point of order Madam Speaker. I wanted to commend before the Ministers leave that we are always appealing for Ministers to attend the august House. We are quite happy to see them here. Well done to the Ministers who have been here. If there is anything that has been done to ensure that they come today, may it be repeated so that they keep on coming. I thank you.
THE TEMPORARY SPEAKER: Acting Leader of the House, the Hon. Member would like to thank all the Ministers who were present today. Keep it up and continue to encourage them to come and respond to questions. Thank you Hon. Hamauswa – [HON. MEMBERS: Inaudible interjections.] – I think I have made a statement to encourage them not to leave – [HON. MADZIVANYIKA: Inaudible interjections.] – Order, Hon. Madzivanyika! Please respect the Chair, if you cannot respect me as a person – [HON. MHANGWA: Inaudible interjections.] – Order, Hon. Mhangwa!
We are going to defer Question Numbers 1 to 6 because they are directed to the Minister of Lands. Apparently, they are not in the House and we are going to defer the questions.
HON. ENG. MHANGWA: On a point of order Madam Speaker. If you take note for the whole of 2025, my question was on number 1. Maybe we are still assuming there is still a Minister of Agriculture when there is no Minister anymore. For three months and we are going into the fourth month Madam Speaker, there is no question from that Ministry that has been answered. There is a need for intervention from your side so that we hear what is their challenge.
THE TEMPORARY SPEAKER: Hon. Mhangwa, last week the Hon. Minister of Lands was in the House. I was in the Chair and you were not in the House. I wrote a note to the Hon. Minister, requesting him to respond to this particular question. He gave us a response that they had already submitted a written response to the Clerks-at-the-Table. I spoke to Mr. Daniel to ensure that they get the response to this question. If not, it needs to be there on the Order Paper again. As we speak, I see that question on the Order Paper but unfortunately, the Hon. Minister is not in the House. You were not in the House when the Hon. Minister responded to some of the questions that were on the Order Paper last week.
HON. ENG. MHANGWA: I acknowledge Madam Speaker but the last I spoke to him he had said it is Deputy Ministers that do that. It is not him who does that.
THE TEMPORARY SPEAKER: In this august House, Ministers are Ministers. We do not recognise ministers as deputy or substantive. Ministers are ministers. So, we are going to defer questions 1 to 6.
REOPENING OF BINDURA NICKEL MINE
- HON. HAMAUSWA asked the Minister of Finance and Economic Development and Investment Promotion to inform the House when the Ministry is expected to reopen Nickel Mine in Bindura considering its significance to Mashonaland Central Province and the nation at large.
THE MINISTER OF FINANCE AND ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT AND INVESTMENT PROMOTION (HON. PROF. M. NCUBE): Thank you Madam Speaker. I thank Hon. Hamauswa for the question. First of all, I agree with him that this is an important asset or mine in the Mashonaland Central Province and also for the nation at large. I must say, the enquiry though really falls outside the purview of the Ministry of Finance, Economic Development and Investment Promotion but it pertains specifically to the sector Ministry responsible for Mines and Mining Development and also Mutapa Fund. So, I request that it be redirected to the Ministry of Mines and Mining Development and also Mutapa Investment Fund.
For Mutapa Investment Fund Madam Speaker, again I propose that the Parliamentary Committee on Mines and Mining Development could call them to come and explain because they are the custodians of the detail on the Bindura Nickel Mine. The mine is one of those under the Kuvimba Group and Kuvimba Group falls under Mutapa. That is how it cascades. If we could handle that way, I think Hon. Hamauswa will be satisfied with the answers that will come out of both Mutapa and Ministry of Mines and Mining Development enquiries.
HON. HAMAUSWA: I have a supplementary, specifically on the aspect when the Minister brought in the Mutapa Investment. I thought the Minister would come in, that was my thinking when I drafted this question because the ministry he presides over is economic and investment promotion. Therefore, I wanted to know on the investment promotion side and now I am happy that he brought in the Mutapa issue which originated from the ministry. I think it was also brought into existence through a Statutory Instrument from the Ministry of Finance.
THE TEMPORARY SPEAKER (HON. TSITSI ZHOU): Hon. Hamauswa, if you recall, the Hon. Speaker and the Leader of Government Business had to clarify this issue and the Hon. Minister of Justice, Legal and Parliamentary Affairs, who is the leader of Government Business, actually mentioned that Mutapa does not take away policy issues that are directed to ministries. Therefore, the Hon. Minister of Finance is correct to refer this question to the Ministry of Mines and Mining Development. If you can refer or rewrite this question and direct it to the Ministry of Mines and Mining Development.
LIQUIDATION OF THE SHAREHOLDING OF KUVIMBA MINING HOUSE
- HON. JAMES asked the Minister of Finance, Economic Development and Investment Promotion to inform the House whether the liquidation of the 12.5% shareholding of Kuvimba Mining House currently held by the Commercial Farmers Union (CFU) is linked to the Global Compensation Deed (GCD) which was signed in July 2020 by CFU, Southern African Commercial Farmers Association (SACFA), Valuation Consortium (VALCON) and the Government of Zimbabwe (GOZ).
THE MINISTER OF FINANCE, ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT AND INVESTMENT PROMOTION (HON. PROF. M. NCUBE): Thank you Hon. James for your question. Any disposal of all or part of this shareholding goes towards liquidating the liability of USD3.5 billion agreed under the Global Compensation Deed. I thank you Madam Speaker.
HON. JAMES: Thank you Madam Speaker. Minister, the PROFCA deal, where some of these, you mentioned 440 owed farmers had been approved to get some sort of payment that is ongoing now, I believe that money was set aside in the budget. Is it still linked to the GCD or is it still linked to the 12.5% holding in Kuvimba?
HON. PROF. M. NCUBE: Madam Speaker, yes, the payment to farmers out of what was allocated in the budget is linked to the Global Compensation Deal, so is the 12.5%. So, you can see that we have been trying to resolve this issue using the straight budgetary allocation as well as using the holdings in terms of assets and in terms of investment to deal with this liability. Thank you.
REPLACEMENT OF THE OUTGOING PRESIDENT OF KUVIMBA MINING HOUSE BY THE CURRENT CFU PRESIDENT
- HON. JAMES asked the Minister of Finance, Economic Development and Investment Promotion to confirm to the House whether the current President of the CFU has replaced the outgoing President as the board member of Kuvimba Mining House as expected.
THE MINISTER OF FINANCE, ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT AND INVESTMENT PROMOTION (HON. PROF. M. NCUBE): Thank you once again Hon. James. I did make some enquiries on this issue because the President of the CFU, the previous one, was appointed when we were much closer to Kuvimba Mining Group as Minister of Finance. I have established that he is still a board member. This is the previous CFU President of Kuvimba. The term of that initial board has not expired and he is still a board member.
However, let me hasten to say that the principle in appointing board members really should also be driven by skills, the skills to contribute to the stewardship of the company. I just get a feeling that perhaps Kuvimba feels that the current President also possesses the right skills to continue to serve the board until his term expires. Who knows what will happen once his term expires? Maybe someone else will come in. It could be that the new President of the CFU could be the right candidate to fill that position. We will get to know as we go forward but again to be clear, Kuvimba Mining House is now a subsidiary of Mutapa and the Minister of Finance does not have any governance jurisdiction in terms of board appointments. However, I still endeavoured to get more information in the way I have tried to answer you. I thank you Madam Speaker.
HON. JAMES: Madam Speaker, it seems highly irregular that the new CFU President is the elected official and the board members state that the President of that farming union should be on the board. I would have thought that the change-over would have been more or less immediate.
HON. PROF. M. NCUBE: Thank you Hon. James once again. Perhaps what I should do Madam Speaker, is to pass this on to Mutapa because this is a company that falls under them. It is a shareholder matter. It is an intra-shareholder dispute within the farmer community itself. It has a specific portion, which is the CFU portion. I think this should be handled at that level and not from a policy-making body such as Parliament. I would be very happy to introduce, maybe the affected parties to Mutapa. So this issue is resolved at that level. I would not want them to be in dispute. These are worthy partners that we want to assist with the conversation. We want them to be satisfied that things are going the right way. I thank you.
CONSIDERATION OF CFU SHAREHOLDING AS AN INTERIM PAYMENT TO FARMERS AFFECTED BY THE FAST TRACK LAND REFORM PROGRAMME
- HON. JAMES asked the Minister of Finance, Economic Development and Investment Promotion to apprise the House whether the liquidation of the CFU’s 12.5% shareholding will be considered as an interim payment to all farmers affected by the Fast Track Land Reform Programme (FTLRP), pending further negotiations by all parties concerned, considering that the previous terms have repeatedly not been met by the Government of Zimbabwe.
THE MINISTER OF FINANCE, ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT AND INVESTMENT PROMOTION (HON. PROF. M. NCUBE): Thank you Madam Speaker. The payment out of any liquidation of the 12.5% for sure will go towards compensation of farmers under the Global Compensation Deed. It will only support those who signed up to the deed in the first place because there are some who opted out and perhaps are looking for other ways to seek restitution. We wish them well. People have their choices but I can assure Hon. James that any liquidation of this 12.5% will go towards compensating farmers who agree to the terms and conditions of the Global Compensation Deed. I thank you.
HON. JAMES: Supplementary question Madam Speaker. Hon. Minister, the legally mandated representatives of the farming unions have been trying to meet you for these further negotiations and have not been successful. Are you receptive to meeting them to get clarity on this issue of the GCD and so on?
HON. PROF. M. NCUBE: Thank you Madam Speaker.
I am always very happy to welcome the farmers who wish to have further conversations but then I must hasten to say that we already have an agreement and an agreed payment modality which involves the issuance of 10 year bonds with a 2% coupon when we look backwards from year 10 but 1% when we look forward into year 10 and the agreement is that we would liquidate the first 10% value of that bond obligation within the first year. So, we have an agreement in terms of payment modality but if colleagues want to have further conversation, my door is always open and I will be happy to receive the delegation. I thank you.
HON. JAMES: Supplementary question Madam Speaker.
THE TEMPORARY SPEAKER: That is the last one.
HON. JAMES: Thank you Madam Speaker. Hon. Minister, the people negotiating with you regarding the Profica deal are not legally mandated by the bulk of the title deed holders. Is he aware of this?
HON. PROF. M. NCUBE: We have been having discussions on this compensation over the last 15 years. It is only in the last five years or so that we have been able to have traction and there is a team that has been negotiating and we were always under the impression that it is legally mandated. No one has ever objected before in the last 15 years that this was the wrong team. Suddenly, the assertion that this is the wrong team is new. I am hearing it for the first time now, today. We have always understood that they were the legally mandated team.
This team worked for a very long time Madam Speaker, gruelling hours with Valcon trying to value each farm, farm by farm. We argued with them about valuations. We negotiated. What we did, we even went to town hall meetings in Bulawayo and Harare, not only once but twice. We filled a hall up in the Mount Pleasant, Pomona area and then we did a referendum. So, it also went to the group as a collective in addition to the leadership who were working with us. So, I must say I am quite surprised that now there is an assertion that perhaps some of these leadership members are not legally legitimate. It is quite a surprise but we have come a long way. This issue was stuck for a while and now we have a payment plan for compensation and the compensation has begun. I thank you Madam Speaker.
HON. JAMES: Madam Speaker, one last supplementary question please.
THE TEMPORARY SPEAKER: Honourable James, I had said that was the last one but you may go ahead.
HON. JAMES: Thank you Madam Speaker. Hon. Minister, it would be prudent to meet the legitimately elected members because the roadshows that you are referring to gave a very different message that I think probably has not been conveyed to you. So I would appeal to you that you do meet with the legally mandated members of the farming community and title deed holders. I thank you Honourable Minister.
HON. PROF. M. NCUBE: Thank you Madam Speaker. Again, I thank Hon. James for giving me this new information. It is always good to learn new things and understand new things and I am happy to receive again a delegation from the farmers to understand what new difficulty has arisen since we have made all these agreements and put them in place and in fact, have a payment plan and are executing on that payment plan. What variations are being sought or if there are other strategies perhaps to fast-track payment, what are those but I am happy to listen. My door is open. Hon. James is free to approach my office and bring over these colleagues who want to have further conversations on this matter. I thank you.
CURRENCY OF KUVIMBA MINING HOUSE SHARES
- HON. JAMES asked the Minister of Finance, Economic Development and Investment Promotion whether the purchase of the remaining 35% shareholding of the Kuvimba Mining House was done in United States Dollars, USD 1.6 billion, as previously stated in this House.
THE MINISTER OF FINANCE, ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT AND INVESTMENT PROMOTION (HON. PROF. M. NCUBE): Frankly, on this one I would not want to give specific figures on a specific transaction. This can be submitted offline or online in writing properly. I do not have that specific figure but I would be happy to provide it. Certainly, these were purchased by Mutapa for a specific amount and we want to request Mutapa to be able to tell us what that figure is. Again, they could do it through the Parliamentary Committee on Mines and Mining Development perhaps or an appropriate committee and then they can be very specific about that transaction and how it was structured, how it was funded. That is what I would propose Madam Speaker. Thank you.
HON. MADZIVANYIKA: On a point of order Madam Speaker.
THE TEMPORARY SPEAKER: What is your point of order?
HON. MADZIVANYIKA: Thank you Madam Speaker. I am aware that the Ministry of Finance, Economic Development and Investment Promotion is the one which actually issued a Treasury Bill that paid this 35% shareholding which was remaining under Mutapa. So for the Hon. Minister to say that he may not be able to answer the specific question, this is a specific question session and I expect the Minister to answer. I am sure the Hon. Minister is aware of this transaction. He must just provide answers. Thank you Madam Speaker.
HON. PROF. M. NCUBE: Madam Speaker, we have issued Treasury Bills to Mutapa, not just for the purchase of these shares but more broadly for their use as part of their capitalisation programme as we launch Mutapa but this is a specific question about the purchase of shares as to how much was applied, what are the terms and so forth. That is why I am saying that we can get that answer very easily by inviting Mutapa to explain that. I am sure they will be very happy to do that. I would not want to start delving into their activities in this House. I thank you.
HON. MADZIVANYIKA: Supplementary question Madam Speaker.
THE TEMPORARY SPEAKER: I think the Minister is very clear Hon. Madzivanyika. Can you please allow us to proceed?
HON. MADZIVANYIKA: It is now a supplementary question.
THE TEMPORARY SPEAKER: What supplementary question do you have because I thought maybe you wanted clarity and he clarified that he will refer the issue to Mutapa to respond?
HON. MADZIVANYIKA: My supplementary question is, the Leader of the House clarified the issue of Mutapa to say, if you have a specific question, you send the specific question to the specific ministry because the power has already been taken away from the individual ministries on companies which are under Mutapa. When it comes to financial issues, the issue of Treasury Bills sits in the Ministry of Finance. We expect an answer from the Minister on this one. That is why I am saying Madam Speaker, it is important when the same Ministry issues a Treasury Bill to pay 1.6 billion US dollars worth of 35% of the outstanding Kuvimba. We cannot just come here and say he cannot answer that question. It defies logic Madam Speaker.
My supplementary question goes, 35% of Kuvimba was valued at US dollars 1.6 billion if you do your mathematics. If 35% is 1.6 billion, and 100% is 4.6 billion, how does this 4.6 billion compare with the 2022 Kuvimba mining valuation done by the same Government through the same Ministry of Finance which allocated Kuvimba a total value of 1.5 billion? So from 2022, the Government of Zimbabwe indicated that Kuvimba as a whole is valued at 1.5 billion. One year later when the Government wants to buy 35% shareholding, it then says the value of Kuvimba now is valued at 4.6 billion. Are we not being prejudiced as a country? That is my question to the Hon. Minister.
HON. PPROF. M. NCUBE: Thank you very much. The Hon. Member seems to have very specific figures that he has either created or is aware of. So I do not know what he is asking me to clarify if he is already aware of these figures. What I am urging him to do is to get the correct facts by summoning Mutapa to this House, through the Parliamentary Committee or some other committee to explain and submit accurate figures on this matter. It is that simple. I thank you.
THE TEMPORARY SPEAKER (HON. MAUNGANIDZE): Hon. Madzivanyika, I think the Minister is very clear, the issue is going to be referred to Mutapa. Then they can respond. The Minister does not have the responses that he requires right now. I think it is prudent for us to move on. – [HON. MADZIVANYIKA: With your indulgence, it is a very important issue, everyone out there is complaining about the issue of Mutapa. If you fizzle this out, Madam Speaker, you will be doing an injustice to the majority of Zimbabwe.]-
Hon. Madzivanyika I did not give you a chance to speak. The issue is being referred to Mutapa. – [HON. MADZIVANYIKA: Mutapa is not a Minister.]- The Minister does not have the answers that you want right now. – [HON. MADZIVANYIKA: He can come back with answers. If he says that, that will be fine than to say that go to Mutapa. I am against the idea of going to Mutapa. Mutapa is not a Minister. When we come to Parliament, we ask questions.] – Hon. Madzivanyika, I did not recognise you. We are moving on for the sake of progress, can you please allow us to move on?
HON. MOLOKELA – TSIYE: On a point of order Madam Speaker, with due respect.
THE TEMPORARY SPEAKER: What is your point of order?
HON. MOLOKELA – TSIYE: Madam Speaker, with all due respect, this matter was discussed last week in this very House where a length of time was taken to clarify who exactly is accountable and responsible for the Mutapa Investment Fund. The conclusion, if you refer back to the Hansard of last week, was that we cannot expect the Mutapa Fund people to come here and answer on Wednesdays. A Minister has to be responsible and accountable for that. To that extent, as far as I remember and I stand corrected, the Hon. Minister of Finance is the relevant Minister cited. I think we need to refer this matter to the Hansard of last week.
HON. PROF. M. NCUBE: I declare categorically that I am not the responsible Minister for Mutapa. It is an entity that reports directly to the Office of the President and Cabinet. It does not report to the Minister of Finance. What happens is that there are certain aspects to the extent that the Minister of Finance administers the Public Finance Management Act and has to give certain opinions perhaps even approvals. That is still our realm but I am not the responsible Minister. This House can call on anybody and can summon anybody to explain.
If the Hon. Member feels that talking to Mutapa and getting clarification on this matter is so important, surely in the next few days you will be able to ask Mutapa to come and sit in Parliament and explain these things in full the same way that you have invited ZESA or ZINARA, before or some other government-owned entity. Why is it different this time?
THE TEMPORARY SPEAKER: I think the Minister is clear.
HON. HAMAUSWA: Point of order Madam Speaker. I have a different issue, Madam Speaker.
THE TEMPORARY SPEAKER: What is your issue Hon. Hamauswa?
HON. HAMAUSWA: My issue arises from the Constitution which I am holding here which explains the powers of Parliament. The Constitution says that Parliament has the power to summon anyone except the President. This means that now that Mutapa falls under the purview of the Office of the President, then it is difficult for Parliament to play an oversight role over all the resources that fall under Mutapa.
When we want to have answers from Ministers, then we are referred to the Office of the President and Cabinet. It becomes very difficult. I am therefore proposing and moving a motion that may one of the Vice-Presidents come here and answer questions related to Mutapa issues, because I am sure that we can request the Vice-Presidents to appear as also outlined by the provisions of the Constitution so that at least the Members of Parliament will be able to hear from the Executive what is going on within Mutapa.
HON. MADZIVANYIKA: On a point of clarity Madam Speaker. Just clarification.
THE TEMPORARY SPEAKER: What clarification do you require?
HON. MADZIVANYIKA: I hear the Hon. Minister says that it is not part of Mutapa. If you read the Founding Act that forms Mutapa, there is Section 3 or 4, which gives the Minister the power to appoint the Mutapa Board. If you look at the Founding Act, it says the definition of the Minister means Minister of Finance. Whenever we talk about the Minister in the Mutapa Act, you are referring to the Minister of Finance. To then come and say that I do not have anything to do with Mutapa, I think it is a disgrace. Madam Speaker, please we need answers on this very important subject. We need to finalise who is going to give answers. We agreed last time to say if questions talk about companies in Mutapa, then we refer to the Minister of Mines. When the person is talking about finance issues in Mutapa, we refer directly to the Minister of Finance who is here. I would want to hear from the Minister saying that our colleagues and I have not prepared very well. Can you give me time to go and look at it and give you answers? That is more acceptable than to completely run away from his mandate. I thank you.
THE TEMPORARY SPEAKER: Thank you Hon. Madzivanyika. Admin will seek clarity on the issue then we get a response.
IMPORTATION BAN FOR 10-YEAR SECOND-HAND VEHICLES
- HON. BONDA asked the Minister of Finance, Economic Development and Investment Promotion to appraise the House on the importation ban for 10-year second-hand vehicles at a time when the local Motor manufacturing industry is not fully functional to meet the local demand.
THE MINISTER OF FINANCE, ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT AND INVESTMENT PROMOTION (HON. PROF. M. NCUBE): I thank Hon. Bonda for the question asking me to appraise this house on the importation ban for 10-year second-hand vehicles at a time when the local motor manufacturing industry is not fully functional to meet the local demand. Madam Speaker, I take note of Honourable Bonda's question on why second-hand vehicles aged 10 years and above from the date of manufacture at the time of importation were banned. I wish to inform the House that the measure was put in place in terms of the control of goods import and export commerce regulations. These regulations are under the purview of the Minister of Industry and Commerce, hence I refer the question asked for a fuller explanation to the Ministry of Industry and Commerce.
Having said that, I still want to proceed to address a few aspects of this question, which is that there is also a push in the industry to even lower this limit further, going the other way, while the Hon. Member feels that perhaps this is too strict, maybe it ought to be increased. At least that is the semantic input of the question, that we are also having a push the other way, so that then we can support the policy of having our trucks and vehicles assembled locally. Therefore, just to reduce the importation of vehicles completely. So, I think the Hon. Member will find that this may not have an easy answer, given this need to support the burgeoning local assembly industry. I must hasten to say, I visited Quest Motors a month ago in Mutare and I was suitably impressed by the capacity that they have to start manufacturing, putting down, assembling the knock-down kits that are imported together to sell locally. They even say that if they are supported the right way, they can even compete with the South African Motor Industry. So, it is not a straightforward matter to say the least.
If there is unmet local demand, that local demand, at least according to those who are arguing in this direction, will be met by locally produced, locally assembled vehicles. Then maybe to conclude, technically it is really an issue under the Ministry of Industry and Commerce. My job then is to support that ministry upon the relevant consultation. I thank you.
REGISTRATION OF VEHICLES IN UNITED STATES DOLLARS
- HON. CHIHOTA asked the Minister of Finance, Economic Development and Investment Promotion to explain to the House why ZIMRA demands the registration of new vehicles to be paid in USD, exclusively without consideration for ZiG, thereby undermining our local currency.
THE MINISTER OF FINANCE, ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT AND INVESTMENT PROMOTION (HON. PROF. NCUBE): Thank you Madam Speaker Ma’am. I also take note of the question by Hon. Chihota on why Government is demanding USD on registration of new vehicles without consideration of Zimbabwe Gold (ZiG), thereby undermining the local currency.
As you would be aware, Hon. Members, purchase of imported motor vehicles are transacted in foreign currency. As a matter of principle, Government requires due fees, taxes and levies to be paid in the currency denominated of trade, in order to finance procurement of raw materials used for production of number plates, et cetera. However, the Government remains committed to the use of local currency in the economy and the bulk of fees and charges across the economy are payable in local currency
EXPLANATION ON PASSENGERS RISK INSURANCE
HON. C. HLATYWAYO asked the Minister of Finance, Economic Development and Investment Promotion to explain to the House on Passengers Risk Insurance.
- How the insurance is administered and its use
- How much revenue has been collected from 2023 to date?
THE MINISTER OF FINANCE, ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT AND INVESTMENT PROMOTION (HON. PROF. NCUBE): Thank you very much. I thank Hon. Hlatywayo for the question. Public passenger liability is a special risk that no single insurer has an appetite for in the country. To address this, the Insurance Council of Zimbabwe (ICZ) has formed a special pool called the Special Risk Insurance Consortium (SRIC) to underwrite such risks. The issuance of public passenger vehicle insurance is done in collaboration with the Road Motor Transportation (RMT) which operates under the Ministry of Transport and Infrastructural Development. RMT only issues route permits to public passenger vehicles after the production of a valid public passenger liability insurance cover and access to the insurance database.
When a public passenger vehicle with a valid insurance is involved in an accident, the Civil Protection Unit and the Insurance Council of Zimbabwe coordinate assistance to victims. They work with emergency services, hospitals and funeral parlours to provide the necessary care. The costs are handled by the CPU and later claimed from insurers.
That really pertains to the response to question 16A.
In terms of how much resources have been raised so far under the Public Passenger Vehicle Annual Insurance Scheme, in 2023, the revenues raised amount to US$2.5 million. In 2024, it was US$2.6 million. Then, the number of insured in 2023 accidents was 38. In 2024, it was 28. In terms of the number of policies for what it is worth, in 2023, it was about 12 000 and in 2024, it was about 15 000. It is important to note that a single accident can have between 1 to 50 claimants from this fund. I thank you Madam Speaker.
MOBILISATION OF DOMESTIC RESOURCE TOWARDS FINANCING THE HEALTH SECTOR
- HON. BAJILA asked the Minister of Finance, Economic Development and Investment Promotion to inform the House on Government plans on domestic resource mobilisation towards financing the health sector.
THE MINISTER OF FINANCE, ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT AND INVESTMENT PROMOTION (HON. PROF. NCUBE): Madam Speaker, I thank Honourable Bajila for the question. I respond as follows; Hon. Members will be aware that to enhance domestic resource mobilisation towards financing the health sector, Government is implementing several policies which were approved in this august House and they include: 1. The special surtax on beverages, sugar content. This is in order to discourage the consumption of high sugar content beverages. The funds obtained from this levy are ringfenced for therapy and procurement of cancer equipment for diagnosis.
In addition, the Government through the 2022-2023 National Budget, ringfenced and appropriated additional funds generated from the review of excise duty on cigarettes and energy drinks from the Consolidated Revenue Fund towards treatment and support of cancer, diabetes, hypertension patients through the Non-Communicable Disease Fund. These are your so-called SIM taxes.
Furthermore, the funds derived from the AIDS levy are also ringfenced towards financing the health sector as a response to the HIV/AIDS resource requirement. Special excise duty on airtime, Government in 2017 designated 5% of the sale value of airtime towards the health fund levy. The resources raised are ringfenced for the purchase of drugs and equipment for public hospitals and clinics. As you can see, we have been diligent and tried very hard to come up with these various sources of revenue, mainly Sin taxes and so forth, to really support the health sector. What is happening globally has changed the entire landscape in terms of overseas development support to the health sector. Some countries are in a worse situation than us. I would not mention them, but I have got some horrifying data right across Africa that the cut-off funding from abroad for the health sector is going to create real, real challenges for the fiscus. However, we have tried our best over the years, and thank you to Members in this august House for allowing us to put in these various taxes which will go a long way to ameliorating the challenges in the health sector funding. I thank you.
HON. BAJILA: Thank you so much Madam Speaker. I would like to thank the Minister for his response. Just last week, the Minister of Health revealed that the Ministry needs 17 million per month for basic medicines and they have been allocated 44 million for that for the whole year, when they actually need 204 million for the entire year. This is a sign that the resources are not enough. But I want to thank the Minister for saying that these taxes and levies that are being collected are being ring-fenced.
Section 302 of the Constitution says that unless there is an Act of Parliament ring-fencing certain taxes, they all belong to the Consolidated Revenue Fund. Using what tool is the Ministry ring-fencing these taxes or they are disbursing as and what will have come? If there is no specific tool ring-fencing the taxes and levies, it is squarely at the discretion of the Minister. My question is on the tool that the Minister is ring-fencing the said taxes and levies.
HON. PROF. M. NCUBE: Thank you very much. Yes, the taxes automatically belong to the Consolidated Revenue Fund but we have raised these resources from these specific taxes to tackle certain situations in the health sector which are very urgent. As we go about spending, we do recognise and track how much we are raising so far and I am happy to give the Hon. Member a tracker as to how much we are raising every month from these various taxes and how these then are going to be applied to the needs of the health sector.
These are clearly not special funds, he is correct about that but as we spend, following a quasi or virtual ring-fencing approach in the absence of specific legally constituted funds.
HON. C. HLATYWAYO: Thank you Madam Speaker. Thank you Minister for your response. The Ministry for Health, about 48% to 52% of its requirements were funded by donors or the external funders, mainly from USAID, PEPFAR and other organisations linked to the United States of America. Now that the American Government, through its Presidential Orders, has withdrawn funding for those issues, including health issues. Are you going to come up with a supplementary budget to fund that 48% to 52% deficit on our health here in Zimbabwe?
HON. PROF. M. NCUBE: The Honourable Member has asked a very important question, a very critical question, which I think will give me an opportunity to explain something. I thank him for that. Madam Speaker Ma’am, the Hon. Member is correct, that the Ministry of Health has been drawing easily 48% of its budget from abroad and from donors, to support the various programmes but at the same time, if you look at the level of budget utilisation by the Ministry of Health, it never goes above 60% in any given year.
We have a situation where the budget utilisation is skewed towards drawing resources from donors, rather than from Government itself. Therefore, the Honourable Member, I think will realise from my argument that, I believe he is saying that the deficit in the Ministry of Health that will arise from the cut-off of this ODA from the US will not be as large and as alarming. Only if the Ministry of Health could use 100% of its budget, so this year we urge them to use 100% of their budget, they will find that this will go….
Hon. Hlatywayo having stood up on a point of order.
THE TEMPORARY SPEAKER: Hon. Hlatywayo, can you please allow the Minister to finish? He is still explaining himself, thank you. Hon. Minister you may proceed.
HON. PROF. M. NCUBE: Thank you very much. A combination of using 100% of that extra 40%, which always remains unused in any given year, if that were used that would go a long way in dealing with the gap that is being opened by the cutting off of aid from outside. Also, we have done our analysis and feel that the resources that are going to be raised from these additional taxes, syntaxes that I referred to, will go a long way towards closing that gap. We feel that the gap will not be as large and as alarming as Members might think because this was such a big shock to everybody, so it is quite easy to really feel that we have a situation that we cannot handle but I think that we will do our best to close this gap. I thank you. Thank you.
Questions With Notice were interrupted by THE TEMPORARY SPEAKER in terms of Standing Order Number 68.
HON. PINDUKA: Madam Speaker, I move that the time for the Questions With Notice be extended with 20 minutes.
HON. C. MOYO: I second.
Motion put and agreed to.
COLLECTION OF SPORTS LEVIES BY LOCAL AUTHORITIES
- HON. V. MOYO asked the Minister of Finance, Economic Development and Investment Promotion to inform the House on the Government policy regarding the collection of sports levies by local authorities specifically, the Victoria Falls City Council to support sporting activities in their jurisdictions as a way of curbing drug and substance abuse.
THE MINISTER OF FINANCE, ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT AND INVESTMENT PROMOTION (HON. PROF. M. NCUBE): Thank you Madam Speaker, Hon. V. Moyo thank you for your question. I wish to respond to the question by V. Moyo on the Government policy regarding the collection of sports levies by local authorities, specifically Victoria Falls, to support sporting activities in their jurisdiction to deal with this very important issue of drug and substance abuse. I wish to advise the House that financing of sporting activities by local authorities really falls outside the purview of Central Government, particularly my Ministry, hence I wish to refer perhaps the question of Hon. V. Moyo to the Minister of Local Government and Public Works. It is really falling under the local authorities themselves and perhaps the person who can give us a better perspective on this is the Minister responsible for Local Government and Public Works. I thank you.
THE TEMPORARY SPEAKER: What is your supplementary? The Minister has requested for the question to be referred to the Minister of Local Government.
HON. V. MOYO: Point of clarity?
THE TEMPORARY SPEAKER: Okay, you may go ahead.
HON. V. MOYO: Thank you Madam Speaker. The reason I bring up to the Ministry of Finance is because the Ministry of Finance is also cited in the approval of council budgets and I bring this case particularly because the time when the City Council did apply, the Ministry of Finance was cited as one of those Ministries that did not accede to that application.
HON. PROF. M. NCUBE: Thank you very much. I think Madam Speaker, we may need to go into this case a lot deeper. As I say, we will need the assistance of the Ministry of Local Government and Public Works and the Victoria Falls City Council itself. We always stand ready to assist our local authorities, especially on important issues such as drug and substance abuse. If we are cited as having perhaps, you know, were reticent, stood back or refused to accede to some request, that clearly is an issue.
Even I am concerned as the Hon. Member, we just need further information, more information on this. Maybe when we redirect it to Minister of Local Government, who has direct access to local authorities, it may shed light to all. I really insist that we redirect it. I will also be ready to support in the provision of the answer and dig up whatever information we have in Treasury pertaining to the specific things just mentioned. I thank you. Thank you.
DISBURSEMENTS OF DEVOLUTION FUNDS TO LOCAL AUTHORITIES
- HON. MAKUMIRE asked the Minister of Finance, Economic Development and Investment Promotion to apprise the House on the Government policy regarding timely disbursements of Devolution Funds to Local Authorities and considering payment of some component of the devolution funds in foreign currency.
THE MINISTER OF FINANCE, ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT AND INVESTMENT PROMOTION (HON. PROF. M. NCUBE): Thank you Hon. Makumire for your question. I am sure that all Members agree that the intergovernmental fiscal transfers of devolution funds by Government are a critical avenue towards empowering our communities. This is done through the provision of basic services and infrastructure as well as procurement of key pieces of equipment to facilitate service delivery at the local level, a key ingredient towards socio-economic transformation.
Madam Speaker, let me also say to the House that the 2025 National Budget has a provisional allocation of 13.6 billion towards devolution and fulfilment of the Constitution. It stipulates that not less than 5% of the national revenues generated in any financial year must be allocated to the provinces and local authorities in a particular financial year. The above budgetary allocation is meant mainly to sustain the implementation of ongoing construction projects countrywide as well as capacitation of some local authorities through the procurement of critical equipment and utility vehicles that include to acquire critical equipment and vehicles. It could also include backhaul loaders, motorised graders, tippers, refuse trucks and drilling rigs for boreholes among others.
Madam Speaker, to facilitate the smooth implementation of projects and programmes that are being supported through the devolution funding, it is imperative that local authorities work closely with their parent Ministry in the preparation of their annual work plans. This is in order to guide implementation of the planned activities and achievements of the set performance goals.
Furthermore, in line with the provision of the Zimbabwe Intergovernmental Fiscal Transfers Administrative Systems Manual launched by Government in May 2024 upon receipt of devolution funds, local authorities should use the resources for the intended purpose. They should use the resources in line with the value for money principles and ensure that the funds are properly recorded and fully accounted for thereof.
Accordingly, Treasury will strive to disperse the devolution funds on a monthly basis subject to quarterly reviews in line with the provision of paragraph 86 of the Zimbabwe IGFT Administrative Systems Manual. With regards to disbursement of resources in foreign currency to cater for some of the components under devolution projects and programmes, Treasury stands ready to assist local authorities through their line of Ministry on a case-by-case basis. We are happy to disburse funds in foreign currency on a case-by-case basis.
Madam Speaker, for the avoidance of doubt, priority will be accorded towards those projects or programmes and procurement of equipment that is ordinarily not locally available or is imported and therefore requires foreign currency for that importation. I thank you, Madam Speaker. Thank you.
HON. MAKUMIRE: Thank you very much Madam Speaker Ma’am. The Hon. Minister has highlighted that the devolution manual requires the Treasury to disburse these allocations on a monthly basis. So, I rise to enquire from the Minister so that he appraises the House if he is following the provisions of this manual. Are there any disbursements that have been made since the introduction of this devolution manual?
HON. PROF. M. NCUBE: I thank the Hon. Member for the supplementary question. Yes, devolution funds have been disbursed in line with the manual but of course, there has to be projects to fund in the first place. So, the issue of projects identification, preparation at that local level or just purchase of critical equipment is a prerequisite for the disbursements. What we have found out, Madam Speaker Ma’am, is that there just needs to be better coordination. I urge Members here to maybe follow this piece of advice. Even for me, I was advised by the most successful MPs who know how to make use of these devolution funds that the MP should work hard to be in the forefront of drawing down on these funds, work with the local traditional leadership but most importantly, work with the CEO of the Rural District Council. I repeat, work with the CEO of the Rural District Council because we have noticed that there is a gap in strategy, understanding and even the chemistry between these individuals running the local RDCs and other leaders, including Members of Parliament.
Madam Speaker, so if there is a way to work together, identify projects as a unit, you will find that you will make a lot of progress. There are a few Members, I think at some point I will be able to draw out, I will be able to share, Madam Speaker Ma’am, information on how some Members here have been very successful and you could learn from them, copy from them as to how to draw down on these funds. Once there is a project, then we have an obligation to disburse on this quarterly basis for whatever projects are available for funding on the ground. I thank you.
POLICY REGARDING MINE EMPLOYEES WHO CONTRIBUTED PENSIONS IN USD CURRENCY BUT RECEIVED PAYOUTS IN LOCAL CURRENCY
- HON. MUROMBEDZI asked the Minister of Finance, Economic Development and Investment Promotion what the Government policy is regarding mine employees who contributed pension to the MIPF in USD but later received payouts in local currency and to elaborate on the measures being put in place to ensure those who made lifetime pension contributions get their pensions in the currency and value they contributed.
THE MINISTER OF FINANCE, ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT AND INVESTMENT PROMOTION (HON. PROF. M. NCUBE): I thank Hon. Murombezi for the question. Thank you Hon. Ma'am. Madam Speaker, you may be aware following the introduction of the multi-currency regime in October 2009 that the Mining Industry Pension Fund, MIPF, started receiving contributions in U.S. dollars, which was the functional currency until 2019. Therefore, the funds, pension contributions, investment returns and benefits were paid in foreign currency during this period. The currency reforms implemented in 2019 had the effect of re-denominating all foreign currency assets and liabilities into Zimbabwe dollars, ZWL as the new mono currency.
Madam Speaker Ma’am, drawing lessons from the 2009 currency reform, Government through IPEC, the Regulator for Pensions and Insurance issued a guidance paper on the conversion of insurance and pension liabilities from the U.S. dollars to Zimbabwe dollars. This was to ensure Pension Fund members and policyholders equitably benefit from the revaluation gains on assets that supported their liabilities prior to the 2019 currency conversion. It is worth noting that during the period 2019 to 2020, Government adopted the Zimbabwe dollars, ZWL, as the mono currency. Hence, pension contributions and benefits were also paid in or paid out in Zimbabwe dollars, ZWL.
However, Government gazetted Statutory Instrument 280 in 2020, which provides for the payment of pension contributions in foreign currency, investments to be done in the matching currency and pension benefits being payable in the same matching currency. Statutory Instrument 280 of 2020 was premised on the fact that there are forex-generating employers such as the mining houses, NGOs, including U.N. agencies and export generating companies which were paying their employees in forex. Since pensions contracts are borne out of contracts of employment, it was therefore justifiable to allow contributions in forex. Following the gazetting of S.I. 280 of 2020, some MIPF participating mining houses commenced pension contributions in foreign currency as salaries were denominated in foreign currency. MIPF has over the years been investing in foreign currency denominated assets such as real estate, listed equity, money market and equity market thereby generating forex income which IPEC is insisting should benefit members of the fund. As at 30 June 2024, MIPF total assets amounted to 2.9 billion ZiG or USD70.9 million. In line with the requirements of S.I. 280 of 2020, the forex generating capacity of assets of the MIPF, pensioners are all receiving US dollar cushioning allowances effective July 2023. These were paid as a once off in 2023 and quarterly in 2024. For the year 2023, USD2.38million was paid out to pensioners and USD3.75million has been paid for 2024. This was over and above the monthly local currency pension payments.
The measures in place to ring-fence US dollar contributions and income for payments of benefits to members are also summarised in the paper. Let me refer to the forex denominated assets. MIPF has invested in assets that generate forex which includes, for avoidance of doubt, the investment property, money market and others. Looking at the benefit statements of foreign contributions and benefits, the MIPF is also required by IPEC to conduct annual general meetings.
THE TEMPORARY SPEAKER: Order Hon. Minister, our extension has lapsed. May you please wind up.
HON. PROF. M. NCUBE: Let me wind up Madam Speaker Ma’am. I feel that I have concluded the response to question 20. What is just remaining is the last question No. 21. I thank you.
HON. KAMBUZUMA: With your indulgence Madam Speaker, the Minister has one last question to answer. So I move that question time be extended.
HON. C. MOYO: I second.
Motion put and agreed to.
EXPLANATION ON THE PURPOSE OF THE MUTAPA INVESTMENT PLAN
- HON. MADZIVANYIKA asked the Minister of Finance, Economic Development and Investment Promotion to explain to the House whether Mutapa Investment Fund was created with the purpose of creating value and wealth for current and future generations of Zimbabwe and if the Ministry could disclose the progress made towards the valuation of all assets and loans acquired, including the financial statements.
THE MINISTER OF FINANCE, ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT AND INVESTMENT PROMOTION (HON. M. NCUBE): The objectives of Mutapa Investment Fund are stated in Section 4 of the Sovereign Wealth Fund of Zimbabwe Act [Chapter 22:20]. The objectives are as follows:
- to make secure investments for the benefit and enjoyment of future generations of Zimbabweans and
- to support the development objectives of the Government, including its long-term economic and social development and
- to support fiscal or macro-economic stabilisation, in particular to supplement the revenues of Zimbabwe when these are prejudiced by the fluctuation of prices payable for those minerals on which royalties and other taxes are collected for the benefit of the Consolidated Revenue Fund and
- to contribute to the revenues of Zimbabwe from the net returns on its investments in accordance with Section 21.
Mutapa Investment Fund was formed to create wealth and long-term value for the people of Zimbabwe through the prudent management of its investment portfolio. In 2024, the Mutapa Investment Fund (MIF) completed an independent valuation of its investment portfolio, resulting in a gross asset valuation of $16 billion. Parallel to this MIF, management is actively strengthening financial reporting frameworks across its holding to enable the production of consolidated financial statements. These statements will offer stakeholders a transparent view of the fund’s performance, encompassing detailed disclosures of gross assets, net asset values and fair market valuations. Furthermore, the financial statements will incorporate a comprehensive analysis of the MIF’s and investees liability position and associated financial risks, all subject to an independent audit opinion. To bolster these financial reporting efforts, MIF appointed a Chief Finance Officer in Q4, 2024, tasked with overseeing financial reporting and collaborating closely with the Chief Executive Officer and Chief Investment Officer.
HON. MADZIVANYIKA: I am happy with this contradiction that sometime the Hon. Minister said that he is not able to answer but to a question that he is comfortable with, he answers. So, I am sure we are now moving in the same direction. The Minister highlighted that the 2024 valuation for Mutapa amounted to USD16 billion but in the same year, Kuvimba Mining House which has less than 12 companies under its name is valued at USD4.6 billion. Does that mean that the remaining 32 companies under Mutapa are valued at around USD11.4 billion?
HON. PROF. M. NCUBE: Through deductive reasoning, if something is valued at a certain figure and you know the value of one of those components, it stands to reason that the value of the remaining assets is that total value minus the value of that specific entry. So, since he has a value for Kuvimba, although I did advise that it is best to receive the report first and interrogate it, he has an interest in Kuvimba because he keeps going on about it. Others have interests in other assets, so if we get the whole report, we will get to know everything – Air Zimbabwe, Kuvimba, NRZ, Tel One, Net One, ZESA. We want to know. So, why Kuvimba? I urge the Member to open up his mind and allow the whole House to receive the entire report, be it the annual report, audit report or valuation report. We all want to know. I will urge him to go in that direction since he is saying we are now moving in the same direction. That is the direction I want us to move in. It is a very simple issue. This is an august House that can summon anybody or any document. It is that straight forward. I thank you.
HON. MUROMBEDZI: On a point of privilege.
THE TEMPORARY SPEAKER (HON. MAUNGANIDZE): What is your point of privilege?
HON. MUROMBEDZI: Thank you Madam Speaker. I was cut off on my question when you were moving to Question 20. I just wanted to thank the Hon. Minister for responding to the MIPF question and also to ask for clarification from the Minister on MIPF as well as to find out if he knows there are certain mining companies that are …
THE TEMPORARY SPEAKER: Hon. Murombezi, we cannot go back. We are now on question 21.
HON. MUROMBEDZI: I was about to finish. …
THE TEMPORARY SPEAKER: Even if you finish, the Minister is not going to clarify Hon. Murombedzi.
HON. MUROMBEDZI: I just want him to know …
THE TEMPORARY SPEAKER: Can you please take your seat? Hon. Madzivanyika, you can ask your last supplementary question.
HON. MADZIVANYIKA: Thank you Madam Speaker. My last supplementary question is, Government of Zimbabwe, in the year 2022, gave a valuation report to Mutapa Investment Fund companies and the valuation report given in 2022 indicated that the total value of all companies under Mutapa Investment Fund amounts to USD1.5 billion. Can the Honourable Minister make a reconciliation now?
What has happened from 2022 to 2024, where the new value is now 16 billion according to what is standard in Parliament? Thank you very much Madam Speaker.
HON. PROF. M. NCUBE: Thank you Madam Speaker. First of all, if I could correct Hon. Madzivanyika, I think maybe it was a tongue error. He said that the value of assets under Mutapa is USD1.6 billion. I think that was an error. I should be talking to the Chair. So, I will forgive him. It is under Kuvimba – [HON. MADZIVANYIKA: Madam Chair, if you can allow me to correct myself there. It is allowed.] –
THE TEMPORARY SPEAKER: Hon. Madzivanyka! Can you allow the Minister to respond? – [HON. MADZIVANYIKA: I thought he allowed me to correct.] – Hon. Madzivanyika, I am the Chair. Hon. Minister, you may respond.
HON. PROF. M. NCUBE: Thank you Madam Speaker. This is exactly the line of questioning, the line of analysis that we would want to pursue when Mutapa is given the opportunity to come before this House to explain the valuation, to explain the various transactions, to explain their strategy as to how they will switch all these 33 companies, all these assets, so that they can contribute fully to the creation of our regeneration of our GDP. This is exactly the type of questions that we expect on that day. I had wished the Honourable Member would then say, I will summon them in the next one month or two months. We want to hear that from him. I am surprised that he is not even enthusiastic about inviting them. I think he should be enthusiastic. Thank you.
FINANCING OF VOCATIONAL TRAINING CENTRES
- HON. MAKUMIRE asked the Minister of Finance, Economic Development and Investment Promotion to update the House on the Government’s plans to finance Vocational Training Centres for sustenance of its operations.
THE MINISTER OF FINANCE, ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT AND INVESTMENT PROMOTION (HON. PROF. M. NCUBE): Thank you. The Government plans to finance and sustain operations of the VTCs which play a critical role in equipping our youth with skills necessary to drive the nation's economic growth and development and these plans are financed through the Budget annually. The Ministry of Youth Empowerment, Development and Vocational Training has allocated ZiG1 billion for 2025, of which vocational training has been allocated 200 million towards their operations. The support targets:
- empowerment of these VTCs, not just to evolve into industrial hubs that will serve as catalysts for local economic growth within their respective communities. These availed resources will be used to resuscitate the infrastructure.
- is to adjust the curriculum of the VTCs to suit the needs of the communities which they are supposed to support and help.
- is to facilitate the processing of loans through the Empower Bank. On Empower Bank, Madam Speaker, I can hasten to add that yesterday I awarded them a prescribed asset status, which means that from now on going forward, they should find it easier to partner with other investors, pension funds and others who then get brownie points under prescribed assets provisions as they partner with Empower Bank. This will help them to extend more resources that is shared with other investors going forward and may even help them to recapitalise.
This development was advocated for by the Members of this Parliament. I know the names, I will not mention them and we have finally implemented that request from Parliament for both the Empower Bank and also Women's Bank. This has also been accorded a prescribed asset status. I thank you.
HON. MAKUMIRE: Thank you very much Madam Speaker. It has been established that since 2016, the VTCs in Zimbabwe have not received any funding for infrastructure development. This is evident even if you go around all the VTCs that are in Zimbabwe. You are going to realise that there is no adequate infrastructure for these VTCs to carry out their business. Now, my supplementary question to the Honourable Minister is, when can we expect the Treasury to disburse funds for upgrading infrastructure development so that we improve the learning facilities at these institutions? Thank you very much.
HON. PROF. M. NCUBE: I thank the Hon. Member for the questions. We have said that already 200 million has been allocated towards the VTCs in terms of their operations and I have outlined which operations are being targeted in addition to infrastructure investment. I am surprised by Hon. Members saying that in the last three years or something, he mentioned some figure, there has been no disbursement. That can only be incorrect. Otherwise, the Ministry for Youth Empowerment has nothing to do. It is doing nothing. That cannot be correct.
I think what we can do is just to come up with a compendium where we can list the VTCs that have been upgraded, whose infrastructure has been revamped over the last three years and then we can share that with this House or the Honourable Member and be able to say at what stage that kind of update that has taken place is it. It cannot be that really nothing has been done. That would be awkward and strange. I thank you.
WRITTEN SUBMISSIONS TO QUESTIONS WITH NOTICE
INFORMATION ON DIRECTORS AND NAME OF COMPANY HOLDING 12.5% CFU SHARES
- HON. JAMES asked the Minister of Finance, Economic Development and Investment Promotion to inform the House: a) The Directors of the company holding the 12.5% CFU shares and to provide the name of that company. b) Whether the CFU’s 12.5% shareholding referred to in this case is included in the final purchase of the remaining 35% shareholding in Kuvimba Mining Company acquired by the Government, if so, whether the CFU agreed to this sale on behalf of the farmers, and also disclose who was given the money.
THE MINISTER OF FINANCE, ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT AND INVESTMENT PROMOTION (HON. NCUBE): Part a): The 12.5% is held by Datvest Nominees pending payment to be made to former arm owners who opt to receive compensation under terms agreed with Government.
Part b): No as explained above, this is separate from the shares that were previously owned by a third private investors.
PROGRESS ON INTERNATIONAL MONETARY FUND STAFF MONITORED PROGRAMME
- HON. G. K. HLATYWAYO asked the Minister of Finance, Economic Development and Investment Promotion to appraise the House on the progress made by the Government regarding the International Monetary Fund Staff Monitored Program.
THE MINISTER OF FINANCE, ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT AND INVESTMENT PROMOTION (HON. PROF. M. NCUBE: International Monetary Fund (IMF) mission team conducted a visit to Zimbabwe from January 30 to February 2025, as part of the preparatory phase for the implementation of a Monitored Programme (SMP).
I regards the Government and the IMF team are at an advanced stage of designing the prior action, qualitative and quantitative targets, which will constitute the staff-monitored programme. Once agreed the target is to sign the SMP in April 2025 during the IMF spring meetings.
This SMP is designed to support the country’s economic stabilisation efforts and facilitate engagement and reengagement with the international community as an integral part of the Government’s External Debt Arrears Clearance Programme.
On the motion of HON. KAMBUZUMA, seconded by HON. NYANDORO, the House adjourned at Six Minutes to Six o’clock p.m.
PARLIAMENT OF ZIMBABWE
Tuesday, 25th March, 2025
The National Assembly met at a Quarter-past Two o’clock p.m.
PRAYERS
(THE HON. DEPUTY SPEAKER in the Chair)
ANNOUNCEMENT BY THE HON. DEPUTY SPEAKER
MEETING ON PARLIAMENTARY CONSTITUENCY INFORMATION CENTRES
THE HON. DEPUTY SPEAKER: I have to inform the House that there will be a meeting on Parliamentary Constituency Information Centres tomorrow 26th March 2025 at 0845hrs in the Multi-Purpose Hall. Only Members of Parliament whose constituencies were allocated land by their respective councils are invited to attend. For more details, contact Mr. F. Muchimba, PCICs officer on 0776448686, Office Number 230, Second Floor.
VACANCY IN THE NATIONAL ASSEMBLY
THE HON. DEPUTY SPEAKER: I have to inform the House that on 17th March, 2025, I was notified by the Zimbabwe African Union Patriotic Front (ZANU-PF) party that Hon. Benjamin Ganyiwa, Member of Parliament for Gutu East Constituency had ceased to be a member of ZANU-PF party and no longer represents the interests of the party in Parliament. Section 129 (1) (k) of the Constitution of Zimbabwe provides as follows:- the seat of a Member of Parliament becomes vacant if the Member has ceased to belong to the political party of which he/she was a member when elected to Parliament and the political party concerned, by written notice to the Speaker or President of the Senate as the case may be, has declared that the member has ceased to belong to it. In this regard, a vacancy has arisen in Gutu East Constituency by operation of the law. The necessary administrative measures will be taken to inform His Excellency, the President of Zimbabwe and the Zimbabwe Electoral Commission (ZEC) of the existence of the vacancy in line with Section 39 (1) of the Electoral Law Act [Chapter 2:13].
MOTION
TABLING OF REPORT
THE MINISTER OF PRIMARY AND SECONDARY EDUCATION (HON. T. MOYO): Thank you Madam Speaker. I wish to lay on the Table the Value for Money Audit Report of the Auditor General on the Facilitation, Provision and Construction of Schools by the Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education.
*HON. TOBAIWA: Thank you Madam Speaker. Some time back, there was concern over the accidents occurring along the road coming to the Parliament Building. The Minister promised that he was going to put restricted route signs in the area but nothing has happened to date. I am pleading with the Minister to look into the issue because there are many accidents happening and we are losing lives.
*THE HON. DEPUTY SPEAKER: Thank you. The word is going to be delivered to the Minister.
HON. TOGAREPI: Thank you Madam Speaker. I stand before this House to congratulate our very own Hon. Kirsty Coventry for doing Zimbabwe proud by winning and becoming the first African President of the International Olympic Committee. She is also the first woman and the youngest. Her achievement was no mean. She won with 49 votes against 97, above half of the possible votes. I would also want to emphasise because I heard Hon. Ziyambi with me here, he wanted me to emphasise that she also comes from Mashonaland West.
Hon. Kirsty Coventry did us a lot of pride as a country when she was still in the sport of swimming. We would watch whenever there were Olympics taking place throughout the world knowing very well that she would lift the Zimbabwean flag high. I would want to say to her and her family together with the people of Zimbabwe, we are excited, proud of her achievement and we hope and trust that she is going to hold high the Zimbabwean flag. We will continue to support Hon. Kirsty Coventry and would want to say to the girl child and many other people out there, the sky is the limit, even beyond. If you put your time and commitment to your talent, you can achieve a lot. Here today, we have a Zimbabwean and an African on top of the world. I thank you.
*THE HON. DEPUTY SPEAKER: Thank you Hon. Togarepi. Indeed, it is big congratulations to her family and the nation at large.
*HON. HAMAUSWA: Madam Speaker. I feel that it is pertinent that we respect the congratulatory message by the Chief Whip. I thought as Government Chief Whip, he was going to plan a congratulatory party with the Hon. Minister Kirsty Coventry because she is someone who rose from this august House and she is one of the people whom you used to ask questions. We are not sure if she is going to leave the Ministerial position and focus on the big post. Can the Government Chief Whip put the word forward so that we can have a congratulatory party for her? She has raised the flag of our nation. Hence, we believe that it is going to be a big event.
*THE HON. DEPUTY SPEAKER: Thank you Hon. Hamauswa. I believe the Chief Whip has heard that and is going to do something.
HON. TOGAREPI: I think his request is in order. I think Madam Speaker, with your deep pocket, you will assist us to have a small cocktail in recognition of Minister Coventry. I think we should come up with something. The Clerk, fortunately is in this House and it is in his ears. I know they do not fail me. Thank you.
*THE HON. DEPUTY SPEAKER: Thank you. We have taken note of that.
HON. KARIKOGA: Thank you Madam Speaker. I rise to congratulate our Minister of Transport and Infrastructural Development and his team for being named the best performing Minister. Us as a Portfolio Committee, we are grateful and we welcome the honour that was given to our Minister. We also extend our congratulations to the Permanent Secretary of the same Ministry because she was also named the best performing Permanent Secretary.
We have also seen the commitment demonstrated by the Honourable Minister here in Parliament on Wednesdays. He is always here, available to answer questions. I also commend his commitment to the business of our Portfolio Committee. He always avails himself and his team to support the Portfolio Committee.
The ZINARA Board Chairman and CEO of ZINARA, Dr. Manyaya and Mr. Ncube respectively, were also named the best performing Board Chair and the best performing CEO. We all know ZINARA was a crime scene but the recognition by the President is welcome to our Portfolio Committee. I also want to thank the wisdom of our President, His Excellency, for committing our ministers into signing performance contracts. This is welcome and gives our citizens confidence in ensuring that our ministers are somehow accountable to their principals. I thank you.
HON. BAJILA: On a point of national interest and it is with regards to the continued shortage of health cards at our maternity hospitals throughout the country. Madam Speaker, when children are born, our traditional system is that they are issued a health card, which becomes a record of their growth until they reach the age of six. For the past six months or so, we have had a shortage of these cards throughout the country. This creates a problem Madam Speaker, particularly at a time when we are having challenges in health financing. The problems emanate from the fact that the health cards were an indicator, even to people at family level of the health and the growth trends of our children. Without these cards, it becomes very difficult for the families to be able to trace how the child is growing.
The alternative is that they are now using books like adults and to have to peruse page by page to see how the child is growing, creates more problems, more complexities as opposed to just looking at the graph as it appears on the health card.
The other challenge Madam Speaker, is that there seem to be some workers in the health sector who may have anticipated this shortage and are now selling these health cards on the black market because the young mothers and fathers need them. They will get them. The Government must step in and ensure that the health cards are available to all maternity clinics throughout the country. The problem we are going to have is that in the long run, these cards are going to be continually for sale and it will create problems.
To that end, Madam Speaker, I wish this House to emplore the Ministry of Finance to provide funds to the Ministry of Health and Child Care to ensure that such tools for this resource are made available at every hospital throughout the country. I thank you.
THE HON. DEPUTY SPEAKER: Thank you Hon. Bajila. You have raised a very valid point. However, I advise you to ask a question to the responsible Minister tomorrow or you can raise a motion on that so that all the Hon. Members can debate it.
Unfortunately, Hon. Members, time for a one-minute statement is up.
MOTION
BUSINESS OF THE HOUSE
HON. TOGAREPI: I move that Orders of the Day, Numbers 1 to 10 on today’s Order Paper be stood over until Order of the Day Number 11 has been disposed of. Thank you.
HON. C. MOYO: I second.
Motion put and agreed to.
MOTION
REPORT OF THE PUBLIC ACCOUNTS COMMITTEE ON NON-SUBMISSION OF FINANCIAL STATEMENTS TO THE AUDITOR GENERAL BY SOME LOCAL AUTHORITIES
Eleventh Order read: Adjourned debate on motion on the report of the Public Accounts Committee on non-submission of financial statements to the Auditor General by local authorities.
HON. HWENDE: Thank you very much Hon. Speaker. First and foremost, I want to thank all the Members of Parliament that took part in the debate. I will not be in a position to mention them but all the views, all the points were considered and I would want to thank the whole House for that debate. I now move that this report be adopted by the House;
Motion that this House considers and adopts the Report of the Public Accounts Committee on Non-Submission of Financial Statements to the Auditor-General by some local authorities for the financial year ending 31 December, 2022…
HON. MADZIVANYIKA: On a point of order Madam Speaker.
THE HON. DEPUTY SPEAKER: What is the point of order?
HON. MADZIVANYIKA: Thank you Madam Speaker. I do not remember this motion being debated in this Parliament. I have never missed a single Session of Parliament. I do not know how we can adopt a report which was not even debated in this House. Thank you.
HON. TOGAREPI: Madam Speaker, I think the Hon. Member has just forgotten because this report was debated on 27th. The record is there.
THE HON. DEPUTY SPEAKER: Hon. Members, the record is there. It was debated on 27th of November.
HON. TOGAREPI: It must not have been debated many times. We keep to the mover of the motion, not yourself Hon. Member.
THE HON. DEPUTY SPEAKER: It was debated.
Motion put and adopted.
MOTION
BUSINESS OF THE HOUSE
HON. TOGAREPI: Thank you Madam Speaker. I move that we revert to Order of the Day Number 5 on today’s Order Paper.
HON. MOYO: I second Madam Speaker.
Motion put and agreed to.
MOTION
REPORT OF THE INTER-PARLIAMENTARY UNION (IPU) MEETING AT THE TWENTY-NINTH SESSION OF THE CONFERENCE HELD IN BAKU, AZERBAIJAN
HON. MATEMA: I move the motion standing in my name;
That this House takes note of the Report of the Inter- Parliamentary Union (IPU) meeting held at the Twenty-Ninth Session of the Conference of Parties (COP 29) on 16th and 17th November 2024 in Baku, Azerbaijan.
HON. MATSUNGA: I second Madam Speaker.
HON. MATEMA: Thank you very much Madam Speaker. I rise to present a report of the delegation to the 29th Session of the Conference of Parties to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change. UNFCCC held from the 11th to the 22nd of November 2024 in Baku, Azerbaijan
1.0 Introduction
1.1 The Chairperson of the Portfolio Committee on Environment, Climate and Wildlife, Hon. S. Matema, led a delegation that travelled to Baku, Azerbaijan, to attend the Twenty-Ninth Session of the Conference of the Parties to the United Nation Framework Convention on Climate Change (COP 29) that was held from 11th to 22nd November, 2024. The other Members of the delegation were:
- Sen. Mupfumira Priscah, Chairperson of the Thematic Committee on Climate Change;
- Tsitsi Zhou, Environment, Climate and Wildlife Committee Member;
- Tafanana Zhou, Environment, Climate and Wildlife Committee Member;
- Sen. Tshabangu Sengezo, Thematic Committee on Climate Change Member;
- Sen. Daniel Mackenzie Ncube, Thematic Committee on Climate Change Member;
- Susan Matsunga, Environment, Climate and Wildlife Committee Member;
- John Mazani, Principal Committee Clerk
- Nigel Tobaiwa Mugweni, Security Aide and
- Caroline T. Muyambo, Executive Secretary
2.0 Objectives
- To understand the key negotiation issues on climate change.
- To appreciate diverging views from the negotiations on climate change.
- To identify the key outcomes of the Climate Change COP 29 negotiations, and
- To make policy and legislative recommendations on climate change issues.
3.0 Meetings at the Baku Climate Change Conference
3.1 The Baku Climate Change Conference convened from 11-22 November 2024 in Baku, Azerbaijan. The conference consisted of the 29th Session of the Conference of the Parties (COP) to the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC), the 19th meeting of the Conference of the Parties serving as the Meeting of the Parties to the Kyoto Protocol (CMP 19), the 6th meeting of the Conference of the Parties serving as the Meeting of the Parties to the Paris Agreement (CMA 6), and the 61st sessions of the Subsidiary Body for Scientific and Technological Advice (SBSTA 61) and the Subsidiary Body for Implementation (SBI 61) which the delegation attended.
3.2 The opening of the COP29 World Leaders Climate Action Summit was marked by high-level statements from Heads of State and Government on Tuesday, 12th and Wednesday, 13th November 2025. However, a significant absence underscored the challenges facing international climate action: thirteen leaders from major polluting nations, including the United States, China, Russia, Germany, France, India, Brazil, and South Africa, did not attend. Collectively, these nations are responsible for over 70% of global greenhouse gas emissions, making their participation crucial for meaningful progress in combating climate change.
The recent election in the United States has introduced further uncertainty into the climate negotiations. The President-Elect's public statements have cast doubt on the U.S.'s continued commitment to the Paris Agreement. His previous actions, specifically withdrawing the U.S. from the agreement in 2017, combined with his characterisation of climate action as a "scam" and his stated intention to increase domestic oil production, have raised concerns about potential setbacks in international cooperation. These positions contrast sharply with the urgency and scale of action needed to address the climate crisis.
Adding to the complexities of the negotiations, Argentina withdrew from COP29 early on, with its President dismissing climate change as a "socialist lie." This withdrawal and the dismissive rhetoric surrounding it demonstrate a worrying trend of some nations downplaying or outright rejecting the scientific consensus on climate change, posing a significant obstacle to achieving the goals of the Paris Agreement. The absence of key world leaders and the outright rejection of climate science by other nations highlighted the significant political challenges confronting COP29 and underscored the difficulty of achieving consensus on effective climate action.
3.3 Ministers also delivered their high-level statements on Wednesday, 20 November 2025. During the first week, negotiations were largely conducted under the Subsidiary Bodies (SBs). The Subsidiary Bodies (SBs) are two permanent bodies under the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC). These are Subsidiary Body for Implementation (SBI) and Subsidiary Body for Scientific and Technological Advice (SBSTA).
The SBI focuses on the implementation of climate policies and actions. It deals with issues like mitigation, adaptation, reporting, review processes, financial mechanisms and capacity-building. SBSTA provides scientific and technological advice related to the UNFCCC, the Kyoto Protocol and the Paris Agreement. It assesses the latest scientific findings, technological advancements and methodologies relevant to climate change. These two bodies work together and play a vital role in preparing the agenda and decisions for the annual Conference of the Parties (COP), which is the main decision-making body under the UNFCCC.
The closing plenary of the SBs took place on Saturday, 16 November 2025, during which parties adopted a number of conclusions and forwarded draft texts to the governing bodies for further consideration in the second week. However, on several issues, parties could not reach agreement and therefore the SBs could not forward any text to serve as a basis for further discussions.
4.0 Key Negotiation Issues
4.1 Finance
4.1. 1 New Collective Quantified Goal
Finance discussions were dominated by the crucial issue of the New Collective Quantified Goal (NCQG), intended to set a new post-2025 finance target for developed countries' climate finance contributions to developing countries, building upon the existing USD 100 billion per year floor. Debate raged over the NCQG's structure, with developed countries pushing for a blend of public finance and private investment, while developing countries rejected the private investment component due to existing inequities in accessing such funding. The sheer quantum of the NCQG also proved highly contentious. Developing nations, represented by the G-77/China, called for a staggering USD 1.3 trillion by 2030, while AOSIS and LDCs demanded specific funding allocations for their particularly vulnerable members. Developed countries remained noncommittal on a specific figure, though numbers in the USD 200-300 billion range were informally floated. The final agreement settled on USD 300 billion, a figure far below what developing countries deemed necessary.
The negotiations surrounding the NCQG were fraught with disagreements, particularly concerning the composition of the contributor base for climate finance, the transparency and tracking of these flows, and the very access to these crucial funds. Developed nations sought to expand the contributor base beyond the traditional developed countries, likely aiming to dilute the concept of historical responsibility and potentially lessen their own financial burden. This push was met with resistance from developing countries, notably China, who emphasized the historical responsibility of developed nations for climate change and distinguished South-South cooperation as a separate, voluntary endeavour.
The inclusion of voluntary South-South finance in tracking systems became a point of contention, with developing countries fearing it might be used to reduce pressure on developed countries to fulfil their commitments. Access to climate finance also proved a sticking point, with developing countries voicing concerns about existing barriers hindering their access and calling for streamlined procedures, while developed countries tended to focus on improving existing mechanisms rather than fundamentally overhauling the system. These disagreements reflect a fundamental tension between developed and developing countries regarding responsibility, financial obligations, and the mechanisms for providing and accessing climate finance, highlighting the complexities and challenges in achieving a fair and effective global climate finance architecture.
4.1.2 Long-term Climate Finance
Negotiations surrounding long-term climate finance proved to be a significant point of contention during the negotiations. The existing goal of developed countries mobilising USD 100 billion annually in climate finance, particularly its fulfillment, remained a major point of dispute. Developing countries argued that this goal had not been met and that the reported figures often included inflated or repurposed aid, while developed countries may have presented data suggesting they were on track or had met the target.
The link between the long-term finance work programme and the NCQG was also debated, with developing countries pushing for stronger linkages to ensure adequate financial support for implementing their NDCs.
The role and mandate of the Standing Committee on Finance (SCF), including its very definition of what constitutes "climate finance," were subjected to scrutiny. Developing countries advocated for a broader definition encompassing various forms of support, while developed countries might have preferred a narrower definition focusing on specific climate-related activities. This definitional debate has significant implications for how climate finance flows are measured and reported and ultimately, who is considered a contributor.
Guidance to the Green Climate Fund (GCF) covered several key areas. Streamlining access to GCF funding was a major concern, with developing countries pushing for simplified procedures and more direct access modalities.
Regional balance in funding was also debated, with concerns raised about equitable distribution of GCF resources across different regions. Collaboration with the Climate Technology Centre and Network (CTCN) was another topic, focusing on how to better leverage the CTCN's expertise to support technology transfer and capacity building in developing countries.
The Global Environment Facility (GEF)'s role was also discussed, particularly its support for developing countries in meeting their reporting requirements under the Enhanced Transparency Framework (ETF). The GEF's role in providing finance for loss and damage, an increasingly critical issue, was also on the agenda.
The operationalisation and funding of the newly established Loss and Damage Fund were key topics, generating intense debate. Developing countries pushed for substantial and predictable funding for the fund, while developed countries were cautious, emphasising the need for further discussion on the fund's structure and operational modalities.
The transition and funding of the Adaptation Fund also garnered attention. Discussions revolved around ensuring a stable and predictable funding stream for the fund, including the potential role of proceeds from Article 6.4 mechanism (related to carbon markets) and the crucial importance of doubling adaptation finance by 2025, a commitment made at COP26. Particularly concerning loss and damage and adaptation, underscore the ongoing tensions and competing priorities between developed and developing countries in the global effort to address climate change.
4.1.3 Article 2.1(c) of the Paris Agreement
The negotiations concerning Article 2.1(c) of the Paris Agreement, which focuses on aligning financial flows with low-emission and climate-resilient pathways, revealed several points of contention. A central issue was the relationship between Article 2.1(c) and Article 9, which deals specifically with developed countries' climate finance obligations. The discussions explored whether Article 2.1(c) broadens the scope of financial considerations beyond just the obligated climate finance flows under Article 9. Developing countries argued that 2.1(c) implies a much wider transformation of all financial flows, including private investment, towards climate-friendly activities, thus placing a greater responsibility on developed countries to incentivise and regulate their private sector. Developed countries, on the other hand, preferred a narrower interpretation, linking 2.1(c) more directly to the existing climate finance commitments under Article 9, potentially limiting their perceived obligations regarding private sector involvement.
The role of the private sector in aligning financial flows with climate goals was a key point of debate. Developing countries emphasised the need for clear regulations and incentives to guide private investment towards sustainable projects and prevent greenwashing. They called for developed countries to provide support and capacity building to help them create enabling environments for responsible private sector engagement. Developed countries, while acknowledging the importance of private finance, focused more on market-based mechanisms and voluntary initiatives, potentially resisting binding regulations or significant financial commitments to de-risking private investment in developing countries.
These finance negotiations were characterised by deep-seated disagreements across virtually all major points. The fundamental divide between developed and developing countries shaped the discussions, with developed countries emphasising private investment and expanding the contributor base, while developing countries stressed the primacy of public finance, historical obligations and their specific vulnerabilities. Disagreements on the quantum of finance, the definition of climate finance, the inclusion of South-South finance in tracking, access to finance, funding for loss and damage and the role of the private sector all reflected these underlying tensions. The final outcomes represented compromises, but many developing countries felt their needs, particularly concerning the scale of financial support were not adequately addressed.
4.2 Mitigation
4.2.1 Mitigation Ambition and Implementation Work Programme
Mitigation negotiations at this session centred on several key areas. The Mitigation Ambition and Implementation Work Programme was a major focus, with much discussion about how to align it with the outcomes of the Global Stocktake (GST) and ensure it contributes to the 1.5°C goal. Mitigation Ambition and Implementation Work Programme is a programme established under the UNFCCC to drive urgent action to reduce greenhouse gas emissions in this critical decade. It is meant to help countries increase their ambition in setting emissions reduction targets and to support them in actually implementing the policies and measures needed to achieve those targets. This is more like a platform for sharing best practices, identifying opportunities and addressing challenges related to mitigation. This is important because the world needs to drastically cut emissions to stay on track with the Paris Agreement's goal of limiting warming to well below 2°C, preferably 1.5°C. Hence, this program is a key tool for accelerating progress on that front.
The Global Stocktake is a process under the Paris Agreement where the world collectively assesses its progress towards the long-term goals of the agreement, including mitigation, adaptation and means of implementation. It takes stock of where we are, where we need to be and what needs to be done to close the gap. This is also crucial because the GST provides a comprehensive picture of the global effort to tackle climate change. Its outcomes inform countries' future climate pledges (Nationally Determined Contributions or NDCs) and guide international cooperation. It essentially serves as a health check on the Paris Agreement's effectiveness. If the GST shows that current mitigation efforts are insufficient to meet the 1.5°C goal, the work program would need to focus on how to significantly ramp up ambition and accelerate implementation.
While there was broad agreement on the need for increased ambition, differing views emerged regarding the structure and focus of future Mitigation Ambition and Implementation Work Programme events. Developing countries prefer a "party-driven" approach, meaning they want to have a strong say in setting the agenda and priorities of the work programme. This reflects their concern that developed countries might dominate the process and push for solutions that do not adequately address the needs and concerns of developing countries.
Developed countries wanted the work program to focus on supporting countries in implementing their existing NDCs. This could be seen as a way to ensure that countries follow through on their commitments. These procedural disagreements eventually stalled progress on the work program itself highlighting the challenges in achieving consensus on how to effectively address climate change mitigation.
4.3 Article 6 of the Paris Agreement
Article 6 of the Paris Agreement addresses international cooperation on climate mitigation, exploring both market and non-market mechanisms. Market mechanisms, such as carbon trading, aim to incentivise emissions reductions by allowing those who exceed their targets to sell "credits" to those struggling to meet theirs, theoretically lowering the overall cost of mitigation. Non-market mechanisms, conversely, involve cooperation on climate action without credit trading, encompassing joint projects, technology transfer, and capacity building.
Within Article 6, section 6.2 focuses on cooperative approaches, enabling countries to collaborate on mitigation projects and transfer emission reductions, known as internationally transferred mitigation outcomes (ITMOs). This allows one country to reduce emissions in another and count those reductions towards its own targets. However, this approach faced disagreements concerning the definition of "cooperative approaches," the authorisation and tracking of ITMOs, the handling of reporting inconsistencies, and the design of the international registry for tracking ITMOs, with varying preferences for a robust, centralized system versus a more flexible, decentralised one. Article 6.4 establishes a centralised mechanism, similar to the Kyoto Protocol's Clean Development Mechanism (CDM), where emission reductions from specific projects can be generated and used by countries to meet their targets. Discussions around this mechanism centred on the Supervisory Body's work, the development of rules and procedures, the timing of ITMO authorisations, and the transition of existing CDM projects.
The CDM, a key mechanism under the Kyoto Protocol, allowed developed countries to earn emission reduction credits by investing in projects in developing countries, which they could then use to meet their Kyoto targets.
While the CDM provided valuable experience in project development, emissions accounting and verification, it also faced criticism regarding additionality, environmental integrity and social impacts. In essence, Article 6 seeks to establish frameworks for international cooperation on climate mitigation, including market-based approaches. However, the specifics of these mechanisms, particularly concerning transparency, environmental integrity and their genuine contribution to emissions reductions, are complex and politically sensitive, reflecting the diverse priorities of developed and developing countries.
The framework for Non-Market Approaches (NMAs) under Article 6.8 also saw considerable discussion. While there was agreement on the need for NMAs, differing views arose during the assessment of the programme's first phase and the planning for the second. Developing countries, in particular, emphasised the need to address specific topics and ensure that NMAs effectively support NDC implementation. Nationally Determined Contributions themselves were a topic of discussion, specifically regarding further guidance on their features.
However, parties could not even agree on what constituted an NDC feature, hindering progress on providing further guidance. This disagreement reflected a fundamental tension between the nationally determined nature of NDCs and the desire for greater international oversight and standardisation. While there was a shared understanding of the need for greater mitigation ambition, significant differences persisted regarding the means of achieving it, the role of market mechanisms, the level of international oversight and the specific actions needed in various sectors.
- 4 Adaptation
4.4.1 Global Goal on Adaptation (GGA)
Adaptation negotiations revolved around several key themes. The Global Goal on Adaptation (GGA) was a central point of discussion, particularly the development of indicators to track progress towards its targets. The GGA, a long-term objective under the Paris Agreement, aims to enhance adaptive capacity, strengthen resilience and reduce vulnerability to climate change, though without a specific numerical target like the mitigation goals. Instead, it provides a framework for global action focused on improving the world's ability to cope with climate change effects. While parties agreed on the need for further guidance to the expert group working on indicators, differing views emerged regarding the number and content of these indicators, the balance between global aggregability and context-specific relevance and whether indicators should track means of implementation.
Developing countries strongly advocated for means of implementation indicators, while developed countries generally opposed. Disagreements also arose about the relationship between the GGA and the Global Stocktake (GST), with varying opinions on how GGA reporting should feed into the GST process. Despite these differences, there was progress when additional criteria for the expert group to consider and setting a target for a manageable set of globally applicable indicators was outlined, while also affirming the GGA as a standing agenda item and establishing a high-level dialogue on adaptation.
4.4.2 National Adaptation Plans (NAPs)
National Adaptation Plans (NAPs) were another key area of focus, with discussions centring on how to accelerate their formulation and implementation. NAPs, are the practical tools countries use to achieve the GGA's aims at the national level. Through the NAP process, countries identify their specific climate vulnerabilities, assess associated risks and develop strategies and actions to adapt. NAPs are crucial for understanding adaptation needs, prioritizing actions, accessing funding and promoting a coordinated national approach. NAPs translate the GGA adaptation vision into concrete national plans. However, parties could not reach a consensus on key issues, including the reference to developed countries' obligations to provide means of implementation for NAPs, the role of the private sector in adaptation finance and language on mainstreaming adaptation. This lack of agreement resulted in the matter being deferred for further consideration.
While progress was made in defining GGA indicators and streamlining related processes, disagreements regarding means of implementation, the role of the private sector and procedural matters related to the Adaptation Committee and NAPs hindered progress in other areas. These challenges highlight the ongoing need for consensus-building and compromise to effectively address the growing adaptation needs of vulnerable countries.
4.4.3 Loss and damage
Negotiations on loss and damage at this session focused on the Warsaw International Mechanism and the Santiago Network. The Warsaw International Mechanism, established in 2013, serves as the overarching framework for addressing the impacts of climate change that exceed adaptation limits. Loss and damage encompasses irreversible harms, such as displacement from sea-level rise or the destruction of infrastructure by extreme weather events. The WIM recognises the reality of these impacts and provides a platform for international cooperation to enhance knowledge, foster dialogue and support action on loss and damage.
The Santiago Network, launched in 2019, functions as the operational arm of the Warsaw International Mechanism. Its purpose is to provide technical assistance to developing countries, enabling them to effectively address loss and damage. The Santiago Network connects vulnerable nations with the expertise and resources necessary to assess risks, develop strategies and implement measures to minimise and address these unavoidable impacts. Therefore, the Santiago Network is integral to the WIM's success, translating the framework's goals into tangible support for countries on the front lines of climate change impacts.
Parties considered the joint annual report of the Warsaw International Mechanism Executive Committee and the Santiago Network, welcoming progress in operationalising the Network. However, calls were made for swift establishment of regional offices, particularly in Africa and for the delivery of outstanding pledges to the Network, distinct from funding for the Loss and Damage Fund. Despite identifying potential areas of agreement, such as regional offices and coherence among loss and damage bodies, the African Group's objection prevented the Subsidiary Bodies (SBs) from forwarding a joint note capturing the progress. This issue was then deferred to a future SB session.
The 2024 review of the Warsaw International Mechanism itself generated considerable discussion. Many parties expressed disappointment with the WIM's performance, describing it as "low-ambition and insufficient." Developing countries criticized Warsaw International Mechanism’s outputs as inaccessible and suggested strengthening bottom-up approaches with greater involvement of practitioners, local communities and Indigenous Peoples. Proposals included annual reports on loss and damage needs and gaps.
Discussions in the SBs and in informal consultations covered increasing the accessibility of Warsaw International Mechanism knowledge products, enhancing coordination among relevant bodies, the potential for regular reports on the global state of loss and damage, and the work of expert groups and national contact points. However, no agreement could be reached on these substantive issues.
A key procedural disagreement arose during Presidency consultations regarding the governance of the Warsaw International Mechanism. Some parties, like the EU and the US, maintained that the Warsaw International Mechanism fell under the CMA's authority alone, while others, including G-77/China, argued for joint governance by both the COP and Conference of the Parties serving as the Meeting of the Parties to the Paris Agreement (CMA). This disagreement remained unresolved, leading parties to continue the practice of including a footnote clarifying that decisions did not prejudge the ongoing discussions on governance. Despite these challenges, the CMA did adopt a decision welcoming the ExCom's progress and adopting the rules of procedure for the Santiago Network's Advisory Board. The SBs were requested to continue considering the joint annual report and the Warsaw International Mechanism review, aiming to recommend a draft decision for consideration by the governing body or bodies at a future session. The COP endorsed the CMA’s decision.
4.5 Global Stocktake
Discussions surrounding the Global Stocktake (GST) centred on implementing its outcomes and improving the GST process itself. The Global Stocktake (GST) is a cornerstone of the Paris Agreement, serving as a comprehensive evaluation of the world's collective progress in addressing climate change. It functions as a periodic assessment, examining global efforts across mitigation, adaptation and the provision of support to developing nations. The GST's primary objective is to gauge progress toward the Paris Agreement's long-term goals, including limiting global temperature rise, enhancing resilience and aligning financial flows with climate-friendly pathways. By meticulously analysing these efforts, the GST identifies critical gaps and areas where action falls short, highlighting where increased ambition and accelerated implementation are necessary. Crucially, the GST's findings inform the development of future Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs), empowering countries to strengthen their climate pledges based on a clear understanding of current progress and required action.
The GST enables the world to collectively assess its climate action, learn from both successes and shortcomings, and continuously enhance efforts to combat the climate crisis. It is an essential component of the Paris Agreement's ambition cycle, driving a continuous process of improvement and ensuring that global efforts remain aligned with the urgent need for climate action.
A key point of contention was the dialogue on implementing GST outcomes. Parties strongly diverged on the dialogue's scope, with some, particularly the Arab Group and African Group, arguing that it should focus solely on finance, given its placement in the finance section of the GST decision. Developed countries advocated for a broader scope, encompassing all GST outcomes not already addressed by existing bodies, citing mitigation, particularly the energy transition package, as a key area needing attention.
Modalities for the dialogue also sparked debate, with a preference for a focused set of inputs to avoid replicating the GST itself. Ultimately, despite a draft decision being introduced, it failed to gain consensus, with several parties expressing strong reservations about its content and perceived shortcomings. These disagreements, along with other procedural issues, prevented the CMA from adopting a decision, leading to the matter being referred to a future SB session.
4.6 Technology Transfer and Development and Capacity Building
4.6.1 Technology Executive Committee and Climate Technology Centre and Network
Discussions related to technology transfer, development, and capacity building, covered several interconnected areas. The joint annual report of the Technology Executive Committee (TEC) and Climate Technology Centre and Network (CTCN) was considered, with parties welcoming the enhanced collaboration between the two bodies. The Technology Executive Committee (TEC) and the Climate Technology Centre and Network (CTCN) are two interconnected bodies established under the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) to promote and accelerate the development and transfer of climate technologies.
The TEC serves as the policy arm, analysing technology needs and recommending policies to support the development and diffusion of climate-friendly technologies. It identifies barriers to technology transfer and suggests ways to overcome them, providing guidance to the broader climate negotiations on technology-related issues. Essentially, the TEC acts as a think tank and advisory body on climate technology.
The CTCN, on the other hand, is the operational arm, putting the TEC's policy recommendations into action. It provides direct support to developing countries, helping them identify their technology needs, access information and expertise, and implement climate technology projects. The CTCN acts as a bridge, connecting developing countries with technology providers and facilitating the transfer of knowledge and know-how.
While the TEC focuses on policy analysis and recommendations, the CTCN focuses on practical implementation and capacity building. They work in tandem, with the TEC informing the CTCN's activities and the CTCN's on-the-ground experience feeding back into the TEC's policy work. Together, they play a crucial role in accelerating the development and transfer of technologies needed to address climate change.
A key outcome was the decision to review the functions and potentially extend the term of the CTCN at a future COP and CMA, taking into account various reviews and assessments. The SBI was tasked with initiating this review process. The ongoing discussion on linkages between the Technology Mechanism and the Financial Mechanism continued, focusing on strengthening collaboration and cooperation between the two. However, despite discussions, parties could not reach a consensus on a request for a technical report consolidating information and data on these linkages, particularly regarding support from the GEF and GCF for technology needs assessments. This matter was deferred to a future SBI session.
4.6.2 Poznan strategic programme on technology transfer
The Poznan Strategic Programme on Technology Transfer represents an international effort under the UNFCCC to accelerate the transfer of environmentally sound technologies to developing countries. Originating from the 2008 climate conference in Poznan, Poland, the program focuses specifically on facilitating access to technologies that support both climate change mitigation and adaptation. Recognising that developing nations often encounter significant barriers to acquiring and implementing these crucial technologies, such as financial constraints, limited access to information, and capacity gaps, the Poznan Strategic Programme aims to provide targeted support to overcome these challenges.
The programme encompasses several key elements, including Technology Needs Assessments (TNAs) to help developing countries pinpoint their specific technology requirements, the establishment of the Climate Technology Centres and Network (CTCN) to provide on-the-ground technical assistance, the implementation of pilot projects to demonstrate the effectiveness of priority technologies, and the fostering of public-private partnerships to leverage private sector expertise and investment. The Global Environment Facility (GEF) plays a vital role in funding and implementing the Poznan Strategic Programme, ensuring its objectives are translated into tangible action.
Regarding the Poznan strategic programme on technology transfer, which has seen many of its activities completed, discussions aimed to take stock of progress, successes and lessons learned. Parties debated whether to continue the agenda item, the implications of closing it and the possibility of extending the program. A key focus was how to capture lessons learned to inform the operationalization of the newly established technology implementation programme (TIP). Ultimately, the COP requested a report evaluating the Poznan program for consideration at a future SBI session, aiming to inform the TIP and support implementation of technology-related activities in developing countries.
4.6.3 Technology implementation programme
The Technology Implementation Programme, a fresh initiative emerging from the first Global Stocktake under the Paris Agreement in 2023, represents a significant shift towards a more action-oriented approach to climate technology. Recognising that access to and transfer of technology are insufficient on their own, this programme prioritises the actual implementation of climate-friendly technologies, particularly within developing countries. It aims to bridge the gap between planning and execution, focusing on translating identified technology needs into tangible projects and on-the-ground action. Crucially, the programme is designed to directly support developing countries in implementing the technology priorities they have already articulated in various planning documents, including their Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs), Technology Needs Assessments (TNAs), National Adaptation Plans (NAPs) and Long-term Low-emission Development Strategies (LT-LEDS).
Furthermore, the Technology Implementation Programme seeks to address persistent challenges that have hampered effective technology implementation in the past, such as resource constraints for the Technology Mechanism, difficulties in measuring the impact of technology initiatives, and insufficient follow-up on technical assistance provided by the Climate Technology Centre and Network (CTCN). While still in its nascent stages, the programme signals a move towards a more results-driven approach, emphasising concrete outcomes and prioritising support for developing countries in their implementation efforts. Future climate conferences are expected to further define the programme's activities and operational modalities, solidifying its role in accelerating the deployment of climate technologies worldwide.
The technology implementation programme (TIP) itself was a major topic. Negotiations centred on the TIP's modalities and governing arrangements. While there was general agreement on including in-session dialogues, differing views emerged on their number, topics and how to ensure the programme's effectiveness. Some parties proposed a multi-faceted approach with global and regional dialogues, an implementation accelerator and national innovation hubs, while others suggested leveraging existing bodies like the TEC and CTCN. Disagreements also arose regarding the TIP's governing body, with some advocating for CMA oversight and others for joint COP and CMA governance. Despite these differences, the CMA launched a process for elaborating the TIP and requested the SBI to further consider the matter, using a non-consensus draft text as a basis, to recommend a decision for adoption at a future CMA session.
4.6.4 Paris Committee on Capacity-building
The Paris Committee on Capacity-building (PCCB) is a crucial body established under the Paris Agreement to address the critical need for capacity building in developing countries as they tackle climate change. Recognising that effective climate action requires strong national capacities, the PCCB plays a key role in supporting developing countries in enhancing their abilities to implement the Paris Agreement. This includes strengthening their institutional frameworks, developing technical expertise and improving access to information and resources.
The PCCB works to identify capacity gaps and needs, and then facilitates the provision of support to address those needs. It acts as a coordinating body, connecting developing countries with relevant organisations and initiatives that can provide capacity-building assistance. The PCCB also promotes knowledge sharing and best practices, helping countries learn from each other and accelerate their capacity development efforts. Essentially, the PCCB serves as a central hub for capacity building related to climate change, working to ensure that developing countries have the necessary skills and resources to effectively participate in the global effort to address climate change. The negotiations on PCCB underscored the importance of capacity building for effective climate action and aimed to strengthen its role in supporting developing countries.
5.0 Key outcomes of COP 29
5.1 New Collective Quantified Goal on Climate Finance
After two difficult weeks of negotiations, the Baku Climate Change Conference delivered a disappointing agreement for many negotiating blocks. The agreement is a new collective quantified goal (NCQG) on climate finance. The NCQG decision calls on all actors to work together to scale up financing to developing countries for climate action from all public and private sources to at least USD 1.3 trillion per year by 2035. It sets a goal of: at least USD 300 billion per year by 2035 for developing countries’ climate action from a wide variety of sources—public and private, bilateral and multilateral, including alternative sources—and with developed countries taking the lead. Developing countries are encouraged to make contributions on a voluntary basis.
In the context of the NCQG, parties further agreed to pursue efforts to at least triple annual outflows from the key climate funds from 2022 levels by 2030 at the latest. The decision also acknowledges the need for public and grant-based resources and highly concessional finance, particularly for adaptation and responding to loss and damage, especially for those most vulnerable to the adverse effects of climate change and with significant capacity constraints, such as the least developed countries (LDCs) and small island developing states (SIDS).
Negotiations towards the definition of this new goal, which is an extension of the USD 100 billion per year by 2020 goals were tense.
Developed countries urged expanding the contributor base to include other parties in a position to contribute. Developing countries called for a higher quantum, with some calling for specific targets on the provision of public finance and the mobilisation of finance, and LDCs and SIDS calling for minimum allocation floors for their groups.
5.2 Market-Based Cooperative Implementation Operationalisation
Another major outcome was the operationalisation of the market-based cooperative implementation of the Paris Agreement (Articles 6.2 and 6.4). Parties had been negotiating the modalities for setting up the Agreement’s carbon markets for many years, with the aim to ensure that activities thereunder effectively deliver an overall mitigation in global emissions and comply with agreed-upon environmental safeguards, monitoring and reporting provisions. The expectation is that this will support progress toward the goals of the Paris Agreement in a cost-efficient manner.
However, parties could not reach agreement on a range of issues, including:
- the dialogue on the implementation of the outcomes of the Global Stocktake (GST);
- the just transition work programme;
- linkages between the Technology Mechanism and the Financial Mechanism;
- the report on the annual dialogue on the GST informing NDC preparation; and
- procedural and logistical elements of the overall GST process.
Many groups and countries expressed their disappointment over the fact that no agreement was found in Baku, especially considering the importance of the next round of NDCs, to be submitted in 2025, to avoid overshooting the 1.5°C goal.
6.0 Observations
The Baku Climate Change Conference presented several key observations;
- Negotiations highlighted the persistent and deep-seated divide between developed and developing nations, particularly concerning climate finance. The protracted discussions around the New Collective Quantified Goal and long-term climate finance demonstrated the challenges in securing adequate and predictable financial support for developing countries' climate action.
- Debates surrounding Article 2.1(c) and the role of the private sector underscored the need for clear national policies and regulations to guide private investment towards climate-friendly activities and prevent greenwashing.
- The complexities of Article 6 negotiations, dealing with market and non-market mechanisms, highlight the need for capacity building and expertise within the Parliament to understand and engage with these intricate issues. The Parliament should invest in developing its own understanding of carbon markets and other cooperative approaches to ensure Zimbabwe can effectively participate in and benefit from these mechanisms.
- Discussions on adaptation, particularly concerning the Global Goal on Adaptation and National Adaptation Plans, emphasise the importance of prioritising adaptation planning and implementation at the national level.
- The challenges faced by the Warsaw International Mechanism and the Santiago Network in addressing loss and damage underscore the need for continued advocacy for dedicated and accessible funding for loss and damage.
- Finally, the disagreements surrounding the Global Stocktake implementation dialogue highlight the importance of Zimbabwe to actively participating in the GST process and advocating for its outcomes to be translated into concrete action, particularly in areas like finance and technology transfer.
7.0 Recommendations
- The Ministry of Environment, Climate and Wildlife should report all international climate finance inflows to Parliament for scrutiny to ensure transparency in reporting and advocating for Zimbabwe's fair share of available resources by 31st December 2025.
- Ministry of Environment, Climate and Wildlife should play a proactive role in developing a framework on private investment towards climate-friendly activities, balancing the need to attract private investment with the imperative of environmental integrity and sustainable development by 31st December 2025.
- Parliament should conduct a capacity building workshop for Hon. Members on market and non-market mechanisms to help legislators to understand and engage with these intricate issues by 31st August 2025.
- Parliament should allocate sufficient budgetary resources to the Ministry of Environment, Climate and Wildlife towards the implementation of NAPs and oversee that they are aligned with national development priorities and effectively address Zimbabwe's specific vulnerabilities to climate change by 31st December 2025.
- Parliament should join other developing countries in calling for developed nations to fulfill their funding for loss and damage commitments to support vulnerable countries in dealing with the irreversible impacts of climate change by 31st December 2025.
8.0 Conclusion
The Baku Climate Change Conference, while achieving some progress in areas like operationalising carbon markets and setting a new climate finance goal, ultimately revealed significant and persistent divisions between developed and developing countries. These divisions centred primarily on issues of finance, including the scale and source of funding, the definition of climate finance and access mechanisms. Disagreements also arose regarding the role of the private sector, the scope of mitigation efforts and the mechanisms for addressing loss and damage. While the conference produced some agreements, many developing countries felt their core concerns, particularly regarding the adequacy of financial support and the need for greater equity in the climate regime were not sufficiently addressed.
The conference highlighted the ongoing tension between developed and developing nations, underscoring the challenges in achieving a truly collaborative and equitable approach to tackling climate change. Moving forward, bridging this divide and ensuring that the needs and priorities of developing countries are adequately reflected in future climate negotiations will be crucial for achieving the goals of the Paris Agreement. I thank you.
HON. MATSUNGA: Thank you Madam Speaker Ma’am for giving me this opportunity to debate. I rise to express my sincere gratitude to our delegation led by the Speaker of Parliament, Hon Adv. J. F. N. Mudenda for representing our nation at the recently held global climate conference, COP29 in Baku, Azerbaijan. Climate change has become a pressing issue that demands our collective attention. It is essential that we engage with the international community to address this global challenge.
The devastating effects of climate change are being felt season after season and it is impressive that there are measures to sustain life, particularly in the face of these conditions. As a nation, we must acknowledge the importance of adapting to the realities of climate change and work towards preserving our planet for future generations. Regrettably, global powers demonstrate a lack of commitment to addressing climate change as evidenced by their tendency to renege on agreements. Nevertheless, we must remain resolute in our pursuit of the climate action and continue to push for the meaningful progress.
In our own country, we have witnessed first hand effects of climate change last year. We experienced a severe El Nino induced drought which significantly impacted crop production and resulted in the loss of livestock. This year we are facing above normal rainfall which poses a new set of challenges. The predicament of climate change is a stark reminder of the need for adaptation. During our visit to Gonarezhou National Park, we observed the difficulties faced by our wildlife which affects our tourism industry. This highlighted the far-reaching consequences of climate on our economy.
In conclusion, I firmly believe that it is essential to incorporate climate change education into our schools curriculum focusing on the effects of adaptation and mitigation strategies by imparting our children with knowledge which can inspire a new generation on climate leaders who would drive positive change and ensure sustainable future to our planet.
I urge my fellow Hon. Members to join me in emphasising the importance of climate action, in supporting initiatives in promoting environmental sustainability. Together, we can make a difference and create a better future for our generation to come. I thank you.
HON. MUROMBEDZI: I would like to thank the Chairperson of the Committee on Environment for this report. Today, I rise to address the grave injustices highlighted at COP29 in Baku, Azerbaijan. Once again, the world’s most vulnerable nations were left demanding real action while the biggest polluters evaded responsibility. The climate crises are not a distant threat as was highlighted in the report. It is happening now. The signs are clear, the planet must not exceed 1.5˚C of the global warming yet the outcomes of COP29 showed that we are heading in the wrong direction. Meanwhile, the developed nations continue to dictate climate policies that leave countries like Zimbabwe at a disadvantage.
Africa is not just a victim in this crisis. We hold the key to the global green transition that has been reported in the report. Our continent is home to the critical minerals needed for renewable energy technologies and if managed well, this represents a transformative opportunity for economic growth but we must not allow history to repeat itself. Africa’s resources must not be exploited for the benefit of others while our people remain poor.
The climate injustice exposed it at COP29 revealed how deep the divide remains between the developed and the developing nations. Absence of major polluters: thirteen leaders from the world’s biggest emitters. How can we expect meaningful progress when those most responsible for the crisis refuse to take part? I am going to premise my debate on the opportunities there are for Africa, climate justice and Africa’s strategic role in the green transition. The recently concluded COP 29 in Baku, Azerbaijan, once again exposed the deep-rooted inequalities in climate negotiations. While developed nations continue to pollute the planet, it is countries like Zimbabwe that bear the greatest consequences; droughts, floods, food insecurity and economic instability as was highlighted by the seconder of the motion, Hon. Matsunga. Yet amidst this crisis, Africa stands on the brink of a historical opportunity. The world is transitioning to clean energy and Africa holds the critical minerals needed to power this transition.
The global demand for renewable energy technologies, electric vehicles and battery storage systems is skyrocketing. These industries heavily rely on lithium, cobalt, nickel, graphite and many rare earth elements - minerals that are abundantly found in Zimbabwe and across Africa. This presents a historic economic opportunity for our country and continent but only if managed strategically.
Africa’s Wealth in Critical Minerals
Madam Speaker, the world cannot transition to clean energy without Africa. Our continent possesses 70% of the world’s Cobalt reserves (mainly in the DRC and Zambia) 40% of global manganese (key batteries), 30% of the world’s bauxite (used for aluminum production. Significant lithium reserves – Zimbabwe alone is among the top 10 lithium producers globally. This means that the global green transition depends on African resources. But this has taught us painful lessons. Having resources is not enough if they are extracted cheaply and exported raw, leaving our people in poverty. If managed wisely, this could be the catalyst for economic independence, industrialisation and a stronger global standing for Africa. However, without climate justice and fair trade agreements, we risk becoming mere suppliers while wealthier nations reap the rewards of green technology. This House must ensure that Zimbabwe does not repeat history. The future is in our hands but only if we take control of our resources and demand our rightful place in the global economy.
The Climate Crisis and the Injustice of COP 29
Madam Speaker, in order for us to understand the climate crisis. Let us first understand fully the injustice that is at the centre of the climate crisis. The injustice is that the least polluting countries are bearing the full brunt of climate crisis as was highlighted by Hon. Matsunga. The world has committed to limiting global warming to 1.5 degrees celcius yet COP 29 showed us that this goal is slipping away due to: broken climate finance promises as has been highlighted in the report, where developed nations pledged $1.3 trillion per year by 2030 to support developing nations yet the final agreement settled on a mere $300 billion, most of it tied to private loans instead of grants. Hypocrisy in emissions reduction while African nations are being pushed to decarbonize, the biggest polluters continue expanding their fossil fuel projects. Delays in the loss and damage fund – Zimbabwe and other vulnerable countries suffer climate- induced disasters yet the promised funds remain under discussion rather than implementation.
This is climate injustice. The nations most responsible for the crisis must be held accountable and must pay their climate debt.
Africa’s Strategic Role in the Green Transition
Despite this injustice, Africa holds the key to the future of clean energy. If the world wants to move away from fossil fuels it cannot do so without Africa. This places us in a strong bargaining position but only if we use it wisely.
Opportunities for Zimbabwe and Africa in the Green Economy
We must move beyond just supplying raw materials and instead maximise economic opportunities from the green transition. Here is how:
Strategic Trade Agreements and Climate Finance – The world is in a race for critical minerals but Zimbabwe must not allow itself to be exploited. We must negotiate fair trade agreements where minerals are exchanged for infrastructure, technology and long-term investments not just cash. Push for climate finance reforms, ensuring that funding for green projects in Africa comes as grants and investments not high interest loans.
Demand technology transfers so that Zimbabwe can develop its own green industries rather than relying on foreign expertise. Environmental protection and community benefits, mining from green energy must be sustainable. We cannot replace one form of environmental destruction with another. Mining projects must include strict environmental regulations to prevent land degradation and protect water sources. Revenue from mining must be reinvested into rural development, ensuring local communities benefit from the resources on their land. We must establish a green industrial fund to support Zimbabwean companies in clean energy innovation and manufacturing. In terms of strengthening regional cooperation Africa must act together to avoid being exploited. Zimbabwe must work with the African Union to create a unified strategy for mineral trade preventing underpricing and resource exploitation. Develop regional clean energy partnerships so that lithium from Zimbabwe. Cobalt from DRC and manufacturing expertise from South Africa can create a fully African battery supply chain.
In conclusion, the world is changing and Zimbabwe must not be left behind. We stand at a crossroads where we can either take control of our resources or allow history to repeat itself where others profit from our wealth while our people remain poor. Africa has been ignored in climate negotiations for too long, yet without our resources the green transition cannot happen. This gives us leverage but only if we demand a fair-treatment, investment in our own industries and take control of our economic future. Let this Parliament be remembered as the one that secured Zimbabwe’s rightful place in the green economy. Let us not be just suppliers of raw materials but let us be the ones who shape the future. I thank you.
HON. TOGAREPI: I move that the debate be now adjourned.
HON. C. MOYO: I second.
Motion put and agreed to.
Debate to resume: Wednesday, 26th March, 2025.
MOTION
BUSINESS OF THE HOUSE
HON. TOGAREPI: Madam Speaker, I move that we proceed to Motion Number 6.
HON. MUJEYI: I want to move motion number 6 on behalf of Hon. J Tshuma.
HON. MAKUMIRE: I second.
THE HON. DEPUTY SPEAKER: I am being advised that if you want to move the motion on behalf of another member who is not in the House. That Hon. Member should write a letter to the Clerk. In your case, the Clerk did not receive the letter. So, you cannot move the motion on behalf of Hon. Tshuma unless the letter has been received by the Clerk.
HON. MUJEYI: Madam Speaker, I am aware that the letter was sent to the Clerk.
THE HON. DEPUTY SPEAKER: Hon. Government Chief Whip, I advise you to speak to the Clerk.
HON. TOGAREPI: Madam Speaker, the Clerk insisted that he did not receive the letter. So, we can leave that business and go to the next Order.
MOTION
BUSINESS OF THE HOUSE
HON. TOGAREPI: Madam Speaker, I move that all other Orders of the Day be stood over until Order of the Day Number 4 has been disposed of.
HON. C. MOYO: I second.
Motion put and agreed to.
MOTION
IMPLEMENTATION OF A COMPREHENSIVE SIGN LANGUAGE POLICY ACROSS ALL PUBLIC HEALTHCARE FACILITIES
HON. MAKOPE: Madam Speaker, I move the motion standing in my name that this House: -
COGNISANT of the linguistic diversity in Zimbabwe and the significant impact that language can have on the quality of healthcare services particularly on the deaf community;
ACKNOWLEDGING the critical role that communication plays between healthcare providers and patients;
NOTING with concern the challenges that the deaf community faces owing to the absence of sign language interpretation services in the country’s health facilities;
NOW THEREFORE calls upon the Ministry of Health and Child Care to:
- to implement a comprehensive sign language policy across all public healthcare facilities in the country by June 2025; and
- b) incorporate sign language interpretation services in medical training programmes to mitigate communication challenges faced by the deaf community in Zimbabwe.
HON. C. MOYO: I second.
HON. MAKOPE: Madam Speaker, I rise to move a motion on a matter of critical importance, the right to interpreter services for the deaf in Zimbabwe's healthcare system. The right to health is not only a fundamental human right but also a critical indicator of human development and economic growth. It is our duty as legislators to ensure that every Zimbabwean, regardless of their hearing ability, enjoys full access to health services. Let me begin by acknowledging the solemn provision enshrined in our nation's supreme law, the Constitution of Zimbabwe, which unequivocally mandates the provision of inclusive and non-discriminatory healthcare services to all citizens. As legislators, it is our constitutional and legal obligation to uphold these rights, ensure that every Zimbabwean has equitable access to essential services, regardless of their physical abilities or linguistic needs.
Today's motion speaks directly to that commitment, particularly for the deaf community, whose right to access healthcare continues to face significant barriers. The Constitution of Zimbabwe, in Section 76 provides a foundational guarantee of the right to healthcare for every citizen. It states that “every citizen and permanent resident of Zimbabwe has the right to have access to basic healthcare services, including productive healthcare services”.
This right is universal, encompassing every individual without exception. It calls on us to ensure that no one, regardless of their circumstances is deprived of essential medical care. Moreover, our Constitution's dedication to language inclusivity is embedded in Section 6, which recognises Sign Language as one of Zimbabwe's officially recognised languages. This inclusion affirms the State's broader dedication to ensure that all citizens, including the deaf, can communicate effectively in all spheres of life. The Constitution states, that “the State and all institutions, agencies of Government at every level must ensure that all officially recognised languages are treated equally and that measures are taken to promote their use”.
This speaks to a clear commitment to the principle of linguistic equity, which in the healthcare context means ensuring that deaf citizens have access to interpreter services so they can communicate with medical professionals and fully understand the care they are receiving. Furthermore, Section 22 of the Constitution emphasises the rights of persons with disabilities, stating, “the State and all institutions and agencies of Government of every level must recognise the rights of persons with physical or mental disabilities, particularly their right to be treated with respect and dignity”.
It calls for the State to take appropriate measures to ensure that the needs of persons with disabilities, including those who are deaf, are addressed comprehensively in every sector, including healthcare. Madam Speaker, let me also cement that the right to health is not merely a domestic legal obligation, it is a universal principle embedded in numerous international and continental frameworks to which Zimbabwe is committed signatory. These included the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, the International Covenant on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights, the United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disability and the African Charter on Human and People’s Rights.
Each of these frameworks mandates the removal of barriers that hinder persons with disabilities from fully accessing their right to health. In our context, this translates directly into the need for interpreter services within healthcare settings. Madam Speaker, regardless of the international and domestic frameworks, the deaf community in Zimbabwe faces profound and persist in challenges in accessing healthcare services due to the absence of sign language interpreters. Without qualified interpreters, there exist a significant communication barrier between healthcare providers and deaf patients, leading to dangerous consequences such as misdiagnosis, mistrust and substandard healthcare outcome. Imagine the stress of a deaf patient unable to convey their symptoms accurately or a doctor failing to communicate diagnosis or treatment plan effectively.
This communication breakdown compromises the quality of care and alienates an entire segment of our population from their fundamental rights to health.
According to the Zimbabwe National Statistics Agency, approximately 11% of the disabled population in Zimbabwe is afflicted with hearing impairments. These statistics, combined with the broader disability demographics, 31% with physical disability, 24% with visual impairments, paint a picture of a healthcare system that is struggling to meet the needs of its most vulnerable. Let me also add that the World Health Organisation (WHO) has projected that by 2050, nearly 2.5 billion people globally will experience some degree of hearing loss, with 700 million requiring rehabilitative care. Zimbabwe cannot afford to ignore this impending crisis.
For the deaf community, the lack of interpreter services leaves them stranded, often forced to rely on untrained family members or friends to act as interpreters, further eroding their privacy and trust in the health care process.
Madam Speaker, the gap in our constitutional status is precisely where we might begin if we are to effectively provide interpreter services with the Zimbabwe health care system, while the right to healthcare is enshrined in Sections 29 and 76 of the Constitution of Zimbabwe, Amendment Number 20 and further reinforced by sections 81, 82 and 83, there remains a glaring omission concerning the language accessibility. Section 29 mandates that the State must take all practical measures to ensure the provision of basic, accessible, and adequate health services throughout Zimbabwe, emphasising the way it must underline the binding nature of this obligation. The same section also insists that no person is denied emergency medical treatment and calls for preventive measures such as public education and awareness programmes.
However, critical analysis of these provisions reveals a significant shortfall. There is no explicit reference to language or communication methods suitable for people with a disability. The term accessible in section 29 (1), appears to primarily denote physical accessibility and affordability without encompassing the critical aspect of linguistic and communicative accessibility.
This oversight becomes specifically apparent when considering that the legislative instruments intended to actualise the constitutional right to healthcare remain silent on the issue of language services, such as an interpreter or a translator for the deaf community.
Therefore, there is an urgent need to enact supplementary legislation that explicitly defines accessibility in a way that includes the right to healthcare services and information in a language and forms of communication suitable for all individuals, including those with disabilities. Such legislative measures would provide a concrete constitutional foundation for interpreter services, ensuring that no person is denied their fundamental right to understand and be understood in healthcare settings. As it stands, the current provision lacks the legal clarity necessary to guarantee this critical aspect of healthcare access for our deaf and hearing-impaired population.
Madam Speaker, gaps are not only found in our Constitution, but there are fundamental deficiencies in international frameworks, and the Sustainable Development Goals, particularly SDG 3, lie in the stark omission of language accessibility in healthcare settings. A critical oversight that profoundly impacts our deaf citizens, while SDG 3 ambitiously aims to ensure healthy lives, and promote well-being for all, SDG 10 seeks to reduce inequalities, neither explicitly addresses language as a fundamental determinant of healthcare access, particularly concerning sign language interpretation services.
The United Nations Convention on the Human Rights of Persons with Disabilities, despite advocating for accessibility, fails to establish concrete enforcement of standards for language access in medical settings.
The legal rights to language access in healthcare interpretations remain ambiguous in both international and continental policy frameworks, yet it constitutes an absolute precondition for meaningful, understanding and effective healthcare delivery. The World Federation of Deaf reports that approximately 80% of the world's 70 million deaf people face significant barriers in accessing basic healthcare due to language barriers and the absence of qualified medical interpreters.
This gap has resulted in life-threatening miscommunications, delayed diagnosis and compromised medical care. The use of relevant languages and forms of communication suitable for people with disabilities, particularly sign language for the deaf community, must be addressed as an urgent priority in guaranteeing the fundamental human rights to healthcare access. This situation demands immediate legislative intervention to ensure that language rights are explicitly recognised and protected within our healthcare system.
Madam Speaker, we must establish interpreter services in our healthcare system without further delay. By doing so, we honour our national and global obligations and ensure that the deaf community in Zimbabwe is no longer left behind in their pursuit of accessible, dignified and equitable healthcare.
Hon. Speaker, to dismantle the communication barrier faced by our deaf community, I urge the Ministry of Health and ChildCare to embed comprehensive sign language training within the core curriculum of all medical and healthcare training programmes.
This initiative would go beyond mere basics. It must include advanced modules on medical sign language, focusing on healthcare-specific terminology to ensure accuracy in patient-provider exchanges.
Furthermore, training should encompass cultural competencies and effective communication strategies tailored to the unique needs of the deaf patients. Such a curriculum will prepare our future healthcare providers not only to communicate but to empathise, to approach deaf patients with an understanding of their experiences and challenges.
This depth of training is vital for creating a more inclusive, equitable healthcare environment that respects linguistic delivery as well as cultural aspects of the deaf community. Madam Speaker, through this policy, Zimbabwe can cultivate a medical workforce that is not only medically proficient but culturally competent and responsive to the needs of all citizens, regardless of their hearing ability.
This initiative will also reflect Zimbabwe's commitment to uphold human rights standards set by international frameworks, positioning our country as a leader in accessible and inclusive healthcare. By equipping our healthcare providers with these essential skills, we take a significant step towards a health system that truly saves and values every Zimbabwean.
Madam Speaker, there is also a pressing need for a national sign language policy. In Zimbabwe's healthcare sector, it is our responsibility to ensure that deaf patients in Zimbabwe receive the same quality of healthcare as other citizens, free from barriers that have long hindered their access to critical health information and services. The Ministry of Health and Child Care must lead the way in creating a comprehensive, inclusive sign language policy across all public healthcare facilities, a policy that should be fully implemented by June 2025. This policy would mandate the presence of qualified professional sign language interpreters within healthcare settings to guarantee that deaf patients can fully understand every aspect of their medical journey from diagnosis and treatment options to follow-up care and health advice.
In developing this policy, Madam Speaker, we can look to other African countries that have already taken significant strides in improving healthcare access to their deaf communities. South Africa, for instance, has successfully introduced interpreter services in key hospitals supported by state funding which has greatly provided healthcare access for the deaf. Similarly, Kenya has made sign language interpretation a standard feature in selected health facilities in their major urban centres, ensuring that interpreters are on call and incorporated into standard healthcare protocols.
This policy for Zimbabwe should include standardised protocols across all healthcare facilities, guarantee interpreters are consistently available, medical proficient and bound by the highest standard of confidentiality and professionalism. Additionally, Madam Speaker, to sustain the quality of service we must include a system for continuous training and evaluation of interpreters. This would involve building a centralised database of certified personnel and establishing a feedback mechanism for deaf patients to report any issues, thus fostering accountability and ensuring their voices are heard.
Madam Speaker, adopting a national sign language policy would be a monumental step towards achieving truly inclusive, equitable healthcare in Zimbabwe, setting an example across the continent and honouring our commitment to uphold the fundamental rights of every Zimbabwean. Another essential element in addressing the needs of Zimbabwe's deaf community and indeed all persons with disabilities lies in having precise, updated data. Therefore, I call upon the Minister of Public Service, Labour and Social Welfare, through its Department of Disability Affairs, to conduct an independent comprehensive census for persons with disabilities with a focus on capturing detailed statistics that can give an accurate number of people with disabilities.
Such a specialised census will offer a gradual view of our population, ensuring that policy making and resource allocation are informed by empirical data rather than estimates. Through distinguishing between various disabilities, the Ministry can better tailor healthcare services, education and employment programmes, specifically aligning resources with the unique requirements of each group.
Madam Speaker, this initiative will not only guide our efforts to establish interpreter services within healthcare settings but will also extend a cornerstone of national planning, aiding the Government in upholding its commitment to inclusivity and equitable services for all citizens. An independent census of this calibre will underscore Zimbabwe's dedication to dignity, equality and inclusivity for persons with disabilities, mandated by both our Constitution and international conventions.
In conclusion, Madam Speaker, as we stand at this critical juncture in Zimbabwe's healthcare evolution, we are compelled to evoke the profound philosophy of John Mbiti, I quote, ‘I am because we are, and since we are, therefore I am’. This principle of ubuntu optimises our shared responsibility to ensure that no member of our society, regardless of circumstances, is left behind. When even one among us is denied defined access to healthcare, we are all diminished. Our deaf brothers and sisters who are facing challenging communication barriers within our health system must be brought into the centre of our national priorities.
Madam Speaker, establishing a robust and comprehensive sign language service within our healthcare institutions is not merely a policy matter, it is an ethical and philosophical imperative that reflects our deepest values of ubuntu. The actions we take today will echo through generations, making Zimbabwe a nation fortified in dignity, inclusivity and reverence for every citizen's wellbeing. Let us call the wisdom of our ancestors who knew that healing physical cures is about restoring the bond of our community.
The time for contemplation has ended. We are now called to forge a healthcare system that truly honours ubuntu where no Zimbabwean is marginalised. Every individual's dignity is upheld and where the language of hearing is accessible to all. As our elders have said, when the drummers change their rhythm, the dancers must change their steps. The rhythm of healthcare in Zimbabwe is changing. Let us move to this new beat of inclusivity and universal access. Together we can inscribe a legacy where every hand that signs is a hand that heals and every silent voice is heard in our hospitals and clinics. The future beckons. Let us answer with the courage of our conviction and the timeless wisdom of our ancestors. I thank you.
HON. MUTIMBANYOKA: Good afternoon Hon. Speaker Ma’am. I rise to second the motion brought forth by Hon. Makope, a motion that strikes at the very heart of human dignity, healthcare accessibility and the fundamental right to communication. Today we are not merely discussing a policy amendment, we are confronting a profound moral imperative that challenges the very foundations of our healthcare system. Beyond the profound human rights perspective there is a compelling economic rationale for establishing comprehensive sign language and operator services. When we exclude deaf citizens from effective healthcare communication, we are not just violating their rights, we are creating long-term economic inefficiencies that burden our entire nation and healthcare system.
The communication barriers faced by deaf individuals in healthcare settings create a complex web of economic inefficiencies that ripple far beyond the immediate medical encounter. When inadequate communication leads to misdiagnosis, it triggers a domino effect of prolonged treatments and more complete medical intervention, significantly increasing health care costs. These initial miscommunications force patients to undergo repeated medical consultations, draining our already limited healthcare resources.
Moreover, the impact extends beyond the healthcare services system. A deaf individual who cannot receive timely and accurate medical care may experience reduced workplace productivity, further straining our economic potential. Each communication barrier represents not just a personal challenge but a systemic economic burden that undermines the efficiency and effectiveness of our entire healthcare infrastructure.
Today, I wish to emphasise a crucial yet often overlooked aspect of this debate, the urgent need for a national census to gather disaggregated data on persons with disabilities, particularly those who are deaf or hard of hearing. Hon. Speaker Ma’am, without accurate data, our policies will remain reactive rather than proactive. We cannot solve what we do not fully understand. How many Zimbabweans rely on sign language as their primary means of communication? In which provinces is this need for interpreter services most urgent? How many healthcare workers currently possess basic sign language proficiency? The painful truth is that we do not have clear answers to all the questions above.
Currently, our national statistics on disability are broad and generalised, failing to provide the granular details necessary for effective policymaking. A specialised census on persons with disabilities conducted through the Ministry of Public Service and Social Welfare in collaboration with the Zimbabwe National Statistics Agency (ZimStat) will ensure that our healthcare interventions are evidence-based and precisely targeted.
This census must go beyond just numbers. It must capture the comprehensive landscape of disability experiences in our healthcare system. Specifically, we must gather critical insights that go to the heart of our healthcare accessibility challenges. This means meticulously documenting the prevalence of hearing impairments across different regions, understanding the accessibility of existing healthcare services for the deaf community, mapping the availability and distribution of trained sign language interpreters in medical facilities and comprehensively detailing the specific challenges faced by deaf Zimbabweans when seeking medical care. Without this data, we risk developing policies based on assumptions rather than realities and that is a risk we cannot afford.
A specialised disability census is not just about gathering statistics, it is about laying the foundation for sustainable and impactful policy change. With precise disaggregated data, we will be empowered to direct resources to areas with the highest demand for sign language interpretation, ensure equitable distribution of trained healthcare professionals with sign language skills and establish a robust mechanism to measure progress over time. This is not merely an administrative exercise but a transformative approach to understanding and addressing the healthcare needs of our most vulnerable citizens.
Madam Speaker, this is a call to action. Let us not legislate in the dark. Let us not draft policies based on estimates. If we are serious about making Zimbabwe’s healthcare system fully inclusive, then the first step must be a nationwide disability-inclusive census that prioritises accurate disaggregated data. I strongly urge this House to support this motion, not just as a legal obligation but as a moral, practical necessity.
As we consider this motion on sign language interpreter services, we are fundamentally addressing a critical gap in our healthcare system.
Establishing comprehensive interpreter services is not just a policy adjustment but a practical step towards fulfilling our constitutional commitment to inclusive healthcare. Our approach is rooted in the profound principle of Ubuntu, “I am because we are, we are because I am”. Recognising that the dignity of each citizen is intrinsically linked to the dignity of our entire society. By ensuring effective communication for deaf patients, we are not creating a special privilege but removing systemic barriers that have long prevented full participation in healthcare.
This initiative goes beyond humanitarian considerations. It represents a pragmatic approach to improving health care outcomes, reducing medical errors and ensuring that every Zimbabwean can access medical services with clarity, respect and understanding. The implementation of sign language interpreter services will make our healthcare system more efficient, more accurate and more responsive to the needs of all citizens.
Our actions today will set a standard for inclusive healthcare, not just in Zimbabwe, but potentially across the African continent. We are demonstrating that true healthcare is about comprehensive communication, mutual understanding and respect for every individual’s right to access critical medical information. I thank you.
HON. TOGAREPI: I move that the debate do now adjourn.
HON. C. MOYO: I second.
Motion put and agreed to.
Debate to resume: Wednesday, 26th March 2025.
On the motion of HON. TOGAREPI, seconded by HON. C. MOYO, the House adjourned at Six Minutes past Four o’clock p.m.
PARLIAMENT OF ZIMBABWE
Tuesday, 25th March, 2025
The Senate met at Half-past Two o’clock p.m.
PRAYERS
(THE HON. DEPUTY PRESIDENT OF SENATE in the Chair)
ANNOUNCEMENT BY THE HON. DEPUTY PRESIDENT OF SENATE
CONGRATULATORY MESSAGE TO HON. DR. KIRSTY COVENTRY ON BECOMING THE 10TH PRESIDENT OF THE INTERNATIONAL OLYMPIC COMMITTEE
THE HON. DEPUTY PRESIDENT OF SENATE: Before I recognise the Deputy Minister Headman Moyo, I am sure you all join me in congratulating one of our own, Hon. Dr. Kirsty Coventry, in being elected the President of the IOC. – [HON. SENATORS: Hear, hear.]
MOTION
BUSINESS OF THE HOUSE
THE DEPUTY MINISTER OF VETERANS OF THE LIBERATION STRUGGLE AFFAIRS (HON. SEN. H. MOYO): I move that Order of the Day, Number 1 be stood over until the rest of the Orders of the Day have been disposed of.
Motion put and agreed to.
MOTION
REPORT OF THE ZIMBABWE GENDER COMMISSION FOR THE PERIOD 2023
Second Order read: Adjourned debate on motion on the Report of the Zimbabwe Gender Commission for the period 2023.
Question again proposed.
HON. SEN. CHAPFUDZA: Thank you Mr. President for giving me this opportunity that I also debate the report that was presented by the Zimbabwe Gender Commission for the year 2023. I would also like to thank the Gender Commission for acting according to our Constitution, Section 323, that every Commission should submit a report to Parliament so that we debate upon it and see how things are moving or working out throughout our beloved country. I read through the report and there were a lot of things which were outlined in the report about gender issues. Mr. President, throughout the Gender Commission Report, there was a small inclination towards supporting women like feminism rather than making it a balanced report that looks at the equality of men and women. If you go through the report, you see a lot of places that are talking about women and also leaving out men. So, I would like to urge the Commission that in the next annual report, they should balance it to equality.
The Commissioners are balanced in terms of equality about gender but its operation workforce in the Commission is distributed at 56 being female and 44 being male. When we look at it, we are looking at an organisation, a Commission which is going out preaching equality that we should have equal opportunities for men and women in places of authority in organisations where they are employing. They should have a policy of employing women and men equally in terms of the ratio but before going any further, we are seeing the Commission mandated to do that work. It is not following what is really required of the mandate to which it wants other organisations to follow, that we should have 50-50 equality at workplaces. The Gender Commission itself is not following that. It has 56 being females. The gender equality is not about propelling women then treading upon men but it should be an equality organisation, a Commission that seeks men and women to be equal in terms of positions of authority in organisations. It seems like it is now leaving men behind. The issue of feminism, like there are injustices on campaigning for women. It is not about equity but it is about equality that we should be treated equally and also be considered on positions of authority equally.
There are issues that are raised which, when you look at them are sometimes in contradiction with our cultures. We have got a culture which we also want to preserve as much as we also want to move with international standards. So, there should be a balance whenever approaching this issue of gender equality. We can raise issues like the issue of masculinity, which says men are more powerful not in terms of oppressing women. If we go to manual jobs like maybe offloading bags of cement, inasmuch as we love our women to be there but we should protect them, we cannot just kill them by employing them to such jobs which we really know that by nature, they are not prepared to carry out those jobs. So, we should have a balance when we look at gender equality.
We have got the army. Those people have a lot of rigorous training, which if you say to women, we want to have 50-50, they will complain and say, no, exclude us from those positions. Why? It is because of their nature. So, inasmuch as we want equality, we should weigh and see how we can make things function in order to protect even our women. We love women so much but when considering other jobs, it is so difficult.
When this report was presented, it was during election time of 2023. Generally, we know that women are more than men in terms of numbers. So, we expected a lot of women to be in positions of authority but I do not even answer why we assume those positions because by nature, when we are talking of their numbers, if they could just vote in line that we want to elect a female President, we want to elect a female councillor, a female MP, by now we could be talking about maybe 80% or 20% in terms of ratio, men being less but I do not know the reason why. Maybe they do not like to get into positions of authority but whenever we look at even our structure, the Government structure, Mr. President, I looked at the slide which is on number 20 on the structure of our Government, we have one President who is male and two Deputy Presidents who are male again.
Then we go to Ministers. On ministers - the ratio of ministers, we have got seven women and 19 men to make them 26. Deputy Ministers, we have got seven women, nine men to make them 16. Permanent Secretaries, we have got six women and 20 men. Provincial Affairs and Devolution Ministers, we have got four women and six men. Then when we go to Permanent Secretaries for Provincial Affairs, we have got two women and eight men.
This structure shows that as a country, we are not serious in terms of gender equality. This is just a matter of taking it to ourselves that we want gender balance. Then we just balance the ministers. If it is 26, 13-13, it is as simple as that. As leaders, we should go and practice what we preach. Private organisations also look at the Government structure and ask why you are forcing us to employ women at an equal level with men whilst in Government, you are not practicing it. So, we should go and practice outside what we preach. Like in the Senate, excluding the chiefs, we know that it is 50-50 because the selection allows that.
The Commission also highlighted the issue of female chiefs. They highlighted the issue of Matabeleland South, where a female chief was elected into the Chief's Council. They applauded that but they think that number should increase because totally we have got six female chiefs in Zimbabwe. They said in the next election, in the Council of Chiefs, all women should be included so that this issue of gender shows them some seriousness in terms of gender equality.
No one should be left behind when we are talking about gender equality. If here in the Senate we manage to do 50-50, let the National Assembly do so and also in the Government because they are the leaders and should lead by example. We need a female Deputy President, the same with ministers. The appointing authority should consider gender equality because this is what we are moving with. They have appointed the Gender Commission to see to it that gender equality is observed. Let them observe it themselves.
There are a lot of issues. There is the issue of media coverage. Whenever it is exercising its duties, media should talk of these issues of gender equality, promoting both men and women. There are issues that were highlighted in the Commission's report of sexual harassment. There is a lot of sexual harassment in our country.
They also highlight the issue of females who put on revealing clothes, miniskirts and short dresses, which put men under pressure and end up being perpetrators. Women of Zimbabwe should also dress properly so that we do not put men under pressure. If we practice that, you will see that there will be a reduction in terms of sexual harassment.
They also highlighted the issue of sexual harassment at workplaces. They gave examples of the issue of a case study of Pick and Pay, National Handling Services and also ZBC. It was highlighted there that in ZBC, there was an issue of sexual harassment. Nobody would think that ZBC can be included in such things because we are seeing them as broadcasters. There should be stiffer penalties to perpetrators of sexual harassment.
There is an issue of, they wrote it as child marriages, maybe we can correct it to child sexual abuse. I think when you get into marriage, you should have consent. A child cannot have consent. So on the issue of child sexual abuse, they highlighted that some of the issues are covered up by perpetrators offering to pay lobola for a 14 year old girl child. That cannot be allowed. It is illegal. There is an organisation which I heard saying, regai dzive shiri. We should protect our children until they reach the age of consent so that they can get into marriage.
We have seen our Commission moving throughout the country and at major events exhibiting what it stands for. They were present at the ZITF, they were also present at the Victoria Falls exhibition and at the Midlands Agricultural Show. I think the issue of Gender-Based Violence should be treated with care and should be an issue of importance. It is not good and it is not healthy for the development of our country. We should shun that. It is my advice to all perpetrators of Gender-Based Violence that the law should take its course not looking at who or what position you are occupying. We should live in a free Zimbabwe where women will be free to participate in positions of authority at work without fearing anything. Thank you Mr. President for allowing me to air my view on this subject.
THE DEPUTY MINISTER OF VETERANS OF THE LIBERATION STRUGGLE AFFAIRS (HON. SEN. H. MOYO): Mr. President, I do move for the adjournment of the debate.
Motion put and agreed to.
Debate to resume: Wednesday, 26th March, 2025.
MOTION
CONDOLENCES ON THE DEATH OF FORMER DEPUTY PRESIDENT OF THE SENATE HON. CHEN. CHENHAMO CHAKEZHA CHIMUTENGWENDE
Third Order read. Adjourn debate on motion on the sudden death of the former Deputy President of the Senate, Hon. Chen Chenhamo Chakezha Chimutengwende.
Question again proposed.
*HON. SEN. CHIEF CHARUMBIRA: Thank you Mr. President. We are still mourning Hon. Sen. Chimutengwende for the works that he did, which was the doing of God. If possible, we would ask for more days for him. Hon. Sen. Chimutengwende held several ministerial positions and rose into this Senate House. I had a chance to work with him in the Pan-African Parliament as one of the five delegates of the Pan-African Parliament. He was a Minister and he rose through to become a Senator. It was a pleasure working with him in Parliament and he was one of the Members of the delegation with the Pan-African Parliament (PAP).
I will dwell much on issues of PAP. There are some who ask how Hon. Senator Chimutengwende is and I advise them that he is late. He is remembered in the PAP as one of the Members from the Zimbabwe Parliament who worked with others peacefully and in harmony. As you know, PAP is comprised of people from various backgrounds. There are people from Spanish background, the White and the Indian background but he would relate with them all without any problem. Everyone liked him, he shared his wisdom with everyone. He once narrated what happened back in 1962 when we were still under the Rhodesian colonial regime, when we were trying to fight for our freedom.
He once went to Somalia. He was an author of a newspaper that was read across the world educating people that they were leaders like Kwame Nkrumah and he went to the United Kingdom where he met another Member of Parliament who narrated that they were once together. He also went to Angola and also narrated on the Angolan independent issues. These are issues of the liberation struggle. There are people who really worked for our liberation. He narrated that they suffered a lot. He said he once went to Angola and this was done so that he could gain passage to the United Kingdom. He added on and said that when he went to Angola, he met fellow African men who would assist him in travelling to the United Kingdom.
He said that when he arrived in Angola, he failed to locate the fellow African man and he had to stay there without money. He spent two days there and a stranger asked him about his purpose of being in Angola and he narrated to him that he wanted to travel to the United Kingdom. The stranger bought him a ticket and he proceeded with his journey. In all this, the objective was to discuss about the future of Africa. He was someone who always said that Africa should always be ahead. Up to the present date, he is one comrade who is recognised by the entire nation, including all Members of Parliament because he always advocated for the development of Zimbabwe and the entire African continent.
Out of all the Members of Parliament who were part of the delegation, he is the most celebrated Member. With our elder Chimutengwende, people gathered around listening to his advice and stories on how he worked around tirelessly to bring about independence and liberation to the African continent with other African leaders. He would narrate on issues of nationalism and the armed struggle. Above all, he did not mention these issues so that people would recognise him as an important figure. Regardless of the fact that he had his bottle of wine, he would continue to speak in a sober manner with scores of people listening to his stories. Even at his traditional court, people would gather. He was a great man. May his soul rest in peace.
+HON. SEN. NYATHI: Thank you for the opportunity that you have given me. I would want to add my voice in a few words on our late hero, Hon. Senator Chimutengwende. I recognise Hon. Senator Chimutengwende as someone who would help us. He would come whilst we were still in our youth. He was a father with love and very humble. We really need people like him in our lives. Even though he is late, we remember him a lot. The previous speakers have narrated a lot about his character. Some of them come from where he originated and others are from the provinces he visited. He was someone who united people and who did not discriminate. With these few words, may his soul rest in peace. -[HON. MEMBERS: Hear, hear.]-
^HON. SEN. MALULEKE: Thank you Mr. President for according me this opportunity to add my voice on the issue of Hon. Chen Chimutengwende. I also want to thank Hon. Tongogara for raising this important motion. We worked with him very well. He always greeted us first, even though he was older than us. He was a hard worker dedicated at working for his country. Hon. Chimutengwende taught us a lot and he was a humble man. At some point, we were all seated when he arrived, we offered him a seat but he refused. As the august House and the nation at large, we lost a gallant cadre who was dedicated. At some point, he was the Deputy President of the Senate. Cde Chimutengwende was a good person even at parties he used to encourage us to be active by opening the dance floor. He used to give us courage, hope and confidence. He was a loving man, there is nothing we can do, may his soul rest in peace. Thank you.
*HON. SEN. MAKAMBA: Thank you Mr. President Sir for giving me this opportunity to debate on the late Hon. Chen. Chimutengwende. Some people may want to know where the name ‘Chen’ came from. It is a short-cut of Chenhamo Chakezha Chimutengwende. Many people would say Cde. Chen, we asked him how that name came about and he said it came about in 1963 when he was in Ghana training for the liberation struggle. Many people did not know that the late Hon. Chimutengwende was an ex-combatant, just like what Chief Charumbira said. He was very humble but he is one of those people who left this country at a very young age to go and fight for the liberation struggle.
He said he was trained by a Chinese person and it was difficult for him to call him Chenhamo. So, they agreed that you are now Chen. That is where that name came from. That is the name that became popular. Cde. Chimutengwende became the chairman of ZANU PF, the ruling party in Mashonaland Central Province, when there was chaos among leaders; you know those things that happen in politics. Now, when Cde Chimutengwende became chairman, he addressed all those issues and encouraged us all to work together because development only comes after unity. He was selected for the second time. He is one of the very few people who were elected chairman of the party twice. He was also an author. He wrote more than 20 books and some other publications. Like what the chief said, he was writing for other countries. He was a Pan-Africanist through and through. He would be invited to other countries, the world over and he would speak about how blacks can develop and how discrimination can end. He loved peace and uniting people, everywhere where he went. When he became Minister of Telecommunications, which was the time when we were looking at introducing mobile phones and Cde. Chimutengwende gave the way forward and we are agreed. The Act was enacted to allow the cellphones that you see working today. Cde Chimutengwende loved people in this country and he loved blacks the world over. Many people in this country loved him, especially some of us who worked with him in Mashonaland Central Province. I thank you.
+HON. SEN. M. NDLOVU: Thank you Hon. President of the Senate, for according me this opportunity to add my voice to the debate on Hon. Chen. Chimutengwende. When we were coming from somewhere, we went straight to his home. He killed a goat for us and he said I want you to eat it all. We ate but we could not finish it. So, he asked us to carry some to our homes. He was a generous man, that is why everyone speaks well about him. God takes the good. When he was the Vice President of this House, he loved us all. He was an intelligent person. Even for us from Matabeleland region we cannot fail to talk about him. He would visit Matabeleland South or anywhere in Matabeleland. He liked us and he went for the liberation struggle with us, he would ask, such beautiful girls why did you go to the war for? Why would you go to the struggle as beautiful as you are? I thank you.
^^HON. SEN. MOHADI: Thank you Mr. President of the Senate for this opportunity awarded to me to say a few words. I would like to talk about the then Vice President of the Senate, the late Hon. Sen. Chakezha Chimutengwende. During his time in this august House, we used to work together when he was Deputy President of the Senate and I used to be on the Chairperson’s Panel. We found him here and he groomed us.
He was a humble person and he liked to train those who came after him. He was not jealous and wanted everyone he worked with to understand his works. I remember at some point when we went to Mutare for a workshop for Presiding Officers and their panel, when we got there with Hon. Senator Chimutengwende, he was a person who liked joking with people. He used to dance a lot, especially dancing to soft music. We would really enjoy being with him.
He was so humble despite him being in a higher position. He would get to your level, spend the day with him and work together with him. I do not have much to say about him because the previous speakers said a lot about him. He liked everyone. Therefore, with these few words, allow me to say we will continue to remember him, because we worked so well with him. May his soul rest in peace.
HON. SEN. SIBANDA: Thank you Mr. President Sir. I would like to thank the mover of this motion. I would have loved to debate this motion when it was still hot but unfortunately, the day when I stood up to debate, I was not recognised. But still, I have got a few words to say about the late Hon. Senator Chen Chenhamo Chakezha Tichaguta Chimutenengwende. I remember this jovial late Senator who was a very kind and a respectable man. I remember about a few months ago, my friend was asking me where he was because he was a figure to be noticed, especially during some national gatherings in Bulawayo. I would like to say that he was a man of fun, a man who used to love fun.
I remember the other time when I was a member of the Press Club in the mid-90s, when he was a Minister of Information, he visited us in Bulawayo. After that, we always looked forward to his visit because of the way he treated us and the way he entertained us. Hon. President, that man loved his fun. This other day, I went to listen to a jazz session. When the session was playing and people were seated, he just stood up and danced. You know, everyone just stood up because they knew that the next thing that was coming was a dance.
The man could dance. He was a fun-loving man. He was a sociable man. He was dedicated to his job and I guess when he was chosen to be the President of the Senate, he really stood up for his job and he was really worthy to be the President of the Senate. May his dear soul rest in peace. We wish we could have people like him around because he was a very sociable man. He did not even choose the people to associate with. Thank you Mr. President.
HON. SEN. TONGOGARA: I move that the debate do now adjourn.
HON. SEN. MOHADI: I second.
Motion put and agreed to.
Debate to resume: Wednesday, 26th March, 2025.
MOTION
CONSTRUCTION OF DAMS AND WATER STORAGE FACILITIES
Fourth Order read: Adjourned debate on motion on climate change mitigation.
HON. SEN. TONGOGARA: I move that the debate do now adjourn.
HON. SEN. MOHADI: I second.
Motion put and agreed to.
Debate to resume: Wednesday, 26th March, 2025.
MOTION
LEGALISATION OF TERMINATION OF PREGNANCY
Fifth Order read: Adjourned debate on motion on access to safe legal abortion services.
HON. SEN. MUZODA: Thank you Mr. President for giving me the opportunity to debate on this motion that speaks about pregnancy and being able to be assisted to abort legally so that they do not lose their lives in the process. Mr. President, I want to speak looking at the way we live and our culture. I am not sure which words I will use so that you understand me as Senate because it is very difficult to talk about killing stillborn babies. According to our culture, we do not kill.
Why do we not follow our culture from the past? Not to kill and respect life. It is good for those who may see this in their lives when they face such difficult times but the God that we worship as we start this session is not happy with any person who kills.
I remember in the Bible, there was a man who lost a brother and he inherited his brother's wife. Mr. President, because he did not want to impregnate his late brother's wife since he was not going to be able to justify that, he decided to interrupt the ejaculation. God was angry and he killed him. So, Mr. President, that shows that God does not want anything that goes into the tummy to die and he also does not want coitus interruption. When God creates us, he says we should propagate. We come up with our laws and try to justify and comfort ourselves but God does not want that.
Mr. President, pregnancy cannot be terminated. We may go back to the Bible, there are children that were not wanted before they were born. There are some that were attempted to be aborted before they were born but they were blessed by God. When they walked on this earth, they were blessed. Moses is the one that we always talk about, who delivered Israelites from Egypt although he did not take them to the promised land. He was very popular so much that if only he had been aborted, who was going to have that courage? In addition, Mr. President, God chose Moses that he would speak to him and the two of them would understand each other. Nobody else was chosen by God to speak to God face to face except Moses. If Moses had died, today we would not be having this history of Israelites. So sometimes, what we may look down upon and try to destroy may become the most important thing tomorrow.
Mr. President, sometimes that pregnancy will be of a doctor who assists people in the future but we abort. Maybe the pregnancy is of a future president and we abort. Mr. President, I do not agree with what was put in the motion but it does not mean that those who may want to do it should not because when we live in this world, we talk of rights, it is their right but let us go back to our humanity.
Where we come from in the rural areas, Mr. President, it was taboo. It used to be done by school-going girls who would abort but if they were caught - I remember my cousin, my aunt's daughter dropped the child soon after giving birth but the mother knew that she was pregnant and she failed to protect the child. The case was taken to the chief, not to the police but it was later taken to the police.
Mr. President, they were charged three cattle because they were told tht killing was not allowed and it is taboo in our culture. Let us remember why we were put in this world. What does the Bible say, the one we read every day? I do not have much words because it is very difficult for me to debate on killing because in this country, in this House, we rejected the death sentence.
Mr. President, nobody agreed that the death sentence must not be abolished, so why do you want to kill those who have not been born yet? I thank you Mr. President, for these few words. I was really afraid of speaking further because it really disturbs me. I cannot live where killing prevails – [HON. SENATORS: Hear, hear.] -
THE HON. DEPUTY PRESIDENT OF SENATE: Thank you Hon. Senator Muzoda. I did not know Hon. Senator Muzoda is so well-read in the Bible. You could be a lecturer in theology somewhere.
^^HON. SEN. MOHADI: Thank you Mr. President for the opportunity awarded to me to say a few words. I would like to thank Hon. Senator Chinyanga who brought this motion to this august House. I think all of us, when we came into this House, took oath in this august House, holding on to a Bible which meant that we all agreed to everything in the Bible.
Mr. President, if we look at the Ten Commandments, the first commandment, if it is not the second, says “do not kill”. I then do not understand why in this House, as the Senate, we brought this motion which says let us kill. Where does it come from? If I remember quite well, apart from the Bible, on the commandment which says do not kill, if we go to our country's Constitution, it says everyone has got the right to life, including the unborn child and they have a right to live. So where do we get this idea of wanting to kill?
Mr. President, going forward, still if our Constitution continued to say only those who would have committed murder should be killed, it was going to be difficult for us. We had to end up abolishing that one. Still on this, we have come here and just some few months after the abolishment, we came back into this House to say we want unborn babies to be killed, really? For us to abolish the death sentence, it was because those who were on the death row had no one to kill them. Therefore, if we are to say we want to kill, I then get surprised. Are we prepared to kill? Who is going to kill for us and who is going to kill these unborn babies?
My fellow colleagues, there is no-one seated in this august House who does not have a grandchild; we all have a grandchild. I do not think all of us who have grandchildren know their fathers but they are surviving. It is disheartening that we continue to say we want to kill. In my own view, if we were to vote, I do not think you would see my vote. You will get my vote because in my opinion, when I am holding this Bible, it is written ‘do not kill’.
I am a Christian and I think three quarters of us in here all go to church. I do not know which church allows one to kill because if we were to say, let us allow one to kill legally this unborn child, we know there is this issue which we are using to justify this, the issue of rape. Yes, I agree with the issue of saying there is rape but our law is saying, let us not encourage such exercises as killing. Let us find another way of handling these issues, not to kill.
I once heard one previous debater saying in South Africa, there is a law which says let us allow legal abortion. We do not adopt what is happening in other countries. We formulate our own policies. If we are to copy from other countries, let us copy the good. At times we get people who can get two to three pregnancies because they want to continue to enjoy life. They will always be terminating all these pregnancies. Can this be life? How would one feel, especially for us women? Can we really allow each one of us to kill? I do not think so.
As I conclude, let me say we need to find something to help us. On children that are raped, the current law should be more powerful and enforce stiffer penalties to those who commit rape by giving the rapists stiffer penalties, for example, a cattle rustler is given nine years per cow. Therefore, let us enforce stiffer penalties to rapists so that we deter such actions in our society. As I conclude, if there is one or other people who think these people are born out of fathers that they do not know, they are not welcome in their families, let them be born and I will look after them. The same children with fathers that are not known have a right to survive. With these few words, I thank you.
HON. SEN. TONGOGARA: I move that the debate do now adjourn.
HON. SEN. MOHADI: I second.
Motion put and agreed to.
Debate to resume: Wednesday, 26th March, 2025.
MOTION
REPORT OF THE THEMATIC COMMITTEE ON CLIMATE CHANGE ON THE ENQUIRY INTO THE IMPACT OF CLIMATE CHANGE ON HUMAN-WILDLIFE CONFLICT
Sixth Order read: Adjourned debate on motion on the Report of the Thematic Committee on Climate Change on the enquiry into the impact of Climate Change on Human-Wildlife Conflict induced by Climate Change in 2024.
Question again proposed.
HON. SEN. TONGOGARA: I move that the debate do now adjourn.
HON. SEN. MOHADI: I second.
Motion put and agreed to.
Debate to resume: Wednesday, 26th March, 2025.
MOTION
OVERHAUL OF DILAPIDATED STADIA
Seventh Order read: Adjourned debate on motion on the deplorable sports infrastructure in the country.
Question again proposed.
HON. SEN. CHAPFUDZA: I move that the debate do now adjourn.
HON. SEN. KABONDO: I second.
Motion put and agreed to.
Debate to resume: Wednesday, 26th March, 2025.
MOTION
RECAPITALISATION OF PUBLIC HEALTHCARE INSTITUTIONS
Eighth Order read. Adjourn debate on motion on the state of the health care system in the country.
Question again proposed.
HON. SEN. KABONDO: Thank you Mr. President. I am sorry I took long in standing up. I am not exactly small and this chair is smallish, so standing up is a struggle for me. I want to thank you for giving me this opportunity to say out just one or two things on the state of our health service provisions.
The President of this country, His Excellency, said the job of the opposition is to criticise so that they, as the ruling party, can correct their mistakes. I am really sorry if I am going to hurt someone's feelings but I will only be doing what the President said we should do.
I want to do a bit of criticism on the state of service provisions. I feel it deserves a very strong condemnation. I am trying to get a word. Unfortunately, this is my third language. A word that can describe how I feel about the state in which service provisions is. It is unacceptable and I think the Greeks would call it capos because it is really bad.
When we were growing up, our parents never used to buy any cough mixture. When we were at primary school during wintertime, when you had a cough, you would just go to the clinic. They would tell you for the next coming five days, you will be coming here in the morning first thing before you go to class. Those small containers which they would put cough mixtures in, you would queue up when the nurse came and opened, you just get there. You are given those small measured cough mixtures and you drink and run to school. That was the health system that we grew up knowing.
We are only getting to appreciate it now because it is no longer there. I have an 87-year-old mother and I thank God for the gift of life but I worry because she takes blood pressure tablets. The simple ordinary HCT is not in the clinics. I understand our clinics are primary healthcare systems. Honestly, paracetamol, HCT and cough mixtures are primary healthcare things that need to be there in those clinics. Two weeks ago, I drove from here to Binga and back because my mother’s tablets were finished and those tablets only cost a dollar, it cost me a round trip from here to Binga and back because there is no pharmacy where my mother stays. She stays in the rural areas and the clinic does not have those tablets. The tablets that I had bought were finished.
It is something that really touches me when I talk about it because it is cheap medication that we buy for a dollar but it is not in the clinics. You get to my home clinic and they cannot even give you paracetamol. They will just prescribe and tell you there is a man who stays at some village there who sells tablets that he buys from Zambia and brings them here and we have to go and buy from him. Tablets that we do not know how they are transported but we just have to buy and use them.
That is the first thing.
Then the second thing that touches me is what happens in these hospitals. I was talking about the primary healthcare. Now I want to talk about the hospitals. My father died of prostate cancer but that was in 2002. The healthcare system was still bearable because we managed to take him to Mater dei Hospital and he was operated though he later on died due to old age. Then I have a sister who had a brain tumour. I am sorry if I become emotional about this. She used to work for the Railways of Zimbabwe for thirty-five years and when she was diagnosed with that, the medical aid could no longer cover her operation. We ended up taking her to a Government Hospital, which is Mpilo. What experience did we have in Mpilo? The doctor responsible also had a surgery. You take your patient to Mpilo and he was telling us to bring her after every two weeks until someone told us that what you need to do is go to his private surgery.
That is the only time that he would be able to admit her into the hospital because the bills were for him.
We did that but it was after I think six weeks of being pushed from pillar to post. When we went to his surgery, he smiled and said, I knew you were going to come here. To me, that was like someone playing with other people's lives. He told us what he wanted, the charges for the operations. We literally bought everything, including the gauze that they use when they are operating, to mop the blood. It was not there. We bought everything. There is some mud-like substance that when they open their skull, they have to put. It is like plaster and some pins. We had to buy those things.
Unfortunately, we could not even get them from this country. I had to go to Zambia and look for those things for that operation to be done. This brings me to say, you know, it looks like today, everyone has gone biblical. The Israelites, when they were in the desert, because of the problems they were encountering, they said to Moses, we would rather have you take us back to Pharaoh where we could eat and drink instead of you bringing us here to die in the desert. I talked about the cough mixture that we used to have. What can be done? Please do not push us into saying this because you then say because they are the opposition that is why they are saying it. We do not want to be pushed up to the extent where we say, Rhodesia was better because we could get medication. May something be done because it is painful to watch someone die?
You know, when we went to that doctor, he billed us an amount that he wanted which we did not even have. We had to look for money and they were racing against time. Fine, he did that operation but it never worked. If the Government had been in a position to have everything in place, that operation could have been done in time. Maybe it would be a different story today. So, the Israelites, I will repeat, said to Moses, we would rather go back to is to Egypt. At least we could eat and drink. Thank you Mr. President.
+HON. SEN. MLILO: Thank you Mr. President for giving me this opportunity for me to add my voice on the motion that was tabled by Hon. S. Moyo. I am very emotional and sad Mr. President Sir. When talking about our Government Hospitals where we are supposed to get medical help. It is no longer a place where you get medical help but it is a death point. Even for a child, when you say you want to take them to a hospital, they will prefer not to be taken to a hospital for they know that once you go to a hospital, it is more like going to a deathbed.
For us to understand what I am referring to, our medical hospitals are supposed to be a place where you get medical help but once you get into an ambulance and taken to a hospital, it is a deathbed. Even if it is not a severe or critical medical condition that you will be going through, every time you are taken to a hospital, it is more like being taken to a deathbed. Long back when you went to hospitals, you would be given paracetamol but now most of the times when you go to a hospital, you are referred to a pharmacist to go and buy medication.
It is our request that Government should look into health conditions and medical assistance in hospitals. This is across the country. These days when you get a fracture, whether you have a fracture in your hand or leg, you will not be assisted. They used to put plaster but nowadays there is an iron bar that they have to put. I have experienced those fractures most of the times and not at any given point when there was an iron rod that was put. Most of the times they would put a plaster but the iron rod that they have to put most of the times, you cannot even get it. You will be referred to another doctor where you will get that iron rod. Mr. President Sir, it is my plea that the Government should look into this, especially on our medical facilities.
The Minister of Health, I am not sure whether he has told the hospitals and have a look at what exactly is happening. I am also a member of the HIV and AIDS Committee. In my view, why can we not have the Minister tour Government hospitals together with the Committee, especially at the referral hospitals. I am referring to hospitals such as Mpilo. It saves most of the people from Matebeleland South. Why can the Minister not have a tour of such hospitals? There are no hospital beds. All patients end up being put on the floor. They end up sleeping on the floor. Maternity ward is the same. No medical beds at all. Someone after delivering has to sit on the floor and hold a newborn child on the floor. It is our plea that the Minister or the Government should take this seriously and tour the hospitals. If it means having the President touring the hospitals, I think maybe that is what will make him come to reality with what is happening.
Hospitals are places where one is supposed to get medical help, but most of the times it is a death bed. I have my child who was not feeling well, who was expecting. When I spoke to her that I needed to take her to hospital, she completely refused because she was saying going to a hospital is more like going to a death bed. I had to take her to a private surgery which was very expensive. Just to be attended, consultation fee is not less than $100. Most people are now viewing hospitals as death beds. It is my plea that the Government should intervene and tour the hospitals so that they can have the reality of what is happening. I thank you.
*HON. SEN. KUPFUMA: Thank you Mr. President for giving me this opportunity to add on to this debate. A lot has been said so far. I think the health sector, indeed we need help from God. Things are not good in the hospitals, especially in the rural areas where somebody will be unemployed. If you come across a situation where somebody falls sick, it is a very desperate situation. Considering that most of the people in this country are not formally employed in a household, maybe one will be formally employed and some are vegetable vendors and they are called breadwinners.
If they face problems or sometimes if you were to hear that your brother or sister was hit by a car, they are taken to a hospital, there are no beds, there are no bandages, there is no medicine, there are no services, they require money and that person will be in a desperate situation. They cannot assist you without money and yet those are the people that we expect to vote for us. If you become elected as a Minister after elections, if you are not voted for, you cannot become a Minister, an MP or a Senator. So, those people are very important to us. Losing any of those people's lives means we also lose votes. Indeed, if only the Government can consider that.
There are some people living with HIV, some of them are pregnant. Right now, looking at the issue of USAID, President Donald Trump withdrew help that was being rendered to various international countries and organisations. There are some who live on ART and suddenly the donations were cut. So, if nothing is done to alleviate that situation for them to be able to access ARVs, what is going to happen? It means we are going to lose a lot of lives. There will be a lot of spread of HIV through some of the people, especially those who may not have protection. They are going to give birth to HIV positive babies who will die and those pregnant women who will be HIV positive will also die.
So, we are going to face a lot of problems in the country. The Minister of Health indeed must help us on this problem. I thank you Mr. President.
HON. SEN. S. MOYO: I move that the debate do now adjourn.
HON. SEN. MDHLURI: I second Mr. President.
Motion put and agreed to.
Debate to resume: Wednesday, 26th March, 2025.
MOTION
SUPPORT FOR LIVESTOCK FARMERS THROUGH PROVISION OF SUPPLEMENTARY STOCK FEEDS AND VACCINES
Nineth Order read: Adjourned debate on motion on the importance of livestock production in Zimbabwe.
Question again proposed.
HON. SEN. ZVIDZAI: Thank you Mr. President. I would like to add a few facts to the motion that was brought to the House by Hon. Senator Mohadi, on the importance of livestock in this country. I listened carefully when colleagues debated this motion and concluded that there are two clear divisions on the importance of livestock. One is the intangible benefits or the intangible importance of livestock production. The other is the tangible side, which is the economic benefits to the nation.
Let me talk to the issue of intangible benefits, the benefits that humans get by just having a reasonable herd of cattle. As blacks, we say basically that mombes are so important in the lives of Africans. It defines our culture. You know, culturally, once you have got a reasonable herd of cattle, you have got a very good standing in the community. You are confident, you are healthier and you are proud because of that. Those are the intangible benefits.
There are even more salient benefits to issues of livestock and how they are the glue of the family unit in the traditional sense. Once you have got your livestock, the family is glued together because there is now capacity to make sure that there is food on the table. There is capacity to make sure that there is school fees for the children. There is capacity to provide for the family. Interestingly in our cultural setting, to provide draught power, even to those who may not have, makes you more important than others. So, it does build the family unit and it continues to build communities. It builds a Zimbabwe that we can be proud of. Zimbabwe, the basic unit, the family unit, displays good citizenship. So that is the intangible salient benefits of livestock.
Then we have got the economic side of the problem at a macro level. The salient issues talk more to issues of micro, the family level, the village and the community at large. Now, let me get to the crux of the matter around the contribution of livestock to the macro-economics of a nation. A bit of statistics, the livestock market is growing meteorically. At the moment, I think we speak about a global contribution to global economy of about 1.3 trillion or upwards. That is what livestock can contribute to the global economy. As well, there is an available market for our cattle. As Zimbabwe, we have the right weather, very sweet grass for livestock and we know we used to be champions. In fact, we used to be one of the best in supplying sweet beef to the EU. If we pursued that market to improve our market share on the 1.3 trillion market, certainly this would contribute very magically to the GDP of this country.
In fact, livestock contributes about 35 to 40 percent of the contribution of agriculture to the economy of this country. Zimbabwe is an agricultural economy and 40 percent of that is livestock. That lays bare the importance of livestock to the economy of this country, to the well-being of our nation, to our aspirations to become a middle-income economy as driven partially by the livestock market. There could be no further emphasis on the importance of livestock to the economy of this country, to the well-being of the people of Zimbabwe, to the continued pride of this nation but what could be done to ensure that we recapture the markets and we grow the markets and penetrate the 1.3 trillion market so that we have got a reasonable share of that market?
The beef market, the livestock market, is very severely affected by issues of diseases. Right now, we must all understand that of the 5.5 million cattle that we have, the majority is farmed by the small-scale sector, the rural sector. One communal farmer has one cattle and the other has two. That adds up to your big number, the 5.5 million or so. However, we are saddled with January disease which wipes out thousands of our cattle and there is just something about cattle that I sometimes do not understand in this nation.
A person could have a hundred-plus cattle and they die of January disease because we are not keeping them checked when you could sell maybe two and save the rest. What I am trying to get to is that there is need for serious education around animal health. There is serious need to have as many people at village level teaching people just like we have got health workers. Let us have animal health workers at the village level so that we do not lose this very important asset which is lost with no care at all. Mr. President, I talked about January disease, anthrax and we are talking about the conflict between humans and wildlife vis-à-vis the resettlement programme. A very important programme which opened up neighbouring rural areas to infection of cattle, they could be buffalos and other animals. You have got foot and mouth disease which is affecting the quality of our beef and our capacity to penetrate the export market.
Disease extension services, village level animal health workers so that we can keep this important asset Mr. President. But there is also an additional issue around extension services. If you go to the rural areas, you find, if you know, I was in Buhera the other time and there is a family which was mocked as Masungembudzi. Their cattle have gone so small that when they plough, it looks like they are ploughing using goats.
We need to educate the people on the genetics of these animals you know, avoiding inbreeding so that we can keep participating in this market. Mr. President, my few recommendations are that we need to make sure that we deal with the issues of conflict between humans and their domestic animals and wildlife. Make sure that we do not spread foot and mouth. Importantly as well, what drives production is market. Where I come from, there are people called magombiro. These are people who go to buy livestock from the farmers. A reasonable sized ox, if there is a threat of drought, could be bought for USD 50-USD100. This is because there is no market at local level. My proposal is that we develop a market at local level for the beef that people produce.
I have heard a lot of things about the presidential input scheme. I think it is very important to introduce a presidential livestock market at the local level so that the residents can clean up if there are no markets, create the market, buy the cattle and store them for future use so that the farmer can get value for money for their work in producing the cattle. Going biblical, Genesis 41, Pharaoh and Joseph and the invention of parastatals. That is where it began. In good times, the parastatals always buy the produce for the next season because you always get periodical problems. Let us create a clear parastatal.
Yes, the bigger one, the CSC has failed but we can create micro-parastatals at the village level and community level to benefit the people. Driven deliberately by a presidential scheme, I am sure it will be good for the people. Mr. President, I also suggest that we improve the genetics of the cattle by regularly infusing into the heads that we have at the local level with new bulls maybe again through a presidential scheme or some scheme so that we keep improving or at least keep the standards of our breeds, standards big enough to be meaningful when we go to the markets.
Lastly, we need to deliberately always be working on improving the quality of the cattle through knowledge around animal health and animal nutrition. You see some very thin cattle with some counting that they have cattle because of lack of knowledge. I submit therefore, Mr. President that the importance of this motion cannot be overestimated, cannot be overemphasised, that cattle is life, particularly for the rural person. I would like to conclude by thanking Senator Mohadi for bringing forth this motion and I am sure the people at home in Matabeleland South and in Beitbridge will appreciate this because kholomo ndivhuttogwa. Thank you.
HON. SEN. ZINDI: Thank you Mr. President. I also rise to contribute to this important motion moved by Hon. Senator Mohadi. I am not going to talk much but perhaps to ride on Senator Zvidzai's contribution that provoked me in regard to what I have witnessed and what I am experiencing as a farmer. Talking about increasing the numbers of our inkomo or cattle in our midst, there is need for artificial insemination in addition to the natural mating of the cattle using the bulls. Artificial insemination can be aided by remedies such as estrumate that can allow a cow or a heifer to come on hit within 72 hours and with artificial insemination, you can then immediately inseminate that cattle.
Once inseminated, you are assured. The good thing about artificial insemination as well is that you can be specific in terms of the breed that you want. If you want them to come out all as females in order for you to grow your head, there is what they call sexed semen, which is particularly selected as females that will bring out females. If I may explain in a layman's language.
This is not anything that is unachievable. It is achievable. With my little experience and some documentaries that I have been watching, Colombians are doing it and they do not have degrees. We are talking of just a peasant on his piece of land or a plot who has that knowledge in terms of how to artificially inseminate cattle and the whole process. It can be done Mr. President.
Further to that, there is also the process of extracting semen from the bulls. I am talking of a peasant farmer whom I have witnessed personally in Colombia and in Brazil because those two countries also do cattle production. They do extraction or milking of semen from bulls which they will store where it is supposed to be stored so that it will remain active. They have all the facilities and they sell that semen, so one is just into production of semen. That is another form of farming other than having to be a cattle breeder. They sell to those who would want to go into big-time cattle production and this can be done. They are doing it because their Government is facilitating.
Mr. President, obviously I do not want to believe that the equipment they are using is Brazilian, one way or the other it is imported or perhaps is in the process. Mr. President, if they are not manufacturing their own equipment, they started by importing which we can also do as Zimbabweans but being facilitated by the Government. They have the right policies in place that are creating an enabling environment to allow people to grow and this can be done.
I have seen just an old man doing it and this practice is being passed on to generations and generations on that plot. They will be telling you, it started off with my grandparent and my grandparent passed it on to my father and my father has passed it on to me and so on, it goes on and on. I was so inspired when I was talking to this other lady on my flight from Colombia. She told me that she is a cattle breeder and she was telling me about Brazil. She was travelling there, following up on her records in terms of how much meat she had shipped to that city. She was just going to collect a cheque and then I got interested to know more.
Mr. President, she has got horses, she does the milking of semen herself and that is when she was telling me of knowledge being passed from generation to generation. I am saying based on that, we can also do it but the most important key to open up that opportunity with the Government facilitating is we should have policies that will allow us as farmers, not only as farmers even other entrepreneurs who would like to import just semen and sell it to farmers and sell it to those who would like to go into huge cattle production. That is an opportunity for self-employment and that is how I see it.
Mr. President, let us talk about the equipment. You would have already opened another opportunity for those because that equipment would like to be serviced. It requires spares. You would have already opened another opportunity for economic empowerment for those individuals who are entrepreneurial to set up business in terms of after-sales service of such equipment.
Mr. President, this will enable people to remain sustainable in that area of semen production business. In addition to that, our local cattle commonly known as hard mashona is such an important breed. The other day I was watching a video shot in the States, where they were saying this is gold referring to the hard mashona imported from Zimbabwe. It is now like on trial or pilot project for various reasons. It is disease-resistant and also with the improvement of genetics, it becomes a huge cow. They say the meat is sweet, soft and tender. Now, if America is now importing, taking our own hard mashona which we are almost saying is like a goat in terms of size but here it has been improved genetically. We can do that ourselves. The only facilitator is the Government through the Ministry of Lands who should put policies in place to allow entrepreneurs, to allow farmers to venture into such projects – [HON. SENATORS; Hear, hear.] - We hear at every seminar that farming is a business. Yes, it is a business but this is the business that I am talking about and it should be done now.
It is not just about a hoe, tilling the land and it ends there, no. It should actually be developed further for any other person to have an opportunity in the whole value chain, of farming at different levels, suppliers of equipment, whatever and each one gets an opportunity.
Mr. President, let us talk about pastures. In addition to good cattle breeding, we need good pastures and we can do it because we have the water. We now have the climate change challenges and pastures are important. We need to grow these on our farms.
It is again an opportunity for entrepreneurs, even those who are not into farming in terms of cattle production. There can be individuals who can get an opportunity just to do pastures and sell the fodder to farmers. The other day I was watching a video from Kenya where they are doing pastures just as a form of...
An Hon. Senator having approached the Chair
THE TEMPORARY PRESIDENT OF THE SENATE: (HON. SEN. CHIEF MTSHANE-KHUMALO): Order! I am sorry for interrupting you. Can you proceed?
HON. SEN. ZINDI: It looks like I am very unfortunate today because I am being interrupted. Thank you Mr. President. I was talking about creating opportunities not for cattle farming production but for entrepreneurs who can actually go into pasture production that can then be sold to those who are into cattle production. I was just on the matter to say a video shot in Kenya that I was watching the other day, where individuals who are entrepreneurial have got an opportunity of fodder production, trying to beat the climate change challenges we are faced with currently – that is the chain and opportunities that can be exploited by citizens.
Again, if I go back to my issue, the Government is facilitating. We do not have the seed for pasture production. Let the Government come up with policies that will allow people to import the seed in order for individuals to engage into pasture production. I can name a few companies in Zimbabwe right now who are into seed selling for pastures. There is Select Seed and Easy Seed. Those are the only two that I know of who sell various lucerne, brachiaria and sunn hemp. It is all imported mainly from Australia and Brazil.
There is a lot of other people who can engage into that business and we can talk of ease of doing business. Currently, we have two of these I have mentioned. Why? Perhaps it is because of the laws that regulate that area or that industry or that particular area. If we create policies, we come up with policies that are facilitating the ease of doing business. We would have more and the seed would even become cheaper because there would be more people supplying that seed, that is business that we are talking about. Farming is a business.
Mr. President, we are talking about what Hon. Zvidzai has alluded to in terms of diseases. I want to say that the January disease has become so common now. When we went into farming or at the time of land reform, there was not much talk about Johne’s disease. In my opinion, through the Ministry of Lands, why do we not come up with a policy that can package all the matters to do with cattle production, diseases, artificial insemination and fodder production?
The advantages of spraying your cattle if you are an individual farmer in the communal areas, we come up with that kind of ideas through our headmen or kraal heads. An Agritex officer is not expected to do any production or any work. I do not know how you call it in other areas but we call it Chisi when people are not working in their fields or anything, they are not allowed to, traditionally and culturally. People gather at sabhuku’s residence. The Agritex officer comes there, teaches what I have mentioned in terms of artificial insemination.
We get the right person at the University of Zimbabwe. We do have the vet doctors who are training there. They do all this artificial insemination. I know CUT is doing artificial insemination there. They send those individuals on arranged dates and teach people how to do artificial insemination. I am saying so because I have made reference earlier of just an old man who is not even educated in Colombia or in Brazil who does his own artificial insemination. These seminars, short programmes and short trainings will help to increase or to up our numbers.
In addition to what I have said, law enforcement destroys us Mr. President. Irene Zindi is busy and she cannot sleep making sure that she has increased her herd, the remedies, labour force and paying as an investment. A cattle rustler comes and steals 10 or 20 animals in one night, carries the meat to Harare in a Toyota or Honda Fit. There is a readily available market. Sadza is now cooked everywhere and the police themselves go and buy that sadza at a dollar when they do not even know the source of the meat they are eating.
I am actually advocating for our police to really enforce the laws that control movement of beef or carcass which is slaughtered. They should enforce those laws. Anybody found transporting carcasses should actually be arrested because there are particular vans that should transport meat into cities. Those cooking from all over even in First Street, you can go and buy a plate of sadza today as we speak. They should actually be questioned as to where they would have obtained the meat from.
Let us go back to the old days Mr. President. These days we now hear people being affected by cancer. You know what is happening? The January disease that we are talking about is treated by butachem. Butachem is carcinogenic. If you eat meat that has been treated with Butachem…
THE TEMPORARY PRESIDENT OF THE SENATE: Order Hon. Senator Zind! You are left with five minutes.
HON. SEN. ZINDI: Thank you Mr. President. I am almost done. If you eat meat from a cow treated with butachem, you are likely to be affected by cancer and this is why cancer has become so common. With all these sadza cooking places all over, a farmer would not like to lose so he or she will just sell a dead cow as a result of JD which will not have recovered from butachem. That meat is what we are seeing being sold on the streets at a dollar per plate of sadza. So, enforcement is lacking. I plead with our police to enforce and regulate as it was before in terms of the source of meat and the movement of meat from the farms into the cities.
Finally, I would like to go back to the issue of coming up with facilitating policies through the Ministry. We should be allowed to import all those other things that I have mentioned, in particular, the seed for pastures, the genetics in order to improve our cattle and necessary equipment for artificial insemination at affordable rates so as to be able to grow this cattle industry if at all we are concerned and if we at all consider that farming is a business and not just about a hoe and tilling the land. No, it goes further than that. I thank you.
HON. SEN. MOHADI. I move that the debate be now adjourned.
HON. SEN. TONGOGARA: I second.
Motion put and agreed to.
Debate to resume: Wednesday, 26th March, 2025.
On the motion of HON. SEN. TONGOGARA, seconded by HON. SEN. MOHADI, the Senate adjourned at Sixteen Minutes to Five o’clock p.m.
PARLIAMENT OF ZIMBABWE
Thursday, 20th March, 2025.
The Senate met at Half-past Two o’clock p.m.
PRAYERS
(THE ACTING PRESIDENT OF SENATE in the Chair)
ANNOUNCEMNTS BY THE ACTING PRESIDENT OF SENATE
BILL RECEIVED FROM THE NATIONAL ASSEMBLY
THE ACTING PRESIDENT OF SENATE (HON. SEN. KAMBIZI): Good afternoon Hon. Members. I wish to inform the Senate that I have received the Broadcasting Services Amendment Bill [H. B. 10A, 2024] from the National Assembly.
PARLIAMENTARY PHARMACEUTICAL CAUCUS
THE ACTING PRESIDENT OF SENATE: I also wish to advise all Hon. Senators who are interested in joining the Parliamentary Pharmaceutical Caucus (PPC) to register with Mr. Tapiwa Chiremba, the Committee Clerk for Portfolio Committee on Health and Child Care in Office Number 311, 3rd Floor, Parliament Building or contact him on mobile number 0773 209 824.
Today, being a Thursday, it is Questions Without Notice and in the House, I see one Minister.
HON. ZVIDZAI: Thank you Mr. President. I wish to give a statement in terms of Section 61 of the Standing Orders, which allows a senator who is not a minister to issue a statement on what one considers to be a matter of national importance.
THE ACTING PRESIDENT OF SENATE: Please proceed.
HON. ZVIDZAI: Thank you Mr. President. In the past two/three weeks, the Minister of Local Government issued an alarming statement to the effect that our cities, towns and all local authorities should be cleaned up of all informal sector actors, all vendors, which reminds the people of this country of the events of Murambatsvina. Mr. President, I wish to emphasise the importance of vendors in our economy. The 64.1% of the GDP of this country is driven by the informal economy and 80% of employment in this country is also in the informal economy. That emphasises the importance of this particular sector. It is so disturbing to notice that the Minister did not realise the importance of this sector.
Additionally, we have begun to see running battles between the police and the vendors in Mutare, Masvingo and throughout the country. We are beginning to see a trend which we have never seen, where people are fighting back because that is their only source of livelihood. There is no alternative. The Minister just issued a statement without providing an alternative for the poor. It is unfortunate that Cabinet or Government can sit to design policies and directives to fight the poor when they should fight poverty. What should be fought is poverty and not the poor.
Mr. President, for this nation, for the Executive to continue to push the poor who are already pinned to the wall, it can lead to dire consequences for our peace and harmony in this country. It can lead to discomforts of unimaginable levels. It can lead to people living in Borrowdale who do not know what poverty is, seeing people walking into their dining rooms, sitting and capturing them.
Mr. President, I implore our Government to think seriously before deploying undesirable, unkind, harsh and very neoliberal policies which punish the poor. Let us all work together to fight poverty and not to fight the poor. Thank you Mr. President.
HON. SEN. C. MUTSVANGWA: Thank you Mr. President. I take note of the contribution which has just been made. I also want to highlight that all the mentioned authorities are Governments in their own right. They are elected Governments in their own right. That is the city councils and the town councils. They have jurisdictions which are autonomous from that of the Central Government because they are duly elected – [AN. HON. MEMBER: Point of order.] –
THE ACTING PRESIDENT OF SENATE: Order! When I say order, everybody sits down and switches off the microphone. Hon. Senator Mutsvangwa, are you responding to the previous speaker or it is something new?
HON. SEN. C. MUTSVANGWA: I am proceeding to say that...
THE ACTING PRESIDENT OF SENATE: Hon. Senator Mutsvangwa, are you responding to the previous speaker or it is something new?
HON. SEN. C. MUTSVANGWA: I am responding to …
THE ACTING PRESIDENT OF SENATE: Order, order! You may not respond because that contribution is directed to the Minister. I had already pronounced that today is a Thursday and we are on Questions Without Notice.
ANNOUNCEMENT BY THE ACTING PRESIDENT OF SENATE
APOLOGIES RECEIVED FROM MINISTERS
THE ACTING PRESIDENT OF SENATE (HON. SEN. KAMBIZI): Hon. Gen. Rtd. Dr. C.D.G.N. Chiwenga, Vice President; Hon. Col Rtd K.C.D. Mohadi, Vice President; Hon. O.C.Z. Muchinguri-Kashiri, Minister of Defence. Hon. W. Chitando, Minister of Mines and Mining Development; Hon. E. Ndlovu, Minister of State for Provincial Affairs and Devolution for Matabeleland South; Hon. K.D. Mnangagwa, Deputy Minister of Finance, Economic Development and Investment Promotion; Hon. O. Marupi, Deputy Minister of Information, Publicity and Broadcasting Services; Hon. D. Phuti, Deputy Minister of Information, Communication Technology, Postal and Courier Services; Hon. V. Haritatos, Deputy Minister of Lands, Agriculture, Fisheries, Water and Rural Resettlement; Hon. D. Marapira, Deputy Minister of Lands, Agriculture, Fisheries, Water and Rural Resettlement.
In the House today, we have one minister and I have just received information that two other ministers are on their way. They have been attending another function at the Harare International Conference Centre. I hope that before long, some will have joined us here. At the moment in the House, we have Hon. Minister M. Mavunga, the Minister of Veterans of the Liberation Struggle Affairs.
While it is disheartening that we have only one minister, we have to make do with the Minister until others join us. Therefore, if there are any who have questions directed to the Minister that we have in the House at the moment, she is at your disposal.
ORAL ANSWERS TO QUESTIONS WITHOUT NOTICE
*HON. SEN. KADUNGURE: Thank you Mr. President. I want to take this opportunity to thank Minister Mavhunga for a job well done in serving the country. The work that she is doing is very good. However, I want to know how prepared they are for the vetting of the war collaborators.
THE MINISTER OF VETERANS OF THE LIBERATION STRUGGLE AFFAIRS (HON. MAVHUNGA): Thank you Mr. President. I want to thank Hon. Sen. Kadungure for her question. The issue of vetting the war collaborators was once asked. The war collaborators are a part of the war veterans.
Our Constitution has four categories, war veterans, ex-political detainees, non-combatant cadres and war collaborators. At first, the law only recognised war veterans and ex-political detainees but our new Constitution of 2013 now recognises the other two categories, the non-combatants and the war collaborators. The Act which only looked at war veterans and detainees was removed and we now have [Chapter 17], which recognises all four categories.
Therefore, for anyone to be a war veteran, they are now supposed to be vetted and registered in our books. So, the vetting of war collaborators and ex-combatants was done in 2022 and it was not completed because of underfunding. Then 2024 from October to November, we finished the exercise and everyone was vetted although we still have others coming for vetting.
After vetting, we should gazette in the public papers. So, when these names have been gazetted for the whole month, then those chancers would be removed from the list. The public is urged that during gazetting, they are supposed to fish out imposters. What is only left now is gazetting because we have completed the compilation and the reports.
At the moment, we are engaging the Minister of Finance, as you are aware that the Constitution states that the welfare of these people should be looked at. So, we need the concurrence of the Minister of Finance, Economic Development and Investment Promotion. We have not forgotten about the war veterans. Thank you.
+HON. SEN. MLOTSHWA: We note that some people are left out when you talk about war veterans and war collaborators. There is a certain group that is left out, the people affected by Gukurahundi. I want to understand where they are categorised, how they are going to benefit and when they are going to benefit.
THE MINISTER OF VETERANS OF THE LIBERATION STRUGGLE AFFAIRS (HON. SEN. MAVHUNGA): Thank you very much Mr. President. The veterans of the liberation struggle are recognised as per of our Constitution. During the Constitution formulation, the masses of Zimbabwe or the people who were consulted only considered those four groups I have talked about. I thank you.
*HON. SEN. KATUMBA: Thank you Mr. President. My question is directed to the Minister of Veterans of the Liberation Struggle Affairs. We have the mujibhas and chimbwidos who died during the liberation struggle. What are you doing for their families, considering that there are detainees who died and their families are benefitting? What about the families of chimbwindos and mujibhas who died during the liberation struggle?
*HON. SEN. MAVHUNGA: Thank you Mr. President. There is a law that is called the War Victims Act. In the past, it was under Social Welfare but currently, the law is under the purview of the Minister of Veterans of the Liberation Struggle Affairs.
This law focusses more on those who were injured during the liberation struggle and those who died, meaning that people must apply if they have got enough evidence that their relative died during the liberation struggle. As a Ministry, we know that many people died during the liberation struggle. They may be the mujibhas, chimbwidos or the liberation fighters. We are saying, as a Ministry, let us look into this issue. They have been repatriated and received decent burials in their respective areas.
So, we are going to work hard together with the Ministry of Home Affairs and Cultural Heritage to make sure that the intended beneficiaries are going to benefit. We are also going to engage in a programme where we are going to homesteads, village heads and chiefs and have the records of those who died during the liberation struggle. We had already alluded to the fact that the job of the Ministry is to identify those who died during the liberation struggle, those who did not manage to return home and some of them ended up being disabled because of the liberation struggle.
We are currently focussing on the amendments so that they include those who are injured because of the land mines and other war materials which were left behind from 1980 to date, even those injured because of bombs and other things. For example, there are people who were injured in Binga in the past few days. They were injured through landmine blasts. They have also become victims of the war and the amendment is going to consider all these people so that they can benefit. Thank you.
+HON. SEN. S. MOYO: Thank you Mr. President. We note Hon. Minister and hear about the people who died during the war and some were buried before Independence.
Hon. Minister, we note that you say you are looking into the issue. The question is, what timeframe would you want to put when you would have the complete information? When would you have completed the exercise? Thank you.
HON. SEN. MAVHUNGA: Thank you very much Mr. President. We received a budget towards registering all those who passed on during the armed struggle and we are putting up our teams to ensure that we start registration of such people. There are some who are manifesting on their relatives or other comrades, so with those ones, it will be like an emergency. We will just organise to exhume and rebury such people and if ever our people know of anyone who is buried in a shallow grave or who went to the armed struggle and did not come back, they are free to come and register. We shall, very soon, call upon the people to come and register. Thank you.
HON. SEN. SIBANDA: Thank you Mr. President Sir. My question goes back to the Hon. Minister. Hon. Minister, you seem to be talking about people who passed on during the liberation struggle and these war collaborators. What about those who passed on during the exercises that were started recently and also those who were war collaborators? Are the families going to benefit or not or it is the end of everything because they are no more?
HON. SEN. MAVHUNGA: Thank you very much. When we vetted the ex-combatants in 1997, some died before receiving their dues and their relatives or dependents are still being catered for. The same also applies to the war collaborators or none combatants who are dying now holding their vetting slips. Once they pass the gazetting that I alluded to, they will benefit as well. Thank you.
THE ACTING PRESIDENT OF SENATE (HON. SEN. KAMBIZI): We have been joined by three other ministers, that is, the Minister of National Housing and Social Amenities, Hon. Zhemu Soda; the Minister of Justice, Legal and Parliamentary Affairs, Hon. Ziyambi and the Minister of Primary and Secondary Education, Hon. T. Moyo. So, those with questions directed to the three, feel free.
*HON. SEN. ZINDI: Thank you Mr. President. My question is directed to the Minister of Veterans of the Liberation Struggle Affairs. There was an ongoing court case whereby war veterans were supposed to receive pending benefits from the Ministry. What is the current status pertaining the outstanding benefits as per the court ruling?
*THE MINISTER OF VETERANS OF THE LIBERATION STRUGGLE AFFAIRS (HON. SEN. MAVHUNGA): Thank you Hon. Senator Zindi for the pertinent question. I want to say when the liberation war fighters were vetted, there were Statutory Instruments 280 and 281 which talked about war veterans’ benefits and pensions. Statutory Instrument 280 says that the liberation fighters were supposed to be given ZWL50 000 gratuity and ZWL2 000 every month until the freedom fighter passes away but because of the changes in economic conditions prevailing in the country, all of us are aware that people used to get US dollars and it was a time when civil servants were being paid USD100 but right now, the war veterans are getting something. They are getting USD153.60 and a substantial amount of ZIG.
So the issue of saying the freedom fighters won the issue of being awarded ZWL2 000, it is an issue which we addressed through the Minister of Finance, Economic Development and Investment Promotion considering the prevailing rates and the changes in our currency. Thank you.
*HON. SEN. ZINDI: Thank you Mr. President. Can the Minister of Veterans of the Liberation Struggle Affairs clearly explain the issue of the USD2 000 which was supposed to be given to freedom fighters every month so that they can survive and was not fulfilled by the Government? Is she saying the Ministry and the Minister of Finance, Economic Development and Investment Promotion have arranged for the money to be paid in United States dollars or the freedom fighters are to start receiving their monies backdated from where they were supposed to get their money up to date? Can she clearly explain on that issue? Thank you Mr. President.
*HON. SEN. MAVHUNGA: Thank you Mr. President. Statutory Instrument 280 does not talk about the US dollar. During that time, we had our local currency which was strong. The US dollar was working as a foreign currency. When you wanted to go outside the country, you could go to the bank and change your local currency into foreign currency.
HON. SEN. ZINDI: May I be allowed to interject Mr. President?
THE ACTING PRESIDENT OF SENATE: Hon. Senator, please allow her to finish responding.
HON. SEN. MAVHUNGA: I am not denying that in our conversation with the Minister of Finance, Economic Development and Investment Promotion with the freedom fighters, they were receiving ZWL2 000 per month during that time. So that is what they were awarded by the court and this is what was supposed to be given to the war veterans. So the Government does not deny that war veterans are supposed to be given their monies. That is why they won their case. The war veterans want their money and that is why the Ministry is holding discussions with the Minister of Finance, Economic Development and Investment Promotion regarding the Statutory Instrument. On which currency they are going to use, this is still under discussion but the USD2 000 which was agreed on is the Zimbabwean dollar, not the US dollar at that time. Thank you.
*THE ACTING PRESIDENT OF SENATE: Thank you Minister for the responses that you have given to this House but I would urge you to go and investigate the issue so that you are able to give a full and satisfactory response to the questions asked by the Senators on this issue of the benefits to be received by the war veterans and whether it is supposed to be paid in US dollars or local currency.
In the House, we have also been joined by another Minister. We have been joined by the Deputy Minister of Home Affairs and Cultural Heritage, Hon. Sanyatwe.
*HON. SEN. ZINDI: Mr. President, I thank you for your suggestion that we must put the question in writing so that the Minister can go and research and come back to the House with a clear response. However, let me say the money which they won in court was not Zimbabwean dollar, it was US dollar. May the Minister go and research on that? Thank you.
THE MINISTER OF JUSTICE, LEGAL AND PARLIAMENTARY AFFAIRS (HON. ZIYAMBI): Mr. President, the Minister is correct. If the S.I. was promulgated in 1997, the currency cannot be said to have been in US dollar but what the S.I. said, if I still remember, it equated the money that they were supposed to get to a certain rank in the army. So it was never about the US dollar. It was about equating to say every war veteran will get an equivalent of this rank within the army.
The Minister is very correct to say what is needed because of various currency changes and the need to comply with the court order to negotiate with Treasury so that we can see how the monies can be converted to the money that can be payable now. I submit to you Mr. President.
*HON. SEN. C. MUTSVANGWA: Thank you Mr. President. My question is directed to the Minister of Justice, Legal and Parliamentary Affairs. There is an issue which involves vendors in towns which is happening. I want to ask if there is a directive from Cabinet that the Municipality Police must listen to the Minister even though they do not fall under that Ministry, that they should go and harass these vendors. When we look at it, these vendors are engaging in selling their wares in order to survive. The Ministry of Local Government and Public Works is the one which is harassing the vendors. Where does this issue come from? Thank you Mr. President.
*THE MINISTER OF JUSTICE, LEGAL AND PARLIAMENTARY AFFAIRS (HON. Z. ZIYAMBI): Mr. President, on the issue of vendors, the Government did not deny the vendors their existence but the policy is to make sure that vendors operate from designated areas they are supposed to be working from.
There was an issue of vendors waking up and just selling from everywhere and coming with wares in front of big shops. For example, they would go and sell in front of OK where there is sugar, there is colgate. The vendors were now selling groceries in front of the shops of which the shops pay licences and rents. Now, people are no longer buying from the shops. The industries were lamenting that from the research we have done, most of the products which are being sold are not original but are counterfeits. Even in terms of scale, sometimes a product is written 2kgs but it will not be 2kgs. The industry is working with local authorities and agreed that they must remove vendors in front of their shops and give them designated areas. For example, what is happening in Mbare, there are places for vendors where they do not conflict with the big shops which are paying taxes and everything.
There is peace and tranquility in terms of business between the vendors and those who have big shops. There is competition of customers between those who are paying tax and those who do not pay taxes. Vendors must go to those who allocate them stores to sell their wares. They must desist from going in front of shops where they are selling their wares which is against those who are operating in the industries. Thank you.
*HON. SEN. C. MUTSVANGWA: I have clearly understood the Minister. My question is for the vendors to be removed, is it coming from our Zimbabwe Police Force or from the Municipality Police? This is because the Municipality Police are the ones who are responsible for enforcing these bye-laws.
*HON. Z. ZIYAMBI: Thank you Mr. President. According to the programme which is being done, I believe when this issue was discussed, the mayor was there. It is the issue which is being done by the Zimbabwe Republic Police and the Municipality Police. There is an understanding between the Zimbabwe Republic Police and the Municipality Police. There is an issue of working hand-in-glove in terms of enforcing between the Municipality Police and the ZRP.
Hon. Sen. Mutsvangwa is raising a pertinent issue but the problem which we have that we want to resolve is that we did not have a department of laws that works in towns. When someone is selling his or her wares, they are being taken by the police, it does not end with the police but must go to the court and the issue must be looked into if the laws were properly done. So, before that law and those procedures are there, we can use our police because there are courts where the police do take their perpetrators to.
For us to have clean cities and have order, we cannot remove the police officers because the police officers are working and making sure that the big businesses are reaping their benefits so that they can continue to operate while the vendor is not disturbing their work and also the vendors are located in their stores where they are expected to operate. Hence, the Hon. Member is raising a pertinent question that there must be a clear divide. Thank you Mr. President.
*HON. SEN. ZINDI: I really agree with what Minister Ziyambi has explained. My issue is on the rush to remove the vendors from where they are operating while we did not come up with areas where they are supposed to go and operate from. I do not understand how it is done? Is it not the issue of causing the cat and mouse races happening in the town, where the vendors are refusing to be removed because they do not have specific areas where they are expected to operate? I think Government was supposed to allocate them places to operate from before they remove them.
*HON. ZIYAMBI: Thank you Mr. President. If a person is breaching the law, the vendors are not allowed to say they are always in front of shops like OK and they do know that they are breaching the law. We cannot wait for people to go to every area to sell their wares. One day you can find themselves operating in your houses. Hence, they must follow the laws while the Government is looking for areas for them to operate.
*HON. SEN. NGWENA: Thank you Mr. President. My question is directed to the Minister of Primary and Secondary Education. What is Government policy in expecting the areas where the schools are being constructed? Long back, we knew that areas were being scouted for building schools but right now, the schools are being built behind the shops where there is noise from those operating their shops while school children are in class.
*THE MINISTER OF PRIMARY AND SECONDARY EDUCATION (HON. T. MOYO): Thank you Mr. President.
I also want to thank Senator Ngwena for raising a pertinent question. It is true that the Government has got a policy which is very strong in scouting the areas where schools are supposed to be constructed. The schools are not to be built in a haphazard manner. Before constructing schools, we do what we call feasibility studies in terms of the distance being travelled by students from their homes to the schools. If it is in towns, there are places which are left behind or designated for the construction of schools, be it primary or secondary. Those schools which are now being built at business centres are unregistered schools. These schools might end up being destroyed because they are not expected or they are not lawfully constructed in those areas.
Before I sit down, it is true that we do have a Government policy following in terms of construction of these schools. Those who are building their schools near business centres are not following the law.
+HON. SEN. NYATI: Thank you Mr. President. You would find that these days because of hot seating, there are a few classrooms and some roofs have been blown away by storms. I thank you.
HON. T. MOYO: Thank you Mr. President. I did not get the question because the translation I got, there is no question. What I got is that some classrooms, the roofs were blown away by the winds. The other issue is that there is hot sitting. So, I did not get the real question.
THE ACTING PRESIDENT OF SENATE: I agree Hon. Minister. Can the Hon. Senator please rephrase her supplementary question?
+HON. SEN. NYATHI: My supplementary question is, what plans does Government have in terms of what is happening in schools? There are some schools that were affected by the rains and our children are suffering in schools and there is hot sitting because of the roofs that were blown away during the rains. What is Government planning to do with that?
HON. T. MOYO: May I thank Hon. Senator Nyathi for the question. The Government has plans to assist those schools whose roofs were blown away by the winds. The procedure is, as soon as classrooms are destroyed due to storms as a result of climate change, they are supposed to report to the Civil Protection Unit in our districts. The Civil Protection Unit is under the leadership of the District Development Coordinator. He is the one who compiles the reports that some schools were blown away by the winds.
In the Ministry of Local Government, there is funding to assist all challenges associated with destructions caused by climate change. They should receive support from the Ministry of Local Government. They have funding which is earmarked for the reconstruction. The Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education also has funding for refurbishments of classrooms and also funding to construct new classrooms and new schools. If we receive reports of schools that were affected or were destroyed by the storms, we quickly go to those areas. We normally mobilise funding so that we can assist those schools in terms of renovations.
*HON. SEN. CHIEF CHARUMBIRA: Thank you Mr. President. The Minister of Primary and Secondary Education is clarifying issues and I have got a supplementary question. The question is with regards to the construction of the building of private schools. In my constituency, I saw students coming from a certain building in town and I asked where they were coming from. They said there is a school in the township next to a bar. Some private schools are really bringing mischief among children because they are next to bars. I thank you.
*HON. T. MOYO: I want to thank Hon. Sen. Chief Charumbira for that question. The schools that are being alluded to, some of them are illegal and people just create private schools despite the fact that there is a law which governs the opening of schools. Let me say that the days are numbered for errant schools and for people who operate schools illegally. This week I spoke to my directors and I said that we need paperwork which will be taken to the Cabinet so that we are given the permission to close such schools. Cabinet will make a decision and it will inform us to close such schools so that private schools can regularise their operations.
Children should learn in proper schools that are known and registered. The schools must register with the Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education so that they are given the permission to operate and run schools legally because you would find schools running wherever they want. This is not good for our children because sometimes you would find that there are only two rooms and students being overcrowded. Fifty students would be in one room and hygienically, this is not proper. Diseases spread because of the proximity of students to each other. I want to promise our Hon. Senators that it is high time the Ministry or Government dealt with such issues and we are going to close them. I thank you.
*HON. SEN.CHIEF CHARUMBIRA: Hon. Minister, these people would have applied from the province and what happens between the province and the head offices is what we do not know. I thank you.
*HON. T. MOYO: Thank you Hon. President. Let me clarify that there is no law that allows people to operate schools from townships. When you apply for permission, then Government responds. When you operate from where people are supposed to be in a residential area, then it is illegal. There are guidelines and the strategic department would be deployed after an application has been done so that the department ascertains that it is appropriate to have a school. People who operate schools in houses are doing so illegally. That is why you find that most of these schools do not have permits because they are operating illegally. I thank you.
HON. SEN. TONGOGARA: Thank you Mr. President. My question is directed to the Minister of Justice, Legal and Parliamentary Affairs. Hon. Minister, the administration of estates requires that surviving spouses and children of a deceased person are to pay a Master’s fees amounting to 4% of the entire estate when registering the deceased estate. Considering that in most cases the deceased was the sole bread winner leaving the surviving spouse and family financially vulnerable, does the Government not consider this requirement to be unfair and unrealistic? What measures are being taken to ease the burden and ensure that the estate registration process does not further impoverish the grieving families? Thank you.
THE MINISTER OF JUSTICE, LEGAL AND PARLIAMENTARY AFFAIRS (HON. Z. ZIYAMBI): Thank you Mr. President. There is no question there. The Hon. Senator is stating a scenario that she believes requires a review based on the facts that she is submitting. The law as it is, is exactly what she said. If you register an estate, you have to pay estate duties amounting to that 4%. I think if that is the consensus, the generality of the people's view that the percentage is high can be reviewed.
It is not directly, per se, a policy question to ask what measures we are taking. We have not been taking any measures. What is needed is a conversation around that particular area to ask whether we really need to be levying such a percentage on deceased estates. I submit.
THE ACTING PRESIDENT OF SENATE: In the House, we have also been joined by the Deputy Minister of Sports, Arts and Culture, Hon. Jesaya, the Deputy Minister of Primary and Secondary Education, Hon. Gata and the Minister of Energy and Power Development.
Questions Without Notice were interrupted by THE ACTING PRESIDENT OF SENATE in terms of Standing Order Number 67.
HON. SEN. MLOTSHWA: Thank you Mr. President, some Ministers have just come in, so I move that time for Questions Without Notice be extended by 30 minutes.
HON. SEN. CHIEF CHIKWAKA: I second.
THE ACTING PRESIDENT OF SENATE: I will allow 20 minutes.
HON. SEN. BVUMO: Thank you Mr. President. I want to direct my question to the Minister of Primary and Secondary Education. In the past few days, we have received reports that the BEAM payments have not been paid for quite some time now. A few weeks ago, there were disturbing events that were happening in schools where the numbers of BEAM beneficiaries were being reduced. This was done promptly as I am speaking and people are panicking in schools. Let me give an example. In Chegutu, we have a Hartley 2 Primary with about 778 students. Now, the number is being cut to 400. At Chegutu High School, we had 98 last year and the number is being reduced to 37. Firstly, which criteria was used in cutting the figures so that we know the percentage that was applied in terms of reducing the number? Secondly, we are talking of poor children who benefit from BEAM, were they given enough notice so that parents will understand…?
THE TEMPORARY PRESIDENT OF SENATE (HON. SEN. A. DUBE): Order, Hon. Senator! That is not a policy statement. Can you ask a policy question?
HON. SEN. BVUMO: I can explain also that we hear that BEAM beneficiaries have been reduced on short notice and we have ‘O’ level students who are supposed to be writing. Is there anything that is going to be done so that they are not affected in their examinations because they were not prepared since they were looking forward to BEAM assistance? I thank you.
THE MINISTER OF PRIMARY AND SECONDARY EDUCATION (HON. T. MOYO): Madam President, let me thank the Hon. Senator for that question. This is not true that BEAM beneficiaries are being reduced. It is not true. What I want to urge the Hon. Senator is to put it in writing, explaining and identifying the particular schools. The Ministry is going to investigate to ascertain what is happening with the schools. I thank you.
HON. SEN. MUNEMO: Supplementary Madam President.
THE TEMPORARY PRESIDENT OF SENATE: There is no supplementary. There is no question, he will put it in writing. Can you switch off your mic Hon. Senator?
HON. SEN. ZVIDZAI: On a point of order Madam President. The Minister is saying the Hon. Senator is a liar. Is that parliamentary?
THE TEMPORARY PRESIDENT OF SENATE: Hon. Senator, he said it is not true, he did not say that he is a liar.
HON. SEN. CHIEF. CHIKWAKA: Thank you Madam President. My question is directed to the Minister of Primary and Secondary Education, Hon. T. Moyo. We have challenges regarding children with special needs and have down syndrome. In rural areas, we do not have schools that cater for these children with this type of disability and their schools are found in towns. What is the Government policy for those disabled children who have down syndrome, who can be trained, educated and be beneficial to the economy? What is the Government policy for those who are in rural areas and resettled farmers to benefit and get an education?
THE MINISTER OF PRIMARY AND SECONDARY EDUCATION (HON. T. MOYO): Thank you Madam President. Let me thank Hon. Senator Chief Chikwaka for asking a pertinent question. It is true that in other areas we do not have special schools to cater for these students. In other rural areas, those schools are there. On Tuesday, we were in the field. Right now, we are coming from Gutu. We were going around the country looking for children who are disabled, visually impaired, those with hearing impairments and intellectual challenges. We were moving around the in provinces looking at these issues throughout the country. Today, we were in Bikita and yesterday we were in Gutu. We would be happy to know which areas are still lagging, especially the area where the Hon. Chief is coming from so that we can have a school for every district that caters for these children. These children who are disabled have a right to education. Government has set laws and policies that every child has a right to education, which is a fundamental human right issue etched in our laws. We are doing a feasibility study and research to see which areas need these schools. The finances are already there but we might not be able to implement it soon because we are doing the study to know which districts need these schools so that we do not migrate the students from rural areas. We need to build schools which focus on disabled children.
We also have schools like Gutu United Primary School which combines the disabled and the able bodied so that we can have an inclusive policy. Right now, as a Ministry, we are writing a paper and perfecting to find the best way to help those who are disabled. Another way to do it has already been alluded to by Hon. Senator, to build schools which focus on those who are disabled. I thank you.
HON. SEN. CHAKABUDA: Thank you very much for giving me this opportunity. My question is directed to the Minister of Justice, Legal and Parliamentary Affairs. What initiatives are being undertaken to enhance access to justice for marginalised and low-income populations, particularly in rural areas in relation to accessibility of the new integrated electronic case management system currently being practiced in high courts?
THE MINISTER OF JUSTICE, LEGAL AND PARLIAMENTARY AFFAIRS (HON. ZIYAMBI): A very technical question and we do not actually have High Courts in rural areas. I am trying to reconcile the import of that question because within the majority of our rural areas, in fact, all of them, we are in the process of increasing access to justice by building High Courts in provinces and not in rural areas. I am not very sure if she can re-couch the question. Is it about wanting to know about the electronic case management system or about access to justice because we now have decentralised the Magistrates Courts to growth points and some of the areas? I am not very sure about the connection between the High Court and integrated case management system because we changed the rules to say that where it is not possible, allow parallel filing, manual or electronic. The question is not coming out to me exactly what the import of what the Hon Senator wants to say. I so submit.
THE TEMPORARY PRESIDENT OF SENATE (HON SEN. A. DUBE): I am sure you heard what the Minister said. Maybe you can put it in writing.
HON. SEN. CHAKABUDA: I will try and do so but I thought it is a policy question.
*HON. SEN. CHIEF DANDAWA: My question is directed to the Minister of Primary and Secondary Education. Where we stay in the rural areas, we come across elderly people saying that they are looking after children who are on BEAM but the headmasters are saying that the children who have been on BEAM for a longer period should make way for others. I want to find out if the Minister is aware of that.
*THE MINISTER OF PRIMARY AND SECONDARY EDUCATION (HON. T. MOYO): I want to thank Senator Chief Dandawa for his question. There is no law that says that someone has stayed long on the BEAM list because BEAM caters for ECD-A up to A level. I want to say that they should put it in writing citing exact areas where that is happening. I thank you.
*HON. SEN. CHITSAMBA: Last year on 24 October, 2024, there was a fatal accident at Dzivarasekwa turn-off along the Harare-Bulawayo highway. Again, yesterday there was another fatal accident where seven people lost their lives. What is Government’s policy to safeguard the lives of people so that they do not perish at the same spot?
*THE MINISTER OF JUSTICE, LEGAL AND PARLIAMENTARY AFFAIRS (HON Z. ZIYAMBI): Thank you for the question raised by the Hon Senator which is citing the area as a black spot. If you look at the accidents that are happening, how they are happening and what eye witnesses say, it is pointing to the fact that the accidents are caused due to human error wherein drivers are not following the rules. It is not that we have to cleanse the area but we need to cleanse the attitude and ways of those who are driving the vehicles so that they should be diligent when driving on this section of the road and they should be aware that they are not putting peoples lives in danger when driving.
I can give an example of an accident which happened on the Harare-Beitbridge highway some time ago. When the bus driver was being cautioned that he was speeding, he would reduce the speed up to 10km/hr. If the passengers requested to disembark, he would increase the speed to 180km/hr. Now my point is that when the accident happened, it was not due to state of the road but it was through speeding.
We want drivers to be cautious that when people get into public service vehicles, they are entrusting their lives to the drivers. So, the drivers should also look after the lives of the people and drive very carefully so that people will not perish. I thank you.
*HON. RUNGANI: My question is directed to the Minister of Primary and Secondary Education. Does Government have a law that when they set the deadline for payment of examination fees, do they consider the incomes of the people whether they are capable of meeting the deadline because parents are struggling out there.
THE MINISTER OF PRIMARY AND SECONDARY EDUCATION (HON. T. MOYO): Madam President, I want to thank Senator Rungani for the question. All these Senators have a right to ask the Minister of Primary and Secondary Education to engage ZIMSEC so that it extends the deadline. Last year, we got a plea from the National Assembly as well. So, what I can say is that it is possible. I will engage ZIMSEC and ask them to extend the dates to May to enable parents to mobilise the examination registration fees for their children for the subjects they want to write. If we close on 28th March, it means some of the children will write five or four subjects. So, as a plea, I will engage ZIMSEC so that they extend up to the second week of May. That is when they will close registration. I thank you.
Questions Without Notice were interrupted by THE TEMPORARY PRESIDENT OF THE SENATE in terms of Standing Order No. 67.
ORAL ANSWERS TO QUESTIONS WITH NOTICE
HON. SEN. TSHABANGU: On a point of order Madam President. My question can still be answered by the Leader of Government business.
THE TEMPORARY PRESIDENT OF THE SENATE: I do not think he can do that because it is a written question which needs a written answer. So, the responsible Minister has to bring a written response and answer any clarifications. Therefore, your question will be deferred because the Minister is not here.
HON. SEN. TONGOGARA: On a point of order Madam President. When the Minister was here last time, he answered all my three questions that you said would be deferred.
THE TEMPORARY PRESIDENT OF THE SENATE: Thank you Senator Tongogara.
EXPLANATION ON REASONS WHY THERE IS ONE IMMIGRATION OFFICE AT MAITENGWE BORDER POST
- 6. SEN. S. MOYO asked the Minister of Home Affairs and Cultural Heritage to explain to the House reasons why there is only one Immigration Office at the Maitengwe Border Post and unfinished toilets for both men and women considering the revenue that is earned from the services of the border post.
THE DEPUTY MINISTER OF HOME AFFAIRS AND CULTURAL HERITAGE (HON. C. SANYATWE): I wish to thank the Hon. Senator for the question. Let me inform the House that the approved establishment by the Public Service Commission is three immigration officers. Two are in post and for the third one who is supposed to be off-duty, interviews to fill the post have been done. In addition, all revenue collected by the department is managed by Treasury. In this regard, the completion of ablution facilities for men and women at the border post has been affected by the fiscal constraints facing the department, hence the incompletion. The department however, continues to engage Treasury for budgetary support to ensure that the ablution facilities are complete.
+HON. SEN. PHUTI: Thank you Madam President for affording me this opportunity. Each time questions are asked, they do not get responses from the responsible ministers simply because the ministers are not coming to the House. The President did say that Members from the opposition should drive the ministers to do their duty. How are we going to drive them when they are not here? The President should appoint ministers who are dedicated to serving the people. I thank you.
THE TEMPORARY PRESIDENT OF SENATE: Your concern is noted Hon. Phuti.
WRITTEN SUBMISSION TO QUESTIONS WITH NOTICE
IMPLICATIONS OF POLICY ON BANNING OF USE OF MOBILE PHONES BY POLICE OFFICERS
- HON. SEN. ADV. PHULU asked the Minister of Home Affairs and Cultural Heritage to inform the House the implications of Government policy as regards the directive banning police officers from using their mobile phones while on duty.
THE DEPUTY MINISTER OF HOME AFFAIRS AND CULTURAL HERITAGE (HON. SANYATWE): I want to thank the Hon. Senator for asking such a pertinent question. I wish to inform the House on the implications of the Government Policy regarding the directive banning of police officers from using their cellphones while on duty. Police officers have a constitutional mandate to maintain law and order and they must uphold high standards of discipline to achieve this. The use of cellphones while on duty, particularly at roadblocks poses a significant challenge. Police officers throughout the world use official communication in the form of radios meant for communicating with police information. Cellphones have a lot of distractions hence they are only allowed to use their cellphones after work at their houses. Officers may neglect their duties and spend many hours on social media and in the process tarnish the image of the police in the eyes of the public. Furthermore, instances of members of the police recording misdemeanors of fellow police officers and posting the images or videos on social media compromise the integrity of the police force.
MOTION
CONDOLENCES ON THE DEATH OF THE FORMER DEPUTY PRESIDENT OF THE SENATE HON. CHEN. CHENHAMO CHAKEZHA CHIMUTENGWENDE
HON. SEN. TONGOGARA: I move the motion standing in my name that this House expresses its profound sorrow on the sudden death of the former Deputy President of the Senate, Hon. Chen. Chenhamo Chakezha Chimutengwende on the 16th of January, 2025;
PLACES on record its appreciation of the services which the late Deputy President of the Senate rendered to Parliament and the Nation; and
RESOLVES that its deepest sympathy be conveyed to Amai Chimutengwende and the family of the late former Senator.
HON. SEN. KADUNGURE: I second.
HON. SEN. TONGOGARA: I rise to acknowledge the life of Comrade Chumutengwende who was born on the 28th of August, 1943 in Chiweshe, Mazowe District, Mashonaland Central Province to John Nyangani and Ronia Nyangoni (Nee Rusere). He was the third born in a family of eight children. In 1949, young Chenhamo Chimutengwende enrolled for his primary education at Gweshe Primary School in Chiweshe and proceeded to Highfields Secondary School in 1956.
His pre-independence political life - Comrade Chimtengwende began his political journey at the age of 14 in 1957 in Highfields, a suburb known for vibrant nationalist sentiment. In 1963, he was elected Secretary for Information and Publicity in ZANU Youth League, reflecting his early commitment to the Liberation Movement. In 1964, Comrade Chimutengwende underwent ideological training with experts from the Chinese People's Liberation Army in Ghana during Dr. Kwame Nkrumah's administration.
This was the period when most African countries had started to gain independence. The experience living in an independent country emboldened him to fight for Zimbabwe's independence. Upon completion of his military training, he went to London where he obtained advanced diplomas in Berkshire School in Journalism and Television.
Comrade Chimutengwende’s career continued to flourish as he was appointed as an Executive Director for the Europe Third World Research Centre in 1969, focussing on the economic and cultural relationships between Europe and the Third World. In 1970, he became the Director of the Kwame Nkrumah's Institute of Writers and Journalists and joined the editorial board of Black Dwarf, which later became Red Mall, a Marxist publication in London. In 1972, Comrade Chimutengwende launched in Liberation Struggle, a monthly newspaper dedicated to covering liberation movements across Africa, Asia, and Latin America, serving as its editor in 1974.
He then pursued postgraduate studies at the University of Bradford where he earned an MA in Peace Studies. His dissertation, ‘South Africa, the Press and the Politics of Liberation’, contributed significantly to the academic discourse of media and politics. In 1976, he commenced a PhD doctorate at the same university. His thesis was on mass media and the state in socio-economic development process.
In 1977, Dr. Chimutengwende was appointed as a rapporteur for a working group of black civilisation and mass media at the FESTAC Colloquium with his contributions documented in the published proceedings.
In 1979, he became a senior lecturer in journalism and international affairs and served as a deputy director at a journalism programme at SEED University. During this time, he also worked as UNESCO consultant on mass communication for several African countries.
In late 1979, Dr. Chimutengwende led a delegation of anti-imperialist intellectuals to China, aimed at enhancing the understanding of the Chinese socialism and better inform their public lecturers on Chinese affairs internationally.
His post-independence political life - At independence, Dr. Chimutengwende joined the University of Nairobi as a senior lecturer in Journalism and Mass Communication Department, serving as the head of the School of Journalism until 1982. Upon returning to Zimbabwe in 1982, he became a senior lecturer at the Zimbabwe Above Institute Mass Communications, ZIMCO.
The following year, he was appointed a member of the University of Zimbabwe Committee, tasked with advising on the establishment of a post-graduate programme for Media studies.
Between 1984 and 1985, he worked as a part-time lecturer for the Master of Arts programme on Social Development and Political Change at the University of Zimbabwe.
In 1985, Dr. Chimutengwende was elected a Member of Parliament for Mazowe. He spearheaded significant developmental work in Mazowe such as the construction of schools, roads and notably, the Glendale to Bare Road.
Dr. Chimutengwende was appointed Director of Personnel and Public Relations at the Agricultural Rural Development Authority, (ARDA) until he transitioned to his Parliamentary role.
In 1986, Dr. Chimutengwende was appointed ZANU PF Provincial Chairperson for Mashonaland Central, a position he held for 17 years. In recognition of his contributions, Dr. Chimutengwende received the Order of Havana Seat Medal from Cuba's Council of State in 1995 while serving as Chairman of the Zimbabwe-Cuba Fellowship Association.
He was appointed Minister of Environment and Tourism from 1995 to 1997, during which time he also served as President of the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change. From 1997 to 1999, Dr. Chimutengwende held a position of Minister of Post and Telecommunications and during this period, he chaired the United Nations High-Level Environment Committee for Ministers and senior officials. In September, 1999, Dr. Chimutengwende was elected Vice-Chairman of the Regional African Satellite Communications Organisations at a conference in Tunis involving African Ministers and Heads of Delegation.
Dr. Chimutengwende was a member of the Board of Directors for the World-Led Limited from 2002 to 2008. He also served as Chairman of World-Led Assembly of Governors. He contributed academic discourse as a correspondent for the Eastern and Southern African of the International Social Science published by UNESCO. In March 2007, he led a ZANU PF delegation to a seminar in Moscow City, focussing on implementing a socialist principle.
In 2009, Dr. Chimutengwende founded and chaired the African Global Network, registered as a trust in Zimbabwe. He later became the founding Chairman of the Zimbabwe Founding for Sustainable Development. Dr. Chimutengwende authored a book on World Capitalism, Global Revolutionary Eco-Socialism, and Revolutionary Pan-African Under-AGN Auspices. In 2013, Dr. Chimutengwende was elected Deputy President of the Senate and Senator for Mashonaland Central. His popularity made him one of the longest-serving legislators in the province, with over 20 years in public service. Later that year, he became a member of the Pan-African Parliament (PAP), representing Zimbabwe. He served as Chairman of the Zimbabwe-Cuba Parliamentary Forum and Zimbabwe Parliamentary Pan-Africanist Forum.
In March 2017, Dr. Chimutengwende led a ZANU PF delegation to China to study its rapid industrialisation and socio-economic development. Dr. Chimutengwende's extensive political career includes serving as a Cabinet Minister in various capacities and being a Member of Parliament for 25 years. He died on 16th January, 2025 due to chronic cardiac failure. He was 80 years old.
Following the demise of Dr Chimutengwende, the Politburo led by His Excellency President E. D. Mnangagwa, unanimously awarded him National Hero status in recognition of his immense contribution to the liberation and development of post-independent Zimbabwe. To conclude Mr. President, I therefore urge all Hon. Members to recognise and appreciate the immense dedication and contribution Dr. Chimutengwende rendered to this country. I also want to convey my deepest sympathy to Mrs Edith Chimutengwende, the children and grandchildren and the extended family, the President of the Senate and Hon. Members and the nation. May his dear soul rest in eternal peace. I thank you Mr. President.
HON. SEN. KADUNGURE: Thank you Mr President. I rise to second the motion to acknowledge the life of Comrade Chimutengwende. It is highly notable that from an early age, he enrolled in political space to contribute to the reparation of our country as he was elected the Secretary for Information and Publicity in ZANU PF Youth League at an early age.
Cde. Chimutengwende's social, economic and political contribution is immense as indicated before. Indeed, his ideological training from the Chinese People's Liberation Army in Ghana in 1964 would help contribute to Zimbabwe's Independence. Cde. Chimutengwende's rich educational background as he attained diplomas and degrees would help shape the information field in areas of liberation media and also economic issues. This would also see him being appointed to various economic and political positions as he contributed to the development of our nation and abroad.
Indeed, we all acknowledge developments by Cde. Chimutengwende, like the creation of the Liberation Struggle Newspaper. This shows an unwavering Pan-Africanist who had rich interest in issues to do with African unity, consciousness and liberation. He advocated for the liberation of Africa based on the principles of Pan-Africanism and economic rights.
Cde. Chimutengwende did extensive work in terms of research, mass communication, work and action in support of the African Union, he united Africa. He also contributed to the party and Government and as indicated before, he became ZANU PF legislator, ministerial task Senator, Deputy Senate President and also head of delegation for Zimbabwe to the Pan-African Parliament. Indeed, may his soul rest in peace. I thank you.
*HON. SEN ZINDI: Thank you Mr. President. I rise to give my witness on the passing on of Chakezha Chenhamo Chen Chimutengwende. Mr. President, I first met the late Chimutengwende in 1995. I saw that he was an approachable person who would give advice. He is one of the people who helped me to go back to school and now I am a holder of a Masters Degree in Peace and Conflict Studies. He is the one who encouraged me.
We became true friends. We had this strong friendship. I participated in the primary elections in 1995 as a politician. I think he had realised the potential that was in me. I do not forget, he just approached me and invited me for lunch at 88 Manyika Road. Those who came from war know the place. We met there and he gave me ZWL500, our 100 dollars which was brownish in colour. He wanted me to win primary elections, so he gave me that as a seed for campaigning. He wanted to support me as a woman.
To me, that was very positive in supporting a fellow comrade and a woman for that matter. That is why I said we had a strong friendship. Do not think of other friendships. I can see it from the way you are laughing that maybe there was something because I know your minds, especially the male counterparts, when you see a man and a woman befriending each other, you want to investigate what is going on between them. We are not satisfied that people can just have a clean friendship but I want to explain that is how our friendship was with the late Chen Chimutengwende. If he had problems in his constituency, he would contact me and we would meet, then we would discuss. Like I said, he gave me the desire to go back to school, so we operated at that level.
In 1996, when I was an MP for Hatfield, I had the opportunity of being on the Speaker's Panel and he was now a Minister. He would come and defend his budget when the House was in Committee. Everything was flowing smoothly. He was someone who I would really appreciate if you do a good deed for him. That brought us together.
The late Chenhamo Chen Chimutengwende was a very humorous person who would bring joy. If people were not happy, he would bring his rumba and kwasa-kwasa dances. He was a big person but he would really dance getting down to ground level. That is who he was. I also enjoyed dancing, so we clicked on that.
We would share our red wine, dry white wine and then we would enjoy our meal. If you were stressed, you would de-stress and you would desire to start afresh. That is who Chimutengwende was. If he got to a place where people were not agreeing or even at a rally, everyone knew that Chen Chimutengwende was a joyous person who wanted people to be happy. The late President Mugabe knew that if it was at a rally, he would know he would find Chen Chimutengwende. He identified him as a dancer.
I am referring to his social side. Being serious about his life and education, we have heard about those who debated before Hon. Senator
Tongogara and Sen. Kadungure. I knew about him socially and he molded me from there because he would tell me things that would empower me to reach up to this level that I am now.
With these few words, I saw it befitting that I should contribute the social side of the late Chimutengwende. I was really pained the week that I visited him in the hospital. I thought he would come back home. He was not able to speak. He was not able to open his eyes widely but I left the hospital hopeful that he was going to come back home. Even his wife promised me that he would recover. This is because the previous week, when we were running around and he was still able to talk, she said that he was waking up and sitting up. So, I left the hospital hopeful that he would go back to dancing but the week did not end well, he met his demise. Besides, it is our way all of us, we go differently. I thought I should say the social aspect of him. Thank you.
+HON. SEN. R. M. NDLOVU: Thank you President of the Senate. I would like to thank Hon. Sen. Tongogara for bringing in this motion on Comrade Chenhamo Chimutengwende. I knew Comrade Chenhamo Chimutengwende in 1988 to 1989. He was a merciful man who would always be smiling. He is a man who liked dancing, like what the previous speaker has indicated. I used to call him the man with four C's, because all of his names, initials starts with the CCCC. He would always be smiling every time. He was an amazing man.
These were his names Chen Chenhamo Chakezha Chimutengwende which were amazing and would make someone laugh. He never got angry. When I was Matabeleland South Chairman, he was Chairman for Mashonaland Central. Each time we met, we discussed party issues during the unity accord time between ZAPU and ZANU when we came up with ZANU PF.
In 1996, there came a man called Ananias Nyathi who liked kwassa-kwassa. He would be called Charlie by Hon. Chimutengwende. They would dance until dawn, drinking and having a nice time. This is where I got used to the late Chimutengwende. We used to call Cde Nyathi Chiluba. He was more like the President of Zambia. He was a Minister who would interact with everyone, unlike other ministers who would greet you from afar. Hon. Chimutengwende was a man of the people. He loved people and he respected people. I never saw him angry. When he passed on, he left us when we would still remember him for all the good work.
From what I heard with regards to his level of education, with some people, they will never talk to other people. He would discuss and love everybody. Therefore, with this motion that came following his demise, I felt it was critical for me to air my voice on what I experienced. Therefore, I got used to him throughout the time I have known him. So, Mr. President, I will say may his soul rest in peace. I thank you.
+HON. SEN. MLOTSHWA: President of the Senate, thank you for this opportunity that you have accorded me. It would be not proper for us as opposition not to say anything when one of us in this House has passed on. Thank you to Hon. Sen. Tongogara for this motion. I would like to send my condolences to the family, to the country and to our colleagues, Hon. Senator Members on the other side, it is good that as a person, when you depart this earth, you have people saying good things about you. My mother used to say, Nonhlanhla my daughter, when you are to depart this earth, you need to leave a good name. So, this man that we are talking of here left good works on this earth.
I would like to thank Hon. Sen. Tongogara for she knows how to appreciate the departed. In most cases, when people speak about the departed, they just indicate that they were good people. For this particular individual, for him to have a motion moved in this House, it shows that he used to work well with other people. I would like to say condolences to the wife and the children. Thank you.
Thank you, Mr. President. I move that the debate do now adjourn.
HON. SEN. TONGOGARA: I move that the debate do now adjourn.
HON. SEN. CHINYANGA: I second.
Motion put and agreed to.
Debate to resume: Tuesday, 25th March, 2025.
MOTION
BUSINESS OF THE HOUSE
HON. SEN. MUZENDA: I move that Order of the Day, Numbers 1 to 12 be stood over until Order of the Day, Number 13 has been disposed of.
HON. SEN. CHINYANGA: I second.
Motion put and agreed to.
MOTION
RECOGNITION FOR UNPAID CARE AND DOMESTIC WORK
Thirteenth Order read: Adjourned debate on motion on domestic and unpaid care work.
Question again proposed.
*HON. SEN. TONGOGARA: Thank you Mr. President for according me this opportunity to wind up my motion. This motion is very important because it touches all of us in here. Many of us who are here know that they have people working for them who are ‘maids’ in the homes that we stay.
Firstly, I want to thank all the Hon. Senators who were able to add their voices on this motion. We know that as a country, we still have a challenge when it comes to these people that we are referring to who do labour intensive jobs. We know that when you are in the home, they are the ones who do all the house chores and they also do outside jobs. They even herd cattle but their wages are paltry that they cannot do anything to improve their lives.
Mr. President, I was thinking that with this motion, we would see the Ministry of Public Service, Labour and Social Welfare who are responsible for that to come and give their view and the plans that they have concerning unpaid care work and domestic work but it did not take place. All the same, we know that they read the Hansard and they know what is happening. So, maybe we will see them coming up with solutions concerning these people. We know that whatever happens in the country, the Ministry of Finance is the ones who come up with budgets.
I was thinking that they would also come and give their ideas or plans concerning this group of people who seem to have been forgotten whilst they do very important jobs so that we hear whatever plans they have since this issue was debated in this House. These are the people who are really living in poverty because they complain that they can go up to three months without any pay and some are not even given food.
As a nation, I think it is high time that we should consider these people and come up with ways on how to help them so that we become like other countries. I know that in other countries, people cannot afford domestic workers because they are very expensive like other workers. I am just hoping that when they see this motion, they will take it seriously. So, I now move for the adoption of this motion.
Motion that this House—
COGNISANT that domestic and unpaid care work in Zimbabwe is an essential component in developmental matters;
DISTURBED that care givers and domestic workers are not satisfactorily recognised for their services;
CONCERNED that these dedicated people are sometimes not even remunerated for their sterling work despite the long working hours with no rest at all;
NOW, THEREFORE, this House implores—
(a) The Ministry of Public Service, Labour and Social Welfare to formally recognise unpaid care and domestic work with a view to improving their remuneration;
(b) The relevant Portfolio Committee of Parliament to conduct oversight on matters that relate to conditions of personnel in this category of employment with a view to ensuring that they are not unduly prejudiced in their day-to-day activities;
(c) The Ministry of Finance, Economic Development and Investment Promotion to provide adequate resources towards this sector, put and agreed to.
HON. SEN. TSHABANGU: Mr. President, I rise to put my displeasure. The Order Paper that we are having is quite long and there are many important motions that are going to be wound up without really debating on them, essential motions that can shape up this country moving forward but the fact that at times we end up not getting into them because they are at the bottom and every time we come here the debate is so extensive, not really withstanding extensive debate which is quite a good thing to do. Let us be mindful that there are motions that are right at the bottom and at the end of the day, we do not get to debate them and they are critical. I am pleading to the secretariat that they should rationalise the new motions, motions that have been debated and are about to be wound up without exhausting the debate. – [HON. SENATORS: Hear, hear] – I thank you.
THE TEMPORARY PRESIDENT OF THE SENATE (HON. SEN. CHIEF MTSHANE-KHUMALO): It is understood but I think you will agree with me that the responsibility lies with your Chief Whips. You can raise or discuss that at your caucuses so that they can bring up what you have just brought forward. So, please discuss that at your caucuses and see how best you can plan the new programme. Thank you.
On the motion of HON. SEN. MUZENDA, seconded by HON. SEN. GOTORA, the Senate adjourned at Ten Minutes to Five o’clock p.m. until Tuesday, 25th March, 2025.
PARLIAMENT OF ZIMBABWE
Thursday, 20th March, 2025
The National Assembly met at a Quarter-past Two o’clock p.m.
PRAYERS
(THE HON. SPEAKER in the Chair)
THE HON. SPEAKER: I have the following announcements but before I read out the announcements, I noticed that the House is very thin on attendance. Government Chief Whip, what is happening?
HON. TOGAREPI: The majority of the youthful from my side are attending a programme at HICC for empowerment of the youths. So, the majority of them have gone but I am sure that programme could now be coming to an end and they will be coming.
HON. C. MOYO: Thank you Hon. Speaker. Most of our Members are with Sports as well as Transport Committees, so they are on business Hon. Speaker. In addition, some are with Industry and Commerce Portfolio Committee.
THE HON. SPEAKER: Hon. Togarepi, I need you to come up with a work plan so that as many Members as possible are in attendance and Committee outreach programmes should be arranged in such a way that they do not lose out, being out there on public hearings which are also very important in terms of part of our law making process.
HON. TOGAREPI: Noted Mr. Speaker Sir.
ANNOUNCEMENTS BY THE HON. SPEAKER
PARLIAMENTARY PHARMACEUTICAL CAUCUS
THE HON. SPEAKER: I wish to inform the House that Members who are interested in joining the Parliamentary Pharmaceutical Caucus should register with Mr. Tapiwa Chiremba, Committee Clerk for Health and Child Care Committee in Office Number 311, 3rd Floor Parliament Building or contact him on mobile phone Number 0773 209 824.
PETITION RECEIVED FROM THE ZIMBABWE NATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF LIBERATION WAR VETERAN CADRES
THE HON. SPEAKER: I also wish to inform the House that Parliament received a petition from the Zimbabwe National Association of Liberation War Veteran Cadres requesting Parliament to amend the Liberation Struggle Act and to inquire into why the vetting process of war veterans cadres is taking too long. The petition was deemed admissible and has since been referred to the Portfolio Committee on Defence, Home Affairs, Veterans of the Liberation Struggle Affairs and Security Committee.
HON. MUROMBEDZI: Thank you very much Hon. Speaker and a very good afternoon. This week Saturday, 22nd March, 2025, the world is commemorating World Water Day. I rise today to bring to the attention of this House, the growing water crisis affecting millions of Zimbabweans. Water is life, it is essential for health, food security and economic development yet many of our citizens, particularly in our rural areas still lack access to clean and reliable water sources. It is deeply concerning that a significant percentage of our people rely on unsafe water sources, exposing them to waterborne diseases. Women and children, especially in our remote areas are the most affected, walking long distances to fetch water often at great personal risk. This is unacceptable in a country that has the capacity to invest in sustainable water solutions.
Mr. Speaker Sir, the effects of climate change have worsened the crisis with many rivers and dams drying up due to erratic rainfall patterns and environmental degradation. Poor water management, lack of infrastructure and inadequate investment in water harvesting solutions have further exacerbated the situation.
Mr. Speaker, I urge us to do the following; prioritise water infrastructure, strengthen local authority accountability in managing water supply and ensure fair distribution, particularly in drought-prone areas. Implement aggressive water conservation policies, including rain water harvesting and sustainable ground water management. Support climate adaptation strategies that safeguard our water resources and enhance community resilience. Hon. Speaker, as we mark World Water Day, let us commit to making water accessibility a national priority; clean water is not a privilege, it is a right.
We must act now to secure the precious resource for future generations. I so submit.
THE HON. SPEAKER: Yes, if you have been following Government programmes on water development, you will know that I think there are 35,000 homesteads that are earmarked each to have a borehole powered by solar and next to it, some nutrition gardens. Also, Government has harvested water in, I think 10,600 water bodies. So, the programme is on course and I believe that your message will buttress those efforts by Government. Thank you.
HON. V. MOYO: Thank you very much Mr. Speaker. My point of privilege arises from yesterday's question and answer session. Yesterday, Mr. Speaker Sir, I had written a question with notice to the Ministry of Transport and unfortunately his response was that ZUPCO is now under Mutapa. My appeal is for your guidance on how best I could seek recourse because when we asked on how, who then do we engage, especially on the concern that I had because ZUPCO is not servicing the areas that I come from in Jambezi and Chivovo area?
Secondly, it is also my appeal Mr. Speaker Sir, that if the respective Hon. Ministers are here, it is only fair for us to be given that opportunity to interact and seek further clarifications because we had an unfortunate incident that over three questions from 54 to 56, I mean questions that were directed to the Minister of Transport, which we only saw on the Order Paper and on the minutes that the Minister did have responses to. So, it is our appeal that if they are here, we also need to interact and seek further clarifications. I so submit. Thank you.
THE HON. SPEAKER: Thank you Hon. V. Moyo, did you say that the questions were responded to?
HON. V. MOYO: Affirmative, Mr. Speaker. They were responded to because we only saw it on the Order Paper that the Minister did come with responses.
THE HON. SPEAKER: The Hon. Minister did not answer during the session?
HON. V. MOYO: No, we were not afforded that. I think they were skipped. The Temporary Speaker should have skipped them, I don't know how but the responses were there.
THE HON. SPEAKER: But in future, check on your gadget so that you can anticipate such a delivery. You could not get a question on who is responsible for Mutapa Investments?
HON. V. MOYO: No.
THE HON. SPEAKER: The Chief Executive for Mutapa Investments is Dr. Mangudya, the former Governor of our Central Bank. He is the one in charge.
Hon. V. Moyo having addressing the Hon. Speaker whilst seated.
THE HON. SPEAKER: Stand up.
HON. V. MOYO: Sorry Mr. Speaker, my apologies. I was asking that if we have any queries, should we go direct to Mr. Mangudya?
THE HON. SPEAKER: You can, you can.
HON. MAMBIPIRI: Point of clarity, Mr. Speaker.
THE HON. SPEAKER: What is your point of clarity?
HON. MAMBIPIRI: His question concerns us all in this House. There was a policy question that was concerning ZUPCO and the question was directed to the Minister of Transport. The Minister then said ZUPCO now falls under Mutapa, therefore he is unable to answer.
The question then yesterday was, if something is directed to Mutapa in this House, who then do we address amongst the Ministers? Thank you.
HON. TOGAREPI: Mr. Speaker, ZUPCO has never been under the Minister of Transport, it was under Local Government. Now that it is falling under Mutapa Investments, it has a board. It has local management and distribution areas in every town. The Hon. Members can approach their depots and get service.
How can you go all the way to the person who is funding the buses, not dealing with the operations? There are people who are dealing with ZUPCO operations, Hon. Members must go there. If they do not know where they are, I am offering a service, I will take them there.
HON. BAJILA: Point of order.
THE HON. SPEAKER: What is your point of order?
HON. BAJILA: Thank you Hon. Speaker for indulging me, the response by the Government Chief Whip, we therefore suggest that since where we come from there are clinics and there are people who are in charge of those clinics in the event of a cholera outbreak, we need not to go up to the Hon. Minister, we just need to ask the person who is in charge of the local clinic. This is what we are getting. The Wednesday time for questions then becomes irrelevant because we can ask all these things in the respective places where we come from. However, we need a policy issue at Government level to say this is how things should be everywhere because the respective responses, we can get them but we want a Government policy issue. We cannot be going to respective offices in each and every place when Government has a platform to address the issues here on Wednesday.
THE HON. SPEAKER: Thank you Hon. Member, you must contextualise your observation. Hon. V. Moyo talked about ZUPCO buses' inefficiencies in the Jambezi area. The moment you raise specific issues, it is no longer a policy issue. Number two, you have every right to approach a person in charge of a public sector.
You talk about a clinic, for example. In every district, there is a district medical officer. You approach that person. There is no need to wait to come to Parliament here. If there are certain things that you think are not going right in education, there is a district education officer. If it concerns a particular school, you approach the headmaster.
Why waste time and wait to come here in Parliament? Be active in your constituencies. From what Hon. Togarepi said, I endorse that. But I also want to say there is nothing stopping you while you are here in Harare to contact Dr. Mangudya to find out exactly what is happening if the matter relates to Mutapa Investments.
HON. CHIGUMBU: Point of order Mr. Speaker Sir.
THE HON. SPEAKER: Point of what?
HON. CHIGUMBU: Point of clarity Mr. Speaker Sir.
THE HON. SPEAKER: You mean, I was so confused in my response? – [Laughter.]-
HON. CHIGUMBU: No, Mr. Speaker Sir.
THE HON. SPEAKER: – [Laughter.]- Is that what you are suggesting? I have been very clear, as clear as water.
HON. CHIGUMBU: I understand but I think there is a part that you are not really addressing Mr. Speaker. You are addressing this to a specific issue but what Hon. Mambipiri said pertains to broader issues. Now, a lot of things fall under Mutapa, so when you want to understand certain things – we understand Dr. Mangundya does not sit in this House but we want to understand certain things, we want clarity on other issues not this specific one.
Can you give us guidance on how we would have a response in this House? If the Hon. Minister is not going to intervene, then who is going to give us the response because Dr. Mangudya does not sit in this House? If you can clarify on that, it will help.
THE HON. SPEAKER: Alright, I will investigate the matter and then come back to you – [HON. MEMBERS: Hear, hear.] –
HON. MADZIVANYIKA: On a point of clarity Mr. Speaker. If you can indulge me for the last time. I have some information that might assist this House with regards to that issue.
THE HON. SPEAKER: Regarding what?
HON. MADZIVANYIKA: Questions relating to Mutapa Investment Fund as to who is responsible. I have got some information that I have gathered from the Mutapa Investment Fund.
From what I have gathered, I have noted that the Hon. Minister of Finance, Economic Development and Investment Promotion is overally in charge of questions relating to the Mutapa Investment Fund.
THE HON. SPEAKER: Read the section for me please so that I am educated.
HON. MADZIVANYIKA: “On the principal Act, the definition of minister means Minister of Finance” then on section 3, on the composition of the board, “the board shall consist of; The Chief Executive officer, Chief Investment Officer and eight members including the Chairperson appointed by the President in consultation with the Hon. Minister of Finance, Economic Development and Investment Promotion.”
When we had some Committee meeting before, the Hon. Minister of Finance, Economic Development and Investment Promotion answered questions on behalf of the Mutapa Investment Fund. I thank you.
THE HON. SPEAKER: So why did you not come to the rescue of the Minister of Transport yesterday?
HON. MADZIVANYIKA: Yes…
THE HON. SPEAKER: You were still researching?
HON. MADZIVANYIKA: Yes, I wanted tangible evidence.
THE HON. SPEAKER: So, it is clear now.
THE MINISTER OF JUSTICE, LEGAL AND PARLIAMENTARY AFFAIRS (HON. Z. ZIYAMBI): Let me clarify Mr. Speaker Sir. I think we are going off-target. Mutapa Investment is a fund. So ordinarily, the appointment of board members and everything is upon Hon. Minister of Finance, Economic Development and Investment Promotion.
In this House, yesterday questions relating to energy were being answered by the Minister of Energy and Power Development. The Hon. Minister of Energy and Power Development is the one who comes to Cabinet relating to policies on energy. So, we now have Government companies under Mutapa but it did not take away the policy direction from several ministries. What was taken away was the direct management of appointing boards.
So, the Minister of Local Government and Public Works still has the power to interrogate issues to do with policy direction in terms of urban transportation as well as ZUPCO, so is the Minister of Energy and Power Development in terms of energy issues and same with the Minister of Mines and Mining Development when it relates to mining companies under Mutapa.
I am not sure why the Minister of Transport and Infrastructural Development, when he never had ZUPCO under his purview, why he answered to the effect that it is now Mutapa. Mutapa does not come here. The only way that you can have maybe Mutapa is when the Committee that relates to that particular section requests you Mr. Speaker, to say can we call them to our Committee so that they can answer one, two, three, four questions.
The Minister of Local Government and Public Works should surely be able to answer and interrogate, not taking away what he was saying, which is correct but it does not relate to policy issues relating to sectors that are under Mutapa, businesses that are under Mutapa. I submit Mr. Speaker.
THE HON. SPEAKER: Well explained. This validates the Hon. Minister Z. Ziyambi being Leader of Government Business. You should have come to the rescue of the Minister of Transport and Infrastructural Development yesterday – oh! You were not there.
So, Honourable V. Moyo, with the responses from the Leader of Government business and Hon. Madzivanyika, I think the point is clear now but the Leader of Government Business has gone further to say, if you want to investigate more about certain aspects of Mutapa Investment, you can call the Chief Executive Officer and his board if it is needed.
HON. V. MOYO: Thank you so much Mr. Speaker. I have really learnt and I hope the Executive has so much to learn like us. Thank you.
THE HON. SPEAKER: No, you see the last part of it, we all must accept ignorance and be prepared to be given the correct thing as we have been given now. So, we do not have to cast aspersions in a much hidden, sarcastic way. Thank you.
HON. MGUNI: Thank you Mr. Speaker and good afternoon. My point of national interest today is on gratitude. Sometime last year, I posed a written question to the Minister of Energy and Power Development, then Hon. Edgar Moyo. The question was, what plans were in place for the Ministry to rehabilitate some power lines that have been lying on the ground for more than 10 years and in particular, the one in my rural home is Amanyoni Primary and Secondary School.
In his response, he said the plans were that it was going to be done in 2025. Mr. Speaker, as I drove to my rural home this past break, I found men at work rehabilitating that line. So, on behalf of my community, that development is well appreciated.
THE HON. SPEAKER: Thank you very much for that appreciation.
MOTION
BUSINESS OF THE HOUSE
HON. TOGAREPI: I move that Orders of the Day, Numbers 1 to 4 be stood over until Order of the Day, Number 5 on the Order Paper has been disposed of.
HON. C. MOYO: I second.
Motion put and agreed to.
MOTION
REPORT OF THE ZIMBABWE GENDER COMMISSION FOR THE YEAR 2023
Fifth Order read: Adjourned debate on motion on the Report of the Zimbabwe Gender Commission for the year 2023.
Question again proposed.
THE MINISTER OF JUSTICE, LEGAL AND PARLIAMENTARY AFFAIRS (HON. Z. ZIYAMBI): Thank you Mr. Speaker Sir. This was a statutory requirement and a report that is tabled so that Honourable Members, as per the statutory requirement, can interrogate the activities of our Independent Commissions with the view of coming up with interventions that may be helpful. In that regard Mr. Speaker, the constitutional requirements were met. I think Honourable Members debated and proffered issues that they believe should be followed in terms of our Independent Commissions which we duly comply and forward to the Commission. I so submit Mr. Speaker and move that the report of the Zimbabwe Gender Commission be adopted by this august House.
Motion that this House takes note of the Report of the Zimbabwe Gender Commission for the period 2023, presented to the National Assembly in terms of section 323 (1) of the Constitution of Zimbabwe, put and agreed to.
MOTION
BUSINESS OF THE HOUSE
HON. TOGAREPI: Mr. Speaker, I move that Orders of the Day, Numbers 5 to 13 be stood over until Order of the Day, Number 14 has been disposed of.
HON. C. MOYO: I second.
Motion put and agreed to.
MOTION
REPORT OF THE PORTFOLIO COMMITTEE ON DEFENCE, HOME AFFAIRS, SECURITY SERVICES AND WAR VETERANS AFFAIRS ON THE STATELESSNESS OF MIGRANTS IN ZIMBABWE
Fourteenth Order read: Adjourned debate on motion on the Report of the Portfolio Committee on Defence, Home Affairs, Security Services and War Veterans Affairs on the Statelessness of Migrants in Zimbabwe.
Question again proposed.
HON. NGULUVHE: Thank you Mr. Speaker Sir and good afternoon. As I stand up to move the adoption of a motion on the statelessness of migrants in Zimbabwe, I would like, first, to thank all Honourable Members who debated on this motion.
Mr. Speaker Sir, the issue of statelessness of migrants in Zimbabwe is a thorny one. There are many factors which contribute to the statelessness. It came out during our hearings, especially in areas around border areas, for example, in Mutare where people ran away from Mozambique during the war and also in areas around Matabeleland South, Masvingo and around Chiredzi where most people go to South Africa. They get children there and smuggle them back into the country. These children are left with their parents hence it becomes difficult for the parents to get proper documents, especially IDs.
Mr. Speaker Sir, once a person is stateless, he or she is deprived of many things. He or she cannot get an identification card, passport and sometimes it becomes difficult for that person also to go to schools or also to get medical attention. The prayer Mr. Speaker Sir, is that the Minister of Home Affairs should look at this issue of statelessness with great speed. However, I have personally also observed that as a country, Zimbabwe sometimes does not benefit any dividends by keeping these immigrants. I will give you an example, you get a person who comes here, maybe he is good in sports but that person might not want to invest in this country because he is stateless. Whereas in other countries in Europe, you find that footballers, for example, who came from West Africa and are playing maybe in Belgium or France, have been absorbed by those countries and have been given citizenship. Those players earn a lot of money and end up investing in those countries.
Mr. Speaker, I urge our Government also to consider this because some of these people are stateless not because they wanted to but they came here, their parents were refugees, they got married, they were blessed with children and these children cannot have access to documents. My appeal is for the Government also to consider some of these people who are stateless and try and give proper documents to these people. Honourable Speaker Sir, I therefore move that the motion be adopted.
Motion that this House considers and adopts the Report of the Portfolio Committee on Defence, Home Affairs, Security Services and War Veterans Affairs on the Statelessness of Migrants in Zimbabwe, put and agreed to.
MOTION
BUSINESS OF THE HOUSE
HON. TOGAREPI: Mr. Speaker Sir, I move that we revert to Order of the Day Number 13.
HON. C. MOYO: I second.
Motion put and agreed to.
MOTION
REPORT OF THE PORTFOLIO COMMITTEE ON HEALTH AND CHILD CARE ON THE PETITION FROM THE NURSE AIDES ASSOCIATION OF ZIMBABWE TRUST
Thirteenth Order read: Adjourned debate on motion on the Report of the Portfolio Committee on Health and Child Care on the Petition from the Nurse Aides Association of Zimbabwe Trust, requesting for the enactment of an Act establishing the Nurse Aides Council of Zimbabwe.
Question again proposed.
HON. MAKOMBE: Mr. Speaker, I stand this afternoon to move that this House adopt the motion. During the consultation, we managed to get a lot of support from the Ministry of Health and Ministry of Defence, supporting the petitioners that the Nurse Aide Association of Zimbabwe’s motion is justifiable and we need to take it.
I therefore move that this House considers and adopts the Report of the Portfolio Committee on Health and Child Care on the Petition from the Nurse Aides Association of Zimbabwe Trust, requesting for the enactment of an Act establishing the Nurse Aide Council of Zimbabwe be adopted. Thank you.
Motion put and agreed to.
MOTION
BUSINESS OF THE HOUSE
HON. TOGAREPI: I move that all the other Orders of the Day be stood over until Order of the Day Number 15 has been disposed of.
HON. C. MOYO: I second.
Motion put and agreed to.
THE HON. SPEAKER: Before I leave the chair, may I congratulate the Government Chief Whip and his colleague, the Chief Whip from the opposition, for having structured the business of the House in a manner so excellent. It pleases me as the Chair that we are now disposing all the reports that have been debated. I am now appealing to the Whips, especially the Government Chief Whip, to ensure that now we have Bills rolling before us, being tabled in the House, so that we can increase our speed in the lawmaking process.
MOTION
REPORT OF THE PORTFOLIO COMMITTEE ON LANDS, AGRICULTURE, WATER, FISHERIES AND RURAL RESETTLEMENT ON THE STATE OF FOOD SECURITY IN THE COUNTRY
Fifteenth Order read: Adjourned debate on motion on the Report of the Portfolio Committee on Land, Agriculture, Water, Fisheries and Rural Development on the state of food security in the country.
Question again proposed.
HON. J. SITHOLE: I would want to thank all the Hon. Members who debated on this critical report. Without further ado, Mr. Speaker Sir, I want to move that this House considers and adopts the report of the Portfolio Committee on Lands, Agriculture, Water, Fisheries and Rural Development on the state of food security in the country
Motion put and agreed to.
MOTION
BUSINESS OF THE HOUSE
HON. TOGAREPI: Madam Speaker, I move that we proceed to Order of the Day Number 16.
HON. C. MOYO: I second.
Motion put and agreed to.
MOTION
REPORT OF THE JOINT PORTFOLIO COMMITTEES ON PRIMARY AND SECONDARY EDUCATION, WOMEN AFFAIRS, COMMUNITY, SMALL AND MEDIUM ENTERPRISES DEVELOPMENT AND HIGHER AND TERTIARY EDUCATION, INNOVATION, SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY DEVELOPMENT
ON MENSTRUAL HEALTH AND HYGIENE MANAGEMENT
Sixteenth Order read: Adjourned debate on motion on the Report of the Joint Portfolio Committees on the Petition from Sanitary Aid Trust Zimbabwe on Menstrual Health and Hygiene Management.
Question again proposed.
HON. DR. KHUPE: Thank you very much, Madam Speaker. I would like to first of all thank Sanitary Aid Zimbabwe Trust for bringing a petition beseeching Parliament to enact legislation on menstrual health and hygiene management that provides free sanitary products and services to individuals in need. Menstruation is a natural and unavoidable aspect of life for people who menstruate.
It is therefore critical that we stand together and make sure that no one is left behind when it comes to menstrual health and hygiene. I would also like to thank Hon. Members who debated this motion for your unwavering support and dedication to improving menstrual health and hygiene management. The issue of period poverty is a cause for concern because many girls lose up to five days every month, thereby contributing to their failure to cope with their schoolwork.
Hence, it is of paramount importance that sanitary aid be available in all our learning institutions and for those who are in need. I would also like to take this opportunity to call upon and request all Honourable Members to donate a pack of sanitary wear every month. I repeat, I would like to take this opportunity to call upon and request all Hon. Members to donate a pack of sanitary wear every month.
I have asked the Administration of Parliament to arrange a box where you will be dropping your sanitary packs every month. I think one pack is about USD2, if not a dollar. So, I do not think that it would be very strenuous for Hon. Members to just part with two dollars every month to buy the sanitary wear so that at the end of the day, as Parliament, we then donate to the needy.
Having said that, I therefore move that this House considers and adopts the report of the Joint Portfolio Committees on Primary and Secondary Education, Women Affairs, Community, Small and Medium Enterprises Development and Higher and Tertiary Education, Innovation, Science and Technology Development on the Petition from Sanitary aid Trust Zimbabwe on Menstrual Health and Hygiene Management the motion be adopted. I thank you.
Motion put and agreed to.
MOTION
BUSINESS OF THE HOUSE
HON. TOGAREPI: Madam Speaker, I move that all other Orders be stood over until Order Number 9 has been disposed of.
HON. T. MOYO: I second.
Motion put and agreed to.
MOTION
REPORT OF THE PORTFOLIO COMMITTEE ON LOCAL GOVERNMENT, PUBLIC WORKS AND NATIONAL HOUSING ON THE PETITION FROM THE HARARE RESIDENTS ASSOCIATION ON LACK OF ACCESS TO CLEAN WATER
HON. MUJEYI: I move the motion standing in my name, that this House considers and adopts the Report of the Portfolio Committee on Local Government, Public Works and National Housing on the petition from the Combined Harare Residents Association on lack of access to a clean piped water supply in Glen View and Greater Harare.
HON. MAKUMIRE: I second.
HON. MUJEYI: I am going to read the report of the Portfolio Committee on Local Government, Public Works and National Housing on a petition from the Combined Harare Residents Association on lack of access to clean, taped water supply in Glenview and the Greater Harare.
According to Section 149 of the Constitution, read together with Standing Order Number 191 and Appendix E of the Standing Rules and Orders, every citizen and permanent resident of Zimbabwe has a right to petition Parliament to consider any matter within its authority, including the engagement on amendment of legislation. To this end, the Committee received a petition from the Combined Harare Residents Association, beseeching Parliament to consider the challenges of clean water supply in Glenview and in Greater Harare. In terms of its mandate, the Committee resolved to conduct an inquiry on the matter raised in the petition.
The objective of the Committee in conducting the inquiries were: Number one, to access water supplies and treatment capacity of the City of Harare. Number two, to have an appreciation of the current effort being implemented to address the adequate supply of water to residents of Harare. Number three, to have an understanding of the challenges facing water supply and water treatment…
THE TEMPORARY SPEAKER (HON. T. ZHOU): Order Hon. Mujeyi. This motion was written by Hon J. Tshuma and therefore, if he has approved that you move this motion, he is supposed to generate a letter that will go to the Clerk's Office approving you to move this motion on his behalf. You will have to do that before you proceed.
HON. MUJEYI: Thank you.
MOTION
BUSINESS OF THE HOUSE
HON. TOGAREPI: Madam Speaker, I move that we revert to Order Number 8.
HON. J. MOYO: I second.
Motion put and agreed to.
MOTION
COMPREHENSIVE NATIONAL DIGITAL EDUCATION ACCESS PROGRAMME FOR ALL SCHOOLS
HON. KANGAUSARU: Madam Speaker, I move the motion standing in my name that this House:-
NOTING the rapid pace of digital transformation worldwide and its contribution to knowledge, development and information dissemination;
ACKNOWLEDGING that there exists a lacuna in technological advancement among rural and urban students leading to disparities in the quality of education and opportunities;
CONCERNED that students in satellite and rural schools are disadvantaged on access to technology which embraces e-learning;
NOW, THEREFORE— (a) calls upon the Ministries of Primary and Secondary Education and Information Communication Technology to develop and implement a comprehensive National Digital Education Access Programme (NDEAP) for all Schools;
(b) recommends that the government prioritises budget allocations for digital infrastructure expansion in schools;
(c) further recommends capacitation of teachers in modern learning technologies countrywide.
HON. CHIBAGU: I second.
HON. KANGAUSARU: Madam Speaker, Ma'am. I rise today to address a matter of national urgency, which is the need for digital inclusion, the integration of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and equitable access to ICT in education. In an era where digital transformation takes economic progress. Zimbabwe cannot afford to leave any child behind, whether in rural or urban areas, whether a boy or a girl, the digital divide is no longer just a technological issue. It is a matter of social justice, economic empowerment and the realisation of constitutional mandate to provide quality education for all.
Zimbabwe like many other developing countries, is experiencing growing digital divide between urban and rural areas. Urban centres have better access to reliable internet, digital devices, technological infrastructure, while rural communities especially those in rural remote areas, often face significant barriers to connectivity limiting their ability to participate fully in the digital economy and access essential services. The plight of the girl child cannot be overemphasised and the digital gap seems to exacerbate these challenges which include access to education, healthcare and economic opportunities.
This is so because girls in rural areas often lack the technical tools and opportunities to benefit from online learning, digital skills development and access to vital information which are increasingly essential in today's world Madam Speaker Ma'am. As previously stated, the digital divide is not just a rural-urban issue, it is also a gender issue. Girls and women in rural areas face unique challenges in accessing digital technologies, including the internet, mobile phones and computers. This exclusion has far-reaching consequences, including limited access to education, healthcare, economic opportunities and social services. In today’s rapid evolving digital age, access to technology is no longer a leisure but a necessity. However, Madam Speaker Ma'am, for many girls in Zimbabwe, this access remains out of reach, whether due to economic challenges, lack of infrastructure or cultural barriers.
Girls, especially in rural areas, face significant challenges when it comes to embracing the digital world. Furthermore, Madam Speaker Ma'am, this divide is not just about access to computers or the internet. It is about the future of these young girls. It is about the ability to acquire knowledge, develop skills and become empowered to take part in the economy and the society.
Without access to technology, they are left behind in an increasingly globalised and interconnected world. They are deprived of the same opportunities that are afforded to their male counterparts, which further entrenches inequality. Research has shown that in any household, girls are more disproportionately impacted by the digital divide. You will agree with me Hon. Members, that in many households, cultural norms prioritise boys access to education and technology often leaving the girls at a disadvantage. Sadly, in rural areas where internet connectivity is limited and where families struggle to afford smartphones or data, the gaps grow even wider. The result is that a significant portion of the girl child population is unable to harness the power of technology to enhance their education experiences, acquire vocational skills or compete in the job market. While this is true that girls in rural areas face unique challenges in accessing technology due to cultural and social-economic barriers, we must not overlook the fact that boys too are affected by the digital divide.
Addressing digital exclusion must be an all-encompassing effort that uplifts every Zimbabwe child regardless of gender. In many households, boys are often expected to assist with labour-intensive tasks, reducing the exposure to ICT tools, while girls will be culturally sidelined from technological spaces. Thus, our policy must be designed to ensure that every child, boy or girl, has the opportunity to access, utilise and benefit from digital education. The emergence of Artificial Intelligence (AI) is revolutionising economics, reshaping industries and redefining how we work and learn.
If Zimbabwe is to remain competitive in the digital economy, we must introduce AI literacy at an early stage. AI is no longer a concept of the future, it is here and our children must be prepared to harness its potential. Developed nations are investing heavily in AI education, training their youth in the coding robotics, machine learning; we must follow suit by incorporating AI literacy survey into our national curriculum, ensuring that Zimbabwean students are equipped with critical thinking and problem solving, technological skills necessary for the digital future. AI-powered tools can enhance personalised learning, improve teaching efficiency, optimising education resources, making learning more inclusive and effective. By catching them young, we can prepare the next generation for careers in Artificial Intelligence, cyber security and data science, the field that will drive Zimbabwe’s economy growth into the coming decades. To ignore AI education today is to rob our youths of opportunities tomorrow.
Be that as it may, I would like to commend the positive steps that have been taken by our Government through the leadership and stewardship of the able His Excellency, Dr. E. D. Mnangagwa in partnership with Post and Telecommunication Regulatory Authority of Zimbabwe (POTRAZ), to bridge this gap and create a more inclusive, digital environment of all. Our Government has recognised the critical needs and ensure equitable access to digital resources and this has been reflected in various national policies aimed at addressing the digital divide. The National ICT Policy, for example, emphasises the need to provide ICT infrastructure to under-served areas and special attention to empowering women and girls in technology.
POTRAZ, under the Ministry of Information Communication Technology, Postal and Courier Services, has played an instrumental role in expanding the digital landscape across Zimbabwe, through initiatives like the Universal Service Fund. POTRAZ has focused on ensuring that rural communities are not left behind. The fund has enabled the expansion of mobile networks and internet connectivity to these remote areas which has opened up a world of possibilities for young people. This has been achieved through the establishment of communication information centres at growth points in rural areas and computer laboratories at schools in isolated areas.
Furthermore, POTRAZ has been working with various stakeholders to promote digital literacy programmes aimed specifically at young girls. These initiatives help to equip them with skills they need to strive in digital world. Theory training and mentorship programmes, girls are empowered to use technology as a tool for learning, entrepreneurship and social participation.
In addition, the introduction of affordable data bundles and the ongoing effort to reduce the cost of mobile phones makes it easier for many young people to access the digital world. The Government, through its collaboration with mobile network operators, has ensured that pupils in rural areas can stay connected and engage in online learning, even if they do not have access to traditional classrooms. Despite these strides, much needs to be done. I urge my fellow lawmakers to prioritise initiatives that address this digital divide as we fight for the plight of equality in the education sector.
As legislators, it is our duty to ensure that we continue to prioritise the needs of our children, especially in the realm of digital inclusion. We must work towards creating a society where every child, regardless of their background, has equal access to technology. We must advocate for policies that promote digital education, create safe online spaces, provide the necessary support systems for them to excel in the digital economy. The following are some of the key areas of investment in our quest to have no one and no place left behind:
- The Ministry of Finance must prioritise payment of initiative that brings the digital divide by expanding internet connectivity and access to digital tools in rural areas with a focus on ensuring that girls are specifically targeted for digital empowerment programme.
- The ICT Committee must recommend the establishment of more digital hubs or community centres, equipped with computers, internet access and educational resources in rural areas aimed at providing people with access to ICT training, online training platforms and mentorship opportunities.
- The ICT Committee must further propose the introduction of subsidised data plans for community internet access programmes that make digital tools and resources more affordable for rural communities with an emphasis on the affordability of girls and their families;
- The Ministry of ICT must encourage public and private partnerships to provide scholarships and funding for people in rural areas to access digital education, online courses, technology related skills and development programmes with the aim of improving their employability and entrepreneurship potential.
- The Ministry of ICT must also develop a more sensitive policy that ensures girls’ needs are prioritised in national strategies for digital inclusion, education and technological development;
- The Government must collaborate with international organisations and NGOs in the provision of resources, training and infrastructure aimed at bridging the digital gap, thus empowering the girl child in rural Zimbabwe
- The Ministry of ICT must continue doing awareness campaigns and programmes with rural communities to promote the value of digital education and to challenge social and cultural barriers that limit people's access to ICTs.
Madam Speaker, in conclusion, while the digital divide remains a major challenge in Zimbabwe, we have made progress. The Government, together with the POTRAZ, have taken significant steps to address these issues. However, we cannot rest on our own achievements. We must continue to work together to break down the barriers that prevent school children from accessing the tools, they need to build a better future. By prioritising this initiative, we can help bridge the digital divide, promote digital inclusion and empower girls and women in rural areas to reach their full potential. It is our duty to create a more inclusive and equitable digital society where every Zimbabwean is accessing the opportunities and resources they need to strive. Therefore, let us invest in the digital empowerment of our children. Let us ensure that no child is left behind in this digital age. I thank you. God bless Zimbabwe.
*HON. CHIBAGU: Thank you Madam Speaker. I would like to thank you for giving me this opportunity. Indeed, I agree that if children go to school, especially in the rural areas where I come from, if they learn computers, they will not be left behind. They all want to catch up with others. I would like to thank Hon. Kangausaru for the words and I support the motion. Please consider us as human beings, especially on that new equipment, we also want it in the rural areas. They must not only be found in the urban areas. I thank you.
+HON. BAJILA: Thank you for the motion brought by Hon. Kangausaru that we debate as a House concerning what we can do to keep us connected. I would like to first of all say that this ICT Committee has received the information from the POTRAZ. A lot of which has been said in this motion, which leaves me excited that maybe the document which we were given as ICT Committee, Hon. Kangausaru would have gone through it. People of Zimbabwe are not afraid of ICT and they love it very much.
Again, we have someone who is knowledgeable, who is a lady and a Zimbabwean, Mrs Chido who is using the latest AI of interpreting all languages in the world using the Mambo application, and she is a female. If we also check the biggest companies in the ICT or technology, the vice president of Google is James Manyika, a Zimbabwean. He is the Vice President of Google.
This shows that people of Zimbabwe love it and they are capable of doing it. Then why are we not doing it and why are we not doing it in this country? There are two things Hon. Speaker that the Ministry of ICT realised.
The first issue is a shortage of electricity. In order for us to use these technological gadgets to work very well and in all areas, even in the rural areas, we need electricity. The ICT Ministry has identified that year after year, they open a certain room in what used to be postal offices. We have we found something that is so shameful, that in 2023 there were some community information centres and village information centres. Every year, these areas increase in Matabeleland South Province. In areas like postal offices in Emawaben, there are places where people can go and learn. When these people go and learn, there is somewhere where there is a register.
What is happening is that we are taking Government funds to go and learn this technology but the number of people who are learning about this is decreasing every year. This reflects that no matter how we increase these areas, we are not helping because people are not learning. What has happened is that these areas are built but there is no electricity and computers are lying idle. Hence, if we want the motion and the wish of Hon. Kangausaru to proceed, we should consider the issue of electricity.
The second issue is that there are people who are employed to go and teach ICT by the Government. The Ministry of ICT has realised that it is not capable of keeping the personnel at work. We realise that the issue of keeping ICT professionals, we are not able to keep these people in the Ministry whilst they work in the rural areas. Hence, they leave because their earnings are very little because these people leave to other companies where they are paid better. If we do not address the issue of earnings of these ICT professionals, we are not going to realise the importance of ICT. We should come up with this issue of critical skill.
Those with these ICT skills should earn a lot so that they can go in the rural areas and stay for long giving knowledge to women and men. If they continue getting very little, they will always leave every time. You find that these areas are just lying idle.
No matter how we go as Members of Parliament or Ministers to donate computers but once we leave, people will not benefit from this. Firstly, we should address the issue of electricity and also address the issue of salaries for ICT professionals. This knowledge of ICT is so precious and people will be leaving this country.
We will remember that in the next two weeks, Rwanda will be having a big conference to talk about ICT. The speakers are Strive Masiiwa and James Manyika who will be speaking in Rwanda because they have electricity; the Ndebele say, uyatlhaga ngesikhathi uneensetjenziswa, meaning you are suffering whilst having the resources. We have our Zimbabweans who are capable to move this country forward in terms of ICT. With these few words, I want to thank you for this opportunity to debate.
∞HON. GWANGWABA: I want to speak on the motion moved by Hon. Kangausaru. Where we are coming from, we are being left behind on the issue of ICT. People were removed from Zambezi River and we want people to benefit from ICT. Most people do not know how to use the ICT and even the network, they do not have cell phones. We have the Jongola area, Kawuzumba and Makande, they cannot get knowledge of the ICT because there is no telephone network.
There is also human-animal conflict. People are supposed to be given a lot of knowledge about how animals are being taken care of. If we get information that wildlife wants to get into the human settlement then we can get knowledge and be assisted. We also have the issue of tourism. Most people know that we have a tourism resort in Zambezi. If people cannot access network to advertise about our tourist attractions in our areas, we cannot afford to advertise the tourist attraction areas, hence we need the ICT. We are saying this matter brought by Hon. Kangausaru is very important in relation to our areas in Zambezi.
We rely on fishing in our daily lifestyles. They cannot travel because of the long distance and they cannot sell their fish products to a number of people because of the lack of ICT. We appeal for ICT to reach all areas. Most people are saying a lot about our areas that we are lagging behind but we are not down-trodden. It is only because of issues like technology.
On the issue of culture, there is a lot that needs to be learned about which will make our children remain behind. If ICT is brought to our areas, our children will learn about their history and our Tonga culture instead of always relying on textbooks. This will also help those who want to come to our areas. They can go to the internet and know how we are living as a people before they visit. We have a huge space along Zambezi that is not being utilised. If we are given ICT equipment, we can use such an area in terms of development. I thank you.
*HON. MASHONGANYIKA: Thank you Hon. Speaker Ma’am for giving me the opportunity to add my voice to this debate. Without repeating what has already been said, I would like to thank Hon. Kangausaru for the motion. It touches on a lot of important things in life. Looking at network, people who stay in the rural areas are being left behind by far because they try to figure out all the time how they can communicate and research on time. In the past, letters were delivered using buses, be it bereavement, good and bad news, people used to write letters. These days life has advanced and we expect that people in the rural areas must be up to date with people in the urban areas.
If we let them remain behind, they will not get opportunities as their counterparts in the urban areas. If a child completes his or her academics, they start looking for jobs and most of the vacancies are advertised through newspapers and most cannot access that in the rural areas. Some vacancies are accessed through the internet and social media. Sometimes children only realise that there were job opportunities when some of their folks are already employed. There is no information dissemination and proper communication in the rural areas. They also lack opportunities to go and study abroad because of lack of knowledge. From ECD upwards, our children must be taught to use ICT gadgets so that they will be knowledgeable and up to date with regards to current affairs. In the rural areas, they are lagging behind.
In the rural areas, people in our clinics are losing their lives because information cannot be transmitted easily like calling an ambulance or transport to referral hospitals. People develop complications because of that delay. Provincial hospitals do not have ICT gadgets and they also lag behind. In the event that there are few ambulances. The availability of network is essential in the absence of transport. That also applies to the police; people might be attacked and it takes time to inform the police. If an accident or robbery happens during the night, a person can resort to using internet or social media silently to alert others. This is my contribution Hon. Speaker Ma’am. I thank you.
+HON. N. NDLOVU: Thank you Madam Speaker Ma’am. I also want to thank Hon. Kangausaru as well as Hon. Chibagu who seconded the motion. I will speak on behalf of women and young children. It is important that children should be taught ICT at an early age instead of them being introduced to ICT when they are a bit old. People from Matabeleland are left behind because we do not have Science teachers and when we talk about ICT, it is something new compared to what other provinces get.
In our areas, we have areas that are remote which are far beyond the reach of network and electricity. In such areas, they are not learning much. We request for intervention that they join others, especially the installation of solar system to provide electricity in schools. There are teachers who teach computers and what those teachers only know are the phones. There are no computers or electricity. We request the Government to employ qualified professionals in the rural areas.
Provinces must not lag behind; every province must be equipped with ICT gadgets. I now speak on behalf of young ladies, especially those who married early. The Government must visit province by province and teach these ladies and young children about ICT. The vendors must also use ICT to advertise their goods. Government must look into the empowerment of women in terms of ICT.
*HON. ZEMURA: I thank you Hon. Madam Speaker for giving me this opportunity to debate. I also would like to thank the mover of the motion, Hon. Kangausaru seconded by Hon. Chibagu. Thank you very much because this is a new issue and it is very important and topical these days, especially where we stay in the rural areas. ICT is common in the urban areas but not in the rural schools. I wish we could continue debating and talking about this issue to ensure that ICT is promoted everywhere and it must be compulsory in every school, not only having schools getting donations while other schools get electrified and others are not because it should be everywhere and it must spread everywhere. School children must start at the same time. It is always good to have them start all at the same time instead of having a school, for example, of Kangausaru village, having to take turns to sit for computer subject exams.
The Government should give computers to every school. If I remember, some of the schools where we learnt, I went to Matabeleland North School between Gokwe and Nkayi. No matter how much development comes in the future; I know it will be very difficult for that place to catch up.
Even swiping phones - very few had them. We should be able to give or donate modern phones to people in the rural areas, unlike the analogue ones, some of the people in low-lying areas are not able to access network connectivity. We may talk about ICT it in schools but let us have community centres where people can go and learn, especially the older ones of our age, to go and learn what ICT is all about.
If people are in a village set up, if there is an urgent thing, be it police, doctors or Government, there is no other way to do it because in the rural areas people are still attacking social media. They call people gossipers. They attack people for calling the police through social media in rural areas because they do not know the advantages of social media. If only Government could come up with community centres where older people can be trained - not only women, but even men because men do not know the importance of ICT. If it were to be done, there must be a community hall so that they can be taught computers, just like what happens in schools.
These days our ECD children are able to find their way through a cell phone. They can access YouTube or Facebook and they can also access games. I have a five-year-old kid at home who plays games from YouTube. I did not know all that but because of being clever and they learn through what happens in preschool, they are able to do that. The kid sees me as the grandmother. Imagine at 65, 70 years, I am being taught by a five-year-old kid.
Do you not think it is wise for us to go and learn through halls where computers may be put? I was once asked whether I have a mouse. I said we have a cat and a cat can easily kill the mouse. I was told that we were taught about a mouse, the computer mouse at school.
I got that explanation from the older one. We need to learn all those things instead of trying to catch up when we are older. Some schools get computers and others do not. So it means those that are left behind will remain that way for good. Imagine a rural hospital without a computer or mobile phone service, where a pregnancy is due to deliver and there is nowhere to call for ambulances or hospitals with helicopters that transport patients to referral hospitals or other medical facilities.
Most hospitals do not have solar. You can only get cell phones from individuals - emergency issues are not addressed timeously. Just like what the mover of the motion said, Honourable Kangausaru, we need to have ICT in local business centres.
*THE TEMPORARY SPEAKER: Thank you Hon. Zemura. I would like to remind you that we only have Honourable Members in this House. We do not have men and women. I would like to also remind Hon. Chibhagu that we have Hon. Members in here. I thank you.
*HON. MAKAZA: Thank you Madam Speaker Ma’am …
*THE TEMPORARY SPEAKER: Order Hon. Makaza! Let me remind you that the Order Paper is sent to your gadgets every day. That Order Paper sets out all the business of the day. There is a motion that was raised by Honourable Kangausaru. It also indicates what every Hon. Member wishes to submit on and every correction intended to be incorporated. So, as you stand up to contribute, go straight to the point.
*HON. MAKAZA: Thank you Madam Speaker Ma’am for giving me the opportunity to add my views on this important issue.
If there is no connectivity and network, reports cannot be made to the police or wherever they are supposed to go. Where I come from, there are armed robbers who use machetes in Masvingo. They can harass people at night. There is no network for such people to report that they are being attacked. There is a woman who was attacked and chopped by those robbers. The woman died and the man is hospitalised right now because there is no network for them to report. They also took away the vehicle that they left somewhere else.
When people started looking for network to report, it took a lot of time and those thieves had already stolen and went away. So, it is very important for network and connectivity to be available. There are also some areas where we come from, some people steal cars and leave them away where there is no network. It takes also time for that vehicle to be reported. If they try to phone when there is no network and connectivity, they only have to go higher up the mountain, somebody broke her hand because people will be trying to climb up a rock to access network.
Madam Speaker Ma’am, a nurse at a certain hospital was trying to help a patient. The nurse tried to rush to the mountain to access connectivity and when she came back, the woman had delivered but the child had fallen and died. According to the mantra of the President, no place must be left behind connectivity and network must be accessed everywhere so that people can transmit information at the same time. I thank you.
+HON. B. NDLOVU: Thank you for giving me the opportunity to add my voice to this important motion raised by Hon. Kangausaru. The network issue is very important. I do not want to repeat what has been said but I want to thank the Government for doing everything in its power to provide a network in rural areas. We found this in our visits Madam Speaker, places like Lupane and Tsholotsho are in the rural areas and they have base stations but what is lagging behind that which people should be taught is the importance of those equipment. The department of POTRAZ should take note that when the Government put such equipment, it should go around monitoring because we have realised that you find, for example a battery not working.
Madam Speaker Ma’am, if POTRAZ was monitoring these base stations around, you find that most of the areas would be having network everywhere. It is because we wanted to make it clear in this House that the Government has done everything in its power to give network to everywhere. It is true that network makes work easier in all our areas.
We also have vocational colleges in our rural areas and these were supposed to be the first areas to be given ICT equipment so that those who have obtained certain skills at vocational training colleges can also use ICT in doing research and advertising their products. What I am encouraging in this House is that we should not focus mainly on that these ICT professionals should be employed but they should work and create employment for themselves. We are aware that our nation has a lot of farmers and those who are differently skilled. This will make our nation develop quickly. If we wait for us to be employed, it will be a challenge because right now, you see our children are working in different places here and there.
Madam Speaker Ma’am, I also want to encourage this august House that we may wish that the network and ICT should go to all areas. I would like to remind you that even a child will first stand and then walk. The Government is trying everything. Members in this House are supposed to encourage the Ministry of ICT so that it can teach people in our communities.
We also learned that information centres were put in our countries. We were told that the number of people who are attending the learning of the importance of the usage of ICT is also going down because our people are not being made aware of the importance of this ICT. Hence there is a need that we first teach our people before we put this equipment for they will appreciate the importance of this ICT equipment.
Madam Speaker Ma’am, I may talk very long, we may cry foul saying the issue of electricity is the one that is minimising the spread of ICT equipment. The Government has made an effort to decentralise ICT in every community. I encourage everyone in this House, especially the representatives of the rural areas, let us teach them, educate them about the importance of ICT and networks. Let us teach the importance of these base stations because some of these base stations, you will be surprised by what you will find, it is as if there is need for fuel but only a battery is needed.
With these words Madam Speaker Ma’am, I end by saying, let us all thank our Government for the effort and the Government will do a lot in helping us to have this technology to be de-centralised. I thank you.
HON. G. K. HLATYWAYO: Thank you very much Madam Speaker, for giving me the opportunity to contribute to this very important motion. It is important because we are in the fourth industrial revolution where a lot of technological advancements are happening. We are now talking about Artificial Intelligence, you know the arrival of new applications such as DeepSeek, ChatGPT and others, yet there are increasing fears that women will be left behind. I am particularly interested in debating the gender digital gap and why it is important for us to address the gender digital gap between women and men, especially in the rural areas.
More men than women are digitally literate and I was just looking at the inauguration of the President of the United States of America and how the tech industry was so much represented at that particular inauguration. I was looking at the tech executives that were there at the inauguration, the likes of Zuckerberg, Elon Musk, Bill Gates, Tim Cook and these are all men and part of the problem is that we are not catching them young. We are not dealing with our young people in terms of equipping them with the necessary skills that are needed to also make them tech executives. So, it is important for us to pay particular attention to our young people and particularly in schools. There is also a need for deliberate intentional policy interventions to address the gender digital gap in our country.
Just looking at Science, Technology, Engineering and Maths, our STEM subjects, you find that our young girls are not being exposed or there is low uptake of some of these subjects at a very tender age. It is important for us to take deliberate steps to make sure that young girls are also exposed to some of these subjects because these are the subjects that are going to be necessary for them to be technologically savvy. There is also a need for us to avail tech gadgets and tools to girls, especially in rural areas. Some of these girls want to get involved in some of these areas but they do not have the necessary tools for them to apply some of these applications and technologies. So, the availability of technological gadgets is very important.
There is also a need to enhance internet connectivity in rural areas. Most of these rural areas actually do not have internet connectivity and it is important because that is where they will be able to get some of this information and applications and without that internet connectivity, it will not happen. There is also a need to empower girls to develop and create digital technologies as developers and creators, not just users because part of the problem is that our young girls and women in general are using these technological applications without necessarily being developers and creators. Some of it, if it is developed by men, it follows that it will perpetuate some of the gender issues that we have, including stereotypes and things like that. So, we need to get our young girls from a very tender age to also be developers and creators in terms of technology.
Then there is the issue of lower tariffs for data, which is important. The ability of our young girls to access internet is also dependent on...
THE TEMPORARY SPEAKER: Order Hon. Members on my left, may you allow the Hon. Member to be heard in silence?
HON. G. K. HLATYWAYO: I was debating the issue of tariffs on data and how it is important for us to make sure that these tariffs are affordable for women and for young girls, especially in rural communities. Just imagine women, if they have to buy data, if they are given an option between buying data and buying a bundle of vegetables for the family to eat, they are obviously going to make the choice to buy a bundle of vegetables rather than data bundles. So, the issue of tariffs is also very important in bridging the gender digital gap.
There is also need for collection of data and monitoring of progress on the gender digital gap. For instance, our ZimStat, are they tracking some of these developments to see whether we are making progress as a country in terms of the gender digital gap and what policy measures we need to be taking to make sure that we narrow that gap?
There is also need for equipping community information centres with computers and access to internet. The question of electricity has also been debated by some of the Members of Parliament and the need for solar systems because without electricity, it would be very difficult in these schools or in these communities for people to access internet.
The final point that I will make before I sit down relates to making the digital environment safe for girls. Issues around gendered cyberbullying, if you look at our social media and other technological platforms; to what extent are we putting in place laws to make those platforms safer for younger girls or for women in general? I thought I should just highlight this important dimension and I am glad that Hon. Kangausaru had also spoken to this issue because the issue of gender digital gap is very important. We can be progressing but also leaving behind women and it is important for us to pay attention to the gender digital gap and empower our young women to also be part of the technological advancements. I so submit.
HON. KAMBUZUMA: I move that the debate be now adjourned.
HON. C. MOYO: I second.
Motion put and agreed to.
Debate to resume: Tuesday, 25th March, 2025.
MOTION
BUSINESS OF THE HOUSE
HON. KAMBUZUMA: I move that Orders of the Day, Numbers 1 to 19 be stood over until Order of the Day, Number 20 has been disposed of.
HON. C. MOYO: I second.
Motion put and agreed to.
MOTION
LEGISLATION TO PROTECT INDIGENOUS HERBAL TREES
Twentieth Order read: Adjourned debate on motion on the preservation of Zimbabwe’s herbal trees.
Question again proposed.
HON. KANGAUSARU: Thank you for bestowing me the opportunity to rise in this august House to support the motion on the critical importance of preserving herbal trees and plants for the purposes of traditional medicine in Zimbabwe. Our rich biodiversity is home to countless medicinal plants and for generations, our people have relied on these natural remedies to maintain health and treat ailments. The preservation of these plants is not merely a cultural or historical obligation but a pressing necessity for public health, economic development and environmental sustainability.
Traditional medicine has long been a cornerstone of healthcare in Zimbabwe, particularly in rural areas where access to modern medical facilities is limited. Herbal plants such as Moringa, Baobab, Marula, Aloe Vera and African Wormwood have been used for centuries to treat various ailments from common colds to chronic diseases. These plants are an integral part of our heritage, embodying indigenous knowledge passed down through generation. However, unsustainable harvesting, deforestation and lack of systematic conservation efforts threaten their very existence.
Madam Speaker Ma’am, more than 80% of the world’s population in over 170 of WHO’s 194 Member States currently use some form of traditional medicine, such as herbal medicine, yoga, Ayurveda, acupuncture and acupressure and indigenous therapies. For many, traditional medicine is the first port of call and practitioners of traditional medicines have played an important role in treating chronic illnesses. Zimbabwe can draw valuable lessons from China, India and South Korea, countries that have successfully integrated traditional medicines into their modern healthcare systems. Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), which has been practiced for thousands of years, has gained international recognition and contributes significantly to China’s economy. Similarly, India's Ayurveda and South Korea's traditional herbal practices have played vital roles in their respective health systems. Supported by strong research, conversation programmes and Government-backed policies, the core system of traditional medicine is more than 5,000 years old and traces its roots back to 3,000 BC, before Christ was born.
This traditional medicine and practice has been preserved, organised and modernised during the past several decades and has been fully integrated into the national healthcare delivery system from the central to the most peripheral administrative level in Korea. The Government of this nation has put in place strict measures to protect medical plant species including regulated harvesting, reforestation programme and intellectual property protection for indigenous herbal knowledge. For example, India has established the National Medicine Plant Board to oversee the conversation while South Korea has developed a regulatory framework that integrates traditional medicine in modern healthcare.
Zimbabwe can adopt similar strategies to safeguard our rich medical plants. Madam Speaker, Madam, one of the biggest challenges we face in preserving Zimbabwe's herbal heritage is a lack of public awareness. Many young Zimbabweans are growing up disconnected from traditional remedies, viewing them as outdated or inferior to Western medicine. This misconception must be corrected. Through targeted educational programmes, schools should incorporate traditional medicine into their curricula and public health campaigns should emphasise the benefits of herbal remedies. Additionally, Madam Speaker, local communities should be engaged in conservation initiatives to ensure that future generations can continue to benefit from these invaluable natural resources.
Traditional knowledge is a natural treasure that must be protected. However, Madam Speaker, without adequate legal framework, this knowledge is vulnerable to exploitation by foreign pharmaceutical companies that extract and patent herbal formulations without compensating the indigenous communities that have cultivated and used them for centuries. Zimbabwe must establish robust intellectual property rights mechanisms to protect our indigenous knowledge. This includes the recognition of traditional healers' contributions, the documentation of herbal medicine practice, and the development of benefit-sharing models to ensure that local communities benefit from their own heritage.
Madam Speaker, to effectively preserve Zimbabwe's herbal plants and traditional medicines, I propose the following policy interventions. Legal protection through stringent conservation laws must be enacted to safeguard medicinal plants from over-harvesting and deforestation with the penalty for illegal exploitation. Sustainable cultivation practices should be promoted to encourage commercial farming of key herbal plants ensuring their continued availability while we alleviate pressure on wild populations. The traditional medicine must be integrated into the national health system with policies that support specific scientific research into the efficiency of herbal remedies.
Public awareness campaigns should be launched to educate our citizens on the values of herbal medicine and conservation efforts. Strengthening intellectual property rights is essential to protect traditional knowledge and ensure local communities benefit from the commercialisation of herbal medicine. Community participation should be prioritised engaging traditional healers and indigenous groups in the decision-making process regarding the use and preservation of medical plants.
Lastly, Zimbabwe must invest in scientific research and proper documentation of herbal remedies validating their medical properties and enhancing their credibility for broader use. In conclusion Madam Speaker, the time to act is now. If we do not take decisive steps to protect our medical plants and traditional knowledge, we will risk losing not only a valuable component of our cultural identity but also as a crucial resource for healthcare and economic development. Preserving our herbal heritage is a matter of national importance and I commend the mover of this motion for bringing this crucial issue to the forefront. I strongly urge this august House to rally behind it and commit to implementing policies that will ensure the sustainability of Zimbabwe's medical plants for generations to come. I thank you.
HON. MUSWEWESHIRI: Thank you Madam Speaker Ma’am. I want to support the motion that was moved by Hon. Zhou that urges us to preserve our herbs. If it were possible, I urge the Government to come up with very drastic penalties that send people to jail for many years because the majority of the people are surviving on herbs as the majority of the drugs that we are getting in this world are derived from these herbs. I urge our Government to come up with a programme that allows some of these herbs to be used in hospitals since they are being used by the majority of the people. The elderly people are now appearing to be much older than their age because of the Western medicines that they are using, which are not readily accepted by them. A lot of men have lost their libido because of the drugs they are getting. Our grandfathers, the forebearers used herbs, shrubs and tree barks; some of us practice that. Those who are in the Opposition, I believe were not subjected to the same treatment by their parents. If they were, they would not be disputing. The Government should also assist in the preparation of these seedlings so that it becomes a law that school children plant such herb trees and shrubs because our health is based upon these, world over.
Zimbabwe’s economy can be improved because of our neighbours, who can become desirable to use these traditional drugs. We can even export them. Drugs are derived from trees and shrubs. Herbal trees are very strong, we even use them for stools and chairs. Some of the chairs that we use in this august House are from such trees. Let me end there. I thank you.
*HON. MATANGIRA: Thank you Madam Speaker Ma’am. I would also like to thank the mover of this motion. Hon. Kangausaru has raised a motion in a Black country, where there are Black people. The problem that we have is of our mindsets.
THE TEMPORARY SPEAKER: Please, stick to one language, Hon. Matangira.
*HON. MATANGIRA: Thank you Madam Speaker. Let me continue with my mother language. From the beginning, when the Lord created Adam and Eve, there were no scientists, no tablets; they were surviving on herbs. There came a time when we were brainwashed and we were told this is unacceptable and it does not work. Let us go back to our roots. If we look at most of the medicines that we have in Zimbabwe, such as mupfura, musekesa trees; these trees are patented by the Germany but the Government of Germany does not have a musekesa tree in their country. The trees are patented and they are said to be belonging to Germany, so as Zimbabweans, we can no longer use these ones for producing drugs. As a country, we are saying no. We are sending our children to school, we are producing scientists, we are learning about medicines that do not have anything in common with them. As Blacks, why do we not encourage our children to do research and come up with drugs extracted from herbs. Those from DRC, have what is called Spanish Fly, men are given drugs that make them behave like wild people. It ends up causing diseases, like what the chief whip said yesterday. Women also inject themselves so that they have hips.
We have ntolwane in the communal lands; we have tea leaves from traditional trees, muremberembe or the sausage tree. You then decide on how you want to live; do you want all these signs of big or small - where is our problem? We have all these things. If you want anything, the blood sizes; the medicines are there. We should remove this mindset that as Blacks we are incapable of coming up with our own drugs. If you think about the United States saying that they no longer want to distribute ARVs, we read that Kenya, Nigeria and Zimbabwe are mourning as well. We need to put our heads together, with our traditional healers. We have drugs, we have herbs that can cure AIDS but only lacking thing is that no sufficient research has been carried out in that area.
Hon. Members having been making noise.
THE TEMPORARY SPEAKER: Order Hon. Members! When we started with the motion, the Members who were debating were heard in silence. May we continue on that same vein. I thank those who are going to heed my advice. To those that are not going to listen, I am going to show you the door and remain with those that would want to work.
*HON. MAMBIPIRI: Thank you Madam Speaker. This is an earnest House and everyone in the country is listening. Hon. Matangira said that we have medicines that can cure AIDS. If we look at what the Ministry says, they say we do not have such a drug. May he please withdraw that instead of misleading the people. It could have been better if he said that we could be capable of coming up with a drug that cures AIDS. If he says we have such a drug, it will cause problems in this country.
THE TEMPORARY SPEAKER: Those are the words that I wanted to give to Hon. Matangira that, once given a chance may he explain what he meant. Please proceed and understand what you are talking about.
*HON. MATANGIRA: Thank you for protecting me Madam Speaker. What I was talking about is the issue of the mindset. Let me quote “Our African medicines work.” We had Black scientist who would fly from here to Nigeria, spend the night in Nigeria and come back to Zimbabwe. It was a well-kept secret, that secrecy- who said I misdirected myself. It is there, during the time of Adam, diseases were being treated. If you want, I can also repeat, if he is suffering from any ailment, he can approach me and I can cause his treatment.
*HON. CHIGUMBU: On a point of order Madam Speaker. This is an august House and the whole country is listening to us. Hon. Matangira is saying that we have medicine that can cure AIDS. The Ministry of Health and Childcare is saying they do not have drugs. May he please withdraw that? It could have been better if he were saying that we are capable of coming up with a drug that may cure AIDS but if he says that we have such a drug, it will cause problems in this country.
*THE TEMPORARY SPEAKER: I would want to believe that if he is given the chance to speak, he would explain his correct position and please understand clearly what you are talking about.
*HON. MATANGIRA: Thank you Madam Speaker for protecting me. What I was talking about is the mindset issue. In English they say, “the secrecy that surrounds our African medication through the witch doctors as they are called”; we had black scientists who would fly from here to Nigeria and spend the night and come back to Zimbabwe. It was a well-kept secret. It was there during the time of Adam, all diseases were being treated. If you want, I can also repeat the same. If there is anyone suffering from any ailment, they can come and approach me and I will show them the treatment …
*HON. CHIGUMBU: On a point of order Madam Speaker.
THE TEMPORARY SPEAKER: Order Hon. Matangira!
HON. CHIGUMBU: As the Hon. Member said earlier on, as he is explaining, he should be aware that people are listening. We do not have such a drug to treat such an ailment, that disease was not there during the time of Adam. May he withdraw his words and explain giving ideas not speaking as if we have the drugs?
*THE TEMPORARY SPEAKER: I thank you. I am also eager to know where he is going with his debate but I am not against what you have said. Let us give him a chance to explain further, maybe he will explain himself better.
HON. CHIGUMBU: The standing order says we cannot allow someone to go ahead lying. We asked for the withdrawal of the statement. The Hon. Member is misleading the House.
*THE TEMPORARY SPEAKER: Order, Hon. Matangira! You did not say the drug is available. If you had said, please withdraw that statement because it has not been found but I would allow you to explain yourself.
*HON. MATANGAIRA: Thank you Madam Speaker, AIDS was created with a view that it should never be cured. There is no such medicine but …
*HON. MADZIVANYIKA: On a point of order Madam Speaker. I am pleading with you that the dignity of this House be maintained. He has gone further to say someone created AIDS. Who created it? We do not have such kind of research, if you look at all the literature that is there, may he, as a respectable leader, continue talking about respectable issues?
*THE TEMPORARY SPEAKER: Hon. Matangira, please proceed with your explanation.
*HON. MATANGIRA: Madam Speaker, if we are saying to create or to make, it is like a sexually transmitted disease, it is made by the persons who have indulged in the act and that is how they created it. If they know where it was created, they should tell us. We are now being driven off track from the good motion that was raised by Hon. Kangausaru…
*THE TEMPORARY SPEAKER: Order Hon. Matangira! Someone just shouted please stop taking dagga. You are being reminded that we are in an august House. I was unable to identify who said that, I would have given that person a ruling. We need to treat each other with respect and let us hear Hon. Matangira in silence. Please proceed.
*HON. MATANGIRA: Thank you Madam Speaker. They just do not like my black pigmentation. I had remonstrated with them. Let me then stop here so that we can proceed with the business of the House. I was of the view that as a country, in our universities, we should call those in communal lands and those that know about herbs and compile what each shrub is used for. The elderly are dying and the vocabulary is being lost in line with herbs. We should also come up with a law that says every school should grow the sausage tree, musau tree, mupfura tree well knowing that they can treat ailments. Whenever one has a stomach ache, they used mubvamaropa tree. Those with warthog can use sausage tree, those who would have contracted STIs – dagga is being used to treat some of these ailments. The herbs that we have are an endowment that we have and we should respect it, not look down upon it because of the western culture. We should not be fighting against each other. I thank you.
*HON. MUSIYIWA: Thank you Madam Speaker for affording me this opportunity to add my voice on the motion raised by Hon. P. Zhou that advocates for the preservation of indigenous herbs, trees and shrubs which are God given. They assist us in a lot of things. These herbs that we have, once we become knowledgeable about their use, we will be beneficiaries of this in preserving our health. Such trees, herbs and shrubs should not be cut indiscriminately. We have laws that are being enforced by the Forest Commission for the protection of such trees. They will help us as a country and improve the quality of health of our people.
Here lies the problem, when the whites came and colonised us, they started by looking down upon the herbs and classified them as a witch. As Christianity came, we then said that everything that was being used by a black person was not good. Before the advent of the whites, the world over, as Hon. Matangira has said, if one has a broken leg, the herbs would cure those ailments. I recall when we were herding cattle, we were taught to cut nhunguru tree and chew the leaves to relieve yourself from stomach ache. We were being enlightened on how best to use our herbs and shrubs. The mutsambatsi for your information, we used to have ringworms and if you use the mubvamaropa tree, the fruits of the tree will be burnt and the ashes will apply on your head and the ringworms will vanish.
We were never given medication in the form of pills. It was never applied and it was looked down upon because it came from the witch doctor. We need knowledge or research as what Dr. Chavunduka used to do. He wanted to find out how these trees, shrubs and herbs could be used because the pills that we are now using come from the juice of the tree, the bark and the leaves that has been packaged into a capsule. There are certain things that are there that can be used in treating hypertension. Once taken, hypertension becomes normal.
We want to find out what can be used in terms of tearing the herbs, whether it is the bark, the tree, the roots and the leaves that can be used in order to come up with tablets. Madam Speaker, everything should be in the open.
Those who normally go to fetch water for these trees and herbs do not want to tell others what they use it for. Once they approach the tree, they go 200 metres away so as to ensure that the people do not understand what that shrub is for. I used to get a picture on my phone, of a lady who had cancer on the leg and it had wounds.
Eventually, I was shown that the leg had dried up and it no longer had any wounds. We use such knowledge and that knowledge would be documented so that all of us become knowledgeable. Whenever you want to go to church and you have used dried herbs and shrubs, you are told that you have committed a sin. In fact, our culture values trees, herbs, shrubs and flowers can help us.
There is nothing sinful about their application. If it were possible, even our children should be educated on the use of certain trees, shrubs and herbs. We will have empowered our black race, our economy through the use of these shrubs like the sausage tree.
Sausage trees are being taken and planted in other countries. They are not telling us what they are using the sausage tree, leaves and the bark for but they are being used in other countries. There is an insect called harurwa found in Nyika. The harurwa is used for treating certain things but we do not have the knowledge to research. We would want more research in this area so that it helps us as black people with our God-given trees, herbs and indigenous trees. If all of us put our heads together, you will hear the doctor telling you that they do these things but secretly in hospitals, herbs are used.
You can go to a hospital and the doctor says there is nothing wrong with you but once these medicines are used, you can see the person will recover. There are a lot of things that normally happen to us blacks that cannot be cured using medicines or drugs. If a child is struck by a goblin, the goblin then speaks. Such knowledge should be known by our children that once this child has been struck by a goblin, they should be using mbanda or some drug that is burnt in the form of incense and administered. As blacks, we are running from our shadows, our culture and our societal values. What we are talking about involves us in our everyday living year in and year out.
We should be knowledgeable about the system and look after our herbs, trees and shrubs and know what each of these herbs are used for. If possible, I urge our Government to empower the village heads to have arresting powers to the one that is cutting down trees. We should use trees that are dry and not those that are still alive because trees are our life and our heritage.
If our trees, herbs and shrubs were to be subjected to research by experts in terms of ascertaining their medicinal values, we can then end up with our own tablets or drugs processed from herbs, shrubs and trees. The Chinese are popular for their herbs. These are herbs and if you look at them, they have been ground and put in there.
We would want to also reach the same level such that the sausage tree can also be grounded and labelled in terms of what they are used for. The same applies to the nhunguru tree; headache was treated by our elderly using incisions on our heads and saving some ash applied on us.
Those that have grown up today do not have such incisions but used to have such incisions. Once you have such incisions today, it meant that the ash from whatever tree that they were burning, once it is applied to your head and in your blood, it would then go straight and treat the ailments. The experts, black experts or traditional healers that practice in herbs and trees, you do not need to be possessed to dispense herbs, trees and shrubs. Those that would then become possessed and use the drugs are then shown by the spirits to know the ailments and through the assistance of the spirits, they are able to tell what needs to be done to the patient. As ordinary Zimbabweans, we need to know about the uses of these trees, shrubs and herbs. We may agree in this august House that they are selling trees, shrubs and herbs that gives men virility.
If you go to the market, you find that there are concoctions that are used in enhancing the libido of men. We have such drugs and shrubs but we deny this and it stays literally in the face. If you go to the elderly people, they know of such trees.
All these trees have no side effects. Those that use Viagra, if you look at them, you hear that eventually, they have side effects. This erectile dysfunction can be treated with roots or herbs that can ensure that you regain your libido or virility. We should talk about these herbs so that they know together with our children who are at school what herbs and shrubs they can use.
Thank you Madam Speaker for the opportunity given to me to debate this motion. I also want to thank Hon. P. Zhou, the mover of the motion. Well done for coming up with such a superb motion. As Zimbabweans, let us be proud of what God gave us so that our lifestyles can become even much better. I thank you.
HON. KAMBUZUMA: I move that the debate do now adjourn.
HON. C. MOYO: I second.
Motion put and agreed to.
Debate to resume: Tuesday, 25th March, 2025.
On the motion of HON. KAMBUZUMA, seconded by HON. C. MOYO, the House adjourned at Eight Minutes past Five o’clock p.m. until Tuesday, 25th March, 2025.
PARLIAMENT OF ZIMBABWE
Wednesday, 19th March, 2025.
The Senate met at Half-past Two o’clock p.m.
PRAYERS
(THE HON. DEPUTY PRESIDENT OF SENATE in the Chair)
ANNOUNCEMENTS BY THE HON. DEPUTY PRESIDENT OF SENATE
HALF DAY WORKSHOP ON UNPACKING OF THE INSURANCE AND PENSIONS COMMISSION AMENDMENT BILL [H. B. 7, 2024]
THE HON. DEPUTY PRESIDENT OF SENATE: Good afternoon Hon. Senators. I would like to inform the Senate that all Senators are invited to a half-day workshop to unpack the Insurance and Pensions Commission Amendment Bill [H. B. 7, 2024]. The workshop is scheduled for tomorrow, Thursday, 20th March, 2025 at 0800 hours in the Multi-Purpose Hall.
SWITCHING OFF OF CELLPHONES
THE HON. DEPUTY PRESIDENT OF SENATE: Hon. Senators are reminded to put your gadgets on silence or better switch them off.
MOTION
BUSINESS OF THE HOUSE
THE DEPUTY MINISTER OF THE VETERANS OF THE LIBERATION STRUGGLE AFFAIRS (HON. H. MOYO): Thank you Mr. President Sir. I move that Orders of the Day, Number 1 to 12 be stood over until Orders of the Day, Numbers 13 to 16 and 18 have been disposed of.
Motion put and agreed to.
MOTION
REPORT OF THE THEMATIC COMMITTEE ON INDIGENISATION AND EMPOWERMENT ON THE STATUS OF COMMUNITY SHARE OWNERSHIP TRUSTS
Thirteenth Order read: Adjourned debate on motion on the Report of the Thematic Committee on Indigenisation and Empowerment on the Status of Community Share Ownership Trusts.
Question again proposed.
HON. SEN. ZVIDZAI: Mr. President Sir, thank you for giving me this opportunity to wind up the motion. Mr. President, last year the Committee on Indigenisation and Empowerment brought to the House a full report of the state of Community Share Ownership Trusts (CSOTs) and came up with quite a mix of recommendations on what should be done to resuscitate these, for the benefit of the people. Particular points in that report relate to the need to legislate for the contribution of qualifying companies to community share ownership trusts. The current situation is that companies that are into the extractive industry and who benefit wholly on our natural resources and heritage choose to support CSOTs if they so wish. There is nothing that compels them to support these, particularly after the amendment of the provisions which require that companies that benefit from natural resources should necessarily support Community Share Ownership Trusts for the benefit of people in the localities where these endowments are either buried or on the surface.
The Committee recommended and is very pleased that the minister came in here to concur and agree with the recommendations necessary to strengthen CSOTs.
Mr. President, we therefore appreciate the contribution of the minister in supporting this report and we hope that when the new law comes up to support mandatorily the CSOTs from qualifying companies, then clearly the people would benefit more intensely.
So, I wish to express my gratitude to the minister for responding timeously and considering the importance of this report. I have got colleague Members of this Senate, Mr. President, who contributed in support of this motion. I wish to pay them a debt of gratitude for supporting this motion. I heartily thank you, Hon. Colleagues.
I also wish to thank Members of the Committee for putting in so much effort going around the country to listen and think through what can be done to enhance this Ownership Trust, particularly, that we recommended that we go beyond mine. There are other endowments that these companies benefit from, our trees, our heritage, our land and our rivers. These companies that are into tourism should, moving forward, participate in supporting community Share Ownership Trusts.
So, Mr. President, I wish to conclude by thanking you Sir, for allowing me this opportunity to wind up this motion and request Members to kindly adopt this motion:
Motion that this House considers and adopts the Report of the Thematic Committee on Indigenisation and Empowerment on the Status of Community Share Ownership Trusts under the existing Indigenisation and Empowerment Policy, put and agreed to.
MOTION
RECOGNITION FOR UNPAID CARE AND DOMESTIC WORK
Fourteenth order read: Adjourned debate on motion on domestic and unpaid care work.
Question again proposed.
HON. SEN. TONGOGARA: Thank you, Mr. President. I will wind my motion tomorrow.
I move that the debate do now adjourn.
HON. SEN. MOHADI: I second.
Motion put and agreed to.
Debate to resume: Thursday, 21st March, 2025.
MOTION
REPORT OF THE 149TH ASSEMBLY OF THE INTER-PARLIAMENTARY UNION (IPU) MEETINGS HELD IN GENEVA, SWITZERLAND
Fifteenth Order read: Adjourned debate on motion on the 149th Assembly of the IPU and related meetings.
Question again proposed.
HON. SEN. MUZENDA: Thank you, Mr. President. I wish to thank all the Hon. Members who debated this report which is very important in that the Inter-Parliamentary Union is a body which is attended, in this case, there were 616 members from different countries looking at what is happening in their respective Parliaments, particularly, issues to do with human rights, governance, issues to do with young parliamentarians in their departments, and also issues to do with women's rights, etcetera.
Therefore, it is important that as parliamentarians in Zimbabwe, we should not just think it is an ordinary report but a report which also looks at whether our Parliament is adhering to what it is required to do. With that Hon. President, I move that the motion be discharged from the Order Paper.
Motion that this House takes note of the 149th Assembly of the Inter Parliamentary Union (IPU) and Related Meetings which was convened in the city of peace, Geneva, Switzerland from 12th to 17th October 2024, put and agreed to.
MOTION
CHILD MORTALITY RATE DUE TO MEASLES
Sixteenth Order read: Adjourned debate on motion on the immunisation of children against measles.
Question again proposed.
HON. SEN. MLILO: Thank you Mr. President. I am rising to wind up my debate on my motion. I would like to thank all the Senators who contributed to this motion and move that the motion be adopted.
Motion That this House-
CONCERNED at the rate of mortality among children due to measles;
ACKNOWLEDGING that measles is preventable through the immunisation program of the Ministry of Health and Child Care;
DISTURBED that some religious sects are oblivious of this scourge and continue to dissuade their members from benefiting from Ministry of Health and Child Care immunisation programs aimed at preventing such diseases;
NOW, THEREFORE, resolves that the Ministry of Health and Child Care:
(a) advocates for deterrent measures which criminalize the barring of children from immunisation programmes;
(b) 17. implores the law enforcement agents to thoroughly investigate and bring to book any parents and guardians who endanger the lives of children by failing to get them immunised.
Motion put and agreed to.
MOTION
PENALTIES TO DETER CRIMES RELATED TO SILTATION AND DEFORESTATION
Eighteenth Order read: Adjourned debate on motion on the rate of deforestation, veld fires and siltation of water bodies.
Question again proposed.
HON. SEN. CHINYANGA: Thank you Mr. President, for awarding me the opportunity to rise today with a deep sense of responsibility to support this crucial motion on deforestation. The mover of this motion laid out the gravity of the situation and I am here to reinforce the urgency of protecting our forests, not just for ourselves but for our children and grandchildren. Deforestation is not just an environmental issue, it affects our livelihood, our climate and the very essence of our existence as Zimbabweans.
Mr. President, the loss of our forests is happening at an alarming rate. Zimbabwe is losing vast expanses of tree cover annually. Between 2000 and 2010 alone, we lost an estimated 327 000 hectares annually. Since 2001, our tree cover has decreased by 17%. These are not just numbers; they reflect a crisis that threatens the balance of our ecosystem and the sustainability of our land. Forests serve as the lifeblood of our agriculture sector, regulating rainfall patterns, maintaining soil fertility and ensuring food security. Without urgent action, we risk turning productive land into barren wasteland, pushing our communities deeper into poverty.
Moreover, deforestation is not simply about losing trees, it is about the families who struggle with soil erosion, ruining their farms. – [HON. SENATORS: Hear, hear.] - It is about our rivers drying up because the trees that once protected our watersheds are gone. It is about the wildlife disappearing from our national parks, diminishing Zimbabwe's natural heritage. Let us not forget the impact on our climate. Deforestation contributes to extreme weather, from prolonged droughts to devastating floods. The destruction of forests also increases the likelihood of wildfires, endangering both people and livestock. The implications are dire in the time to exit now.
Mr. President, deforestation undermines several sustainable development goals, including climate action, clean water and life on land. Our commitment to a sustainable future means we must act decisively. We cannot speak of economic progress while allowing the destruction of the very resources that sustain us. Development must go hand in hand with environmental stewardship. Zimbabwe is a signatory to international environmental agreements and we must uphold our commitment to ensure that future generations inherit a habitable and thriving country.
Our people, particularly in rural areas, depend on forests for food, medicine and income. Their voices must be heard. We should tap into the wisdom of our elders, who have for generations, lived in harmony with nature. Solutions to deforestation must include local communities as equal partners in conversation efforts. When communities are actively engaged in reforestation and land restoration, the results are not only sustainable but also foster a sense of ownership and responsibility.
Mr. President, there is a way to balance economic growth with environmental preservation. Ecotourism, sustainable forests and agroforestry are viable alternatives that allow us to prosper while protecting our forests. We must shift our focus to economic models that ensure the well-being of both people and nature. The timber industry, for example, should adopt responsible harvesting techniques and allow forests to regenerate. – [HON. SENATORS: Hear, hear.] -
We should incentivise businesses that invest in deforestation and penalise those that contribute to environmental degradation.
Policy recommendations to combat deforestation.
To truly address this issue, we must strengthen legislation and enforcement;
- encourage sustainable forests;
- implement agroforestry systems by promoting farming
methods that integrate tree planting to improve soil and crop health;
- raise public awareness through educating communities
about the importance of forests and involve them in conversation efforts;
- support deforestation projects by working with NGOs and
international partners to restore degraded land;
- boost ecotourism;
- enhance community participation by ensuring that
indigenous and rural communities are included in land use decisions;
- develop data-driven policies based on research and forest
ecosystems;
- promote sustainable land use planning by designating
protected areas and strengthening zoning laws to curb unnecessary deforestation.
Mr. President, in summation, this is a call to action. We cannot stand by and watch as our forests disappear. We must act now, not just with words but with decisive policies and community-driven solutions. By protecting our forests, we are safeguarding Zimbabwe's future, our water, our food, our economy and our climate. The time for debate is past. The time for action is upon us. If we fail to act today, the generation that comes after us will pay a heavy price. Let us take responsibility and commit to sustainable solutions that will ensure our forests continue to provide for us all.
A Zimbabwe with thriving forest is a Zimbabwe with strong and resilient communities. Let us stand together and make this a reality. I thank you Mr. President.
*HON. SEN. CHIEF CHARUMBIRA: Thank you Mr. President. I want to thank the mover of this motion. I cannot let this pass because when we are talking about our forests, we are referring to the rural areas. Although we have plantations, when we talk of forests, that is where we find the chiefs. That is their domain.
When we are talking about this issue maybe in English, it is not very clear because deforestation in school is a subject and you write examinations but in the rural areas, trees are being cut down. So, having a degree in deforestation does not make trees grow. I cannot tell you what to do in the future when we cut down all the trees. If we engage in environmental degradation, if we cut down trees, we will end up with siltation and gullies, thereby destroying our land. This touches on a lot of issues like agriculture and the preservation of water but we have been told that 300 000 square metres of land is lost.
If we go back 20 years or more, we were told about these issues. Those who were in Parliament in 1972 debated on this and urged each other on what to do but we keep on talking about it. I think that we should come up with a relevant committee which we should task to go and visit, be on the ground, then they will come and give us a report. If we see a challenging thing like this, we should not just debate here but we should go out there, ask people and show them the effects of deforestation.
This issue also touches on another motion on climate change which is on the Order Paper. Deforestation also affects climate, so this is a broad topic. When we talk about climatic change, these are some of the challenges. I think we should unite and go to the people instead of just winding a debate and we forget about it. We should go back to the people, then we come here and debate.
We have big offices like EMA and the Ministry who are getting salaries at the end of each month and on every budget, we allocate them money but all the reports are saying that the situation is getting worse, trees are being cut. Are we not funding them properly? They are not accountable. They do not come back and report on what they would have done with the allocation, like for 2024. I think we should get to that level of making follow-ups and ask, is the Government not funding money on afforestation? Why is it that they come back and tell us that the situation out there is dire?
We have the Forestry Act but trees are being cut. It was put in place in 1943 but I do not know whether we now have a new Act. This was a colonial Act and it says that if you want to cut down a tree in the rural areas, in Matobo for example, you should go and seek permission from the police station. The whites did not want to say that the owner of the trees is the chief. The Act should strengthen, should empower the chief and that would work.
Some say report to EMA, but their offices are far away from the people. I come from the village and for people to go to EMA's offices, it is about 100km and you should have USD15 for transport so that you can consult EMA. These institutions are not easily accessible to the people.
Then I heard someone referring to NGOs. Do not forget that we have headmen who are the first NGOs. There are two types of NGOs. There is an NGO for the people and an outside NGO but the NGO for the people is the headman. We are losing millions to these NGOs from outside.
There is a forestry policy. We are coming up with so many policies yet our forests are being depleted. That is why we are saying in this Senate, the Committee responsible, whether it is security, should go out and bring a report. It should not tell us what it has seen but they should come up with solutions on what we should do to stop this because if we do not have trees, climatic change kicks in and then we end up importing exotic trees. They are not indigenous trees. We can say plant trees but those are not the trees that we need. We should look after our forests but I think the Senate should also go out and do verifications. Thank you Mr. President.
*HON. SEN. ZINDI: Thank you Mr. President. I want to add a few words on deforestation due to cutting down of tress and also veld fires. I want to focus on what we are doing as the custodians of the country. It shows that we are not concerned about deforestation and veld fires and as such, we will end up having a desert in our lives in the future. When we are reading our books, they tell us that the Sahara Desert used to have forests. We do not know whether trees were cut down but what we are doing causes deserts.
So, in Zimbabwe we see people mining. When they mine, they make fires and we end up having veld fires. Animals do not have good grazing areas and those who survive on animals like cattle and goats will know that people will be encouraged to sell their cattle before they are affected by the drought. They will sell their animals at a low cost and end up not having any herd of cattle, which means they are faced with hunger, especially those in the rural areas and in the farms .
They are the ones who suffer from those challenges. In the farming areas, the law says that you must put a fire guard which will prevent fire from getting into your farm. However, even if you put a fire guard in your farm, if you have a forest, it means the small animals would find a place to hide. You find that the fire will start in the middle of the farm which shows why Chief Charumbira has said that there is need for education.
The education lies on the farmers and headmen. They have a right to go out and teach the people instead of just flighting on televisions or come up with jingles. This is because if someone is starting a fire where there is a fireguard, it is not that they are doing it because of ignorance but are doing it because they are aware and it is for hunting purposes. What it means is that this is now the work of chiefs and headmen of all the areas. When they call for meetings in their areas, this should be topical.
When we were growing up in Mutasa, we would approach the headman when we wanted to cut down a tree. If you cut a tree which was known, you would pay a penalty. We would not just cut down trees but these days if you go to Mutasa in Bingaguru which is a mountain where the Mutasa chiefs are buried, as I speak right now, that mountain has been desecrated. When I go during summer, I see fire in the mountain right at the top of the mountain which never used to happen as we were growing up.
Homesteads are now on the foot of the mountain and our beautiful country is being destroyed. We are not leaving any inheritance to our people if we are doing such things. What I am trying to put across is this, institutions like EMA are there which are supposed to monitor those mining activities and ensure that they have rehabilitated the land. Those who start fires are supposed to be prosecuted but no one has been prosecuted.
Every year on my farm, there is a fire. EMA then tells me to report and would come and investigate. They would catch the culprit. I go and report but these days I no longer report because they do not come and nothing happens. Each time as we approach summer, they encourage people to put fireguards around their farms. There is a law that if you do not put a fireguard around your farm, we will prosecute you. If you put a fireguard and the fire starts in the middle of your farm, they do not come if you report but have the guts to say that they can criminalise me if I do not put a fireguard. What I am trying to say is that our department of EMA, I do not think they are serious when it comes to looking after our country as our Chief Charumbira has alluded to that they are given money, they have cars that they can move around with and monitor in order to rectify the situation. Those who are found on the wrong side of the law should be prosecuted but they are not doing so. I want to give a solution to those who are mining and not filling their pits. I think the Government should say that those who are mining and not filling in their pits, if they are caught, they should not just be compelled to pay a small fine because it does not deter them from committing that.
If they have cars and the tools that they are using, they should be taken away from them. If they are to pay a fine, the penalty should be very stiff so that a person will think twice before they go back to mine or, start fires. If the fines are very low, they can say we can pay and that is how I see it.
On the issue of deforestation, Government should come up with laws that people should have other sources of energy for cooking or lighting. We can do that by using renewable energy like solar or hydro-electricity power. In Zimbabwe, we have large dams like Tugwi/Mukosi and Mutirikwi where we can have hydro-power electricity so that those in the rural areas do not cut down trees as we are witnessing.
If they do not have the energy to use, even if you talk about it and my children are hungry, I will go in the middle of the night and cut down the trees. If you visit many restaurants which are being opened, for example, I saw a heap of msasa tree at a certain restaurant, which means someone is cutting down msasa tree but EMA is there. They could have come if they were doing their job because the msasa tree was not dry. EMA should have approached them because there is a beerhall and a restaurant.
EMA officers also visit that place and they see it and leave it like that. I think they are not really doing their job so that we rectify these challenges. If we make sure that people have renewable sources of energy, the cutting down of trees would be low because there will be an alternative. If there is a duty that is paid for solar products to be imported, I think Government should reduce or remove tax on renewable energy equipment.
With these few words, I want to encourage the headmen and the chiefs that they should come up with awareness programmes. If it is possible, a law should be put to compel everyone to come to the court and we teach each other. The headmen or chiefs would make people pay fines if they cut down trees. We should leave a beautiful and protected country to the future generation. Thank you.
*HON. SEN. TONGOGARA: Thank you Mr. President for according me this opportunity to add my voice on the motion raised by Hon. Senator Gumbo. This motion is very pertinent and as a country, for us to be called a nation which is organised, it means that our forestry must be protected. We are lamenting that trees are being cut down and there is a lot of deforestation which is happening. Let us look at the causes of deforestation. The laws which have been enacted are there but they are not being followed.
We know that there was the Land Reform Programme where people were given farms to engage into agricultural activities. Most of them are farming tobacco and for them to cure tobacco, they are using firewood. If you go at their bans where they cure tobacco, there will be huge piles of firewood from msasa trees, which means people will be cutting down the trees to cure the tobacco.
It clearly shows that our farmers need help that although we had given them farms, they are into tobacco farming and tobacco is a pertinent crop because it brings foreign currency into the country. We must come up with the best idea for curing tobacco which does not involve the use of firewood. We all know that in Hwange, there is a lot of coal and so, we must come up with a programme where coal is being transported from Hwange and distributed to the farmers for the curing of tobacco so that they can desist from cutting down trees.
We can continue to lament that trees are being cut down but we know right now that it is the season of selling tobacco at the Auction Floors. They can get as much as USD5 per kilogramme, but we are not considering the processes which include curing of tobacco. Can we look into that area so that we can address the issue of deforestation and help farmers who are into tobacco production?
We also have another challenge with EMA. EMA officers must be dispatched to go out there and teach farmers. Let me say at my father’s farm in Matenganyika and my brother is into tobacco farming. I went there to see them and I found that they had cut down a lot of trees to cure tobacco. They said they were paying taxes to EMA and it allowed them to cut the trees to cure tobacco. This is an indication that there is a problem.
There is no proper explanation from EMA to the farmer on how to use best practices for curing their tobacco. The taxes they are paying to EMA, they are regarding as a passport or as a leeway to cut down trees. Mr. President, I am suggesting that we must come up with a solution in this area because it is one of the reasons why we are experiencing deforestation. When there is a lot of deforestation, there are a lot of health hazards, environmental and climatic changes that are happening, like a lot of winds destroying infrastructure, school roofs, and people’s homesteads. It ends up causing desertification and the movement of wind. It will be moving at high speed because there are no trees that are acting as barriers. This is another challenge, Mr. President.
Another issue is conflicts between humans and wildlife. The wildlife is now roving around including in people’s homesteads. If we look at this issue clearly, we see that we are the ones who are the perpetrators. We are going to cut down trees which are the inhabitants of these animals. We all know that animals live in these forests but we have destroyed their inhabitants. Hence, animals do not have the proper inhabitants. Some other Hon. Members have already alluded to the issue of mining and they are leaving open pits. Some animals fall in these pits and it is destroying the ecosystem in the country. Wild animals might end up not finding assistance. It clearly shows there are conflicts between humans and wildlife. We the humans are the perpetrators.
I do suggest that people must be taught including the chiefs and the village heads. I also want to add a voice that it is very important that chiefs and village heads be educated. The issue of the fight against deforestation is a collective effort of the people, chiefs, the village heads, with the legislators of both the National Assembly, the Senate and the churches. We as the legislators are the ones who are representing the people. So if we are having challenges like this, we cannot expect the chiefs to resolve this issue. This issue has now taken root because it has been happening for long.
You have already heard other Hon. Senators allude to the fact that these laws were enacted long back but the issue of cutting trees is happening. I am encouraging all of us as Zimbabweans to join hands and teach each other to desist the issue of veld fires which is destroying the ecosystem and the trees. When we engage in wild fires, it encourages soil erosion. Even the animals which are habiting these forests die because of fire. During the rainy season, all the soil is eroded because there is nothing that is keeping the soil together. It leads to the siltation of dams and rivers. There is a lot of reconstruction of dams going on in the country but when there is no grass, the soils get into these dams.
We are expecting to use the water from these reservoirs which are being constructed to make sure that we start irrigation schemes and have enough food security in the country. As a country, we know that we have climate change which is happening and we are receiving erratic rains, heat waves, lot of rains which are coming in cyclones. We as the humans are the perpetrators.
Hence, as an Hon. Member, I am encouraging you to look into these laws and make sure that these laws are being fostered and followed. Mr. President, we must work together to alleviate the issue of deforestation. Others are being paid to go and address these issues but nothing is being resolved. So, the money allocated to your ministry must be purposeful. As the august House, let us look into the issues of the monies being allocated to different organisations which are working on this issue, especially EMA, to make sure the allocated monies are being utilised properly.
If we work that way Mr. President, it is going to help us. Just discussing, saying there is a lot of deforestation, there is a lot of veldfires, we are saying a lot but nothing is happening in terms of coming up with a solution. I thank you Mr. President, for awarding me this opportunity.
HON. SEN. GOTORA: Thank you Mr. President, for this opportunity. When this motion was presented in this House, I said I did not want to debate on it. We can say a lot of things but if we do not know what we want to do, it becomes a problem. Before the EMA law, there were thirty-two pieces of legislation governing the issues we are discussing here. There is an issue of fire, cutting down trees and the issue of erosion. All those things were put together and became law. If you read the Urban Councils Act or Rural District Council Act, it is forced by the law to come up with an Environment Committee. Every local authority is forced to come up with three committees. The biggest committee is Finance and the second one is the Environment Committee. This clearly shows that issues of the environment were put in the hands of the local authorities.
In the local authorities, they are called Intensive Conservation Committees but as local authorities, they decentralised their jobs to the ward level and cascaded to the village level. At the village level, there is a committee of seven, which is the subcommittee of the local authority, which is expected to look into the issues of cutting down trees and the wildfires. This committee was expected to sit down every month and inspect what is happening in their village.
The second position is the Water Act. It was decentralised to the water user bodies which includes the sub-engagement committee. There is no small place in the country that does not have a water user body, which does not have a committee of service. All these people are there because every water authority is an ICA and the people who are expected to do these jobs and what is lacking is knowledge and resources. There is lack of supervision and monitoring. What is in the law is it being implemented? In terms of the structure of Government, what we are lamenting right now in this august House was captured in five laws.
If it is possible, the five ministers must come in this august House and respond to the motion raised by Senator Gumpo. The first minister to come should be the Minister of Local Government and Public Works because he is the one who has got the ICA in terms of the Urban and Rural Councils Acts. He must come and respond to how these committees in the Act are working to prevent deforestation. The second minister who is expected to come and respond is the Minister of Environment because she is the one who is in charge of forests and veld fires. The last minister who is expected to come is the minister who is responsible for water. He must come in this august House and explain how the water users are working. Are these water users still there and how are they working?
The EMA structure has got two people per district, which are the officer and the office orderly. Those are the two who are mentioned in the Act. The structure must be changed to make sure that there are more officers who are allocated per district. Awareness campaigns are being done at VIDCO, WADCO and water user level but the people who are doing it, are they aware of what they are supposed to be doing in terms of educating the people in making sure that everything is being done properly.
Yes, we do have people who are working in these areas but are they well resourced? Long back they used to have machinery like the rubber pads which were used to put out the fires. With time, things deteriorated. So, we must continue to give them more resources. We also need to give them knapsacks to put down the fires. The knapsacks cannot last four years because they have rubbers inside. We must make sure that these officers who are expected to work in these areas are well resourced.
The other thing which we must raise to these ministers is the issue of training. There are people who were trained when the laws were enacted. The people who were trained are no longer there. We now have new officers and you may find out that some of the officers do not know a lot of things. So, we must educate them and equip them so that they can do their jobs properly.
The laws and structures are there but the issue of enforcement is problematic. There is no enforcement. Long back the police used to arrest people for not putting out veld fires but nowadays even the police themselves and other agencies just pass by the burning veld fires. The biggest problem that we have is lack of enforcement. Everyone is just shifting the responsibility to another person. These ministers which I have mentioned must come and respond to the motion raised in this House.
The structures are there but there is no one who is supervising. There is no enforcement and enough resources. EMA has two officers per district so what can you expect them to do looking at an area like Hurungwe? I am encouraging these ministers to come and respond. I thank you.
*HON. SEN. MUNZVERENGWI: Thank you Mr. President for according me this opportunity to debate on the issue of destruction of forests. The issue of deforestation is the issue which we are facing as a country. The issue of climate change is also touching on the issue of deforestation. I want to concur with Senator Gotora that the biggest problem we have in this country is enforcement. We have various Government departments which are responsible for deforestation. These departments are expected to join hands and fight deforestation.
A few days ago, there was a levy that was put down for those who are farming sugar cane because sugar is causing diabetes. Yes, we are happy that farmers are selling their tobacco and are being paid handsomely but I am suggesting a levy for tobacco farmers so that there is no one who is going to cure tobacco using firewood but coal. If the levy is imposed, we expect to see less cutting down of trees to cure tobacco because people will be encouraged to use coal. If it is there, it needs to be increased so that we can see a change as a country.
From the departments which were being mentioned, the Ministry of Lands is also another ministry which has a department called ZINWA. We have big rivers such as Mazowe which used to have different species of fish but due to climate change, people are now coming up with the small ponds in these rivers to look for water because of the activities which are happening in these rivers. For example, those who are engaging in stream-bank cultivation, instead of planting trees, when they are told to relocate, they just leave open pits and the sand flows into these rivers and silt the dams and the rivers. The same applies to the dams. When there are cyclones, there is a lot of soil erosion which also goes into dams causing siltation. This reduces the amount of water stored by the dams and it then affects the farmers as the water becomes inadequate for farming. Right now, it is also affecting the Minister of Lands.
Mr. President, I think that the leadership of chiefs is in here, Sen Chief Charumbira. The village heads are giving people stands to build upon hills, hence the soil is being eroded and fills the rivers. Can we increase the powers of the chiefs so that when village heads allocate a space for an individual to stay, which is not proper, they cannot stop the village heads from allocating land in areas that are not suitable for settlement? Mr. President, I do not know how best we can help each other but we should work together and make sure that there is enforcement. If we do not have enforcement, we can say a lot of things, but if there is no enforcement, deforestation is going to continue. Hence the government departments which are responsible that there is enforcement should do so. We expect everyone to work and make sure that those who are given jobs by the Government are working and they are preventing deforestation. We used to know that in our rivers we just buy pipes and siphon the water from the river and engage in farming but right now we no longer have that facility because there is a lot of siltation and there are a lot of gullies in the country.
There is also the Ministry of Roads and Infrastructure Development which must also be part of the team because these gullies are affecting the roads. They are wreaking havoc and they are affecting the roads. Hence these gullies need to be attended to before they cause a lot of problems. Mr. President, I do suggest that when you are going to call the ministries that have been mentioned by Senator Gotora, if it was possible for those who are responsible for the protection of environment to come together and hear for themselves so they can come up with a solution to make sure that our country is protected and prevented from desertification.
Right now, in some areas they are using cow dung for cooking because there is no firewood. All the trees have been cut down. Senator Charumbira also mentioned that what is left are those trees that are not strong and can easily fall. We are now dressing our country with trees which are not suitable for our environment. I went to a certain area where there is a tree called Mudziyashe and this tree is being targeted by most of the tobacco farmers because they say it cures their tobacco properly. The Musasa tree is also among the targeted trees. So, these trees are going to be extinct and the next generation will only hear that such trees used to exist. These trees are not easily replaceable as people do not plant trees. So, I am encouraging all of us to work together to make sure that we protect our environment. Even the Ministry of Environment must employ more workers so that the officers are found in all areas assisting just like the police. This will really help in reducing crime. The same applies to the environment; it will help to alert them of the problems to do with environmental degradation so they can act before more harm has been caused.
There are also catchment areas that feed water into rivers but you find people engaging in farming activities in these areas which are not supposed to be farmed and some people constructing their homes in these areas and that is not good at all. There are other areas which are wetlands and most of the people are now staying in these areas. Those responsible for making sure that there are no settlements there are not doing their work. So, we are encouraging law enforcement agents to work together with the local communities to protect these areas and make sure that there are no more people staying in these areas. Thank you.
HON. SEN. MLOTSHWA: Thank you Senate President for giving me the opportunity to contribute. I want to note that the Honourable Senator said that Chief Charumbira is the President of the Chiefs’ Council but I wanted to correct that because the President of the Chiefs’ Council is Senator Chief Mtshane Khumalo. The issue that was raised is an issue which concerns all of us. So when our forests are being destroyed, this is affecting our heritage as a nation which was left to us by our forefathers. Even the responsible Ministers mentioned by Honourable Senator Gotora should look into this issue and we must also play our role because we need to deliberate on why trees are being cut willy-nilly. As Zimbabweans, we need to self-introspect because when you drive around the country you find people just throwing bottles out of their cars. The challenge is bigger than enforcement but it has to do with our culture as a people. We need to go back to the people to educate each other so that people understand the importance of preserving our forests as we found them. The other important thing, Senate President is that in our areas in the different constituencies, there is mining that is happening and most people who are mining seem to be above the law. They mine wherever they want. They can even mine in people's homes when they find gold. They can mine in people's fields as well as along riverbanks, in dams and in different areas.
So, this should really prompt us to take action because what kind of a country will we be if we cannot have laws which govern mining? It must be clear that this is arable land, it is for farming, this is a game park for mining and that this is land which has been allocated for different purposes.
When we were growing up, we knew that industries were for manufacturing and residential areas were meant for residents but now, you find that people are doing anything. You find home industries in houses and people emitting hazardous substances from residential areas, some doing their different trades in their home industries. Domestic carpenters sometimes do different projects like sofa-making in their homes.
As Senators, we have the task of formulating policies and we have the role of exercising oversight. So, we need laws that are going to curtail errant behaviour. Is it difficult for us President of the Senate to enforce that? We are talking about climate change. It is affecting everyone.
As I am speaking, where we come from, there are a lot of things that are happening in different rural areas. There is drought, last year we experienced drought. We have a variation of seasons and when the rains came during this particular season, some gold panners were panning in rivers. We have the power to stop this so that we represent those who sent us to this august House. We did not come on our own, but we were sent by our constituents as Senators and Members of Parliament.
We have people who sent us, people that we represent here who cannot speak on their own, but we speak on their behalf. So, why is it that when we come here, we complain a lot as if we do not know that we are responsible for formulating policies, Bills and laws to protect our people, the people who voted for us, the electorate? We also have the power to exercise the oversight role over the Executive.
We have that responsibility to request them to come to this august House to respond to the issues that we are talking about because when you look at this motion President of Senate, which was moved by Hon. Senator Mupfumira regarding human-wildlife conflict, and the one that was brought by Hon. Senator Mavenyengwa related to this issue, it means this is a universal issue that affects all of us and it takes all of us to solve this issue.
Therefore, I want to implore all of us to stand and talk about this issue. We must generate robust debates as we speak on behalf of our people, especially looking at deforestation. This is our heritage; this is our children's heritage. When we grow old, our children are going to ask what we were doing in the Senate and what we were debating about because there will not be any forest to talk about. They will say that you were just ululating and rejoicing instead of representing the people. They will say that we had the heritage, we had a very beautiful country which had everything. We have gone through different countries, we have gone to different countries and when I visit other countries, I desire to come back home because of the beauty of Zimbabwe.
Why are we destroying this beautiful country? If we are not destroying it, then why are we allowing those who are destroying our beautiful country? Senate President, please send us to go and solve this issue. We want to solve it and this takes all of us to solve this issue. I thank you.
+HON. SEN. RITTA NDLOVU: Thank you Mr. President Sir. A lot has been covered by other Hon. Members. I grew up in the village and there was hardwood as compared to softwood in the bush but with the new environment that we are living in, a lot of people are now using softwood because the land that we used to fetch wood from has been allocated to settlers. We are always enacting laws but there is nothing that is happening.
On the other issue of destroying our land by veld fires, it is the same as destroying our vegetation and it is affecting our aquatic ecosystem, wildlife and human consumption. We have chiefs in this august House but I think those chiefs no longer have that authority that was once bestowed on them. Chiefs are the custodians of ancestral land and natural resources. It seems we have now weakened the authority of our traditional leaders. To my best knowledge, together with our ministers and Hon. Senators, we should bestow and retain the authority and power of chiefs. Therefore, let us restore the traditional leaders’ powers so that we restore the glory of our nation. We know that culture is dynamic and because of different global traditions, we find people adopting different cultures. We can change laws and Acts but as long as chiefs do not have power and authority, then things are not going to change. So, chiefs should get that power so that they enforce laws.
When you look at the bushfires, you would find that these are happening because the chiefs do not have the power. Chiefs have the power to say that whoever will be caught burning forests, then the law is going to descend heavily upon them. But now, because they are powerless, people are doing what they want. I just wanted to add my voice Hon. Senate President.
It is my plea that chiefs should be empowered. Let us not destroy our heritage and culture by enacting bad things and making bad decisions because we want to give each other money. Let us restore their power. I thank you Hon. President.
HON. SEN. GUMPO: Thank you Mr. President. I would like to thank all Members of the Senate that have debated this important motion which is critical for this country.
When I was young, I could go in a stream and drink clean water, that was about 80 years ago or just over 80 years ago. Today, you go into streams, you just find sand and nothing else. This is what we are talking about, that our country is going to be destroyed, whether we like it or not. Thank you Mr. President. – [HON. SENATORS: Hear, hear.] –
I move the adoption of the motion:
That this House:–
NOTING with concern the alarming rate of deforestation in the countryside which is exacerbated by uncontrolled veld fires and siltation of water bodies;
COGNISANT that deforestation and siltation are caused by human activities and have consequences to economic production as it affects livestock, game, flora and fauna and crops in general;
ALSO, MINDFUL that water bodies provide the lifeline for economic development hence the need to preserve them at all times if we are to have a legacy;
NOW, THEREFORE, resolves that the Ministry of Environment, Climate Change and Wildlife must:
- a) come up with stiff penalties to deter crimes related to siltation and deforestation in the country;
- b) engage the Executive to liaise with neighbouring countries on the management and preservation of water bodies so that measures are put in place to avert siltation and pollution; and
- c) conduct educational campaigns countrywide on the preservation of natural resources, put and agreed to.
MINISTERIAL STATEMENT
RESPONSE TO THE FIRST REPORT OF THE THEMATIC COMMITTEE ON HUMAN RIGHTS, ON THE RIGHTS OF THE ELDERLY IN ZIMBABWE
THE DEPUTY MINISTER OF PUBLIC SERVICE, LABOUR AND SOCIAL WELFARE (HON. DINHA): Thank you very much Mr. President Sir for giving me this opportunity. I rise to respond to the first report of the Thematic Committee on Human Rights, on the rights of the elderly in Zimbabwe. I also want to thank the Thematic Committee on Human Rights for the inquiry that they made on the elderly in Zimbabwe. This inquiry sought to examine policies affecting older persons, evaluate their effectiveness and identify gaps that may leave this vulnerable group at risk.
The inquiry provided a comprehensive overview of the rights and protection afforded to older persons, assessing whether existing measures align with international standards and best practices. Several recommendations have been made and I wish to update this Committee on the ministry's implementation plan.
Recommendation number one reads; the Ministry of Public Service, Labour and Social Welfare should come up with a standard model of old people's homes by 31st December, 2024 to ensure standardisation.
Then the response is as follows; the Older Persons Board is developing standards for the provision of appropriate care of older persons in residential care facilities. The standards outline how these facilities in both rural and urban areas should be modelled, taking into consideration the various structural designs that suit both domains. The ministry anticipates to have finalised the standard by June 2025. The process involves consultations with all relevant stakeholders, including the elderly, the traditional leaders, administrators of the residential care facilities, local authorities, among others.
Then there is recommendation two; that the Ministry of Public Service, Labour and Social Welfare should close Gwanda Old People's Home by 30th June, 2025 if it has not improved its standards.
The recommendation has been noted, the ministry will undertake a visit to the residential care facility to have a discussion with the authorities in order to come up with a comprehensive action plan on improvement of standards, failure to which the necessary steps and procedures will be taken to close the institution. Timelines will be provided after the discussions. Meanwhile, the ministry will not place any inmates at the institution.
Recommendation number three; that the Ministry of Public Service, Labour and Social Welfare should construct their own old peoples’ homes by 31st December, 2026.
The ministry appreciates this recommendation. Accordingly, we will engage with Treasury and the Ministry of Lands, Agriculture, Fisheries, Water and Rural Development for their assistance to avail land and resources for the construction. Whilst this is noble, this is a long-term initiative and in the meantime, the ministry will ensure the existing homes have proper standards and consistently provide per capita grants to take care of older persons in institutional care. However, institutional care remains a last resort. Priority shall be to have older persons taken care of by their kin. Community care options shall be explored as well.
Then there is recommendation number four; that the Ministry of Finance, Economic Development and Investment Promotion should disburse per capita grants to the Department of Social Welfare on a monthly basis to ensure proper care for the elderly in institutions.
The ministry continuously engages the Ministry of Finance, Economic Development and Investment Promotion to ensure timely disbursement of resources for per capita grants and administration grants catering for the older persons. The resources need to be consistent and predictable to allow institutions to plan and provide adequate care and welfare to older persons. This engagement is crucial to guarantee that the necessary financial support reaches the elderly population without delays, enabling them to access essential services and improve their overall well-being.
Donor funding which has been assisting residential care facilities is dwindling and this calls for domestic resourcing of our institutions including the national fiscus. The Ministry seeks the support of the Committee in ensuring that the Ministry of Finance, Economic Development and Investment Promotion timely and consistently disburses resources.
- The Ministry of Lands, Agriculture, Water, Fisheries and Rural Resettlement should provide agricultural inputs for homes that have the capacity to engage in agricultural projects before the 2025 farming season.
The Ministry will identify and encourage older persons' homes with the capacity to engage in agricultural activities. A needs assessment to determine the specific requirements of each home shall be conducted. Once the Ministry identifies their needs, it will engage the Ministry of Lands, Agriculture, Water, Fisheries and Rural Resettlement to provide the necessary inputs to support the homes' agricultural initiatives, typical of the village business units.
- The Ministry of Public Service, Labour and Social Welfare should expedite the formulation of the Older Persons Policy and ensure it is in place by the end of 2025. The Ministry is drafting the Older Persons Policy which will encompass provisions related to the social protection of older persons, their health and well-being, reunification and reintegration, restoring links with their families, admission into and living care among others. The Ministry intends to ensure that the policy provides a more holistic approach to supporting older persons.
It is envisaged that the policy will be finalised and launched by the end of 2025. I so submit. Thank you Mr. President.
+HON. SEN. MLOTSHWA: Thank you Mr. President. I am also devastated by this matter. I am in the Human Rights Committee and I want to ask you a question. If the Minister is saying Gwanda Old People's Home is going to be closed, where are those people going to go? We notice that Gwanda Old People's Home is the only old people's home in Matabeleland South. I do not understand what the Hon. Minister is saying. From Madhlambuzi to Mutapa to Gwanda, that is the only old people's home that they have. This is not a good idea if it is going to be shut down.
THE TEMPORARY PRESIDENT OF SENATE: Hon. Senators, when asking questions, you do not have to go on debating. Just ask the question. Minister, were you able to get that question?
HON. DINHA: Thank you Mr. President. I did not get what she was asking. Translation is not working.
*HON. SEN. ZVIDZAI: I heard the Minister saying that she is encouraging the older people's care. Where does the Government chip in when looking after the elderly? Thank you Mr. President.
*HON. DINHA: Thank you Mr. President. When we say community-based, what we are encouraging is that the elders should be looked after by their relatives or in their families. Mostly for elderly people to be cared for in the old people's homes, it does not augur well, especially in our African culture. As an extended family, it is our responsibility to look after our elderly people but as we have alluded to as far as where the Government chips in, I think there are things in place that the Government does towards the elderly people, especially when there is a drought, it is the elderly who get food first. Most of the time, whatever is being given, the Government tries its level best that the elderly are given first and also, there are cash hand-outs which are distributed to the elderly. All those things can help the elderly people. Thank you.
*HON. SEN. ZINDI: Thank you Mr. President. I am satisfied with the answers that have been given by the Minister but I want to find out if what they are encouraging is that the elderly should be looked after by their relatives. What about those who do not have any relatives because as we were doing our verification tours, there were others who did not have any relatives. What will happen to those people because this department is leaning towards the elderly being cared for by their relatives? Some of them came from Malawi or Mozambique and they grew up working on farms. Those are some of the people we are meeting as we are doing our tours. Thank you Mr. President.
*HON. DINHA: Many times we encourage that those who have relatives should be cared for by their relatives. I once visited a village in Marondera and I found that some of the elderly people there have been chased away by their children and they are taken care of in the old people's homes but they will be grumbling.
Like as you have said, those from Malawi and do not have any relatives, understand that they do not have relatives. Those are the ones that we expect to be cared for in the old people's homes and they are happy because they know that they do not have any relatives to care for them. We are not saying that the old people's homes are being closed. What we are saying is, they are still there but we are encouraging that if there are any relatives who can look after their elderly, they can go ahead and look after their elderly people. Thank you.
+HON. SEN. R. M. NDLOVU: Thank you Mr. President of the Senate. I want to understand from the minister if she is saying that the old people's home in Gwanda is going to be shut down. Is there any alternative place where those elderly people would go to? What is the reason behind closing that old people's home because some of the elders do not have other places to stay? Where are they going to stay? Thank you.
+HON. SEN. R. NDLOVU: The Hon. Minister is saying that those who have got relatives, should go and stay with their relatives. There could be a reason for them not to go and stay with their relatives. However, there are other people who would not want to stay with their parents and we want to say that practically and theoretically, we will be saying that those solitary elders will go and stay with their children but those children would not want to stay with their older people. I am not in agreement with what the Minister is saying, that these older people should go and stay with their children. This is because their children will be denying to stay with them.
HON. SEN. CHARUMBIRA: Minister, I am convinced that we need to relook at the model of taking care of the elderly. I believe that the model we are using was probably prior to independence and the spirit and the motivation was more Western. I think we need to look at it and say, what could be the best way, being an African society? As you say, we will do the practical side of it. I have had an experience. I will just give this example. I once came across someone who did not have any relatives. So, we used to help that person. When the person passed away, they said you are the one who gave us this person. So, help us with some food and people who will dig the grave. If you look at the role model, that is my proposal.
+HON. SEN. MLOTSHWA: Mr. President, I had asked a question but the Minister has said that she did not understand the question. I do not know whether the Minister will respond or want me to repeat my question.
*HON. SEN. TSOMONDO: Thank you Mr. President. I need a clarification that this issue needs to be looked at closely that long back, our elderly people would live in their homes and would live with their relatives. These days, because of the way people are living, they cannot look after their elderly people. It is not only those people from Malawi who are in the elderly homes but even those from Zimbabwe. Children now do not want to look after their elderly people. I think these old people's homes are functional. If they can get good care at the old people's homes, I think they are very important because there are no young people who want to look after the elderly people these days.
*THE DEPUTY MINISTER OF PUBLIC SERVICE, LABOUR AND SOCIAL WELFARE (HON. DINHA): Thank you Mr. President. Responding to Hon. Sen. Tsomondo's question, when she says that the old people's homes are very important. Yes, they are very important because today's children do not want to look after their parents. You find that the parents, if they are taken into the old people's homes, some of them cry and some of them grumble. They complain that the children that they gave birth to are supposed to look after them. I heard this when I visited them. It is very important for today's children to visit them there but their parents are not happy and want to stay with them. Thank you.
To answer the question of the Honourable on Gwanda Old People's Home, it was the recommendation of the Thematic Committee on Human Rights, on the rights of the elderly to close Gwanda Old People's Home because its standards were not suitable for the old people to be living there. So, I had only brought the answer that we are going to Gwanda's Old People's Home to discuss with them to see if they can improve the premises so that it will not be closed down. I did not say we are closing it…
HON. SEN. MLOTSHWA: On a point of order Mr. President Sir. I do not think the Minister got the question. The interpreter is not interpreting correctly and so, can I say my question in English? I am part of the Committee and I know the recommendations. My question is, what will happen to the elderly who live at that Old People’s Home when it closes? My second question was, since there is only one Old People’s Home in the whole of Matabeleland South, does the Ministry have any plans to build yet another Old People’s Home because the service is needed? I thank you.
HON. DINHA: Thank you Mr. President Sir and thank you Hon. Members. That is why I had said after that recommendation, that Gwanda Old People’s Home should close. The Ministry saw it fit to undertake a visit to the residential care facility so that they will have a discussion with the authorities in order to come up with a comprehensive plan to improve the standards of the Old People’s Home. That is what we are going to do to see if we can improve the standards of the home so that it does not close up. We are not in favour of the Old People’s Home closing up because we know that there are old people there and there is nowhere for them to go if it closes up. Thank you.
Hon. Senator S. Moyo having stood up
THE TEMPORARY PRESIDENT OF SENATE (HON. SEN. CHIEF MTSHANE): If you are seeking another further clarification, it is now closed.
HON. SEN. S. MOYO: Thank you Mr. President.
THE TEMPORARY PRESIDENT OF SENATE: This report was already adopted by the Senate and we are left with thanking you Hon. Minister for the responses that you brought today to this House. – [HON. SENATORS: Hear, hear]-
On the motion of THE DEPUTY MINISTER OF VETERANS OF THE LIBERATION STRUGGLE AFFAIRS (HON. SEN. H. MOYO), the Senate adjourned at Nineteen Minutes to Five o’clock p.m.
PARLIAMENT OF ZIMBABWE
Wednesday, 19th March, 2025
The National Assembly met at a Quarter-past Two o’clock p.m.
PRAYERS
(THE HON. SPEAKER in the Chair)
ANNOUNCEMENTS BY THE HON. SPEAKER
HALF DAY WORKSHOP ON UNPACKING THE INSURANCE AND PENSIONS COMMISSION AMENDMENT BILL [H. B. 7, 2024]
THE HON. SPEAKER: I have to inform the House that all Hon. Members are invited to a half-day workshop to unpack the Insurance and Pensions Commission Amendment Bill [H. B .7, 2024]. The workshop is scheduled for tomorrow, Thursday, 20th March, 2025 at 8 o’clock in the morning, in the Multi-Purpose Hall. Please make sure you are punctual and that you are there by quarter to eight.
APOLOGIES RECEIVED FROM MINISTERS
THE HON. SPEAKER: I have received the following apologies from the Executive, please can you pay attention: Hon. Vice President Gen. Rtd. Dr. C. D. G. N. Chiwenga; The Vice President, Hon. Col. K. C. D. Mohadi; Hon. T. Machakaire, Minister of Youth Empowerment, Development and Vocational Training; Hon. M. Mutsvangwa, Minister of Women Affairs, Community, Small and Medium Enterprises Development; Hon. K. Kazembe, Minister of Home Affairs and Cultural Heritage; Hon. W. Chitando, Minister of Mines and Mining Development; Hon. E. Moyo, Minister of Public Service, Labour and Social Welfare; Hon. E. Ndlovu, Minister of State for Provincial Affairs and Devolution for Matabeleland South Province; Hon. J Paradza, Deputy Minister of Environment, Climate and Wild Life; Hon. Jesaya, Deputy Minister of Sports, Recreation, Arts and Culture; Hon. D. Phuti, Deputy Minister of Information Communication Technology, Postal and Courier Services; Hon. Haritatos, Deputy Minister of Lands, Agriculture, Fisheries, Water and Rural Resettlement and Hon. Marapira, Deputy Minister of Lands, Agriculture, Fisheries, Water and Rural Resettlement.
ORAL ANSWERS TO QUESTIONS WITHOUT NOTICE
HON. KANGAUSARU: Thank you Hon. Speaker Sir, good afternoon. My question is directed to the Minister of Lands, Agriculture, Fisheries, Water and Rural Resettlement. We have seen unfavourable payment arrangements impacting on the decline of cotton production. To avoid a similar fate in the tobacco sector, would the Government consider ensuring that payments to tobacco farmers are made fully in USD given that they incur most of their production costs in foreign currency? I thank you.
THE MINISTER OF LANDS, AGRICULTURE, FISHERIES, WATER AND RURAL RESETTLEMENT (HON. DR. MASUKA): I thank the Hon. Member for the very important question. The payment modality for an export crop such as tobacco is determined by the Reserve Bank of Zimbabwe which then apportions a proportion to be paid in USD and a portion to be paid in local currency. In this instance, tobacco and all other export crops, perhaps other commodities too, are paid as a proportion of 70% USD and 30% local currency. To my knowledge, this equalisation across the sectors does not unduly prejudice growers. I had a meeting with the growers’ associations and the industry and requested them to submit their USD denominated cost of production and also the ZiG denominated cost of production. When they did, they were indicating that their USD cost of production was somewhere in the region of 85% and that submission is then made to the Reserve Bank which will consider that and if they deem it appropriate, they will adjust accordingly. I thank you.
HON. KANGAUSARU: Thank you Hon. Speaker. Mr. Speaker Sir, considering also myself as a farmer, the financial constraint caused by this partial ZiG payments, what concrete measures is the Government putting in place to guarantee a sustainable and competitive payment model that aligns with the USD best cost structure of tobacco farming? I submit.
HON. DR. MASUKA: I thank the Hon. Member but I did not get the question. He seems to imply that a payment in ZiG disadvantages a grower. I do not see how there are payments that could be affected for various services including utilities in local currency. Perhaps the Hon. Member has some very specific costing and requests for which I would gladly get the detailed costing indicating the US dollar and the ZiG component and perhaps an explanation of where the prejudice is likely to happen if they were paid that 30% in ZiG so that we can transmit this to the Reserve Bank of Zimbabwe so that they can consider that. I thank you.
THE HON. SPEAKER: I almost ruled the Hon. Member out of order but I tried to be happy and leave it to your indulgence. You are right Hon. Minister, if you want cost benefit analysis of the arrangement, you better put your question in writing and the Hon. Minister has indicated that he will be pleased to respond accordingly.
HON. MADZIVANYIKA: Thank you Mr. Speaker Sir. I heard the Hon. Minister saying that he entered into some arrangement with the producers of tobacco and he understood that their cost structure is 85% US dollars. Maybe the Hon. Minister might favour the House why that cost is largely 85% US dollars in a country with a local currency which is allegedly very strong. Why is it that the core structure of seeds and fertilizer can be obtained in local currency, can he explain why it is 85% US dollars, I thank you.
HON. DR. MASUKA: Thank you Hon. Speaker Sir and I thank the Hon. Member for he completely misconstrued my explanation. I never said I entered an agreement with growers. I said growers submitted their costing which was indicating upwards of 85% of their costs which are US dollars denominated. I think the Reserve Bank is on record as indicating that the current ratio of currencies in circulation is 80% US and 20% ZiG. Therefore, the currency, in my view, is very strong and has stayed at a very stable exchange rate for a very long time and even strengthening as we see on the interbank market. The local currency is usable, is strong and I urge farmers and all of us to accept it and utilise it. I thank you.
*HON. NYABANI: Thank you Mr. Speaker Sir, my question is directed to the Hon. Minister of Industry and Commerce. Mr. Speaker Sir, if you go down town, there are tuck-shops that sell goods from South Africa. Those tuck-shops do not accept ZiG and swipe, they want US dollars cash. I would like to know Government policy regarding people who earn ZiG and use swipe to be able to buy from those shops because that is where the people buy their goods from, especially imported goods. I thank you.
THE MINISTER OF INDUSTRY AND COMMERCE (HON. N. M. NDLOVU): Thank you Hon. Speaker, I want to thank the Hon. Member for a very important question Hon. Speaker. We are operating in a multi-currency regime where the ZiG is a legal tender among other currencies and predominately the US dollars as well as has been alluded before. Mr. Speaker, in 2024, after we presented the state of Industry and Commerce Report to Cabinet, we then came up with what we call the Zimbabwe Industrial Reconstruction and growth plan, which is a transitional plan whose main aim is to address a lot of malpractices that are taking place in our economy, among them what the Hon. Member, Hon. Nyabani has highlighted, where we have a growing informal sector which is operating under its own rules. We have the growth of smuggling and selling of counterfeit goods. All these issues Hon. Speaker, have been prioritised by the Government and colleague Members might concur that starting from November last year, there is downward trending of smuggling where we have been able to substantially reduce the rate of smuggling.
If you follow the Monetary Policy Statement issued by the Central Bank, they have highlighted again that every registered business ought to have a point of sale machine. These are attempts to make sure that everyone operating in this country, a business affords the consumer an opportunity to swipe or to use the local currency alongside the foreign currency as they wish.
I might highlight for the comfort of the House that this is a matter we are seized with where we are coming up with a comprehensive system and as we speak, officials from the Ministry of Finance, the Central Bank, from our ministry and from the security agencies have been assigned to go to India where they will understudy a centralised payment system where SMEs and industry are successfully formalised and are contributing to the fiscus.
So, it is a matter that I commit to this House that will be resolved in the shortest possible time to make sure that every business operating in this country complies with the laws. I thank you Hon. Speaker.
*HON. NYABANI: Thank you Hon. Speaker Sir, those tuck-shops are supplying goods to Bindura, Rushinga and Mt. Darwin but when ZIMRA goes to these areas, they arrest traders who do not have declarations. What is the policy with regard to people who order their goods from those tuckshops and do not provide the declaration? What arrangement do we have to ensure that people who purchase from those tuckshops that import goods from South Africa and other countries are able to protect their goods so that they are not fined?
HON. N. M. NDLOVU: Mr. Speaker, I hope I got the question correctly. The current programme, following the Budget Statement by the Minister of Finance, Economic Development and Investment Promotion, highlighted that some of the goods will be presumed smuggled unless one presents proof that these were brought into the country legally. The policy that we are undertaking Mr. Speaker, involves our officers on the ground, inter-agency officers who then visit these businesses. If these are foreign products, they ask you to provide proof that these were brought into the country legally.
I might appeal again to Hon. Members in the event that maybe there are some in business who might not have gotten to be aware of this. Let us help our business people that it is very important when you are procuring your stock, that you verify if these are foreign procured and that there is proof that they came into the country legally. Our approach is that we all have a role to play in addressing the issue of informality and the issue of smuggling.
I want to thank Honourable Garwe sitting next to me here, for again a passionate plea, especially to those who are risking our consumers who are setting up shops at night, avoiding all manner of compliance to then operate at night. It is these syndicates that we hope to break and bring order into our economy. I thank you Mr. Speaker Sir.
*HON. MAPIKI: Thank you Mr. Speaker Sir. I would like to thank the Hon. Minister for the operation on buses in collaboration with the ZACC. I wanted to make a follow-up on Honourable Nyabani's plea. Most of those people operating tuckshops are from DRC and some of them are from Zambia. They do not have point-of-sale machines that make it accountable even to ZIMRA.
THE HON. SPEAKER: Hon. Mapiki, you address the Chair and you do not point at the Hon. Minister.
HON. MAPIKI: I am sorry about that Mr. Speaker.
HON. N. M. NDLOVU: Thank you Mr. Speaker Sir. I am now thinking that it might be appropriate to bring a ministerial statement on some of the measures that we will be instituting in a very short time. Among them, is the enforcement of the reserved sectors. The retail sectors where we have a lot of foreigners, most of whom are not even here legally, some came as refugees. This extends to other sectors including quarrying, brick moulding and sand mining which has been invaded by foreign nationals.
We will be enforcing the law fully. We are just finalising on some of the statutory provisions which we were supposed to have instituted a few years ago when the amendments to the Indigenisation and Economic Empowerment Act was done through the Finance Act of 2018. Once the Statutory Instrument gives us full powers to enforce the reserved sector laws, we hope that we will be able to address this scourge which is really giving us problems at the moment. I thank you. – [HON. MEMBERS: Supplementary Hon. Speaker.]-
THE HON. SPEAKER: How can you ask for a supplementary when the Hon. Minister has kindly indicated that he will present a ministerial statement on all the related issues and from there, you can ask for clarification.
*HON. MADZIVANYIKA: Thank you Mr. Speaker Sir. My question is directed to the Minister of Finance, in his absence, the Leader of Government Business may answer. What is Government policy with regards to money that was supposed to be paid to pensioners who were affected by the losses and it was supported by the Justice Smith Report? Where are we in terms of assisting the pensioners to recover their monies because most of them are dying? I thank you.
THE MINISTER OF JUSTICE, LEGAL AND PARLIAMENTARY AFFAIRS (HON. Z. ZIYAMBI): Thank you Mr. Speaker Sir. Government is obligated to pay its pensioners. The rest of Government will then ensure that the pension companies comply with whatever findings that are there. As for the specifics or modalities of the implementation of the recommendation, I think the Hon. Member can put that in writing so that the Hon. Minister can come and explain but the obligation of Government or policy is to take care of our pensioners. Those that are not employed by Government, Government can assist with policy directives if need be, in terms of the recommendations that came out of the Justice Smith Commission. I thank you.
THE HON. SPEAKER: Honourable Madzivanyika, I am sure you are so guided. Put your question in writing and put all the details that you would like to know from the Hon. Minister. Thank you.
*HON. S. TSHUMA: My question is directed to the Minister of Finance, Economic Development and Investment Promotion. Mr. Speaker, where we come from, in the shops, people are preferring to use the United States dollars to purchase because when they receive the local currency, they cannot use it anywhere else to buy in the same value. What is the policy with regards to ensuring that the local currency is accepted with the same value and traded in the same value in which you have received it and passed it on? For example, if the farmers are paid $100 using local currency, in big shops, prices have gone up and when one uses the United States dollar, it becomes cheaper to buy that way.
*THE MINISTER OF JUSTICE, LEGAL AND PARLIAMENTARY AFFAIRS (HON. Z. ZIYAMBI): Thank you Hon. Speaker. I would want to think what Hon. Tshuma is saying and what we are saying from the Reserve Bank is different. The Reserve Bank researches in shops, the rate is around 25 and 26 and those who were very expensive were at 33. Having said that Mr. Speaker, as Government, in conjunction with the Reserve Bank, we put money on the market for anyone who wants to import. The industry cannot purchase the money that we are putting on the market. What is happening is that the problem is, our people have lack of confidence in our local currency.
People believe that as soon as they get the local currency, they panic and want to use it immediately thinking that something might happen. That way, we feel that it is very expensive but what is happening now is, we have seen some big companies that are actually going to the Reserve Bank saying we have US dollars in exchange of ZiG. What we want to encourage the people is that let us not use or spend all our monies from the bank in terms of money or gold; if we want to buy the ZiG, it is not more than 23. The 23 and 33, that is what we are saying is the panic rate amongst people who think something might happen. Nothing is going to happen this time around, that is what we are saying. That is the panic rate amongst people who think something might happen but nothing is going to happen this time around. I thank you Mr. Speaker.
*HON. MADZIVANYIKA: Thank you Mr. Speaker Sir. I heard the Hon. Minister saying that people panic when they have the local currency. He referred to confidence. My supplementary question; is it not possible Hon. Minister, for us to remove that panic and allow the businesses to charge the prices that they want so that people may not panic that the money may lose value? Is it not possible for businesses to be allowed to trade in the rates that they feel valuable to them so that we do not go back to this cycle again? I thank you.
*HON. Z. ZIYAMBI: Thank you Mr. Speaker. Such a thought must be thrown away by the Hon. Member because what we are working out is to remove foreign currencies like Mr. Trump’s currency whereby tomorrow, he might wake up and say Trump first. As a country, we want to use our local currency, which is what we want to internalise.
*HON. G. CHIGUMBU: Thank you Mr. Speaker. I would like to thank the Hon. Minister for the clear response that there is a clear plan that we want to have on local currency. When can we expect that currency which will be acceptable to other countries?
*HON. Z. ZIYAMBI: We do not wish to have money that will be accepted by other countries but our wish is to have a currency that is accepted locally. If you want to go to South Africa, that is the role of Dr. Mushayavanhu; go to the bank, why do you want our money to be accepted elsewhere when there are banks that are dedicated for that? I thank you.
*HON. MAMBIPIRI: Thank you Hon. Speaker Sir. I thank the Hon. Minister that there are measures to strengthen the currency to ensure that we do not panic. What strengthens currency are not words but measures. What measures is Government putting in place to ensure that the currency comes strong so that we do not panic?
*HON. Z. ZIYAMBI: Thank you Hon. Speaker. What is important is, let us not have a view that our money does not work, nothing else is needed. If you believe that our money works, you are good, you are correct that is the measure – [Laughter.] –
THE HON. SPEAKER: I have no comment.
*HON. MANGONDO: My question is directed to the Minister of Energy and Power Development, regarding the rural areas where the electricity goes out and takes a long time for the power supply to be restored. We are talking about the falling of poles, sometimes they may be destroyed by termites and they spend a lot of time without being restored. Sometimes transformers are brought down and they take a lot of time to be repaired. What is Government policy with regard to ensuring that they do not spend a lot of time before they repair electricity supply? In my constituency, there are schools and clinics that can spend a year without electricity. What is Government policy with regard to restoring power supply immediately? I thank you.
*THE MINISTER OF ENERGY AND POWER DEVELOPMENT (HON. J. MOYO): I would like to thank the Hon. Member for the question. There are a lot of problems that lead to breakdown of power supply which include theft of transformers. Right now, the number of transformers that have been stolen are 6 000 countrywide. We manufacture a few transformers in this country so, sometimes we will not have anything because of theft and vandalism which is going on.
Secondly, wooden poles that we sometimes use are affected by termites and Government now has a plan to make concrete poles so that we do away with wooden ones. We now have companies making those poles so you will realise that wooden poles are now being replaced by concrete ones. However, we cannot really tell how it takes because sometimes when those poles fall or there has been theft, was a report made because in the rural areas, sometimes there is quite a distance between ZESA and the affected community. So we encourage people to report.
We also have programmes so that ZESA is equipped with transport to follow up on their power lines to ensure that they are strong enough so that we will not spend a lot of time without electricity. I thank you.
*HON. MANGONDO: I would like to thank the Hon. Minister for the response but I would like to know if Government has a policy that stipulates exactly how long it should take for repairs to be carried out if there is a report made to ZESA. Can Government not come up with a policy to ensure that ZESA quickly attends to faults within a specific timeframe? Does Government have such a policy to ensure quick repairs of faults?
*HON. J. MOYO: What Government does with agencies such as ZESA, there are what we call client charters were such policies are pronounced and they detail how long it takes to repair. What affects sometimes is because equipment such as transformers may not be available which is the most important. Even if there is no load shedding, people may not have electricity because the transformers may have been vandalised or stolen, yet we do not have them in stock to replace them. That may take more than the stipulated time according to the Charter.
The other thing is that we will still be waiting for the concrete poles to be availed to replace the wooden ones. So, right now we are encouraging those who are making concrete poles to assist in the Government programme to ensure that we help each other.
+HON. S. MAHLANGU: My supplementary is; what plans do you have in place since you have already indicated that transformers are expensive so that you can buy plenty of them because most of the times, we are told you do not have the equipment in stock? What plans do you have in place for citizens to recover their money?
HON. J. MOYO having started to respond in Shona –
THE HON. SPEAKER: Hon. Minister, but you are from Midlands, can you not respond in Ndebele?
*HON. J. MOYO: Mr. Speaker, in Midlands, when somebody speaks in Ndebele, the other one responds in Shona and we understand each other.
Most of the things that are bought by ZESA, I say people can purchase the equipment, so I will need specifications on exactly what you are referring to. I spoke about transformers which are bigger equipment but some other smaller equipment may be domestic and you are required to purchase on your own. A lot of equipment is supposed to be bought by ZESA to ensure electricity supply. Sometimes it could be the cables but most of the problematic issues that affect power supply are the poles and transformers. Some of the things about load shedding, as we all know, we still have low power supply in the country but we have plans to ensure that we boost availability of power. If you can put your question in writing to ensure that we find out from ZESA so we can find out which things can be purchased by the people. I can find out from ZESA.
*THE HON. SPEAKER: Honourable Minister, you responded very well. The question on the other hand is, is it not possible to ensure that when you import transformers, you buy them in abundance so that when some have been stolen you can easily replace them?
* HON. J. MOYO: Mr. Speaker, I had responded to that question earlier that the transformers that we manufacture through (ZENT) Zimbabwe Enterprises, it manufactures transformers but there are not so many. Some of the companies that make transformers, there is another one, they are still few. If we were to import from other countries, we need foreign currency, but ZESA does not have adequate foreign currency because most of the people who buy electricity do so in the local currency, the ZIG, which is the one that they use in most of the items. They run short of foreign currency, that is why they use ZENT and other local companies. They do not have so many of those in stock, that is why there is a delay. Thank you.
*HON. J. SITHOLE: Thank you Mr. Speaker. My supplementary question is from his last words, where he says there is no adequate foreign currency to purchase a lot of transformers. Hon. Ziyambi earlier on responded that there is a lot of foreign currency, where he said some companies are going there requesting for foreign currency which is in abundance. I want to know what exactly Government policy is.
*THE HON. SPEAKER: Hon. Minister, do you want to liaise with the Hon. Leader or you want to respond?
*HON. J. MOYO: If the Hon. Member heard me, I said that people pay in local currency and that is how they use more items, so they will not have supplementary local currency to go and purchase the foreign currency from the Reserve Bank because they spend it on other items. Thank you.
*HON. MATSUNGA: Thank you Mr. Speaker Sir. Good afternoon. My question is directed to the Minister of Local Government. Mr. Speaker, from our understanding, where we stay in high-density suburbs or in farming areas, where is Government in terms of title deeds? That shows that if you have property, it is yours because the whole country or the local authority houses do not have title deeds. The elderly are dying and orphans are facing a lot of problems because grandparents are leaving their grandchildren. What is the update from Government with regard to issuing title deeds that shows that indeed that is your house because it has been long since some of the people got these houses in 1965? Up to now, they do not have resources and they continue paying to local authorities.
*THE MINISTER OF LOCAL GOVERNMENT AND PUBLIC WORKS (HON. DR. GARWE): Thank you Mr. Speaker. I would like to thank the Hon. Member for the question. There are about three ministries involved in the issuing of title deeds. We have the Minister of Housing, Minister of Justice and ourselves as the Minister of Local Government. Our duty is to ensure that services are provided such as roads, water reticulation and sewage. If those services are provided, we issue compliance certificates.
That one can be taken to the issuance of title deeds. I am glad to announce that two years ago, the President launched the Title Deeds Programme. President Mnangagwa ensured that all those areas that do not have title deeds must have them. That programme was launched in Epworth. That is where we are going to start from. We are going to go with such other areas.
I would also like to inform you that it is true that in areas before 1980 that were called high-density suburbs, those houses did not have title deeds although they were paying rates to local authorities. We are indeed confident that those people must be given title deeds. In rural areas or areas outside urban areas, we have had a programme on the issuance of title deeds. Hon. Minister Masuka, I am sure will be able to respond to that. We also have that programme for the four ministries, to ensure that areas that deserve title deeds, people should be given the title deeds.
However, we are encouraging developers not to rush to construct houses without ensuring that they follow the required processes of providing services like roads, sewer and water reticulation. Those are the documents that ensure that title deeds will be issued out. We cannot issue title deeds without ensuring that is done. Title deeds must have an address such as 20 Musasa Road, Mufakose. If there is no such road, we are not able to issue it because that address is the one that we require to ensure that Daniel Garwe has got a title deed of 25 Musasa Road, Mufakose.
*HON. MATSUNGA: Thank you Honourable Speaker Sir. I go back to the Hon. Minister. Local authorities where the rates are being paid, for example, Musasa Way, the example he gave, people have been paying for a long time now in Mufakose but there are no title deeds. Hon. Minister, since you are saying that there are three ministries involved, why do you not give out the correct information to ensure that the Minister of Justice is the one that issues title deeds? What is the plan in terms of decentralising those offices so that the elderly will go straight away where they are supposed to go because those who are dying are leaving behind a huge problem for their dependents or offspring?
HON. GARWE: I thought I explained but let me say Government has enough knowledge that in the high-density suburbs, those houses have been paying rates to the local authorities, be it Mbare, Makokoba or wherever. Those people that have stayed there for more than 40 years, Government, in 2023, led by President Mnangagwa, said such areas must be given title deeds but I am sure now people will know out there, they know that information. Maybe what we need to do is to ensure that a lot of publicity is done. We also want to warn local authorities not to chase away people who have been paying rent for more than 20 or 40 years. We want those people who were there to be given the documents. No Ministry works alone. We work under a whole of Government approach. All ministries work together until we come up with those title deeds and people are issued those title deeds. We are coming area by area, town by town until everyone gets the title deeds; those who deserve them. I thank you.
HON. MATEWU: Thank you Mr. Sir. We have over 1 900 wards in this country. I find it very difficult that the Government is saying – like the Minister said, we started from Epworth and we are going round. What is the essence of devolution because if they gave one ward in Epworth, that means we are going to be here for the next 100 years until we finish the whole Zimbabwe? Why can we not have this issue of title deeds devolved to provinces so that provinces manage their own affairs? Empower the Provincial Ministers to ensure that the title deeds are given in their provinces accordingly. Thank you.
*HON. GARWE: May I ask the Minister of Justice to respond since we work together?
THE MINISTER OF JUSTICE, LEGAL AND PARLIAMENTARY AFFAIRS (HON. Z. ZIYAMBI): Thank you Mr. Speaker Sir. Indeed, the Minister of Local Government has explained the policy thrust of Government to ensure that we issue title deeds to everyone in the urban areas and move to farms. More specifically, in urban areas, Epworth was a pilot so that we appreciate the process, then we would decentralise to other areas. When we started, we were very excited, we thought it was easy but giving a title, it is a document that confers rights to the exclusion of everyone else. Hence, we had to be thorough.
What the Minister of Local Government was saying is, we needed to ensure that we do all the processes. I will give an example of Epworth, there are people who are there. So, you needed people to go on the ground, to physically identify the occupants and match them with what Epworth Local Authority has in their records, then you process all the other processes so that at the end of the day we have a title deed that speaks to the actual person who is supposed to be there. So, indeed, we started with a pilot, now we know what is required of us, we are going to decentralise. Very soon you will see us putting offices in high density areas, in several locations, inviting people so that we can get information about them, then we will start processing it.
However, it is not a straight forward issue that you could say we can rush it and do it in no time. I am sure you heard the Minister of Local Government appealing to local authorities not to manipulate the system because we want the actual beneficiaries to benefit. I thank you.
HON. JAMES: Thank you Mr. Speaker. Through you, can I ask the Minister of Local Government, if his Ministry would push the property developers because in many cases, these developers have walked away from their contracts without completing what they signed in their contracts? This could be one of the problems why there is delay in title deeds to recipients of land. Moreover, in these areas there are no proper roads or water connections. Councils are fighting with the property developers. Would his Ministry chase up on these property developers and assist local authorities on this issue? I thank you.
HON. GARWE: Thank you very much Mr. Speaker Sir. I also thank the Hon. Member for the question. The Government entered into various agreements with various developers on the provision of onsite infrastructure for purposes of housing development. Government’s contribution was in the form of land. We did not automatically transfer the land to the developer. The land was going to be transferable at the end of issuance of the compliance certificate. Those that ran away did not run away with the land, the land is still there. We have a policy of regularisation, which is now correcting all those wrongs that took place to ensure that the people that were duped will still come back to the Ministry of Local Government to ensure that all the processes are followed. I thank you.
*HON. HAMAUSWA: Thank you Mr. Speaker. My question is, somebody in this House said that the title deeds would go to other areas. Some of the areas that were mentioned was Warren Park, the one that I represent. They said thousands of people will be given title deeds in Warren Park but as they respond, they are going back to Epworth, yet we heard them saying that the programme will be moving on to other areas. When is it then going to get to Warren Park because the programme was talked about two years ago? People of Warren Park are continuously asking me, saying we heard an announcement on TV that the programme of title deeds was going to come to Warren Park; when is it getting to us? We have waited for a long time.
THE HON. SPEAKER: I think the Minister indicated that at the beginning, now that they are experienced, the process should cascade with speed to all areas that deserve to have title deeds. I think that was covered by both Ministers.
HON. CHINODAKUFA: Thank you Mr. Speaker Sir. My question is directed to the Minister of Lands, Agriculture, Water, Fisheries and Rural Resettlement. What is Government policy to ensure that we re-stock the cattle that have died, that we have lost in this country?
THE HON. SPEAKER: Hon. Members, we have a big number of ministers. I think if you can spread your questions accordingly because we have several issues in other ministries so that the Hon. Ministers feel that they deserve to be here.
*THE MINISTER OF LANDS, AGRICULTURE, FISHERIES, WATER AND RURAL RESETTLEMENT (HON. DR. MASUKA): Thank you Mr. Speaker. I would also like to thank the Hon. Member for the question. Last year, we had a problem of drought all over the country. Some of the cattle died because of drought and there are some cattle that died because of poor nutrition. When we did the first round of crop and livestock fisheries assessment done by ZimStats and other Government agents, we realised that the country has 0.2% more population, which is 5.7 million. But, if we look at the problem that we faced last year of drought, this country lost 45,000 cattle. Amongst the cattle that we lost, Matebeleland South as well as Matabeleland North had the highest number of cattle that died more than other provinces because there was totally no water at all.
But there is another disease that is killing cattle, it is January disease. It is affecting 25 districts. They are the ones that we focus on, and that is why we are giving teak grease. Right now, we are also giving out pour-on dip. So, if the Hon. Member has noticed an area where there is an outbreak of a disease, may the Hon. Member give us that information so that we rush to that place in order to ascertain what the problem is? Is it because the cattle failed to go to the dip tank due to lack of chemicals or lack of water? Or to ascertain the actual cause. Thank you, Madam Speaker.
*HON. T. ZHOU: My supplementary question to the Hon. Minister is the districts where we come from, our dip tanks are very few, especially in wards. In some instances, one dip tank covers two, three or four wards. So, what is the policy with regards to ensuring that dip tanks are put nearer to communities? Thank you.
*HON. DR. MASUKA: The dip tanks that we have are 4,009 and 3,600 are the operational ones. Some of them are still not operating and we are working hard to ensure that we resuscitate them. That is why we came up with the Presidential Blitz Teak Grease Programme to ensure that every household is given teak grease for them to apply the teak grease on their cattle. Recently, we were going around inspecting how they apply the chemicals behind the ears and also below the tail. We noticed that households that are led by women may not be able to hold a bull.
So, right now, we are using the pour-on method because the teak grease would be difficult to apply. So, the Government is busy reviving all the dip tanks. We also know that in resettlement areas, the dip tanks are very few, but we are looking at that. But if the Hon. Member knows a specific area where people travel long distances to go to dip tanks, the Hon. Member should give us that area to ensure that in the shortest possible time, we seek funding from the Treasury to assist them. I thank you.
*HON. TOGAREPI: Thank you Madam Speaker. I would want to check, let us say our cattle are affected by diseases, does the Government have efficient medicines to cure theileriosis? I asked that question because I went to Uganda. I saw there is a medicine called Zimbabwe Theileriosis. I also bought that medicine and showed it to the Permanent Secretary. That medicine is 25 cents per sachet. When I used that medicine, no cattle died. So, what are the plans to ensure that the Government purchases such medicines as we ensure the dipping programme is okay? However, we also need treatment. I thank you.
*HON. DR. MASUKA: Thank you, Madam Speaker. I would also like to thank Hon. Togarepi with regards to January disease. It is now being called January to December disease because it is now affecting cattle any month. It used to affect cattle from grazing areas where they would pick the ticks. That is why we had said cattle should be dipped five days and then after four days during the rainy season. The medicine that he is referring to was issued out by local people. It is called BOLVAC, local expert. We have since started administering that medicine in the districts that I have mentioned, it is an injection. We are using it too as a preventative medicine. So, we saw that it is very effective and we are looking for resources to ensure that we produce it abundantly so that we use it in the whole country. But right now, we are mainly targeting the hotspots.
But recently, I heard that Chikomba was affected as well as Seke. So, we went there quickly to administer these vaccines. So, if there are such areas, we can go and administer the vaccines before we cover the whole country. Thank you.
*HON. S. TSHUMA: Thank you Madam Speaker. My supplementary question is, what is the Ministry's programme in terms of allowing individuals to purchase the medicine that Hon. Togarepi was referring to so that if they import that medicine, they can easily cross the border and that they are not stopped? Thank you.
THE TEMPORARY SPEAKER (HON. TSITSI ZHOU): Order, before I give the floor to the Minister, may I remind Hon. Chikombo and Hon. Hamauswa that we are still in the august House and we request you to behave honourably.
* HON. GARWE: I would like to thank the Hon. Member for the question. Most of the medicines for livestock is imported but for the medicines to go through the Medicines Control Authority of Zimbabwe, they are the ones that look at the chemical compositions of the medicines to ensure that they are effective and protect our livestock as well as protecting the consumers of that meat. I thank you.
*HON. MAPIKI: My question is directed to the Minister of Health and Child Care. What is Government policy in ensuring that the data of people who seek treatment can be digitised instead of having people carrying huge volumes of cards because if they are swept away by water, that information is destroyed? Also, what is Government doing in terms of computerising such information instead of people walking around with cards? I thank you.
*THE MINISTER OF HEALTH AND CHILD CARE (HON. DR. MOMBESHORA): As the Minister of Health, we are moving around with the President and according to the President's mantra, we have to adopt information communication technology. We have advanced. We have a programme and we now have a platform which we call Impilo. It has been there for some time now. It started with data capturing.
Right now, we are seeing that 70% of our clinics are now able to capture information of the patient as well as information on the cards. Some of the challenges are that in some areas, there is no electricity. So we have a solarisation programme where we are trying to install solar power in clinics, especially the remote ones.
Secondly, the information of the diseases that can be captured in the Impilo system, we are calling it telemedicine. We have not done a lot on that. The company that we gave the contract has taken too long to work. Right now, they are at 30% on the work that we gave them. So, as we go towards Independence in Gokwe, we are saying we want them to give us a demonstration of ensuring that there is a link between Impilo Hospital as well as Gweru and districts in Gokwe and also decentralise it to five clinics in Gokwe so that we know whether that system is now working.
It is a trial. If we see that it is moving well, then we can spread it to the rest of the country. Yes indeed, the progress is very slow because the problems also have to do with the resources that are required for us to move according to the desired speed but that is where we are aiming to go. We have since started and it is now at an advanced stage. I thank you.
*HON. MAPIKI: My supplementary question is in terms of data capturing. If somebody buys medicine from a pharmacy, there is data that is supposed to be given so that if they go to a Government system, that system can pick that on such a time this person purchased medicine so that there is a correlation between what they do from Government departments as well as private.
*HON. DR. MOMBESHORA: As a Ministry, that is where we are aiming to get to. We said we are starting with the basic information of the patient. The second stage will be to capture information on diseases and the medication for chronic patients such as HIV/AIDS patients. We have not got to that stage where they can all be captured in this data. We have a company that we have given this tender and they are now at 30%. So finally, we are saying everyone must have a card.
We have started making those cards. Wherever you go to any medical facility, that card will be able to give information on all the diseases that you have as well as medication because people get medication from here and there. We are not able to ascertain whether yesterday you went to any clinic to get medication so that we prevent people from getting medicine for resale and we are able to tell that yesterday you got medication for a month or two months, which means you have adequate supply.
We will be saying in order for us to issue you with more medication, you need to justify where you put other medication. I also like to inform Hon. Mapiki that this afternoon we were going to meet with the experts who are doing that. So, I actually requested them to allow me to come to Parliament because we want their expertise. I requested them to meet me again on Friday. I thank you.
*HON. MADZIVANYIKA: I heard the Minister talking about the history of patients, why not introduce that system in hospitals because we saw nurses recently demonstrating that there is no medicine. Can you not put this system in clinics and hospitals so that they will be aware of the level of stocks in order for them to be able to timeously replenish medicine supply instead of having them demonstrating?
* HON. DR. MOMBESHORA: Thank you Hon. Member for asking that question. NATPHARM is the one that procures all medicines and supplies them to Government hospitals up to the level of local clinics in rural areas. That system started last year. A pharmacy must be able to be accountable before it runs out of medicine. The problem that we saw of those who were demonstrating at Sally Mugabe Hospital has nothing to do with that system. It is all about their thoughts. They were complaining about lack of stocks in medicines. Of course, the stocks level may be low but right now the stocks levels are at 49%, we are not happy with it but this year our target is at 60%. We want to increase the levels gradually but we cannot do it immediately.
What surprised me is that when I went to Sally Mugabe Hospital on Monday when they were demonstrating, most of the things that they were talking about were things that they knew were being looked at. Some of the things they complained about are syringes. We went to pharmacies and saw the syringes. So, we now do not know whether they were demonstrating because of lack of syringes or they are doing it for something else.
We want to ensure that the health of our people is safe. As we speak, we have 14 containers of medicines being loaded in Mutare. We face challenges as a Ministry when we are not allocated budget funds on time to procure medicines. We are discussing with the Ministry of Finance and the medicines that we are receiving now were ordered in December. If we order a lot of medicine, it takes time for the medicine to be made or manufactured because if the demand is high, sometimes they run out of stock, so they have to manufacture upon demand. The demonstrating nurses knew that we were working on that. What they did was illegal because they were supposed to give us two weeks in advance before they started demonstrating. We told them to come and talk to us in time so that things may be worked out properly.
*HON. MALINGANISO: We are glad that we are now receiving medicines but on the streets, we do not know where they are getting the medicines which they are selling. If you go to other countries, medicines are not allowed to be sold in streets. What is Government policy to make sure that those who sell medicines have the necessary qualifications and expertise?
*HON. DR. MOMBESHORA: Thank you Hon. Speaker and Hon. Malinganiso. We have MCAZ (Medicines Control Authority of Zimbabwe where we have experts who look at the quality of the medicines that we are receiving if they meet all the required standards and if they are registered. We start from where the medicine is manufactured so that we receive good quality medicine. Medicines Control Authority of Zimbabwe is on level 3 and in Africa, there are only six countries that have that expertise to monitor medicines and vaccines. I believe that Zimbabwe is good at monitoring its medicines.
We know that there are some people who smuggle medicines. You have read in newspapers that street medicines have been impounded, so they work in conjunction with the police to ensure that fake medicines do not flood the streets. They carry out regular inspections in pharmacies and they are empowered to ensure that they inspect all the medicines on the shelves to see whether they are genuine. If they find anomalies, they are empowered to confiscate the medicines and destroy them. They are also empowered to cancel the licences or close the pharmacies. We must know that unscrupulous business people are always there although we have measures to ensure that we do not have side effects from medicines.
*HON. KUKA: Thank you Hon. Speaker. My question is directed to the Ministry of Local Government and it is about clean cities. We realise that there is a lot of chaos, municipal police officers are running after vendors; what is Government policy to ensure that the vendors get properly designated places to conduct their business because chasing them away will lead to people being thieves? We know that these days vending is the most common source of livelihood. I thank you.
*THE MINISTER OF LOCAL GOVERNMENT AND PUBLIC WORKS (HON. GARWE): Thank you Hon. Speaker and I would like to thank the Hon. Member. It is in line with what we discussed last week with regard to small businesses without calling them vendors. There are vendors that are selling during business hours. We are saying they will not be chased away wherever they are vending from. We are working with local authorities to provide shelters that are in line with Government policy. We have to take into consideration that vending has to be in line with health and sanity at vending sites.
So, this august House may want to know that after fire gutted the Mbare market, the President asked us to come up with a new place which is in line with Vision 2030. You may want to witness that Phase 1 that we are constructing, that will start working in the next two or three weeks. It is speaking to that policy.
We spoke to the City of Harare as well as Mutare and other towns. We said shelters and such vending places must be constructed. That is what we are working on. We have realised that some are conducting night vending. The Constitution of this country does not have a provision for someone to come at night when others have gone home. We do not have a provision for night vending.
The problems that we are facing from night vendors, the first problem is the lack of ablution facilities. That is what is contributing to diseases like cholera, dysentery and typhoid because they do not have toilets. You want to know that most of those people who are coming to sell into Harare at night are coming from Mashonaland Central, Mashonaland West and Mashonaland East. Some of them are coming from outside the country - that is causing a lot of problems.
You heard the Minister of Health and Child Care yesterday saying that there is an outbreak of diarrhoeal diseases in Mashonaland Central. Such a person may come from that area and leave that disease here.
HON. MATEWU: On a point of order Hon. Madam Speaker.
THE TEMPORARY SPEAKER: Order Hon. Minister! What is your point of order Hon. Member?
HON. MATEWU: Madam Speaker, the question was very clear, it has nothing to do with thigh vendors in the evening. It has everything to do with vendors that are selling their wares on the streets in the afternoon. Now he is speaking of thigh vendors – [HON. MEMBERS: Inaudible interjections.] –
THE TEMPORARY SPEAKER: Order, Hon. Matewu! Your point of order is overruled. Allow the Hon. Minister to finish– [HON. MEMBERS: Inaudible interjections.] – Order! Can we have order in the House? This is the time that the Hon. Minister has got to explain what is happening and we are going to allow him to do that – [HON. MEMBERS: Hear, hear.] – Hon. Minister please proceed.
*HON. DR. GARWE: Thank you Madam Speaker for protecting me. I was explaining about diseases being caused by people who are working at night. You may want to know that businesses that are operating legally, when they close, that is where these vendors are operating from, in sanitary lanes as well as verandas, you find a lot of faeces as well as urine. Local authorities’ janitors are now busy cleaning human waste and that is not in line with the Vision 2030.
Secondly, during the selling of goods and wares, there is also what we call drug and substance abuse.
*HON. ZVAIPA: My point of order was about the police – the ZRP as well as the local authority chasing after vendors. This is happening during broad daylight. It is not happening at night. We want to know what is happening during the day, not at night. We do not know about that.
THE TEMPORARY SPEAKER: Hon. Zvaipa, the Honourable Minister responded to that but we cannot stop him from elaborating. Hon. Minister, please wind up.
*HON. DR. GARWE: Thank you for protecting me Madam Speaker. There are a lot of illegal activities that are taking place at night. Some of the things that I spoke about like drug and substance abuse, we have a serious problem with that. Some people are coming at night selling that, people hiding behind night economy or night trading.
You may also want to know, Madam Speaker, that expired goods that were referred to by the Minister of Industry and Commerce are also being sold at night. That is the other problem that we are facing. That is why we are saying people who are working at night are not allowed, even those who are operating after business hours.
During the day, we are saying the police will implement the law, people must work legally. I thank you.
*HON. MAKUMIRE: Thank you Madam Speaker Ma’am. We have noticed that in many areas people were harassed by the police. We also saw people retaliating and that led to chaos in urban areas. What is Government policy to ensure that those who are supposed to be operating in areas that they are legally supposed to do so are not harassed by local authorities as well as the ZRP? What is happening? If they are being removed, they are supposed to operate from designated places. I thank you.
*HON. DR. GARWE: I am now repeating myself; I am saying we are constructing designated areas working together with the City Council. It is not allowed to operate or sell in front of a legal business. That is illegal. It is also illegal to throw litter everywhere, they then have to be allocated places to operate legally.
It is illegal to buy beer or alcohol from shops and you just open the boot of your car and you sell from undesignated areas. That is what I refer to as illegal. I thank you.
HON. MUROMBEDZI: Thank you Madam Speaker. Given that the Ministry or the Government is chasing away parents and youth who are unemployed from vending, what alternatives or opportunities has the Government put in place for the vendors being removed from undesignated areas? I also want to know how the Ministry ensures that they can still provide for their families without being pushed further into poverty, I so submit.
THE TEMPORARY SPEAKER: That question should not be directed to the Minister of Local Government, I am not going to allow that?
HON. MADZIVANYIKA: I would like to thank the Hon. Minister for the response. However, Hon. Minister, the law must be a product of common sense under the circumstances. Under our circumstances, is it correct common sense-wise, to chase away those illegal vendors under the current economic circumstances?
HON. GARWE: I do not think we need to engage ourselves in an academic debate or philosophise on this issue. We must stick to compliance. Let us respect our laws and make sure that we trade in a more organised, coordinated and whole-government approach, that is all we are asking for.
HON. MUTIMBANYOKA: Good afternoon Madam Speaker Ma’am. My question is directed to the Leader of Government Business. We want to know our state of preparedness for the RAMSAR Convention that is actually taking place on the 15th June, 2025. I thank you.
THE TEMPORARY SPEAKER: I am going to allow this question to be answered by the Hon. Minister of Information as we are surely expecting the RAMSAR Convention to be held in Victoria Falls.
THE MINISTER OF INFORMATION, PUBLICITY AND BROADCASTNG SERVICES (HON. DR. MUSWERE): Madam Speaker, we are more than ready to host the conference. We have all the conference facilities ready in order to ensure this becomes a successful function. Thank you Madam Speaker.
HON. JAMES: Thank you Madam Speaker, can I ask the Minister if the RAMSAR conference is all about wetlands. Is the Government confident that their actions with wetlands and the destruction of them in the country will not come under too much scrutiny?
THE TEMPORARY SPEAKER: This question is best responded to by the Hon. Minister of Environment. My request is for you to put the question in writing so that we can get a comprehensive response Hon. James.
HON. P. ZHOU: Thank you Madam Speaker Ma’am. My question goes to the Minister of Tourism. What strategies or initiatives is our Ministry undertaking to promote tourism development and growth in our rural areas? Thank you.
THE MINISTER OF TOURISM AND HOSPITALITY INDUSTRY (HON. RWODZI): Thank you Hon. Speaker Ma’am and I would like to thank the Hon. Member for the question. As Ministry of Tourism and Hospitality Industry, we have a mandate to administer the Zimbabwe Tourism Fund and we have to amend our Bill so that the Tourism Fund is rightly administered from where it is supposed to be. It will be administered according to our Act, Chapter 14: 20 because it is not what it is at the moment. From that Zimbabwe Tourism Fund, the strategy is to get money to develop tourism everywhere across the country including the rural areas, I submit Hon. Speaker.
*HON. BATITSA: Thank you Madam Speaker and good afternoon. My question is directed to the Minister of Public Service, Labour and Social Welfare. What is Government policy to ensure that there is increased assistance to streets kids as well as people with disabilities noting that they are increasing in this country?
The Minister of Justice, Legal and Parliamentary Affairs having not quite understood the question.
THE TEMPORARY SPEAKER: Hon. Minister Ziyambi, it is very important to pay attention to the question as you are the Leader of Government Business. I would like to request you Hon. Batitsa to ask that question again, thank you.
*HON. BATITSA: Thank you Madam Speaker and good afternoon. My question is directed to the Minister of Public Service, Labour and Social Welfare. What is Government policy to ensure that there is increased assistance to streets kids as well as people with disabilities noting that they are increasing in this country?
*THE MINISTER OF JUSTICE, LEGAL AND PARLIAMENTARY AFFAIRS (HON. Z. ZIYAMBI): Thank you Madam Speaker. With regards to people with disabilities, there is a policy that we are working on to ensure that we alleviate this problem. The ones that the Hon. Member is referring to as street kids, it is a manifestation of a failed family system where children end up on the streets. Government cannot finish that problem alone but we encourage that in our families as well as in churches, we encourage families to live together.
Madam Speaker, as Government, we would like to thank the First Lady who is going around taking those children living on the streets and give them accommodation as well as providing food. She is also working hard to try and give advice on the families to live in harmony. I thank you.
Questions Without Notice were interrupted by THE TEMPORARY SPEAKER in terms of Standing Order Number 68.
THE TEMPORARY SPEAKER: May I remind the Hon. Ministers in the House that we do have 112 questions that are directed to different ministries. We expect these questions to be responded to. Please stay behind, do not leave as you normally do so that you respond to these questions. We are going to defer for reasons best known by the Government Chief Whip. Hon. Minister July Moyo and Hon. Minister Garwe have requested to respond to their questions first, then we move on to other questions.
ORAL ANSWERS TO QUESTIONS WITH NOTICE
COMPLETION OF THE GWANDA SOLAR PROJECT
- HON. MAKUMIRE asked the Minister of Energy and Power Development to inform the House the Government's strategies on ensuring a consistent power supply to Chiredzi Town Council waterworks especially during power outages.
THE MINISTER OF ENERGY AND POWER DEVELOPMENT (HON. J. MOYO): I want to thank Hon. Makumire for asking me to inform the House the Government's strategies on ensuring a consistent power supply to Chiredzi Town Council waterworks, especially during power outages. Madam Speaker, the Chiredzi Town Council waterworks is being prioritised on energy supply.
Local shedding is being carried out to prune all non-critical loads so that water pumping can be supplied. The Zimbabwe Electricity Transmission and Distribution Company is committed to supporting the Chiredzi Town Council in ensuring that the waterworks are adequately powered and operational. I thank you Madam Speaker.
HON. JAMES: My point of order is that we are jumping to these questions here. Minister of Finance, my questions have been waiting four months for an answer. I would like to point out that the Minister of Finance and his Deputy have not been in the House for pretty much all this year, giving the impression that perhaps he is trying to avoid these questions. Can the Minister doing Government business here please convey to him that he has a dozen questions here and it appears that he could well be avoiding some of them? I do believe the nature of my questions; the legally mandated representatives of the farming bodies have been trying to meet with him and they have been sidelined to a certain extent. So again, I would like to ask if the Minister doing Government business can convey to the Minister of Finance to please be more receptive to their overtures to meet with them. Thank you.
THE TEMPORARY SPEAKER: I do not think the Hon. Minister and the Deputy Minister can take that as reason to absent themselves from the House. It is not correct Hon. James but however, we are going to request the Leader of Government Business to communicate to the Hon. Minister of Finance and the Deputy so that they come to the House and respond to all these important questions.
RENOVATION OF CHIREDZI GENERAL HOSPITAL
- HON. MAKUMIRE asked the Minister of Local Government and Public Works the plans regarding the renovation of the dilapidated Chiredzi General Hospital. THE DEPUTY MINISTER OF LOCAL GOVERNMENT PUBLIC WORKS (HON. KABIKIRA): In response, let me start by thanking the Hon. Member for asking such an important question. Every year, Public Works jointly with the hospital leadership, submits bills for hospital maintenance but have not been getting any meaningful resource allocation from Treasury.
All hospital maintenance financial resources are resident with the Minister of Health and Child Care just like any other hospitals in the country, with Public Works being involved solely as a contractor to carry out the funded maintenance projects. Currently, the Provincial Public Works Office for Masvingo has waiting space from the hospital to maintain laundry and machines and booster pumps.
The financial resources allocated for 2025 are still pending release by the Treasury, delaying the commencement of the scheduled maintenance activities for the year. I so submit Madam Speaker.
*HON. MAKUMIRE: My supplementary question is that the hospital that I am referring to, the Chiredzi General Hospital’s iron sheets are about to fall on the patients. The electricity and water supplies must be refurbished but right now, the patients are at risk of contracting diseases that they may not have had before they went to hospital. I want to know what Government's policy is to ensure that things that do not require a lot of funds may be worked on immediately. I thank you.
*HON. KABIKIRA: I would like to thank the Hon. Member for the supplementary question. Like I said earlier on, the budget to do with the maintenance of hospitals is under the Minister of Health. What we do is to carry out maintenance works at hospitals. Like you said, there are some things which we expect can be repaired or worked on a small budget to spruce up the hospital. We will try to send the department of Works’ inspectors to ensure that such work can be repaired immediately. I thank you.
DISCHARGING OF DUTIES BY TRADITIONAL LEADERS
- HON. MAKUMIRE asked the Minister of Local Government and Public Works what measures Government has taken to ensure that traditional leaders (chiefs, headmen and village heads) are not partisan in discharging their duties.
THE DEPUTY MINISTER OF LOCAL GOVERNMENT AND PUBLIC WORKS (HON. KABIKIRA): Mr. Speaker, I would like to thank the Honourable Member for asking such a pertinent question. The ministry conducts regular training for traditional leaders, which starts with basic orientation on the date of installation. The district development coordinators also conduct regular meetings with the traditional leaders at district level to ensure policy guidelines in discharge of their mandates. Follow-up capacity building initiatives are conducted based on identified needs and gaps. I so submit Mr. Speaker.
*HON. MAKUMIRE: Mr. Speaker, you realise that some of the local kraal heads who are working were actually registering cells and were accompanying people to the polling stations to the extent that even headmasters were voted for by kraal heads. What is the policy to ensure that is not repeated, whereby headmasters are purported to be illiterate and they are voted for by kraal heads? I thank you.
*HON. KABIKIRA: I thank the Hon. Member for the supplementary question. Like I said, as Local Government, we ensure that when a chief is installed, there are orientation programmes so that they know how to conduct their work. We also have district coordinating workers who are found everywhere and conduct follow-up courses to ensure that headmen, kraal heads and chiefs work properly. But I think the supplementary question, we do not know what is happening. May the Hon. Member give us the information on where that is happening? Our office is very free so that we can assist each other.
*HON. MAPIKI: My supplementary question to the Minister of Local Government IS; for the kraal heads who are working apolitically and doing national duty, what is Government doing to ensure that the allowances are increased because they are doing a sterling job? I thank you.
*HON. KABIKIRA: Thank you. Mr. Speaker, I would also like to thank the Hon. Member for the follow-up question. I think that is a new question but I will try to respond to the question. The village heads are doing a very good job in protecting the local areas where they are taking care of the culture as well as grazing areas. So, I am glad to announce that Government is looking at the allowances of the chiefs as well as the kraal heads. Government is doing a lot of programmes to revise, to look at their welfare. So, Government is also embarking on programmes to install solar systems at the homesteads. So, there are a lot of projects that are happening. We have chiefs, headmen and kraal heads. So, we started at the level of chiefs and then we will be going down according to my hierarchy. I thank you.
*HON. MAKOPE: Thank you Mr. Speaker. I would like to start by professing that, confirming what the Minister has said. They are elevating or improving the welfare of our traditional leaderships in the form of chiefs and village heads. The problem that I have is we have resettlement areas and we have village heads in those areas. They seem not to be equal to the ones that are found in the original rural areas. How far has the Government gone in ensuring that they become substantive village heads so that they also benefit, as is the case with their counterparts in the communal lands? I thank you.
*HON. KABIKIRA: Thank you, Mr Speaker. I would also like the Hon. Member for the supplementary question. If you all recall very well, in our lifestyles or in our areas, we have rural areas where we have original village heads. We then had resettlement areas as a result of the late reform. We do have village heads and men who are not yet substantive village heads. It is true the Ministry is alive to the issue and they are still looking into the matter and we hope to quickly resolve the matter and as soon as possible. Those village heads will then become substantive village heads. I thank you, Mr. Speaker Sir.
*HON. ZEMURA: Thank you very much Mr. Speaker. My supplementary question is that those chiefs, when they die, the Ministry or the Government is not assisting by providing food or the coffin? What measures have been put in place to ensure that the chiefs are given decent burials by the Government?
HON. KABIKIRA: Thank you Mr. Speaker. I want to thank the Member for the supplementary questions. I believe that if you watch television, whenever a chief has passed on, as the Ministry of Local Government, we are doing our best to ensure that the chiefs are given a decent burial. First and foremost, we provide food at the chief's funeral. Furthermore, we also assist in other funerals by the provision of coffins. It is a practice that is in place at the Local Government Ministry. However, if it is on a case-to-case basis, I may not be certain about it and I would have missed this one out. It is Government policy to ensure that we do this as the Minister of Local Government. I thank you.
CRITERIA USED ON THE ALLOCATION OF ZUPCO BUSES
- HON. V. MOYO asked the Minister of Local Government and Public Works to inform the House, the criteria used to allocate ZUPCO buses plying Milonga, Jambezi and Ndlovu routes, considering that these areas are not prioritised in terms of the allocation.
THE MINISTER OF LOCAL GOVERNMENT AND PUBLIC WORKS (HON. GARWE): Thank you Mr. Speaker Sir. Allow me to inform the House that ZUPCO is one of the companies that is now under Mutapa Investments. Such issues relating to operations of ZUPCO should be directed to Mutapa Investments. The Ministry’s mandate remains as direction on policy and regulations relating to urban-public transport. I so submit Mr. Speaker Sir.
HON. MADZIVANYIKA: On a point of clarity. I want to find out which Ministry will be readily available to answer questions relating the Mutapa Investment Fund?
THE TEMPORARY SPEAKER (HON. NGULUVHE): Is it on the question list?
HON. MADZIVANYIKA: That one that he …
THE TEMPORARY SPEAKER: I mean the question you are asking, is it on the questions listed?
HON. MADZIVANYIKA: Yes, they are many, number five. My point of clarity arises from his response. He said ZUPCO is now under Mutapa Investment Fund and he did not have authority to comment on ZUPCO issues. My point of clarity is, which Ministry is readily available to answer on behalf of Mutapa Investment Fund to which ZUPCO is stationed?
THE TEMPORARY SPEAKER: Unfortunately, the Leader of Government Business is not available. We will direct that to the Leader of the House. I am sure we are in agreement that we will direct that to the leader of the House.
APPRAISAL ON LOCAL AUTHORITIES MASTER PLANS
- HON. MAKUMIRE asked the Minister of Local Government and Public Works to appraise the House the progress made by local authorities in coming up with master plans.
THE MINISTER OF LOCAL GOVERNMENT AND PUBLIC WORKS (HON. GARWE): All the 92 local authorities prepared master plans, with Bulawayo and Mutare having operative master plans already. Norton and Ruwa were already at an advanced stage of preparing their master plans when the call to action started, hence they are already finalising preparation. Almost 95% of all the remaining local authorities have completed the public display process. After preparing draft master plans as required by Section 15 of the Regional Town and Country Planning Act, Chapter 29:112 of 1986 now awaits submission of the reports, determination and approval by the Minister in terms of Section 16 of the same Act. Once approved, the master plans become operative, with onward training of local authorities in preparation of local development plans for implementation of provisions of the resultant master plan. I so submit.
*HON. MAKUMIRE: Thank you Mr. Speaker Sir. My supplementary question is, I believe that the experts that were sent by the Ministry to assist the Local Government authorities to do these master plans are not happy that they have not yet been paid to date but the Ministry has promised that as soon as the work is done, devolution funds will be used to pay the consultancy for doing this work. What measures have been put in place to ensure that Local Government authorities pay the experts?
HON. GARWE: Thank you Mr. Speaker Sir. I would like to thank the Member for the supplementary question. It is true, that was the arrangement in place last year that the experts that assisted in the drawing of the master plans were supposed to be paid from the devolution funds but the Hon. Member would agree with me that last year we had the hosting of the SADC Summit. A lot of resources were put in the assisting issues to do with SADC as well as the drought, so a lot of the resources were depleted as they were used for SADC preparation and drought alleviation programmes. What it then means is, this year this issue will be addressed so that the experts who assisted in helping the drawing of the master plans are paid. I thank you.
HON. MADZIVANYIKA: Thank you Mr. Speaker Sir. I hear the Hon. Minister’s response. However, the Ministry of Finance reserves an amount called an unallocated reserve which will be put to use in case of contingency and liabilities or for contingency circumstances such as the issue of SADC and whatever he is talking about. Can the Hon. Minster confirm to this House that the non-payment of those contractors was a result of SADC and drought? I just want the Hon. Minister to make a confirmation in this House. Thank you.
THE TEMPORARY SPEAKER: I think your question is best answered by the Minister of Finance.
ESTABLISHMENT OF SPATIAL PLANNING DEPARTMENTS BY LOCAL AUTHORITIES
- HON. MAKUMIRE asked the Minister of Local Government and Public Works to appraise the House on progress made by local authorities in establishing spatial planning departments.
THE MINISTER LOCAL GOVERNMENT AND PUBLIC WORKS (HON. GARWE): Thank you Mr. Speaker Sir. Following the promulgation of the Call to Action Blueprint, all the 92 local authorities have planning departments or units depending on their size. Citizen municipalities have fully-fledged planning departments whereas town councils, local boards and RDCs have now town planning units.
HON. MAKUMIRE: Mr. Speaker Sir, my supplementary is that the call to action had a deadline of 30 June 2024 but to date, there are some local authorities that do not have fully-fledged planning departments. I am sure the Minister is aware of such local authorities that have not complied with this directive. What measures are being put in place to ensure that those who have not complied, comply to the call to action?
THE TEMPORARY SPEAKER (HON. NGULUVHE): Thank you very much. I will allow the Minister to respond but maybe you could have brought the names of those who have not complied.
*THE DEPUTY MINISTER OF LOCAL GOVERNMENT AND PUBLIC WORKS (HON. KABIKIRA) Thank you Mr. Speaker. Let me reply to the supplementary question by the Hon. Member. It is correct that we do have some local authorities that have not complied by having such planning departments in place. We are working hard to ensure that each local authority complies by having a functional planning department. I so submit.
COMPLIANCE OF LOCAL AUTHORITIES TO AUDIT REQUIREMENTS
- HON. MAKUMIRE asked the Minister of Local Government and Public Works to appraise the House on the Government plans to ensure compliance of all local authorities to audit requirements.
THE DEPUTY MINISTER OF LOCAL GOVERNMENT AND PUBLIC WORKS (HON. KABIKIRA): Mr. Speaker, allow me to inform this House that compliance level to statutory audits has slightly increased from 25 to 29. Furthermore, by September 2024, 35 local authorities had been audited but we are waiting for final reports, which is also an improvement from 12 the prior year. The Ministry has come up with the following interventions to ensure compliance with the audit requirements:
Number one, is the introduction of the general performance management system which monitors the performance of councils, council mayors, chairpersons, town clerks, town secretaries and CEOs. Mandatory ERP usage as the reports will be system generated and audit compliance monitoring and capacitation programmes across local authorities. The IPSAS, a new reporting framework adopted by the Government in 2018, requires local authorities to produce dual reports, one using the previous reporting framework and submitted for audits and the other being IPSAS compliant. Full IPSAS compliance is expected in 2025, that is when the dual reporting will stop. I so submit.
ESTABLISHMENT OF THE INTEGRITY AND ETHICS COMMITTEE
- HON. MAKUMIRE asked the Minister of Local Government and Public Works to inform the House on the progress made towards the establishment of the Integrity and Ethics Committee provided in Section 287 of the Constitution of Zimbabwe.
THE DEPUTY MINISTER OF LOCAL GOVERNMENT AND PUBLIC WORKS (HON. KABIKIRA): Mr. Speaker Sir, the Ministry of Local Government and Public Works Integrity and Ethics Committee was set up on the 3rd of April in 2024. It has undergone induction and capacity development. This year, the Zimbabwe Anti-Corruption Commission will assist the ministry to set up sub-national structures of the same. I so submit,
HON. MAKUMIRE: The Constitution clearly spells that there should be an Act of Parliament that governs how this Committee is going to operate. So, my supplementary question to the Honourable Minister is, how is it possible to establish that Committee before an Act of Parliament that operationalises it has been formulated? Thank you very much.
HON. KABIKIRA: Thank you and I also want to thank the Hon. Member for that supplementary question. Mr. Speaker Sir, I request the Hon. Member to put the question in writing so that I verify the facts before reporting. I thank you.
UPDATING OF VALUATION ROLLS BY LOCAL AUTHORITIES IN LINE WITH THE CALL-TO-ACTION BLUEPRINT
- HON. MAKUMIRE asked The Minister of Local Government and Public Works to apprise the House of progress made by Local Authorities in updating valuation rolls in line with the 30 June 2024 deadline of the Call-to-Action Blue Print of 2023.
THE DEPUTY MINISTER OF LOCAL GOVERNMENT AND PUBLIC WORKS (HON. KABIKIRA): Pursuant to the Call-to-Action Blueprint, the Ministry engaged all 92 local authorities in the preparation of valuation roles. And below is a summary of status of the task.
The status of valuation roles is as follows; Councils with local authorities with approved valuation roles are 42. Those that are under public display are 29. At the report compilation process, it is 15. Then at budget stage, it is one. And still under inspections, they are five. The Ministry of Local Government and Public Works prepared valuation roles for the 70 local authorities while its private valuers did 22 valuation roles. I so submit.
DISPUTE RESOLUTION BETWEEN CHIREDZI TOWN AND CHIREDZI RURAL DISTRICT COUNCIL
- HON. MAKUMIRE asked the Minister of Local Government and Public Works to inform the House on the progress made in resolving the dispute between Chiredzi Town Council and Chiredzi Rural District Council over the disputed 750-hectare housing project located in Ward 29 on the outskirts of Chiredzi Town that had been stalled since 2023.
THE DEPUTY MINISTER OF LOCAL GOVERNMENT AND PUBLIC WORKS (HON. KABIKIRA): Mr. Speaker Sir, allow me to inform this House that the matter is before the courts and hence, deliberating on the same is sub judice. Thank you.
HON. MAKUMIRE: Supplementary question Mr. Speaker.
THE TEMPORARY SPEAKER: I think the Minister is very clear that this case is in the courts, so there is no need to have a supplementary.
ALLOCATION OF SERVICED LAND TO RELIGIOUS ORGANISATIONS
- HON. BAJILA asked the Minister of Local Government and Public Works to inform the House whether the Government has plans to allocate serviced land to religious organisations for the construction and establishment of infrastructure that does not compromise hygiene and the environment.
THE DEPUTY MINISTER OF LOCAL GOVERNMENT AND PUBLIC WORKS (HON. KABIKIRA): As the House may be aware, the Minister of Local Government and Public Works imposed a moratorium on the allocation of urban State land on the 12th of June 2024 until further notice. The moratorium was put in place to allow the Ministry to strengthen and establish new urban State land administration and management systems. The envisaged strengthened systems seek to curb land maladministration, close space for baronism, as well as promoting environmental protection among other things. The land allocation and servicing will therefore be informed by the new land administration system and shall prioritise the groups including the religious organisations. I so submit.
HON. BAJILA: Thank you so much Mr. Speaker. I would like to thank the Minister for the response. I would like to find out that, at the present moment there are conflicts that are ongoing on these issues of religious organisations occupying pieces of land. Some of them claim that they were allocated those pieces of land by the Holy Spirit. These conflicts are currently ongoing in communities at the present moment. Does Government have a way of saying before we have this system that the Minister is talking about of administration of land, at the present moment, how can we prevent these conflicts because the religious organisations are occupying pieces of land? Some are claiming that from some institutions called VED, they are getting authority to do so and some are saying they are getting them from the Holy Spirit. At the present moment, before the system that the Government proposes, what is it that can be done to prevent these conflicts on land occupation by religious organisations? I thank you.
*HON. KABIKIRA: I believe we all understand the issue that has to do with the stands allocation. It is local authorities that have the mandate to sell such land or Local Government through this ministry. So those that are going to occupy open spaces in resettling themselves is what I explained as one of the problems or challenges that we are facing with the land barons. These are grabbing pieces of land where they have not been allocated stands or to occupy the piece of land, neither by the Government nor by the Local Government authorities. So, these are the steps that are being taken. We put a moratorium in terms of land allocation that it should stop and we identify the open spaces for the Local Government and councils. Once there is that database, allocations can then start. I thank you.
REMOVAL OF A COUNCIL CHAIRPERSON AND COMMITTEE CHAIRPERSON FROM POSITIONS HELD
- HON. MAKUMIRE asked the Minister of Local Government and Public Works to provide the House with information regarding the procedure used to remove a Council Chairperson and Committee Chairperson from their positions, with specific reference to the Hwange Local Board?
THE DEPUTY MINISTER OF LOCAL GOVERNMENT AND PUBLIC WORKS (HON. KABIKIRA): Section 278 of the Constitution of Zimbabwe as read with Section 114 of the Urban Council Act, is amended by the Local Government laws. Amendment Number 8 of 2016 sets the conditions for removal of a mayor or a chairperson from office as follows;
- the mayor, chairperson or a councillor of a council shall only be removed from office on the grounds of inability to perform the functions of his or her office due to mental or physical incapacity.
- the gross incompetency or the gross misconduct.
- conviction of an offence involving dishonest corruption or abuse of office.
- wilful violation of the law, including a local authority by-law.
Subject to this section, if the Minister has reasonable grounds for suspecting that a mayor or a chairperson or a councillor is unable to perform the functions of his or her office due to mental or physical incapacity or is guilty of any misconduct referenced in subsection b, c, d and e, the Minister then, by written notice to the mayor, chairperson or the council, may suspend the mayor, the chairperson or the councillor from exercising all or any of his or her functions in terms of the cited legal provision. I so submit.
HON. MAKUMIRE: In asking my question, I expected the Minister to respond to the issue related to the Hwange National Board that people sat in the local board and removed the chairperson unprocedurally without having the Minister having so directed. So, my question was on what the Government policy says in terms of that action. Is it lawful or unlawful?
HON. KABIKIRA: I would like to thank the Hon. Member for the supplementary question. On the incident of Hwange, no one was dismissed from work. The committee chairpersons were merely reassigned. No one was sacked. It was a reshuffle of the committee chairpersons. Thank you.
HON. MAKUMIRE: On a point of clarity, the situation at the Hwange Local Board involves the removal of the chairperson from his office and as I am speaking now, there is a new chairperson. Then on the procedure for the removal of committee chairpersons,
I think the Hon. Minister is also supposed to clarify on what procedure must be followed for the reassignment that he has said. Thank you very much. Procedure reassignment.
*HON. KABIKIRA: I thank the Hon. Member for the supplementary question. Since this is a specific question, I have done the research based on the specific question. If possible, may the Hon. Member put the question in writing so that I can come with a specific answer? I thank you.
INTEGRATION OF THE HWANGE CONCESSION AREA INTO HWANGE LOCAL BOARD
- HON. MAKUMIRE asked the Minister Local Government and Public Works to apprise the House on Government’s intentions to integrate the Hwange Concession area into the Hwange Local Board authority.
THE DEPUTY MINISTER OF LOCAL GOVERNMENT AND PUBLIC WORKS (HON. KABIKIRA): Thank you so much Mr. Speaker Sir. In response Mr. Speaker Sir, there is no declaration by the Government of an intention to integrate Hwange Concession into Hwange Local Board. However, the Ministry is looking at applications for revision of the warrant of 1974, which established the Hwange Local Board. I submit.
PARTICIPATION BY HWANGE RURAL DISTRICT COUNCILLORS FROM HWANGE CONCESSION AREAS
- HON. MAKUMIRE asked the Minister of Local Government and Public Works to clarify the rationale behind the participation by Hwange Rural District Councillors from the Hwange Concession areas given that they fall outside the local board's jurisdiction.
THE DEPUTY MINISTER OF LOCAL GOVERNMENT AND PUBLIC WORKS (HON. KABIKIRA): Thank you Mr. Speaker Sir. Let me also thank the Hon. Member for the question. In response Mr. Speaker Sir, there is no declaration by the Government of an intention to integrate Hwange Concession into Hwange Local Board. However, the Ministry is looking at applications for revision of the warrant of 1974 which established the Hwange Local Board. I thank you.
HON. MAKUMIRE: On a point of clarity, Mr. Speaker the Hon. Minister has repeated his response for my previous question. He has given the same response to this other question. Maybe he has mixed up his answers.
HON. KABIKIRA: Question 42.
THE TEMPORARY SPEAKER: Yes. you asked about the Hwange Concessions.
HON. KABIKIRA: The answer I have given is for question 41.
THE TEMPORARY SPEAKER: But it is more or less the same. 41, you were saying, when are they going to be integrated into Hwange Local Board, is it not it? It is the same thing.
HON. MAKUMIRE: Can I clarify Mr. Speaker? The situation in Hwange Local Board is that 10 wards are in these concession areas. Administratively, they should be under Hwange Rural District Council but for election purposes, ZEC put these 10 wards under the Local Board. As we are speaking, the councillors that are supposed to be sitting under the RDC are the ones making decisions in the Local Board. So, I want the Hon. Minister to give us a justification for having the RDC councillors sitting on a Local Board.
THE TEMPORARY SPEAKER: Hon. Minister, if you do not have the answer now, you can bring it later.
HON. MUTSEYAMI: I have a point of order.
THE TEMPORARY SPEAKER: What is your point of order?
HON. MUTSEYAMI: Thank you, Hon. Speaker. My point of order is, I am sure these questions were written in advance so that the esteemed Hon. Minister will be able to do research through his secretariat. The expectation is, answers were supposed to be provided.
THE TEMPORARY SPEAKER: I have taken note that Hon. Member, from the look of things, the two questions are a bit confusing. That is why I have given time to the Minister to go and do more research on them so that he can give us a detailed response.
HON. MUTSEYAMI: Much obliged Hon. Speaker. Thank you.
CLEARANCE OF STORMWATER DRAIN FROM CHIREDZI GENERAL HOSPITAL TO MAKONDO
- HON. MAKUMIRE asked the Minister of Local Government and Public Works to inform the House on the Government’s initiatives to clear the storm water drain from Chiredzi General Hospital to Makondo.
THE DEPUTY MINISTER OF LOCAL GOVERNMENT AND PUBLIC WORKS (HON. KABIKIRA): Thank you Mr. Speaker. In response, it is understood Hon. Members, that the drain in question is an issue of concern and is being attended to. Chiredzi Town Council has started making inroads vis-a-vis the clearing of the drain will be done under the ZINARA Routine Maintenance Programme. The reason is that the rainy season started late, hence Roads Maintenance Programme was delayed a bit but the drain clearing is already on Chiredzi Town Council Programme of Works. Moreover, there have been remarkable efforts being steered through ward initiatives whereby in this case, the Council Chairperson and the Health Club utilised the National Clean-up Day and started at Chiredzi General Hospital where the drain starts. Hence, this is work in progress. I so submit, Mr. Speaker Sir.
HON. MAKUMIRE: Thank you Mr. Speaker. The drainage that we are talking about is used by crocodiles. The crocodiles got to the hospital last year. This year, the crocodiles were moving into people’s homes. How long is it going to take for the drain to be sorted out so that it will not cause problems for the residents? I thank you.
HON. KABIKIRA: Thank you Mr. Speaker Sir and I also thank the Hon. Member for the supplementary question. I am glad you have observed that as a Government, we have taken initiatives to ensure that we assist in the clearing of this particular drain. In terms of timeframes, I am not in a position to divulge timeframes. I promise that it will be attended to as soon as possible. I thank you.
Questions With Notice were interrupted by THE TEMPORARY SPEAKER, in terms of Standing Order Number 68.
HON. MAPIKI: I move that time for Questions With Notice be extended by 30 minutes because there are too many Ministers in the House.
HON. KAMBUZUMA: I second.
PAYMENT OF LOCAL AUTHORITIES FOR SERVICES NOT RENDERED
44 HON. MAKUMIRE asked the Minister of Local Government and Public Works to inform the House on the Government’s position regarding the payment of local authority service charges for services that have not yet been rendered.
THE DEPUTY MINISTER OF LOCAL GOVERNMENT AND PUBLIC WORKS (HON. KABIKIRA): Mr. Speaker Sir, the Constitution of Zimbabwe, Urban Councils Act and the Rural District Councils Act provide for the functions of local authorities which in general revolves around the provision of efficient and effective municipal services to residents and ratepayers. In the same vein, residents are also mandated to pay in order to finance the provision of public goods and services. However, the Hon. Member’s question is not clear on which services are being paid for and not provided given that intermittent supply does not imply non-provision.
However, in order to circumvent such scenarios as supposed by the Hon. Member, the Ministry of Local Government and Public Works has managed to set up Minimum Service Delivery Standards for all local authorities in all service delivery categories. In addition, the Government also created an Inspectorate Department that will be responsible for monitoring service provision in local authorities. The performance of local authorities from now on will be measured using Minimum Service Delivery Standards Performance Assessment System and inspected by the Inspectorate Department.
DIFFERENCE IN CONDITIONS OF SERVICE AND REMUNERATION BETWEEN LOCAL GOVERNMENT AND OTHER MINISTRIES
45 HON. MADZIVANYIKA asked the Minister of Local Government and Public Works to inform the House whether the Ministry has different conditions of service and remuneration policy for directors under the Ministry as compared to other ministries.
THE DEPUTY MINISTER OF LOCAL GOVERNMENT AND PUBLIC WORKS (HON. KABIKIRA): Mr. Speaker Sir, allow me to inform this House that conditions of service for Directors in Government are set by Public Service Commission (PSC) and they are uniform. I so submit.
HON. MADZIVANYIKA: Supplementary Mr. Speaker Sir.
THE TEMPORARY SPEAKER: Before we move on, I would want to appeal to you Hon. Members to try and reduce the number of supplementary questions so that we can cover a lot of your questions since most of the Ministers are here.
*HON. MADZIVANYIKA: Thank you Mr. Speaker Sir. My supplementary question pertains to the findings that were done by the Commission that was sent by His Excellency the President in the Commission of Inquiry where we found evidence that the city directors and the Town Clerk were receiving USD30 000. But when you look at other directors in various other ministries, their salaries are extremely low. May the Hon. Minister clarify why there is such a disparity because you are the responsible authority as Local Government in this same country. I thank you.
*HON. KABIKIRA: Thank you Mr. Speaker Sir, I would also want to thank the Hon. Member for the supplementary question. However, he pointed out very well that His Excellency the President, put a Commission of Inquiry to the City of Harare issues and I believe that the process is still under consideration and as a result, I cannot comment on that issue because the process has not yet been completed. I thank you.
*HON. CHITINDI: Let me thank the Hon. Minister for the response that he has given. I am talking about the salary discrepancies. What steps are you going to take to ensure that the lower grade employees are paid as they have not been paid for the past three or four months? I thank you.
*HON. KABIKIRA: Thank you Mr. Speaker Sir. I want to thank the Hon. Member for the supplementary question. I believe this is a specific question that pertains to Harare, so I kindly request the Hon. Member to put the question in writing. I thank you.
ESTABLISHMENT OF A VOCATIONAL TRAINING CENTRE IN CHIREDZI DISTRICT
- HON. MAKUMIRE asked the Minister of Youth Empowerment and Vocational Training to inform the House what Government plans are regarding the establishment of a Vocational Training Centre in Chiredzi District considering the need for such a facility.
THE DEPUTY MINISTER OF YOUTH EMPOWERMENT, DEVELOPMENT AND VOCATIONAL TRAINING (HON. MUPAMHANGA): In a bid to expand the vocational skills training initiative, the Ministry is currently engaged in the establishment of new Vocational Training Centres (VTCs) whilst also upgrading the existing centres. The Ministry bid for establishment of new VTCs in eleven districts in the year 2024. Chiredzi is among the eleven districts which were earmarked for new VTCs at Nyangambe in Chiredzi North. However, the financial resources that were availed by Treasury were limited, thus leading to only five VTCs being funded in the year 2024. With the funding availed in 2024, the Ministry was not able to complete the projects, namely Sivorno VTC in Nkayi, Umguza VTC in Umguza District, Insukamini VTC in Vungu, Sizinda VTC and Kadoma VTC. Funding for this year has been directed towards completion of these projects. The Ministry, upon accessing more funding, has put Chiredzi among the top eleven priority districts for the establishment of a VTC.
Through Mushagashe VTCs, the Ministry has been carrying out Community Skills Outreach Programmes in Chiredzi at Nyahanga Primary school, Chikovo Primary school, Chibwedziva Primary school, Mupinga Primary School and Old Boli Primary School. Some funds have been directed this quarter to train at least 300 youths in March through Community Skills Outreach Programme (CSOP) at a venue to be determined in Chiredzi. The Ministry, in collaboration with Public Works, has embarked on making preparatory work of developing designs for VTC structures including Chiredzi. The Ministry is looking for alternative funding to augment the Treasury funds such as:
- ZIMDEF
- Devolution Funds
- Constituency Development Fund and
- Development Partners
PROVISION OF ADEQUATE LEARNING FACILITIES TO UMGUZA VOCATIONAL TRAINING CENTRE
- HON. MAKUMIRE asked the Minister of Youth Empowerment and Vocational Training to inform the House on the Government's plans to provide Umguza Vocational Training Centre (VTC) with adequate learning facilities to ensure the centre's effective operation.
THE DEPUTY MINISTER OF YOUTH EMPOWERMENT AND VOCATIONAL TRAINING (HON. MUPAMHANGA): The Ministry is in the process of transforming all Vocational Training Centres. The transformation agenda aims to equip Vocational Training Cenres including Umguza VTC with other training facilities to modernise VCT facilities and to provide high quality training and skills development programmes that meet global standards by 2027.
This will be achieved through infrastructure development, modernisation of facilities, building new infrastructure and upgrading existing structures. The process was kick started by the construction of Sivhomo VTC and Kadoma VTC which are currently almost in completion.
- Expansion of capacity, increased the capacity of VCT as to accommodate more trainees and provide a wider of training programmes.
- Accessibility and inclusivity – ensure that VCT facilities are accessible and inclusive for all trainees including those with disabilities.
- Equipment and technology – state of the art equipment provide VCTs with state-of-the-art equipment and tours to support practical training and skills development.
- ICT infrastructure – establish robust ICT infrastructure to support E-learning online assessments and digital literacy programmes. Mushagashe VCT in Masvingo province and Magamba VCT in Manicaland province managed to construct state-of-the-art computer laboratories.
- Industry standard software – provide English standard software and applications to support training programmes for the Ministry to come up with the centralised database.
- Human resource development – provide trainers with ongoing professional development opportunities to enhance their skills and knowledge.
- Twenty-three skills trainers are in India currently for professional development.
- Staff capacity building; VCT staff to manage and administer training programmes effectively by implementing these transformations. Umguza VCT will provide high quality training and skills development programmes that equip trainees with skills and knowledge needed to succeed in the work force.
THE TEMPORARY SPEAKER: We are deferring question 1 up to question 26. We go straight now to question No. 62.
PROVISION OF DRIVERS’ LICENCE DISKS FOR THE PERIOD 2018-2020
- HON. MADZIVANYIKA asked the Minister of Transport and Infrastructural Development to explain to the House the progress made in the provision of drivers licence disks for the period 2018-2020 in view of the fact that those tested in 2022 and 2023 are already getting their licence disks.
THE DEPUTY MINISTER OF TRANSPORT AND INFRASTRUCTURAL DEVELOPMENT (HON. SACCO): Mr. Speaker Sir our Ministry through the Department of the Central Vehicle Registry the CVR has managed to capture and verify all driver’s licence documents for the period 2019 to 2020. However, the new driver’s licence system requires driver to present themselves for biometric capturing that is the capturing of the face, the finger print and the signature. The same applies to those that were tested in 2022 and 2023 before the launch of the new drivers licence on 19th June, 2023. In view of the above, those that have not presented themselves for biometrics are encouraged to visit the Vehicle Inspectorate Directorate (VID) for capturing of the said biometrics in order to obtain the driers licenses disks.
HON. MADZIVANYIKA: Thank you Hon. Minister for the good response, however my supplementary question is; are these drivers aware that they need to present themselves to the nearest VID centre for the submission of those documents, I think it is very important, have you popularised that idea so that they are aware of what is happening. I thank you.
HON. SACCO: I would like to thank Hon. Madzivanyika on his follow up question and I agree with him that publicity needs to be improved and will task the VID and CVR to run publicity exercises so that this information can get to all the recipients of the drivers licence wherever they maybe in Zimbabwe through radio, print media and social media. I thank you.
HON. MUROMBEDZI: On a point of order Hon. Speaker.
THE TEMPORARY SPEAKER: What is your point of order?
HON. MUROMBEDZI: I see that the Hon. Minister of Transport is here and the questions that are before question 61 have been skipped, question 55 from Hon. Murombedzi to the Hon. Minister have been skipped and you went straight to question 61. I do not know if there is some cherry-picking.
THE TEMPORARY SPEAKER: I am aware Hon. Member, I thank you.
ESTABLISHMENT OF DOMESTIC FLIGHT ROUTES
- HON. MAKUMIRE: To ask the Minister of Transport and Infrastructural Development to inform the House about Government's plans regarding the establishment of the following domestic flight routes: (a) Robert Gabriel International Airport to Buffalo Range International Airport, (b) Joshua Nkomo International Airport to Buffalo Range International Airport, and (c) Victoria Falls International Airport to Buffalo Range International Airport.
THE DEPUTY MINISTER OF TRANSPORT AND INFRASTRUCTURAL DEVELOPMENT (HON. SACCO): Mr. Speaker Sir, the aviation sector requires substantial capital investment and airlines meticulously evaluate passenger demands between particular destinations to ascertain whether there is sufficient traffic to justify regular flight operations. To facilitate this growth, the Government through the Ministry of Transport and Infrastructure Development is implementing the open skies policy which aims to eliminate operational restrictions. I would like to add that Zimbabwe is highly commended in the African continent for having open skies policy which allows private players to participate.
Additionally, an increasing number of domestic airlines are being granted licences to operate on domestic regional and international routes. Presently, the Government is assisting Fast Jet Zimbabwe in launching the following routes in the near future, likely before the year end;
The Robert Gabriel Mugabe International to Buffalo Range, Buffalo Range to OR Tambo International and Buffalo Range to Nelspruit Kruger, Mpumalanga, where the Kruger National Park is. This development marks a significant achievement as it is expected to enhance passenger traffic at Buffalo Range Airport, resulting in positive spill-over effects for other domestic airports. I so submit Mr. Speaker Sir.
MARKETING OF THE COUNTRY TOWARDS THE HOSTING OF THE RAMSAR WETLAND CONVENTION
- HON. NKALA asked the Minister of Primary and Secondary Education to inform the House the Ministry’s plans to alleviate the shortage of STEM teachers in Gwanda North where some schools have not had Science teachers for more than three years.
THE DEPUTY MINISTER OF PRIMARY AND SECONDARY EDUCATION (HON. GATA): Thank you Honourable Nkala, for your thoughtful enquiry regarding the critical matter of recruiting and retaining science, technology, engineering, and mathematics teachers.
This issue sits at the heart of our efforts to strengthen education quality and accessibility across Zimbabwe and I appreciate the opportunity to address it in detail. The Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education operates a systematic quarterly recruitment process to address staffing gaps created by attrition including retirements, resignations, health-related departures and other unforeseen circumstances.
In 2023 alone, we recruited 10 011 educators nationwide to ensure continuity of learning in communities across the country. However, as you rightly highlighted, the unique challenge of replacing STEM teachers persists due to the high demand, both regionally and globally. Our skilled STEM educators are increasingly sought after within SADC nations and beyond, from Europe to Asia and America, which intensifies competition for these specialised professionals.
To counter this, the ministry has prioritised strategic capacity-building initiatives. Central to this effort is the Teacher Capacity Development Programme designed to upskill existing educators and align their expertise with evolving demands. For instance, primary school teachers with STEM specialisations are pursuing advanced degrees to transition into secondary-level instruction in subjects like mathematics, physics, chemistry, biology and computer science. Similarly, diploma-holding secondary teachers are upgrading their qualifications to teach advanced-level STEM subjects.
While this approach may temporarily strain staffing, it represents a sustainable, long-term solution to elevate the quality of STEM education nationwide. Collaboration with academic institutions further strengthens our strategy. Through an MOU with Zimbabwean universities, we are expanding pre-service enrolment for STEM-focused teacher trainees while simultaneously enhancing in-service training for current educators.
This dual focus ensures a steady pipeline of qualified teachers while empowering existing staff to meet higher curriculum standards. Regarding a specific concern about Gwanda North secondary schools, particularly Simbumbumbi Secondary School, I acknowledge the historical challenges in deploying agriculture and combined science teachers.
Records indicate that two pairs of educators were assigned to the school in 2023 and early 2024, but regrettably, neither reported for duty. Such incidents disrupt learning and underscore the complexities of rural postings. However, I am pleased to confirm that as of January 2024, qualified agriculture and science teachers have been successfully deployed Simbumbumbi, resolving the staffing gap. Your vigilance in highlighting constituency-level challenges is invaluable.
Feedback from leaders like you enables the ministry to identify systematic bottlenecks and refine our strategies for equitable, inclusive education. We remain committed to addressing disparities, particularly in STEM fields to ensure every learner, whether in Gwanda North or Harare has access to quality instruction. Rest assured that the Ministry will continue to monitor recruitment outcomes, invest in teacher development and strengthen partnerships to safeguard Zimbabwe's educational future.
Your advocacy for this cause is deeply appreciated. We welcome ongoing dialogue to process together. I so submit.
HON. NKALA: Thank you so much. I would like to convey my gratitude to the Hon. Minister for her response. However, my concern lies in the fact that in the three years that there has been no science teacher at a school, it means we have a complete three streams that have not learnt science in the three years that we are talking about and we are saying science is the backbone of our education where every child must have Science, English and Maths. So, if we are allowing this to go for such a long period of time, are we certain that we are going to achieve any of our targets that we have set in our development goal?
THE TEMPORARY SPEAKER: Hon. Members, the extended time has expired.
WRITTEN SUBMISSIONS TO QUESTIONS WITH NOTICE
REHABILITATION OF ROADS IN BINGA CONSTITUENCY
- 54. HON. CUMANZALA asked the Minister of Transport and Infrastructural Development to inform the House on plans in place to rehabilitate the following roads in the Binga Constituency which are impassable: a) Cross -Dete to Binga b) Nakapande turn off to Lusulu and to the Grain Marketing Depot in Lusulu and c) Tinde- Pashu Road turnoff.
THE DEPUTY MINISTER OF TRANSPORT AND INFRASTRUCTURAL DEVELOPMENT (HON. SACCO): The roads in question raised by Hon. Cumanzala are significant roads in the Binga Constituency and my ministry has a routine maintenance scheme in place which includes grading, pothole patching, bush cutting and drainage clearance. However, in terms of timelines, the periodic maintenance operations are subject to availability of resources. Cross Dete proposed loan facility is under consideration by Treasury. Negotiations are underway to finalise term sheets to reconstruct Karoi to Binga and ultimately to Cross Dete.
RESURFACING OF THE ROAD THAT LINKS BEITBRIDGE-MPHOENGS AND PLUMTREE BORDER POSTS
- HON. M NDEBELE asked the Minister of Transport and Infrastructural Development to inform the House on the progress made in the resurfacing of the road that links Beitbridge- Mphoengs and Plumtree Border posts.
HON. SACCO: The link in question is a series of roads linking Beitbridge, Gwanda, Maphisa, Mphoengs and Plumtree Border Post which are Masvingo- Beitbridge Road and Bulawayo- Beitbridge Road. I am pleased to inform the House that the Bulawayo- Beitbridge Road and the Gwanda-Maphisa Road will be rehabilitated this year, 2025 and will commence after the rains, after completion of the procurement process. Furthermore, in terms of the Bulawayo- Beitbridge Road, processes are underway in negotiating a PPP and the project is expected to kick-start as soon as possible. Moreso, the road linking Plumtree Boarder Post, Bulawayo- Plumtree is trafficable and undergoes routine maintenance from time to time. On Maphisa -Mphoengs and Plumtree-Mphoeng routine maintenance works are under WRRPT, with funds permitting.
REHABILITATION AND UPGRADING OF THE BULAWAYO-TSHOLOTSHO ROAD
- HON. L. SIBANDA asked the Minister of Transport and Infrastructural Development to inform the House on the Government policy regarding rehabilitation and upgrading of the Bulawayo-Tsholotsho Road.
HON. SACCO: One of the priority roads in Matabeleland North Province, Government policy under the Emergency Road Rehabilitation Programme is leaving no one and no place behind as pronounced by His Excellency, Dr. E. D Mnangagwa and the Bulawayo- Tsholotsho Road is part of that rehabilitation scheme. Further, with the recent developments of Tsholotsho attaining a town status, Government recognises the need for upgrading the road to a minimum of eight metres wide matte paved surface. To date, at least 14km have been upgraded and plans are underway to continue with the works with the upgrade of 10km planned for this year.
REHABILITATION OF THE BULAWAYO-VICTORIA
FALLS ROAD
- HON. V. MOYO asked the Minister of Transport and Infrastructural Development to update the House on the progress made towards rehabilitation of the Bulawayo-Victoria Falls road.
THE DEPUTY MINISTER OF TRANSPORT AND INFRASTRUCTURAL DEVELOPMENT (HON. SACCO): The procurement are underway in respect of the Bulawayo- Victoria Falls and at an advanced stage. Government, through the Ministry of Transport and Infrastructural Development is coming up with necessary Public Private Partnerships (PPPs) in order to expedite the rehabilitation of the crucial road which is a strategic trade route corridor. In the meantime, Government is conducting routine maintenance on the parts of the road which are not trafficable at the moment, which include sections such as Hwange, Halfway and Insuza.
REHABILITATION OF INYATHI ROAD
- HON. L. MAKUMIRE asked the Minister of Transport and Infrastructural Development on the Government plans on the rehabilitation of Inyati Road which was under the Emergency Road Rehabilitation Programme for the past four years.
THE DEPUTY MINISTER OF TRANSPORT AND INFRASTRUCTURAL DEVELOPMENT (HON. SACCO):
The road in question is one of the roads were taken from the councils under the Emergency Road Rehabilitation Programme. Currently, the road has been included on the routine maintenance plan by Chiredzi Town Council and minor works will be carried on you road whist we wait for full rehabilitation works from the Ministry of Transport and infrastructural Development.
RECONSTRUCTION OF THE BHILA BRIDGE IN BINGA SOUTH CONSTITUENCY
- HON. M.C. SIBANDA asked the Minister of Transport and Infrastructural Development to inform the house when the Bhila Bridge South Constituency which was swept away by floods in 2021 will be reconstructed.
THE DEPUTY MINISTER OF TRANSPORT AND INFRASTRUCTURAL DEVELOPMENT (HON. SACCO): The bridge is found on the Gwayi-Binga road and the necessary procurements plans are underway. However, in the meantime we have since deployed personnel to assist with making the section passable while we wait for the internal processes aforementioned.
PROVISION OF DRIVERS’ LICENCE DISKS FOR THE PERIOD 2018-2020
- HON. MADZIVANYIKA asked Minister of Transport and Infrastructural Development to explain to the House the progress made in the provision of driver’s license disks for the period 2018-2020 in view of the fact that those tested in 2022 and 2023 are already getting the license disks.
THE DEPUTY MINISTER OF TRANSPORT AND INFRASTRUCTURAL DEVELOPMENT (HON. SACCO): My Ministry, through the department of Central Vehicle Registry has managed to capture and verify all the driver’s license documents for the period 2019-2020. However, the new driver’s license system requires drivers to present themselves for biometric capturing (capturing of the face, the finger print and the signature. The same applies to those that were tested in 2022 and 2023 before the launch of the new driver’s license on 19 June 2023. In view of the above, those that have not presented themselves for biometric are encouraged to visit the Vehicle Inspectorate Directorate (VID) for capturing of the said biometric in order to obtain their driver’s license disks.
MITIGATION OF SILTATION OF SAVE RIVER ALONG CHIPINGE SOUTH
- HON. MAZHINDU asked the Minister of Energy and Power Development to inform the House when the Gwanda Solar Project is going to be completed.
THE MINISTER OF ENERGY AND POWER DEVELOPMENT (HON. J. MOYO): Following the Supreme Court Judgement of December 2023, which upheld a prior High Court decision affirming the validity and binding nature of the engineering, procurement and construction (EPC) contract for the Gwanda Solar Project, both ZPC and Intratrek are required to fulfill their respective obligations under the original contract. Consequently, the parties have been engaging to facilitate the project’s resumption. To date, a Joint Contract Review Committee, comprising representatives from both the contractor and ZPC, has convened multiple times to address the following key issues;
- Contract price – given the significant decline in global solar PV costs due to rapid technological advancements, the parties are nearing an agreement on a revised contract price.
- Updated feasibility study report – due to the prolonged delay in project commencement, as well as new connections to the nearby 132 kv transmission line and other network developments in the vicinity, the Committee is reviewing an updated feasibility study to refine the project’s implementation framework.
- Grid impact study – a study assessing the project’s impact on the grid has been completed and the Committee is currently reviewing the data. Once these processes are finalised, the EPC contract will be amended to incorporate the revised contract price, updated technical specifications and provisions addressing the project’s environmental and social impact.
A critical aspect of the project remains the achievement of financial closure. The contractor is required to secure funding based on the revised contract price. A funding proposal has been submitted to the Committee and is currently under review.
MOTION
BUSINESS OF THE HOUSE
THE MINISTER OF INFORMATION, PUBLICITY AND BROADCASTING SERVICES (HON. DR. MUSWERE): I move that Orders of the Day Numbers, 1 to 26, be stood over until Order of the Day, Number 27 is disposed of.
Motion put and agreed to.
CONSIDERATION STAGE
BROADCASTING SERVICES AMENDMENT BILL [H.B. 10A, 2024]
Amendments to Clauses 2, 5, 7, 13 and 19 put and agreed to.
Bill, as amended, adopted.
Third Reading: With Leave, forthwith.
THIRD READING
BROADCASTING SERVICES AMENDMENT BILL [H.B. 10A, 2024]
THE MINISTER OF INFORMATION, PUBLICITY AND BROADCASTING SERVICES (HON. DR. MUSWERE): Mr. Speaker Sir, I now move that the Bill be read the third time.
Motion put and agreed to.
Bill read the third time.
On the motion of THE MINISTER OF INFORMATION, PUBLICITY AND BROADCASTING SERVICES (HON. DR. MUSWERE), the House adjourned at Eight Minutes to Six o’clock p.m.
PARLIAMENT OF ZIMBABWE
Tuesday, 18th March, 2025.
The Senate met at Half-past Two o’clock p.m.
PRAYERS
(THE HON. DEPUTY PRESIDENT OF SENATE in the Chair)
ANNOUNCEMENTS BY THE HON. DEPUTY PRESIDENT OF SENATE
NON-ADVERSE REPORT RECEIVED FROM THE PARLIAMENTARY LEGAL COMMITTEE
THE HON. DEPUTY PRESIDENT OF SENATE: Good afternoon Hon. Senators. I have to inform the Senate that I have received a Non-Adverse Report from the Parliamentary Legal Committee on Statutory Instrument, Numbers 1 to 10 gazetted during the month of January 2025.
SWITCHING OFF OF CELLPHONES
THE HON. DEPUTY PRESIDENT OF SENATE: I have to remind Hon. Senators to put your gadgets on silent or better switch them off.
MOTION
REPORT OF THE ZIMBABWE GENDER COMMISSION FOR THE PERIOD 2023
First Order read: Adjourned debate on motion on the Report of the Zimbabwe Gender Commission for the period 2023.
Question again proposed.
*HON. SEN. SHIRI: Thank you Mr. President for according me this opportunity to add my voice on this record report which …
THE HON. DEPUTY PRESIDENT OF SENATE: Order! I am advised that you have debated on this motion.
THE MINISTER OF PROVINCIAL AFFAIRS AND DEVOLUTION FOR HARARE METROPOLITAN (HON. SEN. TAWENGWA): Mr. President Sir, I move that the debate do now adjourn.
Motion put and agreed to.
Debate to resume: Wednesday, 19th March, 2025.
MOTION
PRESIDENTIAL SPEECH: DEBATE ON ADDRESS
Second Order read: Adjourned debate on motion in reply to the Presidential Speech.
Question again proposed.
HON. SEN. GOTORA: Mr. President Sir, I move that the debate do now adjourn.
HON. SEN. MAVENYENGWA: I second.
Motion put and agreed to.
Debate to resume: Wednesday, 19th March, 2025.
MOTION
CONSTRUCTION OF DAMS AND WATER STORAGE FACILITIES
HON. SEN. MAVENYENGWA: I move the motion standing in my name that this House: -
NOTING the erratic rainfall patterns due to climate change, resulting on reliance on rain fed agriculture being unsustainable and unpredictable;
DEEPLY CONCERNED that the frequency and severity of droughts continues to threaten food security, agricultural sustainability, and rural livelihoods in Zimbabwe;
ACKNOWLEDGING that climate change mitigation requires pro-active strategies, including large-scale irrigation expansion and enhanced water resource management to ensure year-round agricultural production;
NOW, THEREFORE, urges the Government to:
- a) expedite the construction of additional dams and water storage facilities as a national climate adaptation strategy to mitigate the adverse effects of drought;
- b) accelerate the establishment and modernisation of irrigation schemes to ensure the stability of food production;
- c) conduct a nationwide assessment to identify and allocate sufficient land for large-scale irrigation to boost national food security;
- d) strengthen policies that promote climate-smart agriculture, including the adoption of advanced irrigation technologies, water-efficient farming methods, and renewable energy solutions for agricultural sustainability; and
- e) ensure increased budgetary allocations and investment in agricultural infrastructure.
HON. SEN. D. M. NCUBE: I second.
HON. SEN. MAVENYENGWA: Thank you for the opportunity you have given me to move this motion, recognising the profound challenges posed by climate change, particularly its devastating impact on agriculture. Zimbabwe's agricultural sector, which remains the backbone of our economy and a primary source of livelihood, is increasingly threatened by erratic rainfall patterns, prolonged droughts and other climate-induced shocks. It is, therefore, imperative that we shift from reliance on rain-fed agriculture to climate-resilient farming practices through large-scale irrigation and water harvesting infrastructure.
Mr. President Sir, the frequency and severity of droughts have escalated in recent years, disrupting traditional farming cycles. Farmers, particularly in arid and semi-arid regions, struggle with unreliable rainfall, leading to food insecurity and economic distress. The impact of unpredictable rainfall is not just a seasonal problem. It affects national food reserves and market stability and overall economic growth.
Mr. President, our response must be proactive and strategic. The unpredictability of rain patterns means that we must no longer view irrigation as an alternative but as a fundamental necessity. Large-scale irrigation development is no longer optional but a prerequisite for sustainable agricultural productivity. Further, food security is a matter of national importance. A nation that cannot feed itself remains vulnerable to economic shocks and external dependence. Climate change has disrupted agricultural productivity, affecting staple crops such as maize, wheat and small grains. This House must recognise that food insecurity is not just a rural problem, it affects urban areas through price inflation, import dependencies and malnutrition among vulnerable populations.
Modernising irrigation systems and improving water management will stabilise agricultural output, ensuring year-round food production. This will not only cushion Zimbabwe against drought-induced food shortages but will support Government's thrust towards achieving food self-sufficiency.
Mr. President, I wish to commend and give gratitude to the Government and his Excellency, Dr. E.D Mnangagwa, for the progressive issuance of land title deeds. This policy has the potential to be transformative as it provides farmers with secure tenure, allowing them to access financing from banks and other financial institutions. Farmers cannot invest in climate-resilient infrastructure such as boreholes, dams and modern irrigation systems without collateral.
Mr. President, I also extend my appreciation for His Excellency in championing the Pfumvudza/Intwasa initiative, a highly impactful climate-smart agricultural practice that has transformed smallholder farming in Zimbabwe. This initiative has ensured food security at the household level by promoting conservation agriculture, efficient land use and increased productivity despite erratic rainfall patterns.
However, there is a need to expand and enhance the programme by integrating modern irrigation techniques to further boost resilience against droughts.
Additionally, the Village Business Units initiative spearheaded by the Government and His Excellency is commendable. This visionary programme provides rural communities with solar-powered boreholes, Jojo tanks, gardens and fishponds, has significantly improved livelihoods while ensuring sustainable agricultural production. It is an exemplary model of rural development and must be expanded to more areas to equitable access to water resources and food security.
Mr. President, large-scale water storage is an indispensable pillar of climate adaptation. Zimbabwe is endowed with several major rivers, yet the full potential of our water resources remains underutilised. Expanding dam infrastructure will not only serve agricultural needs but will also provide water for industrial use, fisheries and domestic consumption.
The urgency to construct additional dams cannot be overstated. Regions such as Matabeleland, Masvingo and parts of Manicaland have faced recurrent droughts due to inadequate water storage. Existing dam projects must be expedited and new sites identified for future development. Additionally, community-driven small dam construction should be encouraged to empower local farmers and reduce pressure on larger water bodies.
Mr. President, I wish to particularly acknowledge the Tokwe-Mukosi Dam initiative, which stands as a testament to Zimbabwe's commitment to water security. However, while its completion was a significant milestone, its full utilisation remains pending.
The Government must expedite the full operationalisation of Tokwe-Mukosi by ensuring the development of irrigation infrastructure around the dam, enabling thousands of hectares of farmland to benefit from its vast water resources. This will not only enhance food security but also create employment opportunities in agriculture and related industries.
Mr. President, moreover, irrigation schemes have been the cornerstone of agricultural stability in many successful economies.
However, many of Zimbabwe's existing irrigation systems are outdated, inefficient or underutilised due to maintenance challenges and a lack of investment. This House must advocate for a robust national programme to rehabilitate and modernise irrigation infrastructure. We need to prioritise the adoption of water-efficient irrigation technologies such as drip irrigation, centre pivots and precision watering techniques. These methods not only maximise water use but also ensure optimal crop growth, reducing dependence on unpredictable rainfall.
Mr. President Sir, climate-resilient agriculture cannot be achieved without strategic land use planning. A nationwide land assessment must be undertaken to identify and allocate arable land, specifically for large-scale irrigation projects. The assessment should focus on factors such as soil suitability, proximity to water sources and potential for high-value crops. This will enable a targeted approach to irrigation expansion, ensuring that investments yield maximum productivity.
Furthermore, land use policies should discourage settlement patterns that disrupt agricultural potential, ensuring that prime land is dedicated to food production.
Mr. President Sir, climate-smart agriculture is no longer a theoretical concept. It is an urgent necessity. Policies must promote: -
- The adoption of drought-resistant crop varieties and
improved seed technologies;
- The use of solar-powered irrigation to reduce reliance on
erratic electricity supplies;
- The application of soil moisture conservation techniques
such as mulching and minimum tillage, to enhance water retention by the soil.
Additionally, investment in agricultural research and extension services is critical to equip farmers with knowledge on best practices for climate and agriculture adaptation. Agricultural colleges and research institutions should be adequately funded to spearhead innovations that enhance resilience against climate change.
Mr. President, all these proposed interventions require a deliberate financial commitment. The national budget must reflect the urgency of climate adaptation in agriculture. Increased allocations towards dam construction, irrigation expansion and climate-smart agricultural programmes must be prioritised.
Moreover, the Government should actively engage with international development partners to secure funding and technical assistance for climate adaptation projects. Public-private partnerships (PPPs) must also be explored to leverage private sector investment in agricultural infrastructure.
Mr. President, as I sum up, this motion is not just about responding to climate change. It is about securing the future of our nation. A well-fed population is a productive population. A stable agricultural sector translates into economic resilience, reduced poverty and national stability. We must act with urgency. This House must send a strong message that the time for rhetoric is over. This is the time for action by implementing the measures outlined in this motion. Zimbabwe will not only mitigate the impact of climate change but will also emerge as a leader in sustainable agricultural practices in the region.
I, therefore, urge this House to support this motion and ensure that the Government takes immediate steps to build climate-resilient agricultural infrastructure for the benefit of current and future generations. I thank you Mr. President. – [HON. SENATORS: Hear, hear.] –
*HON. SEN. GOTORA: Thank you Mr. President. Let me take this opportunity to add my voice to this pertinent motion which was tabled by Hon. Sen. Mavenyengwa. This motion helps us these days on how we should evade climatic change, especially in agriculture and even our animal husbandry.
Hon. Senator Mavenyengwa articulated what should happen in terms of how we should live these days. He talked about irrigation schemes, PPEs and the modern ways of living. I want to go back a little bit concerning this motion, that it is not all of us who are able to use the methods that he has articulated. Some of us grew up naming the rainfalls. There were what you call Nhuruka, Gukurahundi and Bumharutsva but all these are no longer there. The rains just come. We do not even have winter rains. If you do not get to use the first rains, you would have lost. The question is; what should we do as a way forward for those who cannot get access to dams, because dams require a lot of money and the types of farming that Hon. Mavenyengwa referred to require a lot of funding. Some of us stay in faraway places near the borders. Even those who are in regions 1 and 2, what should they do? I think we should revert to the grains that used to be farmed by our ancestors, that they would harvest even during drought seasons. They would be assured of having grain in their granaries.
Firstly, we should go back to the Zunderamambo because chiefs had ways of providing food to each and every household. Those who failed to harvest would get food from the chiefs' granaries. What type of crops would the chiefs keep in their granaries? They would keep rapoko. If you go to the caves, you would find rapoko there, that is the first crop that we want to encourage people to grow. I do not know the individual name but they are there in the Matabeleland area.
The second crop is sorghum. It is not prone to weevils and does not require a lot of rain, it does not need fertilizers and irrigation. We are doing this so that we are able to curb the climatic change which is affecting everyone worldwide. There are several types of sorghum and hybrid types that need a lot of water. But long back we had varieties of sorghum that did not need any fertilizers, pesticides, or even more rain.
We have cowpeas which are different from hybrid cowpeas. The hybrid needs a lot of water. I am not saying we should not grow them but I think one should have a portion of traditional cowpeas so that if we have more rains or fewer rains, at least people will get something to eat.
We also have sesame seeds. It looks like it is a new seed but sesame seeds were there long back. In Guruve, Zaka and Uzumba-Maramba-Pfungwe, we grew up seeing that type of crop and we ate those types of seeds. There is another crop called buckwheat. It does not need any irrigation. After harvesting your groundnuts, you can just sow it and within a short space of time, it flowers, then we harvest.
The animals that we are keeping also need water, especially the breeds that we have these days. They need to also adapt to climatic change. The animals that we keep need more grazing area, they also need lots of water to drink and need to be dipped, which means we need a lot of water to put in our dip tanks but if we go back to rearing our old breeds of goat, they did not need any dipping.
We had a type of cow called Tuli, not what we are seeing these days which are very big breeds. They only needed a small grazing area and less drinking water. If we could go back to rearing that breed of cow but it would not be as profitable because these days, we want more weight so that we get more money. The traditional Tuli was like the traditional Shona cows. They did not need a lot of grazing area, a lot of drinking water and they could fight the ticks on their own. So people would live on that.
We also want to grow wild fruits which we grew up eating. We want to teach our children the types of fruits they do not know so that they will be able to eat those fruits. Those fruits could be dried and kept but you cannot dry an orange. We encourage each other to go back to the old days. If we want to fight the scarcity of water, we should change our eating habits because what we want to eat these days demands a lot of water. Those who know about nutrition which was there long back, which does not require a lot of water when we are growing the crops, we should teach each other so that we will be able to eat food that will make us survive droughts.
Lastly, Mr. President, what I have talked about, what we are supposed to grow, we should not demarcate our fields according to the crops but follow what we used to do because long back, people would do intercropping. I came across this in East Africa. If you go to Sudan or Uganda, you find that they would have all the crops in one field. Those types of crops share water so that the crops that need water get their water from the other crops in the same field.
With these few words, Mr. President, I want to thank Hon. Mavenyengwa for bringing this motion on climate change. We should be aware of it so that we do not face any challenges. I thank you.
*HON. SEN. SHIRI: Thank you Mr. President, for giving me this opportunity. I want to thank Senator Mavenyengwa for this pertinent motion which looks at climate change. It can be droughts, heat waves, floods and wildfires which will cause the emanation of carbon dioxide which affects the atmosphere.
Looking at climate change you find that challenges of climatic change is now world-wide such that people are now putting their heads together to come up with ways to get out of this pandemic. Worldwide, crops that are being harvested are at 30%. If farmers do not adapt to climatic change, as someone has alluded to, harvesting of crops like wheat, rice and maize can decrease to 35% to 10% because of climatic change.
Now climate change causes food insecurity. Over 80 million people in Africa are not food secure because of climate change because the rain seasons have changed. Long back, the first rains would come in September but these days, the first rains can come in December. I do not know from the chiefs, the knowledge that used to be there whether it is still there. We really need to be educated so that we can read the times. The other things that affect economic impact are caused by climatic change. Zimbabwe is in Southern Africa. Forty-three million people will be pushed into poverty in 2030 because of climate change.
Climate change causes a lot of things like floods, cyclones and extreme winters which affect our cattle and our crops. You find that we no longer have grazing areas for our cattle. We live on cattle ranching and growing crops. That is why people are being encouraged to farm animals like goats. So, we should change the way that we live. It is better to have goats than cattle only because if we stick to cattle farming, they are affected by a lot of diseases.
Some of the diseases are being caused by climate change. This issue of climate change is very important to us and we should move with the times. We should move with the times in accordance with climate change so that we win. When it comes to farming, people just want to farm maize, whether it is drought or not. There are short seasons.
We have ground nuts and rapoko and they resist heat. If we have drought, you can harvest because they do not need a lot of water. Broilers consume a lot of water as we are farming them.
At times, we will not have the water because the water level of boreholes would have really gone down. So, you could balance irrigating and farming. Instead of broilers, we can do our road runners which are drought resistant. I think we should go back to the old ways. Have you noticed that this year, in the Midlands where I come from, we are affected by armyworms? You find that those are results of climate change. Long back, we would have locusts.
So, things are changing due to climate change and we should be ready. That is why we have our technology. We have drones that spray and show satellite data of what is happening. We should move with the times and do what should be done according to the seasons. This is because you cannot spray 10 hectares manually. Climate change is here even in Zimbabwe, we are experiencing it.
We used to read about it when we were reading about hurricanes. However, now we know that climate change is real. There is a lot of education that should go on so that the majority should be taught about climate change and how it affects our lives on agriculture, especially us the disabled. If these floods are flash floods, they will affect us as the disabled.
The issues of climate change are very important that as a country, we should come up with laws. We should come up with disaster risk management Bills. We should include how climate change affects our lives from farming and our lives as people on how we should be ready, the early warning systems. It just does not come but gives warnings. We should be aware of the signs.
Now we know about cyclones. Many people know the patterns of cyclones but are the majority of people aware of that? People should be taught that this year there is going to be a cyclone and they should grow such types of crops. That information should reach all the people especially the disabled. The information should be in sign language and all other languages so that it reaches everyone. I was on Kasambabezi station and people were calling me from Hurungwe from all those areas. It is like they were not in Zimbabwe because there is some information that they are not aware of. Many people when they hear about climatic change, they do not know what it is. Other things that we can do because we see the presentations on international forum, we should make sure that all the people are represented especially women. They are the ones who are really affected. They should be in the midst of it voicing because carrying a bucket of water for 10 kilometres is not easy.
I once heard a fellow woman saying that because of shortage of water, I have not had a bath in two weeks. So, the issue on climate change, resources should be channelled so that we are ready as a nation and that if national disasters are coming, we are ready and are well catered for. Truly, we all have our work to do to fight climate change. With these few words Mr. President, I want to thank you for according me this opportunity.
HON. SEN. MATIBIRI: Thank you Mr. President. I also want to express my appreciation for the introduction of this motion from Hon. Senator Mavenyengwa. It is a very important motion. I agree with him that as we debate this motion, let us be guided by the understanding that the time for rhetoric is over and it is important to move towards implementation. This motion comes at a time when Zimbabwe has set its eyes on becoming an Upper Middle-Income nation by 20230.
Mr. President, when I think of an Upper Middle-Income nation, I see a nation with happiness and joy. I see families that are food secure, I see workers with disposable incomes and I see healthy people who are contributing to the growth of their nation. That is my vision of an Upper Middle-Income society which we want to achieve by 2030. It is common cause that Zimbabwe has been receiving erratic rains over the years. This was because of climate related factors.
The 2023/2024 season is an example where we received less rains than those that are sufficient to ensure food security at household level even at national level. It is also common that Zimbabwe is an agro-based nation with 30% of gross domestic product coming from agric-related activities. It therefore stands to reason that if we want to achieve an Upper Middle-Income society by 2030, agriculture is a pivotal pillar, so is mining and tourism. We acknowledge this in various blue prints and various policy documents.
We also understand that Zimbabwe’s main farming activities are supported by natural rains that come from heaven and if it does not rain, we have no other option. Our irrigation facilities are not sufficient to impact positively towards our vision for becoming an Upper Middle-Income Society by 2030. This is the context in which this motion is being moved, that let us climate proof ourselves – [HON. MEMBERS: Hear, hear.]- Climate proof in the sense that we will be able to achieve our vision because climate change is real but within that context of climate change, we still want to achieve our vision of becoming an Upper Middle-Income society by 2030.
If Zimbabwe relies on rain fed agriculture, any disturbance in rainfall patterns will impact negatively on economic growth and household food security. Mr. President, I am not an expert in national security but I want to submit that a nation that is not food secure is also insecure. Hungry people are very difficult to govern. People need food for the security of this nation.
This motion is challenging the Government to adopt mechanisms, strategies and policies which are meant to create an alternative source of water for our crops and animals without having to rely on rain-fed agriculture. There are examples like Singapore which has achieved that over the years, the same with Israel and Egypt. They have turned deserts into thriving agricultural activities and with it, their economies have grown. What I am saying is, if we have set our eyes on becoming an Upper Middle-Income Society by 2030, let us priorities smart agriculture.
We cannot achieve that status by relying on rain-fed agriculture. It is impossible and we cannot. We just have to be serious about transforming the way we farm. If we do that, we will slowly release a lot of our farmers from farming. A nation that is serious with agriculture has less of its farmers into farming. When you see that a lot of your people are into farming, it means you have not mechanised, you have not put in enough technology to produce more.
I know those who went to Precabe Farm, we used to know of the 12-tonne club and 12 tonnes per hectare, meaning farmers are harvesting 12 tonnes per hectare and we thought that was the highest but through mechanised agriculture, we can achieve 17 tonnes and I think we can achieve more. So, the more we rely on rain-fed agriculture, we will harvest less of our crops. If we want to support this pillar which is very important and contributes to the growth domestic product of this nation, we must go for technology, irrigation and we must, without any shadow of doubt, invest in large-scale water harvesting.
I acknowledge the existence of Tugwi/Mukosi, Gwayi/Shangani and other dams that are under construction, but I think we need to do more if our vision for becoming an Upper Middle-Income Society by 2030 is to be realised. This is the context in which Hon. Senator Mavenyengwa is asking this Senate, that let us move from rhetoric to implementation. Let the Government prioritise the development of large-scale irrigation facilities in this country, without which we will retrogress. That is when we begin to think about growing cereals and small grains so that we vaccinate ourselves from the vagaries of drought.
We can do that and survive but is that sufficient to march us towards that vision of becoming an Upper Middle-Income society by 2030? No, we need to do more. My challenge is that we certainly need to put our money where our mouth is. If we are saying agriculture is going to contribute significantly to the economy of this nation, let us put our money there. If we are saying tourism, let us put our money there. Let us rehabilitate dams and identify national projects. It has been done before with little success but I think we learnt some lessons.
They have tried to grow maize in winter in this country through irrigation. I think we should have picked some lessons on what is possible and what is not possible. We cannot say we failed, but we picked some lessons. Let us identify large areas, construct dams, irrigate our crops and restore our status of becoming a bread basket of not only Zimbabwe, but the entire region of SADC. I thank you.
HON. SEN. MUNZVERENGWI: Thank you Mr. President for awarding me this opportunity. I want to take this opportunity to thank Hon. Senator Mavenyengwa for raising a pertinent motion. I also want to take this opportunity to thank the Senators who debated and supported the motion by Hon. Senator Mavenyengwa.
The issue of climate change has affected all countries. The issue of climate change is an issue that is bothering and affecting many countries. It needs countries to come together and come up with ideas to fight climate change. When we were growing up in countries like Iceland and North Pole on huge mountains, you could see on television a block of ice falling and melting. We are now experiencing cyclones and some other climate changes. This is an indication that climate change is not affecting Zimbabwe only but many countries.
Mr. President, there are many pertinent points which have been raised in this august House. There is also an issue of hot seasons in summer. You will find that there are heat waves that are affecting our water reservoirs like dams and rivers. This indicates that it is going to affect the water table. In the past when boreholes were drilled, you could get water at 10 metres but for you to reach the water table, it is now 100 and 150 metres. This indicates that the water table is going deeper. Is there any programme or ideas which we can come up with as a country to see the level and impact of climate change on the underground water?
We must come up with ideas to monitor and know the amount and level of impact of climate change on the underground water. Even the plants which have already been mentioned by other Hon. Senators, are there any government programmes to educate people on the issue of drought-resistant farming plants? It is very important to educate people so that people can understand very well issues of climate change. Also, notify them about their geographical regions to the crops that must be planted in these different areas like Rapoko and different areas. At present, we see that those who used the Pfumvudza programme have managed to harvest than those who did not embark on the programme, their crops wilted. This is a clear indication that people must accept that if you plant using the Pfumvudza way which was introduced by His Excellency, the President, it is another way which has been done by the Government to alleviate hunger. The Pfumvudza programme is another way to alleviate climate change and also alleviate the level of hunger in the country.
I also want to emphasise what the previous speaker who alluded to the point that teaching people about climate change and how to fight climate change is best as also teaching them the best practices to prevent climate change. Our country was involved in the Land Reform Programme, but in all these areas in which the Land Reform Programme was done, there are dams which are there and the water in the dams must be utilised properly in terms of irrigation so that the country can have enough food security. The previous speaker also alluded to the fact that a country with hungry people says a lot of things and it becomes a security threat but if we have enough food in the country, there is peace and tranquility.
Let me conclude by saying the issue of climate change, if it was possible for the Government department which is responsible for climate change and those who are responsible for farming, it must be allocated enough funds to look at the best practices and ideas on how the country can be assisted in fighting against climate change and bringing peace through food security and a good climate. Thank you Mr. President for awarding me this opportunity.
HON. SEN. MAVENYENGWA: I move that the debate do now adjourn.
HON. SEN. NCUBE: I second.
Motion put and agreed to.
Debate to resume: Wednesday 19th March, 2025.
MOTION
LEGALISATION OF TERMINATION OF PREGNANCY
Fourth Order read: Adjourned debate on motion on the access to safe legal abortion services.
Question again proposed.
HON. SEN. MUPFUMIRA: Thank you Mr. President for allowing me to contribute to this motion. I rise today not just as a legislator but as a woman, a mother, a grandmother and as a representative of millions of Zimbabwean women and families who hold sacred the values of life, family, faith and community. As we gather to deliberate on the proposal to legalise or liberalise abortion in Zimbabwe, we must be guided by the foundational principles of our nation, our Constitution, our culture, our faith and collective morality. This debate strikes at the very heart of who we are as a people.
To even find ourselves discussing at what point it is acceptable to terminate life is in itself deeply troubling. It feels alien to our identity as Africans, as Zimbabweans, to value life from its very beginning on the right to life. Mr. President, our starting point is clear. Section 48 of the Constitution of Zimbabwe guarantees the right to life. It makes no distinction between the born and the unborn. If we as lawmakers, have sworn to uphold the Constitution, we must equally protect the life of the child in the womb, the unborn child - mwana anokosha. We are a country that recently abolished the death penalty, recognising the sanctity of every human life, even for those who have committed grievous crimes. How then can we contemplate ending the life of an innocent child who has committed no crime? That would be the greatest form of injustice, hypocrisy and double standards. The Universal Declaration of Human Rights states plainly that everyone has the right to life, liberty and security. Everyone including the unborn child, life begins at conception. The laws on exceptions are very clear in Zimbabwe. We have them.
They have given exceptions for cases of rape victims, medical reasons and incest, among others. The Ministry of Health and Child Care has a mandate to preserve life and not to take it. The role of the Ministry of Health is to save lives. While reproductive health services are important, they must never come at the cost of human life. Enabling termination of pregnancy as a solution to social problems risks turning our health institutions into centers of death rather than life. We acknowledge that criminalisation alone does not deter unsafe abortions, but the answer lies not in legalising abortion but in addressing the root causes - lack of education, poverty, sexual violence and weak support systems. Let us strengthen maternal health care and support women through difficult pregnancies.
As Zimbabweans, our identity is steeped in the values of ubuntu, I am because we are. Our Shona, Ndebele and other African cultures celebrate life as sacred from conception. In Shona traditions, pregnancy is a communal joy, celebrated and protected. A woman who carries life is revered, not dismissed or encouraged to discard her unborn child. The Pan-African Charter on Human and People's Rights calls on us to protect the moral and cultural values of our communities. Legalising abortion risks eroding our values, traditions and identity as Africans. Even the current President of the United States Donald Trump, despite the many criticisms he faces, is known for his pro-life stance.
He appointed judges who overturned Roe vs. Wade, reversing the legalisation of abortion in the United States after nearly 50 years. If even Trump can stand for life, can we not do the same for Zimbabwe? Pro-life is pro-woman. We cannot elevate one's life at the expense of another. The life of an unborn child is just as valuable as the life of the woman who carries it.
Psalm 139 verses, 13-14 declares, for you created my innermost being. You knit me together in my mother's womb. I am fearfully and wonderfully made. In my mother's womb, not outside my mother's womb. As women, we know the trauma that an unplanned pregnancy can bring but abortion leaves lasting scars, both physical and emotional. Studies published in the British Journal of Psychiatry reveal increased rates of depression, anxiety, substance abuse, and even suicide among women who have had abortions. The Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education has already taken progressive steps by allowing pregnant schoolgirls to remain in school, ensuring that they do not lose their future because of pregnancy.
Statutory Instrument 13 of 2025 mandates psycho-social support and ongoing education for these girls. Let us continue to support and not to destroy. Zimbabwe, Mr. President, is a predominantly Christian nation, with over 80% of our population professing their Christian faith.
Even in this Parliament, we start with a prayer, ending with, ‘through the same Christ our Lord’. Now, the Jesus we are proclaiming, let us get back to basics, to the Ten Commandments. One of the most serious, in my faith we call them mortal sins is, ‘thou shalt not kill’. Killing starts from the time conception is achieved. Our Constitution acknowledges the supremacy of God Almighty, including this Parliament.
Jeremiah 1 verse 5 tells us, before I formed you, in the womb I knew you. This is just describing how sanctity is our life and the dignity of life, is what we are talking about now. The Catholic Church, under Pope Francis, has consistently opposed abortion, calling it homicide. Pope Francis said, abortion, I quote, is like hiring a hitman to eliminate human life. While the church extends mercy to women, it firmly teaches that life is sacred from the moment of conception. As Christians and as a nation under God, we cannot legislate laws that stand in opposition to our faith and beliefs.
Mr. President, the issue of morality, what kind of a society do we want to become? What kind of morality are we building? If we legalise abortion on demand, are we not setting a dangerous precedent that life is disposable when inconvenient? Do we want to look back and realise we became the generation that legalised killing of the unborn? And yet, as a nation, as a Parliament, as Zimbabwe, we reversed the death penalty. We were elected by people who dream of a Zimbabwe that grows into a prosperous, self-reliant, middle-income nation, not one that devalues its people before they are even born. Let other countries adopt these anti-life laws but not our God-given Zimbabwe. We must address the root cause. Rape, incest and abuse must be met with the harshest, deterrent sentences so that people will not freely rape, knowing that they will get away with it. Rape is one of those issues we should have severe sentencing, maybe more than 50 years and no parole. This will deter people who take it lightly. What we need to do as Parliamentarians is to ensure that the enforcement and the timeous enforcement of rapists is done soonest. Just like the issue on the stealing of cattle. You know that if you just steal one cow, it is nine years straight. So, we should come up with such laws which deter and make people afraid of rape.
Talking of rape, it is not outside people who do the rape. We in the families are protecting the rapists and women in particular because he is my brother or he is my son-in-law, I will not get what I was supposed to get, so let us not report. They must be reported immediately. It is the family which is protecting these rapists. In the end, we want to kill the unborn child.
We know in Zimbabwe, if you do not have a child, you will be given all sorts of names; ngomwa, whatever but what makes us so sure that this unborn child I was going to have, maybe that is the only one which God had given me and I want the child killed. Who remains with psycho-social pain even long after we are gone? We want to make sure that our children are going to be in trouble. They also have conscience. We have laws here which stipulate clearly that a child is a child under 18. We should ensure that as a society and as a country, we have deterrent activities. It should not take more than two weeks or a week. We should have instances that once it is found out that this has happened, the police should come in and the doctors should do their work promptly so that justice is done instantly because justice delayed is justice denied.
So, by making it easy for the rapists to kill the unborn child, we are making them get away with murder. During the contributions, some people said one of the issues is that we do not want to stay in the family with a child whom we do not know the father. So, it is better to make sure that the child is not disturbed; so let us just kill it. I want to pose a question to people in this House, men in particular. How sure are you that those you call your children are your children? How sure are you? We, the women, know that this is my child but in Shona, we have a saying that gomba harina mwana and you are busy looking after children who are not yours. But now this one, because the child is young, you say let us just kill. Let us address the issue. Instead of ending lives, we must offer better alternatives such as foster parenting, adoption and safe homes that can provide sanctuary for both the mother and child.
As families, we also love our children even if they are raped. Let us look after them and love them because you never know in future who is going to look after you. Maybe that person you killed because the father was not known; how many families do you know who have children whose fathers are unknown? They are still part of our family and that is our culture. However, let us deter the rapists. To families worried about shame, I mean I just said it now, do not worry about shame because you do not know, we have just told you these are your children. Let us just adopt and accept the children who come to us.
In conclusion, this is an ethical and moral matter and one that should be addressed not just through law but through deep societal healing. Government should work closely with churches, traditional leaders and community organisations. We must be bold and courageous to fight the root cause and not just the system. As it is written in Deuteronomy 30:19, “I have set before you, life and death, blessings and curses”. Now, let us choose life so that you and your children may live. I thank you.
THE HON. DEPUTY PRESIDENT OF SENATE: Thank you Hon. Senator Mupfumira.
HON. SEN. MLOTSHWA: Mr. President, thank you for the recognition. I rise today to support the motion raised by Honorable Chinyanga, a motion to review the Termination of Pregnancy Act. Mr. President, our prayer is that the Parliament of Zimbabwe urgently reviews the Termination of Pregnancy Act, [Chapter 15:10] of 1977 to address its discriminatory provisions and to align our laws with international best practices. It is imperative that we look inward at our laws and their implications to our constituents, especially the vulnerable population such as girls under the age of 18. This is a group very close to my heart Mr. President. As a mother, I shall focus mainly on these young girls below the age of 18.
It is true that most women or girls in Zimbabwe have been sexually abused at a certain point in their lives. The statistics are there and it is said one in four women between the ages of 15 to 49 have been sexually abused according to a recent study by UNFPA. This figure is alarming Honorable Members, considering that the world average according to UNCEF is 1:8 in women or girls. Therefore, as a country, we have a huge problem. We have a high prevalence of sexual abuse. The consequences of sexual abuse are nothing new to us. We know sexually transmitted diseases are passed and also unwanted pregnancy. Our laws are very clear. Thanks to the Constitution and to the criminal laws, protection of children and young people, that the age of consent is set at 18 years. However, we know that in our constituencies, young girls become sexually active before they attain the age of 18 years. But our law is very clear that any intercourse with this group is illegal.
The problem that has stemmed from this is that these young girls are getting pregnant either as a result of forced sexual intercourse or within the Romeo and Juliet scenario with their young boyfriends. I will explain these two scenarios and how our law is affecting the girl child. Firstly, for the forced intercourse, I tell you that there are living examples of those who report the matter but fail to get a termination on time. The current procedure of obtaining termination order is just too cumbersome. I think we all know of the case Mr. President, of Mildred Mapingure, which has already been mentioned by the mover of the motion. Victims are referred from the police to the prosecutors, to the doctors and to the magistrates. There are no clear timelines or procedures.
I suggest Mr. President, having a designated office for these scenarios and ready and trained officers who will assist victims. Mr. President, there should be an internal referral pathway wherein once a file is opened by the police, they know they are sending it to a medical person, then the prosecutor and finally the magistrate. That should be done by officials themselves within their structure rather than burden the victim.
Hon. Members, Mr. President, imagine a 14-year-old who has been raped. They have never been to the court, the police, or the hospital. We expect them to find the relevant persons within these institutions. This is burdening an already burdened individual. Some victims are even asked to wait until the finalisation of the trial but this takes ages and the victims end up giving birth. We have to do away with bureaucratic processes. They are necessary and irrelevant.
Mr. President, the second group is those girls below 18 who indulge in sexual intercourse with their boyfriends and we know this generation is doing it. It is not a secret. Technology has exposed them to these things and it is happening no matter how we want to deny it. However, these young girls are not allowed to access contraceptives and end up getting pregnant.
I will tell you as a rural MP that in most rural areas, most girls do not reach the age of 18 before they become pregnant. Remember the statistics from our Government last year. Around 4,557 girls dropped out of school due to pregnancy, 3 942 were from rural areas and 615 were from urban areas. Hon. Members, Mr. President, this means over 4 000 girls have a hopeless future.
We are busy trying to empower the girl child and boosting our Constitution to provide equal opportunities for men and women. Busy citing section 80 but meanwhile, over 4 500 girls are dropping out of school and have joined the vicious cycle of poverty.
In that report from last year, Hon.Torerai Moyo, the Minister of Primary and Secondary Education cited that there is an Education Act that allows girls to continue with education, but we all know that once a girl becomes a mother, life changes. One cannot go back to school. At the same time, 4, 00 boys who impregnated these girls are continuing with their lives and empowering themselves.
Hon. Members, Mr. President, my heart bleeds in that the second group of girls where there was consensual sex with their age mates, that is not considered as rape. Our law is therefore clear that termination of pregnancy is not permissible in their circumstances. This means that a girl who wants to terminate ends up going for the concoctions, the hangers and the needles and will lose life through the backstreet terminations.
Mr. President, Hon. Members, I support the motion mainly focussing on the girls below 18. Our law has excluded them. They should be included in the permissible grounds.
Furthermore, I wish to emphasise that the already existing law is not fully protecting the girl child as the procedures are bureaucratic. I propose Mr. President, Hon. Members, that we review the Termination of Pregnancy Act, specifically to address the following: - that we repeal sections 5 to 8 of the Act and the regulations that ensure we do away with rape for termination. We should do away with the requirement of approval by two doctors and approval by the superintendent.
Secondly, introduce a one-stop shop where victims of sexual abuse report their matter and are urgently assisted in obtaining an order of termination of pregnancy.
Thirdly, introduce timelines, for example, that the order of termination and the termination process must be completed within four weeks of the report. Lastly, the definition of unlawful sexual intercourse includes sexual intercourse with a minor.
In conclusion, Mr. President, this motion is a welcome development in Zimbabwe. We should take notes from our regional friends, especially Rwanda. As mentioned by the mover, this review of the Act is not encouraging killings but seeking to slightly expand the already existing grounds to include vulnerable girls below 18 years. This is to empower them and ensure they have equal opportunities like their male counterparts and that they enjoy their constitutional rights, especially the right to education.
Mr. President, in pursuit of a just and equitable society, we must ensure that our laws reflect the rights of all citizens, not just a select few. Hon. Members, as I conclude, can we as parents, as grandparents, think of our children, think of how much they are affected by rape and think of those who are experiencing incest. We had a case in my constituency of a young girl who got pregnant, of course, by her boyfriend. When she told the boyfriend that she was pregnant, she was 14 years old, the boy told her, no, I cannot accept the pregnancy because I think you have many other boyfriends. She went on to commit suicide.
So, this loss of life that we are talking about, remember that we are losing our children because whether we amend the Act or we review the Act, abortions are still happening. Over 66 000 illegal abortions happen every year in this country.
Let us think of our children. Let us think of their future. When your 12-year-old is raped, her getting a termination must be swift. She deserves it. She is a young girl. She did not ask to be raped. Of course, we should prosecute the rapists swiftly and what they get at the High Court, it should be a deterrent that they stop raping. However, the fact that the Government is to come in to deal with our sexual moralities and immoralities shows we have a problem, a problem of children who are being raped and a problem of incest in this country. I attended a workshop of young girls Mr. President and these girls are in universities. They were telling me that there is no week in the university where there is someone who has not had an illegal abortion. Our children are dying and we want to claim we are a moral country. If we are moral, we should stop sleeping with children. Mr. President, thank you very much.
HON. SEN. CHINYANGA: I move that the debate do now adjourn.
HON. RUNGANI: I second.
Motion put and agreed to.
Debate to resume: Wednesday, 19th March, 2025.
MOTION
PROTECTION OF GENDER RIGHTS AND PENALTIES TO OFFENDERS FLOUTING GENDER LAWS
Fifth Order read: Adjourned debate on motion on the protection of Gender Rights.
Question again proposed.
*HON. SEN. SHIRI: Thank you Mr. President for giving me this opportunity to add my voice to the motion tabled by Hon. Sen. Mlotshwa on the issue of gender rights. The issue of gender rights is very pertinent. It encompasses men and women, the elderly, boys and girls, the disabled, the educated and uneducated, the poor and the rich. This clearly indicates that there are a lot of things that can be faced by people in terms of equality and rights being processed even in the courts, the justice system and digital rights. A lot of issues are being included in the issue of rights.
The Republic of Zimbabwe came up with the Gender Commission, which is an independent body. The issue of the rights of every Zimbabwean, which includes both men and women, boys and girls, or the elderly, is very important. Our Gender Commission was sanctioned in the Constitution of Zimbabwe, especially Sections 245 to 247, which clearly state the mandate of the Commission. One of the roles of the Commission is to investigate, research and see how people are enjoying their rights and how their rights are being infringed upon both as men and women and also come up with the solutions in addressing the inequality that exists between men and women in their livelihoods, which includes wealth, education, leadership, jobs and any other areas.
This is a very pertinent issue because in our daily lives, there is a tendency of looking down upon others, while others see themselves as superior. But as individuals, we are all equal and our rights must be observed and upheld, be it women or men, a girl or a boy child. Our Gender Commission conducted research in conjunction with different institutions like Chinhoyi University of Technology (CUT), Midlands State University, Great Zimbabwe University among others, in a bid to see how the issue of gender rights is being handled, especially focussing on the girl child.
Several requests were received and put forward to the Gender Commission from different institutions so that they can conduct surveys in their institutions. There were more complaints, especially from the girl child, from these institutions. For example, the girl child was requested to fall in love with older people, be they lecturers or any other members of staff. These people were requesting for sexual favours in exchange for good examination marks.
However, the male lecturers also indicated that some of the female students were dressing indecently but as an august House, we are here to determine and review if the rights of a girl or boy child are being observed and also which group is the most affected in terms of violation of human rights; and those who are facing the issue of sexual harassment, especially in the public transport sector or any other area.
I once heard a disabled lady, in a wheelchair, saying they were being humiliated when the hwindis or rank marshals were saying, let me carry this lady, she is very attractive. You see that even the rights of those living with disabilities are being infringed upon. It is not good to make suggestive comments because sexual harassment is against the law. People must learn to abide by the law. Even the pregnant women are not being spared. You find that often times the women are being told that their breasts are big or whatever rubbish they say. It is something which is bad and really violates the rights of that human being. It also destroys the confidence of the girl child because they are already vulnerable.
So, from the research that was conducted by the Zimbabwe Gender Commission, 8189 people participated in the survey; 3 486 were men and 4713 were females. The results showed that a ratio of 8 out of 12 people face sexual harassment every day. The research also indicated that some of the institutions do not have the gender policy in place. They do not even have the Gender and Sexual Harassment Policy. Every organisation should have a Gender and Sexual Harassment policy in place, Parliament included. This is meant for the protection of women and girls from sex predators who seek sexual favours.
Women also have the right to fall in love without abuse being involved because as a woman or as a girl child, she has the right to say no or yes. Hence, I am encouraging all institutions to come up with sexual harassment policies to prevent this issue of human rights abuse as girls bear the brunt most of the time in terms of sexual harassment acts. The rights of most girls who live in rural areas are being infringed upon, but they are not aware due to their ignorance of the law.
I am now going back to people living with disabilities. Someone observed that this disabled person was raped and the perpetrator told the victim that I have done you a favour, how else were you going to experience sexual activity? Even those who are disabled have got the right to say no or yes. They are human beings. That is why you see that there are some grown up people who rape young people with disabilities because they do not see them as humans or people who have got rights.
Let us give opportunities and equality to all. We must also look at the fact that in the past, women were being looked down upon in terms of education. That is why right now we are advocating that the girl child and women must be given priority. Even when they are getting their points, they must also get some favours because they are looked down upon.
The issue of gender rights, you see that the boy child is given more time to read but it is different when it comes to the girl child. She is expected to do house chores and other things and when it comes to time for reading, you will find out that the girl child is now tired but the boy child is active. Hence, all those things must be taken into consideration.
I am happy that women are now raising the issue of 50/50. We now have gender champions from our male counterparts and even the chiefs are now being involved in the issues of gender equality. Right now, the chiefs in conjunction with the National Aids Council (NAC) have a programme which says not in my village or not in my areas of jurisdiction. So, the chiefs are working together with the Government to raise awareness in terms of gender rights. Hence, I am imploring all the Hon. Members in this august House to work hard towards the elimination of gender inequality. We are all important. Let us also uphold the law of equality and all those who are looking down upon others, especially the boy or the girl child, must face the wrath of the law.
We see that most of the time, people are advocating for the rights of the girl child but they are leaving behind the boy child. We must include all of them because they are very important. These children are our future leaders. They must know that the girl child is not someone to be looked down upon but someone to be encouraged, to be uplifted. For example, when people die, you see that the graves look the same and they are buried in the same area, whether it is male or female. Hence, all of us were created in God's image and we must also uphold the issue of equality. Thank you Mr. President.
HON. SEN. MLOTSHWA: Madam President, I move that debate be now adjourned.
HON. SEN. CHAPFUDZA: I second.
Motion put and agreed to.
Debate to resume: Wednesday, 19th March, 2025.
MOTION
REPORT OF THE THEMATIC COMMITTEE ON CLIMATE CHANGE ON THE ENQUIRY INTO THE IMPACT OF CLIMATE CHANGE ON HUMAN-WILDLIFE CONFLICT
Sixth Order read: Adjourned debate on motion on the Report of the Thematic Committee on Climate Change on the Enquiry into the Impact of Climate Change on Human-Wildlife Conflict Induced by Climate Change in 2024.
Question again proposed.
HON. SEN. L. SIBANDA: Point of order Madam President. I have been standing ever since you called on Hon. Mlotshwa to adjourn the debate.
THE TEMPORARY PRESIDENT OF SENATE: I am sorry Hon. Senator, I did not see you. Accept my apology, I did not see you. Do you want to debate now or you wanted to debate the previous motion?
HON. SEN. L. SIBANDA: I wanted to debate on the previous motion Madam President.
THE TEMPORARY PRESIDENT OF SENATE: I am sorry for that. We are now on another motion.
*HON. SEN. SHIRI: Thank you Madam President for according me this opportunity. I want to add my voice on this motion which was raised by Senator Mupfumira on climatic change in which she is the Chairperson.
The issue of climatic change is very pertinent to us. Looking at the future and where we came from, it is very important. We should sit down as a country and come up with solutions on how to survive amid this climatic change. We are experiencing so many heatwaves. Heatwaves really affect our lives and brings diseases with it. Especially those with albinism, their skin is affected so much by rays of the sun. If they are affected by the sun's rays, they end up having skin cancer. So, climate change impacts us differently as people.
We find that they need sun hats, umbrellas and sunscreen lotions which we think that they should be given for free because climate change just comes, it is a natural disaster which impacts on our lives differently. When these issues on climate change are being discussed, I think all the people should be included so that all people can be represented and that they come up with things that help us as a community.
THE TEMPORARY PRESIDENT OF SENATE: Hon. Senator, the motion is on human-wildlife conflict induced by climate change.
*HON. SEN. SHIRI: Thank you Madam President. On the issue of conflicts between human and wild animals induced by climate change, animals and people will be fighting for water. When dams and boreholes have dried up, animals also want water. So, you find that animals are now getting into people's homesteads looking for water. All that is caused by climate change because it touches us as we co-exist with animals. So, climate change makes us aware that the animals do not have food in the forest. In Kariba and Hwange, animals come close to homesteads because there is nothing in the forest. There are no wild fruits, hence they come to small scale gardens looking for food.
You hear that a number of lions have died in the forest due to hunger as we will be competing for food. If there are pastures in the forest and you plough your maize, monkeys would come and break into homes stealing food and this causes conflicts between animals and people. We also see that when it comes to climate change, if we have severe winters, some animals do not like cold conditions and end up dying. We should be ready that if we have floods, too much winds and rains, to ensure that our animals survive.
We should leave enough grazing land for them so that they also survive. We should also embark on feeding our animals. I have seen that in the game reserves, the rangers move about giving food to wild animals. We should also plan as farmers so that we will be ready. Some use helicopters driving the wild animals away to places where there is enough food. We should place elephants in places where they can find food so that we live well with animals.
During a drought, if the winter is too severe or is too windy, we should be able to co-exist with the wild animals. That is why they come close to people when there is hunger because they want our protection as people, especially when there are veld fires, they find refuge close to where people are. As a Committee when we go to international forums, we should have laws and also increase the budget so that we can tackle issues like this so that we do not lose our animals and the lives of people due to climate change. All of us should exist even in difficult times of climate change. Thank you Madam President.
^^HON. SEN. MOHADI: Thank you Madam President
for according me this chance to add my voice on human and wildlife conflict due to climate change. We are looking at a pertinent issue which is bothering people. In the past, we used to know that wild animals are scary and used to stay far away from people. Nowadays, we have taken much of the grazing land for our residence. An animal like an elephant does not forget where it passes through.
So, as people, we realise that elephants pass through homesteads and we continue to be scared as people. So, what do we do? We need to come up with a way that will help us. We also realise that elephants have increased in numbers in this country as they are coming from neighbouring countries like Botswana. When they come across people, they cause problems. I remember one outreach where we were told by people in Hwange Safaris that they want their elephants despite the fact that they are destroying their plants. However, they indicated that they will come up with ways of ensuring that they live in harmony with these wild animals. They said, they really wanted to have these animals around. This taught me that everyone should love these wild animals because they are creatures created by God. Apart from this, in most cases, they destroy plants and crops.
Right now, in Beitbridge, in areas like Chikwalakwala and Chituripasi, elephants have increased in numbers. Children are even failing to go to school. Each time they go to school, they come across them and they run away. In running away, these elephants think that they are being fought. I remember the other day when we were going to Chituripasi, one man who was moving from one homestead to the next and was riding a bicycle, these elephants thought that this man was fighting them. One elephant was terrified and fought this man. Therefore, our plea to the National Parks is to help us in ensuring that we stay in harmony with wildlife and with our elephants.
These days, especially this year, I am not sure about other areas but where I come from, there has been too much rain and elephants have increased and people have started killing them. Where should they stay because they will always maintain where they used to stay, but they are now our enemies? Let us help each other in ensuring that when we see such cases, we go and report to those who look after our wildlife to ensure that we remain protected.
It is critical that these people that we lead as legislators, we need to go and teach them through awareness workshops so that they know that these wild animals need to survive. We do not need to kill them. We know that they can be destructive, but let us try by all means to ensure that we help them. Still focusing on these elephants, they drink water from the boreholes where people also fetch water. So, because climate change has affected everyone, people and wild animals, are facing challenges of water shortages and pasture shortages, so there is bound to be conflict.
Therefore, National Parks should teach people and ensure that they always come and drive these animals away from people. As people, we need to realise that wild animals are not our enemies. Each time they pass through going to drink water from dams or boreholes, we need to just let them do so. When I passed through one resettlement area where they used to collect water in a drum, an elephant came during the night looking for drinking water. It heard some scent of water in that house and it destroyed that house so as to get water in there. The owner of that homestead ran away from it and they never came back.
I felt it was critical to add a few words regarding this motion so that we come up with ways of ensuring that we stay in harmony with our wild animals because these wild animals are a critical issue in our lives. In the past, they used to kill animals but they would not kill all of them. Our surnames are representing the wild animals that are around us. We have the Ndous, the Dubes and all these are signifying the animals around us. This is so as to ensure that this animal remains protected as it is a protected species. It needs to be protected because we have other people who have their surnames captured through honouring these animals.
We have people like MaMpofus, all these are animals and in honouring them, it is one way of protecting them. Right now, we have very few wild animals remaining. We need to ensure that we protect the ones remaining because some of our grandchildren do not even know some of the wild animals we are talking about. Some of them only know the ones that they will see drawn somewhere, not the real hare or the real elephant. These wild animals are pertinent and more important in our lives. We need to safeguard them because they are a critical issue in our lives. With these few words, I thank you.
HON. SEN. MUPFUMIRA: I move that the debate do now adjourn.
HON. SEN. TSOMONDO: I second.
Motion put and agreed to.
Debate to resume: Wednesday, 19th March, 2025.
MOTION
OVERHAUL OF DELAPIDATED STADIA
Seventh Order read: Adjourned debate on motion on the deplorable sports infrastructure in the country.
Question again proposed.
HON. SEN. TSHABANGU: I move that the debate do now adjourn.
HON. SEN. CHAPFUDZA: I second.
Motion put and agreed to.
Debate to resume: Wednesday, 19th March, 2025.
On the motion of HON. SEN. MUZENDA, seconded by HON. SEN. GOTORA, the Senate adjourned at Twelve Minutes to Five o’clock p.m.
PARLIAMENT OF ZIMBABWE
Tuesday, 18th March, 2025
The National Assembly met at a Quarter-past Two o’clock p.m.
PRAYERS
(THE HON. SPEAKER in the Chair)
ANNOUNCEMENT BY THE HON. SPEAKER
NON-ADVERSE REPORT RECEIVED FROM THE PARLIAMENTARY LEGAL COMMITTEE
THE HON. SPEAKER: I have to inform the House that I have received a Non-Adverse Report from the Parliamentary Legal Committee on the following Bills: First one is the Broadcasting Amendment Bill [H. B 10A, 2024]; second, Statutory Instruments Numbers 1 to 10 gazetted during the month of January 2025 and third, Statutory Instruments, Numbers 11 to 16 gazetted during the month of February 2025.
HON. SHAMU: Thank you Hon. Speaker Sir. Today we stand in solemn remembrance, 49 years ago on the morning of the 18th of March 1975, just before 8am, a bomb ripped through a Volkswagen Beetle in Lusaka, Zambia at 150 Muramba Road, Chilenje South. Inside that car, sat a man whose life was dedicated to the liberation of Zimbabwe, Cde Herbert Wiltshire Pfumaindini Chitepo. In a brutal act of terrorism, the racist Rhodesian regime stole his life, believing they could silence him forever but they failed. They did not kill his dream; they did not silence his voice and they did not crush his spirit.
Cde. Chitepo was not just a man, he was a movement, a warrior and a strategist. He could have embraced comfort, lived as a barrister in London, a scholar at the School of Oriental Studies (SOAS), a man of prestige but he chose a different path, the path of struggle, self-sacrifice and revolution. He abandoned privilege to become the architect of our liberation.
Why? Because he understands a truth that must never be forgotten, the land question was at the very heart of our revolution. The land is our birthright, our sovereignty and our dignity. On that fateful morning of 18 March 1975, the cowardly hand of imperialism struck. The blast that took Chitepo’s life also claimed the life of his loyal bodyguard, Silas Shamiso and a child next door.
Mr. Speaker Sir, one of Cde Chitepo’s committed bodyguards, a cadre of the revolution, Cde Benson Nicodemus Kadzinga, whose nom de guerre was Sadat Kafumazuva survived this cowardly attach and sustained serious injuries.
With your permission Hon. Speaker Sir, may I advise this House that Cde Kadzinga is with us today in the Speaker’s Gallery – [HON. MEMBERS: Hear, hear.] - Today he sits in this gallery among us, a living testimony to the enduring self-sacrifice of those who fought for our freedom. May Cde Herbert Whilshire Pfumaindini Chitepo continue to rest in peace? I thank you Mr. Speaker Sir.
THE HON. SPEAKER: Thank you Hon. Shamu for your statement of national interest and bringing here the colleague who survived that brutal murder. Let us be reminded always that the spirit hankering after freedom and independence is unstoppable. I thank you.
HON. TOGAREPI: Mr. Speaker, before I proceed with my point of interest, would it not be prudent for us as a House to salute the Cde. Kadzinga who is here who survived that brutal attack? – [HON. MEMBERS: Hear, hear.] –
THE HON. SPEAKER: I think we can all stand and salute Comrade Kadzinga who is in the Speaker’s Gallery.
All Hon. Members stood up in salute of Cde. Kadzinga
*HON. TOGAREPI: Thank you Hon. Speaker, this month is women’s month, I heard this on national radio and women are celebrating this day. I noticed something, as we grew up, women used the Ambi lotion that was used to lighten the skin. As this is women’s month, I thought I would take this opportunity to alert women on the dangers of skin lightening creams. Some use hip enhancement substances to increase the size of their hips and these chemicals and substances are causing a lot of diseases such as cancers that are leading to death. These creams include diprosone, et cetera and after using these creams, you will see that their knuckles and fingers will be darker than the rest of their body. So, I was appealing to you Hon. Speaker that the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Home Affairs assist us to prevent women from using these harmful substances. I also noticed that a lot of men are now using skin-lightening creams.
The problem is that when they get to 100 years, they are at a risk of contracting cancer of the skin and by that time, we will not have people with dark complexion in our country anymore. These products will affect the pigmentation of the skin, thinning the skin and if they are injured, the skin does not heal fast.
My plea is that everyone must be educated about the dangers of these chemicals both women and men because some men are also involved in this. Can we be helped by law enforcement agencies because these dangerous chemicals are being brought from outside the country by cross-border traders? We must find a way of putting an end to this and legislate more punitive laws to would-be offenders. We must have awareness campaigns to inform people of the dangers of these skin-lightening creams. It is amazing, you will meet someone today who is dark in complexion and when you meet them again later, they will be light in complexion. Zimbabwe is for black people not light skinned people. Women are the majority who are doing this but men are also doing this. These lightening creams cause health complications and skin cancers and this will burden the Ministry of Health as people seek treatment. May these two ministries work together and put to an end to these harmful creams? I thank you.
*HON. SPEAKER: Thank you Hon. Togarepi. I thought Hon. Togarepi, you would stand up and congratulate women because it is their month - internationally they are respected, they are our mothers. Thank you very much Hon. Togarepi.
MOTION
BUSINESS OF THE HOUSE
HON. TOGAREPI: I move that Orders of the Day, Numbers 1 to 29 be stood over until Order of the Day, Number 30 has been disposed of.
HON. C. MOYO: I second.
Motion put and agreed to.
MOTION
REVIEW AND UPDATE ON THE DRIVERS’ LICENCE TESTING REGULATIONS TO INCLUDE AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION VEHICLES
Thirtieth Order read: Adjourned debate on motion on the licence testing framework in Zimbabwe.
Question again proposed.
THE DEPUTY MINISTER OF TRANSPORT AND INFRASTRUCTURAL DEVELOPMENT (HON. SACCO): Good afternoon Mr. Speaker Sir. Thank you for allowing me to make a contribution on this debate; representing the Ministry of Transport and Infrastructural Development. On Wednesday the 5th of March 2025, Hon. Mhetu raised a motion with regards to the licence testing framework in Zimbabwe.
Allow me to address this august House and give an overview on the licence framework and what we wish to do going forward. In Zimbabwe, the licence testing framework is administered by a vehicle Inspection Department known as VID, under the purview of the Hon. Minister of Transport and Infrastructural Development. In order to shed more light on the framework, I wish to give an overview of the existing framework;
In 2023, Statutory Instrument 119/23, which is the road trafficking licencing of driver’s regulations were published. The aim was to align Zimbabwe’s driver’s licencing system with SADC requirements and international best practices.
Furthermore, the new regulations have replaced the old class-based system with a more comprehensive categorisation as follows;
A – Motor cycles
A1 – Small motor cycles (up to 125 cc)
B1 – Quadricycles (quad bikes, motorised tricycles);
B – Light motor vehicles (cars, mini-buses up to 3500 kg)
BE – B vehicles with a trailer
C1 – light trucks (3500 – 7500kg)
C- Heavy trucks (over 7500kgs)
CE – C vehicles with a trailer
D1 – light buses (minibuses up to 16 seats)
D – Heavy buses (buses over 16 seats)
DE – D vehicles with a trailer; and
BE – Agricultural/construction vehicles, (tractors, excavators, etc)
LICENCING TESTING FRAMEWORK
This consists of three main components. The first one being;
Theory Test which comprises of written examination, the tests, the applicant’s knowledge of road science, traffic laws and safe driving practices. As you may be aware, these tests are also now being conducted using computers to keep in line with technological advancements the world-over.
Practical Driving Tests - this is a behind the wheel assessment that evaluates the applicant’s driving skills including manoeuvring, turning and stopping. Currently, the law provides for testing of applicants for both manual and automatic vehicles. The applicant who passes a road test using a manual vehicle can drive both manual and automatic vehicles.
However, applicants who pass a road test using automatic vehicles are restricted to driving automatic vehicles only and their licences are endorsed “Automatic Vehicles (AT)”.
Vision Test – this encompasses a medical examination that checks the applicant’s eyesight and visual ability. My Ministry is committed to ensuring that all drivers who drive on our roads are adequately trained and licenced for the specific vehicles they operate and adhere to traffic laws, to ensure the safety of our citizenry.
To conclude, the update to the driver’s licence framework in Zimbabwe as per SI 119/2023, marks a significant step towards the country’s licencing system with international best practices and SADC requirements facilitate the recognition of Zimbabwe licences by other countries. I thank you.
HON. MHETU: Thank you Mr. Speaker Sir. I just wish to thank Hon. Minister Sacco for his contribution to this debate.
Hon. Minister Sacco is the first Minister, in the year 2025, to come and speak with regards to motions which emanate in this Parliament. If we are to continue in this spirit, this Parliament will be the best among all the Parliaments in the world.
I also want to thank Hon. Mambipiri, the one who seconded this motion. Before I sit down, I would not have done justice if I do not mention a few Hon. Members who added their voices to this motion;
Hon. Mapiki, Hon. Chigumbu, Hon. Kangausaru, Hon. Mashavave, Hon. Tshuma, Hon. Nyamupinga, Hon. Machangu, Hon. Mukomberi, Hon. Mangondo, Hon. Mavhudzi and many other Hon. Members.
I therefore move that this House adopts the motion.
Motion that this House –
NOTING that the current driver’s licence testing framework in Zimbabwe requires individuals to demonstrate proficiency only in manual transmission vehicles;
CONCERNED that this framework may not adequately prepare drivers for the increasingly common use of automatic transmission vehicles on our roads;
RECOGNISING the importance of ensuring that all drivers, regardless of the type of vehicle they operate are equipped with the necessary skills and knowledge to drive safely and responsibly;
CONSIDERING that in this modern age where automatic vehicles are becoming more prevalent, it may not be necessary for all drivers to learn how to operate manual transmission vehicles, particularly if they do not intend to use them;
NOW, THEREFORE, calls upon the Minister of Transport and Infrastructural Development to:
- a) introduce two distinct categories of driver’s licences: one for manual transmission vehicles (which can also be used for automatic transmission vehicles) and one for automatic transmission vehicles only.
- b) ensure that those who obtain licences for manual transmission vehicles also receive oral training for operating automatic transmission vehicles.
- c) expand the driver’s licence testing framework to include a separate testing module for automatic transmission vehicles.
- d) ensure that all driving schools and instructors are equipped to provide training on both manual and automatic transmission vehicles; and
- e) review and update the vehicle drivers' licence regulations to reflect these changes and align them with international best practices, put and agreed to.
MOTION
BUSINESS OF THE HOUSE
HON. TOGAREPI: Thank you Mr. Speaker. I move that we revert to Order of the Day Number 5.
HON. C: MOYO: I second.
Motion put and agreed to.
The mover of the motion Hon. C. Hlatywayo not being in the House.
THE HON. SPEAKER: Any news about Hon. C. Hlatywayo?
HON. C. MOYO: No, Hon. Speaker Sir.
THE HON. SPEAKER: In future, a Member who has got to move a motion and it is on the Order Paper, should be available. Honourable Whips, if you could ensure that your Members are on stand-by to speak to their motions accordingly.
HON. G. K. HLATYWAYO: I just wanted to inform you Mr. Speaker that Hon. Hlatywayo is on Committee business. He is with the Portfolio Committee on Transport, so they are going around the country.
THE HON. SPEAKER: So, you are tendering his apology?
HON. G. K. HLATYWAYO: Yes.
THE HON. SPEAKER: Hon. Member, why did you not say that in the first instance?
HON. G. K. HLATYWAYO: I thought the Chief Whip was going to inform you but maybe he did not have the information.
THE HON. SPEAKER: Alright, thank you.
MOTION
BUSINESS OF THE HOUSE
HON. TOGAREPI: Mr. Speaker, I move that Orders of the Day, Numbers 6 to 9 be stood over until Order of the Day, Number 10 has been disposed of.
HON. MATEWU: I second.
Motion put and agreed to.
MOTION
REPORT OF THE PORTFOLIO COMMITTEE ON MEDIA, INFORMATION AND BROADCASTING SERVICES ON THE IMPLEMENTATION OF THE DIGITALISATION PROJECT
HON. MATEWU: I move the motion standing in my name;
that this House considers and adopts the Report of the Portfolio Committee on Media, Information and Broadcasting Services on the implementation of the digitalisation project in Zimbabwe.
HON. NYABANI: I second.
HON. MATEWU: The call by the International Telecommunications Union (ITU) required that all states in the Southern region completely migrate from analogue to digital broadcasting by June 2015. In an effort to comply with the ITU requirements and improve the broadcasting environment, the Government of Zimbabwe embarked on the Digital Migration Project which is a transformation from analogue to digital with the aim of digitalising the whole broadcasting chain from the studios to transmission equipment. Pursuant to its oversight function, the Portfolio Committee on Media, Information and Broadcasting Services conducted an inquiry into the progress made towards the Zimbabwe Digital Migration Project. The Committee saw it necessary to monitor the progress made in digitisation in line with the National Development Strategy 1 which aims at infrastructure development and leaving no one and no place behind.
Objectives:
- To assess the progress made regarding the digitisation programme;
- To ascertain the challenges faced in acquiring transmitters and the key requirements to complete the digitisation programme; and
- To recommend possible solutions for better performance of the media sector.
Methodology:
- The Committee conducted field visits to Kamativi Transmitter, Zimbabwe Broadcasting Corporation Montrose studios in Bulawayo, Mashava Transmitter and Kotwa transmitter from 31 July to 2 August 2024 in the company of officials from Broadcasting Authority of Zimbabwe, Transmedia Corporation and Ministry of Information, Publicity and Broadcasting Services.
- The Committee held oral evidence sessions with Broadcasting Authority of Zimbabwe, Transmedia Corporation and Zimbabwe Broadcasting Corporation on their mandate and operations.
Brief Overview on the Digitisation Project:
Digitisation in the media industry is the process of converting analogue information into digital formats and using digital technologies to transform content creation, distribution and consumption. The International Telecommunications Union (ITU) is a United Nations specialised agency which promotes the shared global use of the radio spectrum, facilitates international cooperation in assigning satellite orbits, assists in developing and coordinating worldwide technical standards and works to improve telecommunication infrastructure in the developing world. The agency had given a deadline of the year 2015 in which countries should have conformed to the standard of digitising radio and television. The Broadcasting Authority of Zimbabwe, a statutory board established through the Broadcasting Services Act [Chapter 12:06] was formed to regulate and monitor the broadcasting industry in Zimbabwe. This entity was therefore assigned to spearhead the implementation of digitisation project commonly known as ZimDigital, together with Transmedia Corporation and Zimbabwe Broadcasting Corporation. The project started in 2015 with a target for completion within two years. The scope of the project would entail construction of broadcasting sites, equipping sites with state-of-the-art digital equipment and modernising radio and television studios to enhance content production. The delays in the completion of the project have been due to lack of funding from Treasury through the National Budget allocation. The project is currently at 42% completion stage.
Rationale for Funding the Digitalisation Project:
The digitalisation of Zimbabwe's broadcasting sector is a critical step towards enhancing its competitiveness, improving service delivery and aligning the country with international standards. Countries such as South Africa, Malawi, Seychelles and Zambia among others, have managed to digitise their systems. Zimbabwe risk chances of interferences of its radio and television systems because of the use of analogue whilst most countries have digitised.
Benefits of Complying with International Telecommunications Union on Digitisation:
The benefits of digitising Zimbabwe’s broadcasting sector and compliance with ITU resolutions and compliance are as follows;
- Zimbabwe will be able to meet international standards and access advanced technologies and latest innovations in broadcasting.
- Digitisation enhances competitiveness and universal access to information which is the platform to push and achieve the Government policy on the dissemination of information to all citizenry across all corners of the country. This will also help to minimise misinformation and disinformation associated with the emergence of the social media.
- The modernisation of studios is essential for producing high-quality content that can compete in the digital age. This will enable entities like Zimbabwe Broadcasting Corporation, Zimbabwe Television Network and other broadcasters to attract viewership, improve content quality and generate advertising revenue.
- Digitalisation is essential for ensuring national security in the broadcasting sector, for example, monitoring pirate radio stations, securing content and preventing misinformation.
Financing of the Digitisation Project:
The funding from the implementation of the digitisation project would come from the fiscus. However, there has not been commitment in terms of funding for this project over the years. For example, no disbursement was done for the project implementation in 2024. The initial cost for the completion of the project was USD175 million. If broken down, USD125 million was for services and equipment and USD50 million for local works. The Ministry of Finance, Economic Development and Investment Promotion only released USD1,195,000 for the payment for the signal distribution services arrears for 2022 and 2023. The licence fees payable to Broadcasting Authority of Zimbabwe and Transmedia Corporation for broadcasting and transmission are on the high side such that little is being received from this revenue stream to assist in project implementation.
Committee Findings:
KAMATIVI TRANSMITTER
The Committee was informed that digital signal in Kamativi was obtained through fibre optics. Accessing digital signals via satellite was deemed costly, necessitating investment whereas terrestrial transmitters were more accessible. Engineer M. Chakanyuka, the Director of Broadcasting Authority of Zimbabwe (BAZ) highlighted that the digitisation programme’s challenges included financial resources, foreign currency resource availability and market strategies for set-top box distribution. During the visit to the Kamativi Transmission site, the Committee learnt that it was one of the pre-existing sites. The site was fully operational, with TV and radio signals reaching up to 120km to Binga Centre and extending to Victoria Falls Airport, Jotsholo, and overlapping with the Lupane site. The site was equipped with a 5 000-watt transmitters. Transmedia Corporation responsible for transmission revealed their decision to install gap fillers, which are small, low-cost transmitters in Binga, to cover areas beyond Binga towards Siabuwa and Siakobvu that Kamativi's signal cannot reach. The cost of these gap fillers is approximately USD10 million.
Zimbabwe Broadcasting Corporation, Montrose Bulawayo:
The Committee visited the ZBC Montrose site in Bulawayo and was informed that it was the second largest transmission site which is equipped with a back-up system. In case of a fault at the Harare satellite, the Bulawayo satellite would assume control of signal distribution. The site hosts eight transmitters, both analogue and digital. The digitisation process at Montrose is 50% complete with the installation of the digital TV transmitters and outstanding is the FM radio systems. Montrose's analogue TV transmitter is operational, serving the Bulawayo area with a 50km radius coverage. Additionally, the site provides six national radio services, including four for ZBC and two for private entities, Star FM and ZiFM, as well as two commercial radio stations. It also accommodates transmission systems for Khulumani FM and Skyz FM.
The Committee also received information with regards to the installation of 5 000-watt transmitters to enhance service quality and availability temporarily. It was noted that the transmission site lacked an allocation for community radio stations, as no licences had been issued for metro areas. The Committee gathered that the site featured two satellite distribution systems: a primary internet protocol (IP) based fibre network connecting Montrose and Pockets Hill, and a secondary satellite system. An estimated USD20 million was needed to connect all sites with fibre. The procurement process for equipment was described as cumbersome, due to the requirement to adhere to national procedures, with the Procurement Regulatory Authority Zimbabwe reviewing bids from various government departments weekly. The Committee also learnt that Broadcasting Authority of Zimbabwe's equipment purchases from abroad were sometimes hindered by sanctions, affecting items such as spectrum monitoring equipment from Germany. During the tour at ZBC Montrose, the Committee observed that there was need for completion of the other two studios, one for production and the other one for transmission and they had been waiting for the equipment since 2017. The Acting Chief Executive Officer, Mr. Munangasa emphasised that there was need for an injection of about USD5 million to purchase equipment for Montrose studios to operate in full capacity as currently there is still analogue equipment.
MASHAVA TRANSMITTER
The Committee visited Mashava Transmitter in Masvingo where it observed that more work still needed to be done in terms of construction and the acquisition of equipment. It was mentioned that an investment of about USD300 000 was poured on the site but still no one is benefiting from the infrastructure as it is still just a tower. It was also indicated that there was need for an estimate of USD700 000 for the power system and the transmitter. It was cited that Netone was currently renting the passive infrastructure. The Committee noted that the tower was not serving its intended purpose in terms of transmitting radio and TV waves.
KOTWA TRANSMISSION SITE
The Committee inspected the Kotwa transmission site, one of the eighteen sites completed by the project. They learnt that the site, formerly abandoned by Tel-one, now exclusively serves digital television, including newly licenced broadcasters. Kotwa boasts of two digital transmitters consolidated into one unit, capable of supporting twelve HD services, though currently it operates three, two ZBC channels and ZTN. The operational transmitter extends coverage over a 40 to 60-kilometer radius, encompassing Nyamapanda, Pfungwe, Suswe, and Susamoya. The site is also equipped with a satellite downlink for signal reception, a generator, a power system with an automatic voltage regulator, uninterrupted power supply and a set-top box. However, the Committee noted concerns over the generator's sustainability due to its high fuel consumption of fifteen litres per hour.
General Findings:
- It was observed that since the project's inception in 2015, BAZ has been installing only two or three transmitters annually. At this rate, it would take nearly 15 years to install all 48 transmitters. In the 2024 national budget, the Committee advocated for a budget of purchase of five transmitters and the request was granted but not even one was purchased due to lack of disbursement of funds.
- That set top boxes/decoders which are essential for access to free television high definition local content as part of digitisation are currently charged between USD25-30 through the Broadcasting Authority of Zimbabwe with only three channels that is ZTV and ZTN and Jive TV which is under trial. The cost could be reduced to promote the new product since it has limited channels. The introduction of the decoder into the mainstream market will catalyse business growth for television stations, enhance audience, quality and improve overall accessibility to cultural and creative content for the general public.
- The International Telecommunications Union (ITU) which is the intergovernmental body responsible for coordinating the shared global use of the radio spectrum, promoting international cooperation in assigning satellite orbits, improving communication infrastructure in the developing world and establishing the worldwide standards that foster seamless interconnection. It had a deadline of ceasing analogue transmissions in 2015. A few countries are lagging behind in terms of compliance and Zimbabwe is one of those. This lack of compliance is limiting access to modern technology and keeping Zimbabwe from advancing further, thereby creating a wider gap amongst society. This means Zimbabwe cannot fully participate in the digital economy.
Challenges being faced in completion of the digitisation programme.
- Lack of funding:
The Committee learnt that underfunding, delayed fund disbursements, difficulties in accessing foreign currency at the previous auction system, and overall foreign currency shortages were hindering the project's completion. It was conveyed that additional funding is required to finalise the digitisation project and to purchase equipment from Germany. It was noted that broadcasting is primarily a public service, and thus, the majority of its resources are provided by the Treasury. The outstanding amount required to complete the project is USD65 million. BAZ collects fees for licencing broadcasters and signal distribution and currently has uncollected revenue worth USD489,237.54 which could also assist the project.
- Marketing Strategy for the distribution of set top boxes:
The Committee was informed that the majority of Zimbabweans are yet to receive the new television services on either DTT (digital terrestrial television) or DTH (direct to home) platforms, highlighting the need for increased publicity for Set Top Boxes (STB). It was reported that Zimbabwe needs approximately 3.5 million STBs to achieve the desired viewership target. It was noted that most community members lack these devices, thus underscoring the necessity to manufacture the set-top boxes locally to support the digitisation programme. The few available set-top boxes are being imported from China and there seems to be conflict of interest wherein the Broadcasting Authority of Zimbabwe is the regulator and becomes a player in the distribution chain of the set top boxes. Currently, many Zimbabweans are unaware of the decoder (set top box) due to its limited advertising and availability, which is primarily restricted to television channels. This situation is not only inconvenient but also detrimental to broader market engagement.
Committee Observations
- That there has not been any release of funding towards digitisation since 2018. Treasury only disbursed for payment of arrears to Eutelsat for the year 2022 and 2023 and nothing for the project’s implementation.
- The Committee expressed significant concern over the sluggish progress in the installation of digital transmitters, which is impeding the digitisation project's completion. An outstanding USD65million would complete the project.
- The Committee noted that the radio transmitters are still operating on analogue. This poses the risk of being interfered by neighbours, risk of causing interference on neighbours and Zimbabwe will continue watching the outdated analogue television compromising on quality.
- That the transmission site at Mashava only has an erected tower which is not secured and this poses a risk of vandalism and theft.
- The Committee recognised the need for additional investment on equipment to finalise the incomplete sites, particularly in Mashava, in Masvingo which are “shell” transmission sites without equipment.
- It was remarked that many transmission sites lack essential security, leaving them susceptible to equipment theft and vandalism.
- The Committee acknowledged the necessity to educate the public on satellite signal usage and to increase the distribution of set-top boxes to citizens at an affordable price.
- The Committee was concerned by ZBC's slow progress in installing digitalised studios especially for radio.
- The Committee was alarmed that some technologies at ZBC were becoming obsolete before their intended use due to the untimely provision of adequate funding to fully operationalise the equipment.
Committee Recommendations:
- The Treasury must ensure the allocation of about USD70 million for the ZimDigital project's completion, with a deadline set for no later than July 2025 and for Zimbabwe to fully participate in the digital economy.
- The Ministry of Finance and Economic Planning and Investment Promotion should provide support to the Ministry of Information, Publicity and Broadcasting Services in obtaining foreign currency necessary for the procurement of digital transmitters in the 2025 national budget.
- The Broadcasting Authority of Zimbabwe and Transmedia Corporation are tasked with ensuring distribution of set-top boxes to citizens, ensuring access to high-quality signals for television and radio by December 2025 by properly advertising and providing awareness on them.
- The Ministry of Finance and Economic Development is urged to exempt Set-top boxes from import duty to ensure affordability by January 2025.
- The Ministry of Information, Publicity and Broadcasting Services must implement sufficient security measures at each transmission site most importantly in Mashava by December 2024.
- That the decoder be made widely available in retail outlets, such as electronics stores and departmental chains like TV Sales and Hire, among others. This would ensure that the decoder is accessible to all Zimbabweans. By allowing BAZ to step up retail operations, local businesses can be empowered local businesses while BAZ focuses on its regulatory role.
Conclusion:
The Zimbabwe Digital Migration Project is a significant national initiative poised to drive development and job creation. To date, progress has been tangible, with eighteen transmission sites having transitioned to digital. Nonetheless, delays in funding disbursement and insufficient financial resources have hindered further advancements. Therefore, it is imperative that the Ministry of Finance, Economic Development and Investment Promotion prioritise the project's financing.
HON. MATEWU: I thank you.
*HON. NYABANI: Thank you Mr. Speaker Sir. I would like to add my views to the report brought by our Chairperson. As a Committee, we found it important to tour the transmitter sites after noticing that where we come from and other areas, the transmission is poor. We visited various areas such as Kotwa, Kamativi and other areas, trying to assess what Government is doing with regards to transmission. During our tour, we noticed that we are far behind in terms of digitising.
If I were to give an analogy of telephone use, I am talking of that phone where you would dial the numbers. We have heard many Members of Parliament here saying the ZBC signal is very poor. It is because they are still using the analogue system. We need to upgrade to modern digital systems. We visited some of the towers, the materials used have a lifespan, yet we noticed that some of them are now 20 to 30 years old. Some of them are supposed to be operational for 50 years, yet they have already lost 20 years lying idle, which means at some time, those transmission sites would remain uninstalled. We are lagging far behind in terms of digitisation.
Our recommendation is that the Ministry of Finance is not adequately funding this project to ensure that the towers transmit properly. If you look at Rushinga, Mbire and Binga, they listen to radio stations from Zambia or Mozambique or other foreign radio stations. People believe that they can only access television in Harare. So, it is important for the Ministry of Finance to ensure that when the budget comes, then only the Ministry of Information would be allocated more funds for that. We realise some of the people get to know information or news way after something has happened. Right now, people are relying on social media for news, yet it is spreading distorted information and rumours. If we could work on those sites because the money that was talked about here, I do not think it is that much that the Government cannot afford. If we digitise through the Ministry of Information, it means that people in Rushinga, Binga and everywhere, information will be transmitted as it is, coming from Government to wherever. Right now, there is a lot of distortion of information because of poor transmission. Our radio stations sometimes stop functioning for a week or a month because of the poor transmitters.
Mr. Speaker, we hear of the Artificial Intelligence (AI) Programme. Some of us do not even know what is happening on that programme but due to digitisation, we might find that there is a new programme coming before we conclude the digitisation programme. Let us move with time because we sign agreements with other international organisations and countries. There are timeframes expected from every country. So, for us to move with the rest of the international community, we need to be up to date instead of lagging behind. As we talk about AI, it means we are still in analogue as we are struggling to go to digitisation. Now people are advancing and we are still struggling to move from that very first step.
It is my wish that as Parliament, we need to support the Ministry of Information. The President says no place and no one should be left behind. So, there is need for 48 transmitters but we only have 18. It means all the other areas are lagging behind in terms of information they are supposed to be getting from Government. I hereby request that the Ministry of Finance fund that project. It does not mean that we will be constructing those transmitter sites every day but let us do it gradually so that we support ZBC; we support all other Government departments to access information. Therefore, I request that set-top boxes that are being sold at ZBC should be put in information centres because someone cannot travel at a cost of USD10.00 to buy a set-top box which costs USD25.00. There is need for decentralisation of the centres where set-top boxes can be accessed so that everyone can get them. That way, people will be up to date in terms of access to information. I thank you.
*THE HON. SPEAKER: Hon. Nyabani, please approach the Chair.
The Hon. Speaker having mistakenly called Hon. Makope to debate
HON. MAKOPE: Hon. Speaker, this is not the motion that I am supposed to debate.
THE HON. SPEAKER: Hon. Matewu, I believe there are quite a number of Members who debated.
HON. MATEWU: No, this is the first time.
THE HON. SPEAKER: So, Hon. Makope, you are not ready. I think there is a problem of terminology, digitalisation and analogue and so on. It sounds like Greek.
HON. MUGUNI: Thank you Mr. Speaker for allowing me to say a few words on this report presented by our Chairperson, Hon. Matewu. It is very important that we stress the issue of timeous distribution because when ZBC orders some equipment if it takes long before they are given enough funds to purchase due to technology which is moving fast by the time, the purchased machinery might be outdated. We now really emphasise that the Minister of Finance, Economic Development and Investment Promotion should timeously disburse funds. As we were going around, especially in areas like Plumtree, they are still receiving transmission from Botswana and South Africa. The mantra of not leaving anyone or any place behind will not be successful if digitisation is not completed, especially considering that this programme was supposed to be completed by 2015, it has taken just too long to complete.
At ZBC library where they have their old recordings and all those are still in the analogue, they cannot replay them anymore because they cannot convert analogue to digital considering that we have not fully completed our programme of digitisation. I am really expressing that it is very crucial that we complete this digitisation. We are failing to transmit to our people, especially in the rural as to what is happening in the country because there is no transmission mostly in the rural areas. As we were going round, the cry of most of the people in the rural areas was that we are not receiving any local transmission and sometimes we think there is propaganda but when we look at it, it is also our fault that we are allowing our own people to listen to foreign radios and television.
I emphasise that the Ministry of Finance, Economic Development and Investment Promotion should disburse enough funds and we complete this digitisation so that we can have information spread to our people, especially in the rural areas. I thank you.
*HON. HAMAUSWA: Thank you Madam Speaker. I would like to add a few words to this debate. I would like to debate in line with the Bill that was passed in Parliament. If the digitisation programme is not completed, it means that the Bill which we were saying should wait a bit will be meaningless to the people of Zimbabwe. If you travel by road from Harare to Bulawayo, you will find that there is lack of transmission signal along the way. It means people who reside along that area are not getting the signal. If the digitisation programme is complete, then it will make sense to some of the people, especially on the Bill that we passed because they will understand that they are paying for the frequency or signals they are receiving. Before we even talk of the border lying areas just using that road alone, you will not get any signal. If only there was a way to ensure that the funds collected can be put into use through the digitisation programme.
We realise that there are some areas where the signal is good but there are adverts on radios and televisions about set-top boxes but because of poverty, very few can afford them in the rural areas. If only Government could give out a number of set-top boxes so that at least they can get access to the signal. In short, I am saying Government should distribute set top boxes in rural areas just like the distribution of rice, they can do so as well through the Members of Parliament to areas that they know are strategic so that the message can be spread that digitisation is good. The equipment may become obsolete before it even works but through the budget that was passed in Parliament and funded by taxpayers, we are saying they are machines that have been installed like in Mudzi, yet people are struggling to get access to the signals because they do not have those set-top boxes. So, it does not give a good image that Government spends millions to purchase set-top boxes and then fails to sacrifice maybe a million to actually spread the word or at least reduce the price of the set-top boxes or find a way of doing it immediately instead of spending the whole year debating again at the end of the year on set-top boxes. Leadership should be...
THE TEMPORARY SPEAKER (HON. TSITSI ZHOU): Order Hon. Hamauswa, Hon. Tafanana Zhou, may I remind you that we are still in the august House. Please take your seats and allow us to hear the Hon. Member in silence. Proceed Hon. Hamauswa.
*HON. HAMAUSWA: Thank you Madam Speaker. I was emphasising that Government has spent money on transmitters where some areas are now able to receive digitised signal, which means many people can now access that signal and the digitisation actually improves the signal quality. So that is good progress but my request is here in this august House, let us resolve from what Hon. Matewu said.
Government should come up in the shortest possible time, to bring a statement on what the Government is doing to ensure that areas that are now accessing that digitised signal should get set-top boxes. It would be great to have Members of Parliament being given those set-top boxes to give perhaps pensioners or senior citizens to distribute it as a way of marketing so that when we go back to request more funding for it, people will find it as a justification. Madam Speaker, sometimes if you were to go where those transmitters are made, they destroy the environment because trees are cut down, sometimes they climb mountains and sometimes lives are lost during transmitters.
We then discover that after all that dirty work, something that costs 15 or 20 dollars is not accessed to ensure that the whole process is complete. So that shows we are not organised as Government. Let us exhibit good leadership qualities to ensure that set-top boxes are given to people. If possible, let them be distributed for free. I am saying this because information is good to the public. If people are not well informed, you know that if you go out to the rural areas, people will tell you that they heard on radio and they rely on that as a credible source of information.
I heard on radio some other time from the Minister of Primary and Secondary Education about a career guidance programme. A person who only hears Portuguese, they are not able to benefit from the career guidance programme that is on Radio Zimbabwe, so that must be fulfilled. The other thing is that the digitisation programme shows how Zimbabwe is committed to fulfil some of the agreements committed to a regional level. Considering that we are now the SADC Chairperson, if such an agreement was put in place by the region, that by 2015 we are supposed to have fulfilled, yet 10 years down the line we have not fulfilled, it raises questions on the commitment of Zimbabwe on the resolutions because we want all the resolutions that come to Parliament to be fulfilled.
Zimbabwe should lead and must not lag behind in fulfilling resolutions. It is very important with regard to diplomacy to ensure that you fulfill what you have agreed on, especially on Zimbabwe which claims to be a champion in regional politics.
Finally, there was reference to the fact that when Zimbabweans are unable to receive signal from this country, it means they will end up listening to foreign signals. They will end up receiving weather forecast from other countries. Here, somebody may not be able to know that there is a cyclone coming because they are relying on Zambian weather forecast, that is where we see the importance of information. People end up listening to Studio 7 even if they speak the truth. For those people who are able to listen to that signal, they are blamed but sometimes it is because they do not have an option. They cannot access signals in the country. So, this digitisation programme should be looked into and put through as a matter of urgency. The other thing is, when the budget is passed, funding must be released quickly to ZBC.
Some of the taxes that people will pay for the radio licencing through this ZINARA law, some of them will not be happy about it. At least now that becomes a consolation just like this tobacco levy. There were doubts whether that money will be given to the rightful beneficiaries. I believe some of the programmes like the digitisation programme may succeed. I thank you for giving me this opportunity.
HON. MATEWU: Madam Speaker Sir, I move that the debate do now adjourn.
HON. HAMAUSWA: I second.
Motion put and agreed to.
Debate to resume: Wednesday, 19th March, 2025.
MOTION
BUSINESS OF THE HOUSE
HON. KAMBUZUMA: Madam Speaker Ma’am, I move that Orders of the Day, Nos. 11 to 13 on todays’ Order Paper, be stood over until Order of the Day, No. 14 has been disposed of.
HON. MASHONGANYIKA: I second.
Motion put and agreed to.
MOTION
ESTABLISHMENT OF A DEDICATED FRAMEWORK TO ENSURE GOVERNMENT TENDERS ARE RESERVED FOR YOUTH LED BUSINESS ENTERPRISES
Fourteenth Order read: Adjourned debate on motion on the promotion of youth economic empowerment and entrepreneurial growth.
Question again proposed.
*HON. S. TSHUMA: Thank you Madam Speaker Ma’am for giving me the opportunity to debate on the motion raised by Hon. Maunganidze. I support the idea that the youths must be empowered so that they succeed because they are the future generation. Even if this motion has a good intention, I also think that there is something that needs to be rectified so that the motion helps all the youths in the country.
When I look at the issue of tenders, they are meant for those with resources, for example, the Government may issue a tender for road construction. For you to bid, you must possess all the necessary equipment. Those who issue tenders also look at a lot of other requirements. They also consider people with registered companies that have got skilled labour, knowledgeable people and also look at the background of the company. They also look at whether the company has adequate funding to do the job and also previous experience. So, if we say the youths must be given 30%, I think that will not be good, there will be bias because this will support youths who are already empowered. If you look at how Government operates these days, right now there is no bias whether the person is young or not. At the moment, Government only considers expertise and the track record of that company in terms of efficiency. Last year, when the roads to Parliament were being constructed, an Hon. Member asked a question that one road was constructed recently, now it is already bad. What is the Government doing with such companies that do bad jobs?
The Hon. Minister gave a very good response and he said, ‘anyone who does a bad job must redo that work’. So I think that will be problematic to the youths if they do not have adequate funds. I think that compromises the scope of the work if we merely give tenders because they are youths despite the fact that they do not have track records to do the job correctly.
The other thing is that although the youths constitute the majority of the population in this country, let us also consider that the majority of the population in this country resides in the rural areas. So, with regards to the requirements for tenders and opening of companies or bank accounts, some of them may not even have them.
Those in the rural areas, it means they will be left behind. This motion is meant for the youths. I think we should also take into consideration people in the rural areas and those who depend on agriculture for their survival. What will Government do for them, the youths into mining, what is the Government doing?
So, it is not only about tenders that are lucrative but there are a lot of other projects. The liberation struggle was for the liberation of the land; money is found in the soil. We have a lot of youths in the rural areas who are into agriculture but they are not getting enough financial support. I appreciate very much His Excellency, the President’s programme of empowering our farmers with inputs. We all know that those are inputs that are given for free and they may not be sufficient. There are some youths who have bigger farm lands, if they can also be given inputs for agriculture that can improve their livelihoods. There are some youths who are into mining who also need to be looked into. Government can also assist them. There are companies that have mines in this country, big companies like Rio-Zim. Such companies have been holding on to mines from long back even if they may not be using them. They then look for foreign partners and give them an opportunity to mine. Such a motion should consider all that to ensure that such companies that spend a lot of time without using their claims or mines, they should consider the youths so that they may also be empowered and get to work.
Madam Speaker, I said earlier on that wealth is embedded in the land. I remember the words of the late Vice President Joshua Mqabuko Nkomo. He said, if you want money, just turn that word from money to agriculture. If you want money, do agriculture. I think Dr. Nkomo was telling the citizens of this country that wealth is found in the land. Let us use those resources. After getting resources, you can then go and look for tenders.
Let us not tie them into tenders. Let us consider all facets of the economy, be it in manufacturing or any other sectors that I earlier on spoke to, so that they can work. The tender business should be voluntary because you have to bear in mind that if you do a shoddy job, you have to repeat the job.
So, what I am saying is, I am trying to encourage that we do not want to ensnare our youths where they will end up being taken to court. We also do not want our youths to stampede looking for tenders.
Sometimes those tenders are not so many. There is just one company to do that job, yet maybe 50 companies go for bidding. That process where the bids are scrutinised or where they do tenders adjudication, that is where all those issues are considered. That brings up confusion because they end up having to compromise just to consider the youths.
So, I am sure the youths who want to do tenders are there and they are doing it freely. I also like to add on and say the youths must access loans from banks without collateral. It is a good idea, but the problem that we might have is that private banks will not be able to offer that service because they cannot do that without assuring that they will recover their money. So, we are only left with the Youth Empower Bank. If only the Minister of Finance can adequately fund it, so that all the youths who want to get funding or capital can be assisted through that way.
Before they are given funding, there must be scrutiny as to what exactly they want to do. Their project proposals must be scrutinised to avoid a situation where monies disbursed by the banks may never be recovered. If they get funding from the banks, the money must be paid back so that someone else may access that money. So, it is important that they should not be given this money in cash because they may end up spending it on holidays instead of doing the work they are supposed to be doing. We realise that most people change as soon as they get money, except for women - men, do a lot of things. So, all those measures must be put in place.
Madam Speaker, I would be very glad if this motion succeeds. But we want to go and talk about where we come from, Binga, Gokwe-Kabuyuni, or Rushinga. They should be rejoicing that indeed that motion which was debated is a good motion. I represent the rural populace. Indeed, if it succeeds that way, there is no benefit for the Gokwe-Kabuyuni person. Instead, we will be empowering those who are already successful. So, in this House, let us assist each other. We are the ones who know the problems that we have, where we come from. As an example, our constituencies, you may go to one ward and ask them if you want to drill a borehole. They may not be happy if you did not consult them - maybe their priority is a clinic. You may go and paint a school block, maybe their priorities will be a bridge. So, we must have an all-inclusive approach so that everyone is satisfied that they have representatives.
Finally, Madam Speaker, there is need to ensure that areas where they can get business opportunities are put into consideration so that all the youths are adequately looked after so that they do not feel left out. I thank you.
*HON. NYAKUEDZWA: Good afternoon Madam Speaker. Thank you for giving me this opportunity. I want to also add my voice to the motion on the development of the youth; so that they are given opportunities to benefit from everything that is done in our country that pertains to our economy, since they are the future leaders of tomorrow. In that regard, we should guide them properly so that they can take our country to its heights. Madam Speaker, it is my view that our youth should be enlightened by Government departments so that when they are assisted with funding to start their businesses, they will be knowledgeable on how to use the money. They will also be able to run their businesses properly.
Our Constitution, Madam Speaker, in Chapter 2, Section 20 (1) (c), it encourages the affording of opportunities to the youth so that they can be self-sustaining in terms of the economy of this country. My belief, Madam Speaker, is that as the august House, let us enhance this law so that when we talk about 30% quota, there should be an arrangement where if they require loans from the bank, the bank requires collateral security. Madam Speaker, true, no bank can lend them money without collateral security. We need to come up with a law as a Government that ensures that there be a particular type of security so that the youth do not have to worry about providing collateral security, but Government deposits collateral security on behalf of the youth or the Government should guarantee these loans. The previous speaker said the youth should be given an opportunity in farming.
Madam Speaker, I believe that land is a finite resource, but they should be given a chance when maize is planted so that they can come up with milling companies to make mealie meal and flour for resale. That may actually help in the development of our economy. If the youth are mining gold, there should be refineries, they should be making rings and other jewelry so that our gold is value-added before it leaves this country and by so doing, we will have created employment for our youth.
One also talked about the majority of the youth being in the communal lands and being unemployed. If the youth are employed, like in Manicaland, there is a lot of timber, they should not just sell the timber, but they should sell furniture after value-addition. They should have a company that value-add the timber into furniture, coffins and other such items for resale. This will help in developing the economy of the country. If you observe Madam Speaker, in Hwange, coal is being produced in large quantities. If the youth have companies to manufacture steel using the coking coal, it will enable our country to earn foreign currency.
Some countries such as China, Madam Speaker, helped to uplift their youth in various sectors such as mining, tourism and other sectors which has led to the economy of the Chinese being on the apex. If we do not leave any inheritance for our children and they hope that they will be better tomorrow, it means that when we will no longer be there, our country will go back to our colonisers, the whites, because they will be knowledgeable. Let us have faith in our children and help them, equip them by having skills in various jobs so that we come up with proper laws that will enable the youth bank to function properly because it will be having the funds.
We should not just have a youth bank in name only. Youth banks should assist the youth. We should come up with laws that uplift the livelihoods of our children so that when we recall or when we celebrate the Youth Day, we will also be reflecting on celebrating the success of what the youth are doing in terms of our economy.
Madam Speaker, a lot has been debated many times on the pain that the parents are suffering as a result of the youth abusing drugs. I recall last year, one Nyabani produced a bottle of an illicit brew commonly referred to as mutoriro. All this was being done because we are not giving adequate opportunities to our youth.
Let us make laws that create an enabling environment for our youth so that they have opportunities to further enhance the economy of this country. In conclusion, Madam Speaker, let me say that we have two ministries that are responsible for the youth. One of them is led by the Hon. Minister K. Coventry and the other one is led by Hon. Machakaire. We would want VTCs to educate our youth so that they will know how to manage and do their books once they start their companies. More importantly, the youths who are in the communal areas as they are the ones who are lagging behind and need to be assisted so that if they are involved in tender processes, this will assist them and not just a few who will benefit. Thank you for the opportunity that you have given me. My wish is that let us come up with a law that enhances the assistance that is being given to the youth.
HON. MUROMBEDZI: Madam Speaker, I rise to slightly give
another angle on this motion, not because I do not believe in youth empowerment, but because reserving 30% of Government tenders for youth-led enterprises is not the most effective way to achieve it. Instead of focusing on quotas and hand-outs, we must prioritise innovation, skills development and private sector-driven opportunities that truly prepare young people to compete in a fast-changing economy.
First of all, Government tenders breed dependency, not innovation. Reserving a fixed percentage of Government contracts for youth may seem like a noble idea, but it risks creating a culture of dependency rather than innovation. Youth-led businesses should not rely on Government hand-outs to thrive. Instead, they should be encouraged to innovate, compete and create products and services that attract investment beyond Government contracts.
The reality is that Government procurement processes are slow, bureaucratic and prone to corruption. If we pour youth enterprises into this system, we risk choking their growth with red tape rather than fostering dynamic, scalable business solutions.
Secondly, the real issue is the lack of access to finance and markets. Madam Speaker, what truly stifles youth entrepreneurship is not a lack of tenders but a lack of access to finance, technology and markets. Many young people have business ideas but struggle to get funding, modern equipment and market linkages. If we fix these issues, youth businesses will naturally succeed without needing Government quotas.
Instead of reserving tenders, we should expand access to affordable loans through innovation hubs, venture capital and fintech solutions; promote business incubators and accelerators to help young entrepreneurs refine and scale their ideas and invest in STEM education, digital skills and entrepreneurship training to help prepare youths for competitive industries like tech, agribusiness and renewable energy.
Thirdly, youth-led innovation is the future, not government contracts. Globally, economies are being transformed by young innovators, tech entrepreneurs and problem-solvers, not by Government tenders. In Africa, we have seen young people develop fintech solutions, e-commerce platforms and smart agriculture systems that have revolutionised industries. This is where our focus should be.
Instead of pushing youth into Government contracts, we should create tax incentives for private companies to invest in youth-led start-ups; fund research and development (R and D) initiatives led by young people and establish innovation parks and digital hubs where young entrepreneurs can test ideas and scale businesses.
Fourth is, Government tenders are prone to corruption and elite capture. Madam Speaker, let us be honest. How many of these tenders will actually reach the ordinary young entrepreneur in rural areas? We have seen in the past how tender systems are manipulated by politically connected elites. This motion risks benefiting a few privileged youths in urban centres while neglecting those in villages who lack networks to access these tenders. We need a solution that benefits ALL young Zimbabweans, not just a privileged few.
In conclusion, let us build a competitive, innovative youth-led economy. If we truly want to empower young people, we must equip them with skills, capital and access to markets, not Government quotas. Let us invest in tech, agribusiness, manufacturing and creative industries where young people can thrive without waiting for a Government contract. Our youths do not need special treatment, they need equal access to resources, a business-friendly environment and opportunities that reward hard work and innovation. I so submit Madam Speaker.
HON. KANGAUSARU: Madam Speaker and Hon. Members, imagine a Zimbabwe where every young person wakes up, not to the weight of unemployment but to tree of opportunity; a Zimbabwe where the dreams of our young people are not buried up under the rubbles of economic hardship but are instead, nurtured by a system that believes in their potential.
Today, I rise to speak not just about our youth economic empowerment but about the untapped potential or gold mine of innovation, creativity and resilience that lies within our young people; a gold mine that if harnessed, could redefine the future of our beloved nation. The youths are not just the leaders of tomorrow, they are innovators, job creators and drivers of economic growth today yet despite their immense potential, our young people face systematic barriers that stifle their creativity, limit their opportunities and push them to the margins of our economy.
Madam Speaker, the statistics are star and sobering. Zimbabwe has one of the youngest populations in the world with 62% of our citizens under the age of 25years. However, youth unemployment stands at an alarming rate with estimates suggesting that over 50% of our young people are either unemployed or underemployed. This is not just the statistics but a ticking time bomb when young people are denied opportunity to contribute meaningfully to the economy, you risk losing an entire generation to despair, to drug and substance abuse, to migration and even social unrest. Madam Speaker Ma’am, this is not just a challenge, it is an opportunity across the globe, nations that have invested in youth economic empowerment and entrepreneurial service have reaped transformative rewards. Let us look to a nation like Rwanda, a country that has emerged from the ashes of conflict to become a beacon of innovation and youth-driven growth. Through initiatives like the Young Connect Africa Summit and the Hunger Peak Fest, Rwanda has created a platform for young entrepreneurs to access funding, mentorship and markets.
Today, Rwandan youths are at the forefront of sectors like technology, agriculture and renewable energy, driving economic growth and reducing unemployment. Madam Speaker Ma’am similarly, South Africa has made significant strides through programmes like the National Youth Development Agency, which provides grants, loan and business development services to young entrepreneurs. These initiatives have not only created jobs, but also fostered a culture of innovation and self-reliance among young people.
Hon. Members, these examples are not just success stories, they are proofs for what is possible when a nation priorities its youth. Zimbabwe has the potential to achieve even greater success given our abundant natural resources, vibrant culture and the resilience of our people. But to unlock this potential and tap potential, we must take bold decisions. Hon. Speaker Ma’am, allow me to propose a three-pronged approach to youth economic empowerment in Zimbabwe. Number one; access to capital and financial inclusion. One of the greatest barriers facing young entrepreneurs is the lack of access to affordable capital.
Traditional financial institutions often view young-lead set-ups as a high risk, leaving many young people without the resources to turn their ideas into reality. We must establish a National Youth Entrepreneurship Fund that provides low-interest loans, grants and venture capital to our young entrepreneurs. This fund, Madam Speaker Ma’am, should be complemented by financial literacy programmes to ensure that young people can manage their businesses effectively and efficiently.
The second is the skills development and mentorship to our young people. Entrepreneurship is not just about having an idea. It is about having the skills to execute the idea. We must invest in vocational training, digital literacy and business management programmes tailored to the needs of our young people. Additionally, we must create mentorship networks that connect young entrepreneurs with experienced business leaders who can guide them through challenges of starting and scaling a business.
Thirdly, Madam Speaker Ma’am; market access and innovative hubs. Young entrepreneurs often struggle to access markets for their products and services. We must establish innovative hubs and industrial parks that provide affordable workspace, technology and access to local and international markets. These hubs should also create a sense of collaboration where young people can share ideas, form partnerships and learn from one another.
Madam Speaker Ma’am, the benefits of investing in our youth economic empowerment are immense. When young people are given the tools to succeed, they create jobs, drive innovation and contribute to economic growth. They become taxpayers, homeowners and community leaders. They become the architect of a prosperous and inclusive Zimbabwe, which we want.
However, let us be clear, this is not just an economic imperative, it is a moral obligation. Our youths are not asking for handouts. They are asking for opportunities. They are asking for a chance to prove themselves, to contribute to their families and to build a better future for our nation. The Zimbabwe that we all want.
Hon. Members, the time for rhetoric is over. It is time now to give them the land and the resources they need. The time for action is now. Let us draw inspiration from countries like Rwanda and South Africa, but let us also charter our path. One that reflects the unique strength and aspiration of Zimbabwean youths. Let us pass laws and allocate resources like farms, if need be. That prioritise youth economic empowerment. Let us create an ecosystem where every young person, regardless of background or circumstances, has the opportunity to strive.
In conclusion, Madam Speaker Ma’am. I call on this House to support this motion and to commit to a future where our young people are not just beneficiaries of development but are active participants in shaping it. Let us empower our young people to dream boldly, to dream wildly, to innovate fearlessly and to build a Zimbabwe that we can all be proud of, the Zimbabwe that we want, the Zimbabwe of prosperity. So, God bless Africa, God bless Zimbabwe.
*HON. CHAIMVURA: Good afternoon Madam Speaker. Thank you for affording me the opportunity to also give my views. The majority of people that live in this country are the youth. I am one of those who support the motion that was brought before this august House that 30% be set aside for all tenders for the youths. It is meant to urge the people of this country to remain in this country. The youths should be given implements for farming and develop the economy of the country.
Also, if the youths do not have start-up perks for their businesses or in farming or any ventures, they cannot be able to assist one another and grow the economy through the creation of jobs and they will forever be poor. The Empower Bank should not be difficult to deal with. It should not put stringent conditions for the youths.
They should be given concessional loans. The youths that are in the communal lands do not have network. Some of them do not even know how to access a bank or what to say in the bank. They require to be empowered so that they can be able to go to a bank. They should be at par with their counterparts who live in the urban areas. They should be encouraged to have skills like growing tomatoes, farming chickens and goats.
That will keep the youths busy and none will be idle. Everything has been said in this august House Madam Speaker Ma’am. I do not have much to add for the majority of the issues that have been already stated. Funding is important. It helps the youths to get started. I thank you.
HON. MADZIVANYIKA: Thank you Madam Speaker Ma’am. I do not understand what the motion is trying to achieve under our circumstances. The biggest worry that we are going to see or the biggest danger with this motion is that it creates unintended consequences for this country. If we say 30% must be allocated to the youth in terms of tenders, what if the war veterans come with a petition tomorrow to say, we also want 20% from Government tenders? What will happen when the women also come to say we want 20% of the tenders? What will happen when persons with disabilities come and say we need 40% of the Government tenders? What will happen when the elderly say now we are old, we are tired, can we also be allowed 10% of Government tenders? This is what I am calling the catch of unintended consequences.
What is fundamental for the growth of this country is capacity and expertise. We need proper efficiency in the manner in which Government contracts are executed regardless of age, colour, size or nationality. I want to be very clear that I would not support this kind of prayer, as much as I like the youths and I support the programmes that are designed to improve the welfare of the youths but this specific issue, I think is discriminatory. Remember, we have got a law of procurement in this country called the Public Procurement and Disposal of Public Assets Act that promotes competitive bidding on our Government contracts. Are we then going to amend that Act to ensure that we allow the youth to come into play? I do not think it is sustainable. It is important to ensure that contracts and tenders are given to those who deserve them, who have got the capacity to execute them.
The biggest problem that we have in this country is not lack of funding or lack of support for the youths. The biggest problem that we have that must be addressed so that we put our youth at the same page with other competitors is unemployment. Imagine that you are graduating from the university today and you have no employment. I wanted to see this idea of saying how best can the Government try to bring an instrument so that our youngsters get employment and that they grow and start their own businesses and become self-sufficient and reliant. Unfortunately, under our current circumstances, we now have degreed vendors and that is what we need to address as Parliament.
Number two, it is important to address the regulatory environment that we are operating in this country before we talk about the empowerment of the youth. Imagine that you need 32 licences for you to open a supermarket. Under the circumstances, even if you want to empower them, how do you do it when you need 32 licences for a supermarket? I think these are the issues that need to be addressed because these are so fundamental for business.
Also, assume that you allow this motion to go through and they are allocated 30% of Government tenders, which criteria is going to be used to say this youth deserves this tender and this one deserves that one? This will create a lot of problems under the current circumstances. The Ministry of Youth is also seized with a lot of corporate governance malpractices. According to the 2022 Auditor General’s Report (AG), a total of ZW872 million was used without supporting documents. Whenever there is an expenditure, we expect to see supporting documents like invoices as well as issues to do with payment vouchers that was not there. These are issues that need to be addressed first so that the youth operate in a safe environment for them to prosper. How do you explain that kind of situation where a whole Ministry that is charged to preside over the issues of the youth spend ZW872 million without payment vouchers? This is, in all intends and purpose, against Section 59 (5) of the Public Finance Management Act.
If we are going to improve the youths’ welfare, let us also deal with the Ministry of Youth so that everything becomes very progressive. In 2022, the Ministry of Youth paid for 17 vehicles but only seven were delivered. Up to now, 10 are still outstanding. What kind of Government is this, that pays someone and that other person did not deliver and everything is normal? In Shona we say, ko kunyara kwakaendepi? It is important because we expect the Ministry of Youth to take centre stage in promoting the affairs of the youth and you lead by example first before we talk about these tenders because if you allow this 30%, it will follow the same trajectory; it may follow the same drain, which we are against.
In the same year, 2022, according to the AG’s report, the Ministry of Youth actually acquired a royal fruit and vegetable plant from Mutoko. From the AG’s report, until today, there is no record of its sales; there is no record of its class of shares; there is no record of its operations. Mind you, that plant is worth USD9 million. It is a serious cost Madam Speaker. So, what am I saying? I am saying, let us deal with our current circumstances first before we push for this because we may allocate this 30%, but it will be food for the vultures which are popularly known as zvigananda. The same vultures who are getting those contracts are going to register companies for the youth; they are going to sponsor everything. The youth will be just a face and they will not be enjoying anything. I do not think it is advisable to support this motion.
In actual fact, what we must do is exactly the same to all citizens. For example, I will give the elderly people in terms of taxation. The elderly, if you are over 55 years, you are given what we call an elderly person’s credit. By the fact that you are old, we are allowing you not to get some credit in terms of being old. So, you do not pay more tax, which makes it a privilege for an elderly person. Madam Chair, the elderly person does not pay capital gains tax on private principal residence if he decides to sell that asset. A minimum of USD3 000 rental income, which is accruing to an elderly person is exempt for tax purposes. The first USD1 800 received from the sale of a marketable security by an elderly person is exempt for tax purposes. Can we also do the same to the youth to say, if you want to register a business as a youth, some of the fundamental requirements can be waived so that we support our youth. For example, the requirements for a bank statement, let us waive it for now until the youths become financially stable. What is required is to support the youth in terms of making sure that the environment in which they operate is reasonably better.
If we look at my recommendations, the majority of them have been highlighted by other Hon. Members, it may not be necessary to regurgitate what have already been said. With these few words, I would like to thank you.
HON. MANDIWANZIRA: Thank you very much Madam Speaker. I am actually surprised that there is anyone in this House who would be opposed to supporting the motion that we must empower the youths and that we must create a definite opportunity for them to benefit from Government tenders like accessing at least 30% of Government tenders. We must acknowledge as a House and as a country that the youths in Zimbabwe today have a different experience of life as youths like what the majority of those in this House had.
A number of the people in this House went to university, they were paid grants by the Government while they were at the university. Several Hon. Members in this House got loans to finish university from the Government and none of them paid back those loans. The youths today have no such opportunity because our economy was ravaged by economic sanctions. They do not have that opportunity because we were closed out of the international markets in terms of exporting our products. A very good example is that of a number of countries in the Southern African region that benefited from the Africa Growth Opportunities Act which was an American initiative to allow easy access of African goods in the US markets, Zimbabwe was excluded. This is one example of the many things that sanctions brought to our country that made the economy not perform at the right level to allow for investment in our institutions and in our youths.
A lot of our youths are unemployed today, looking for opportunities and what we are talking of is affirmative action to bring on board economically those youths who have not benefited from a stable economy because we were ravaged by sanctions. If we do not invest in these young people, we will have a generation of leaders at a later stage that will take this country downwards because they never had the opportunity to be who they should be at this stage. I believe this motion is very important and we must take it very seriously.
Yes, it is important to invest in the elderly and give them opportunities of tax-free but it is important to invest in the young because they are going to build the country. The youths are the ones with the energy to drive the growth of our economy not the retired. It is important to take care of the retired but it is more important to take care of a generation that has the energy, the zeal and the drive to build the country. So, this motion is so important and needs to be supported by the majority in this House.
In fact, my proposal is that this motion cannot be and should not be just about 30% of Government tenders. This motion must be about 30% of all work related to the country’s operations whether it is the private sector, public sector or Government. It must be a deliberate effort by ourselves as Zimbabweans and this generation to say we do not want to leave this generation behind because when it gets to our ages, we will not have a country that is functioning properly. I believe that it is true contribution made by colleagues here that we must ensure that there is more training for our youths. We must provide opportunities for them to access loans. The reality is that they cannot access loans if there is no economic base and no bank, despite how much we can talk about is willing to give a loan to somebody who does not have security. How do we expect young kids who have no security to access a loan to start a business? They cannot but should have the opportunity granted by Government to say you access 30% of all public and private sector projects because of your age group. That is their capital to earn something, to partner with anyone who has an interest in the finance to finance the project.
So, we ought to give the youths something that we can give by a signature because we have not been able to give them something that we must give them economically because we have been ravaged by economic sanctions.
Madam Speaker, I had an opportunity in my previous assignment in Government to travel to Barcelona for the big show that they do, a Global Congress of Mobile World Congress. One of the speakers was Mark Zuckerberg, we all know him as a multi-billionaire behind Facebook related companies. I went into his presentation, other than the fact that he is a billionaire and has lots of money, I did not find anything impressive about what he did. I actually thought we have young people coming from Harare Institute of Technology (HIT) who are even more brilliant than him and I realised that he is in a country where he can get or access financial resources, where there are people who are willing to invest in ideas whereas a student coming out of HIT, despite the best ideas, may not have the financial way withal to promote their project to something big.
Therefore, what we need to do is to make sure that these tenders are made available, to ensure that when the Government is procuring services, whether by tender or no tender, when private companies are procuring services whether by tender or no tender, they must buy from the youths. So, we can develop some of the best IT programmes, best software by our youths but if we have no policy that says if a parastatal wants to buy software, 30% of their spend must be on youths, they will develop these things and will send them to the best colleges. If there is no policy to promote them, they will never get that business, they will never grow. So, it is a good and brilliant idea but let us offer more training, create institutions of excellence for the youths. However, if you do not open the door for them to get money, there is no one who is willing to open that door. So, let us have this motion supported as I am supporting it to make sure that our youths do benefit from guaranteed access to Government business and to private sector business.
I see today a lot of roads being constructed, they are constructed in urban and in rural areas. Imagine the impact if we say just all quarry on this Government project funded by Government’s 20 million dollars, all the quarry is going to be supported by youths related business. So, we have all young people along the Chirundu highway, along the Harare-Beitbridge Road setting up quarries in order to tap into that opportunity but once they have availed quarry for roads and when the road is finished, they start building, start construction. They start doing many other things but we have created a window for them to get into the opportunity. So, this motion is extremely important and must be supported just as I am supporting it. We must make our youths proud and we must give them an opportunity because they are going to get to our stage and if they get to our stage without anything, it is going to be a disaster in this country. Let us give them the opportunity and support them and it must be from this House to make sure they access a minimum of 30% Government business, a minimum 30% private sector business, a minimum 30% opportunity in their own country of birth because no one will ever give them that opportunity if we do not do so. I thank you.
HON. KAMBUZUMA: I move that the debate do now adjourn.
HON. C. MOYO: I second.
Motion put and agreed to.
Debate to resume: Wednesday, 19th March, 2025.
MOTION
LEGISLATION TO PROTECT INDIGENOUS HERBAL TREES
Fifteenth Order read: Adjourned debate on motion on the preservation of Zimbabwe’s herbal trees.
Question again proposed.
+HON. NKOMO: Thank you Hon. Speaker. I want to debate on the issue of our natural resources, the issue of trees that were used to treat our people as part of medicine but later on, they were neglected because of the coming of other people. Right now, we have neglected these natural resources trees, we are appealing that in our education, these trees could be put into the syllabus and learners learn about African medicine since the President has been continuously saying the country is built by its owners.
We should also translate to medicine that even our natural trees can heal us or be used as medicine. We are appealing to those who are responsible for the trees and environment that these trees should be taken care of and protected so that they can be used as part of traditional medicine. Most of these trees are very important in keeping our health as Africans.
There is also a shortage of certain trees that have declined because of their demand. They are being exported outside because everyone wants to use such trees. People are not replanting and such trees should be taken with much importance so that they can be protected and used into our medical arena. They have now not been used. If we go back to history, we will find that these trees have been used as part of medicine. Thank you.
*HON. NYAKUEDZWA: Good afternoon, Madam Speaker. I also want to add my voice to the debate before this august House. The preservation of our indigenous trees in this country which are used for medicinal purposes and for treating various ailments is very important. Our indigenous trees should be preserved because from these trees in the past, our health was taken care of by the use of such trees in treating various ailments. In the Constitution of Zimbabwe, Chapter 2:33, states that there should be preservation and conservation of our natural resources such as our trees. In this country, if we look closely, in the past we would say that we are the Dexter Chavundukas of this world that reached a stage where people of the country were to know about the different trees and how they could be used in treating certain ailments.
I thought as an august House, we could enhance the law that ensures that our trees and herbs are registered and protected and that this registration should be done through the Ministry of Health and this will lead us to coming up with pharmaceutical companies. These pharmaceutical companies will then make drugs from these herbs and as a result, will buy the drugs cheaply. We had COVID-19 that troubled the whole of this world.
In this country and in various other countries or different countries, people make a lot of money by using a traditional herb called zumbani. If you look at it, if zumbani was properly formulated and processed into tablets or capsules, Zimbabwe was going to reap a lot of money. This shows that in this country, we have a lot of herbs and trees that are of medicinal value and are recognised by other countries.
We have ailments such as diabetes and hypertension that are treated by local herbs. Even the food that we eat, we are told by the doctors that we should eat food that comes from rapoko, sorghum, finger millet and traditional rice. They encourage that if you suffer from diabetes, your health would improve if you were to consume such types of food. Madam Speaker, it is our plea as a country that we have a school where our children can research on the medicinal purposes of each herb or tree and how it can be further developed or processed into treating ailments such as cancer, eye problems and various others. My plea Madam Speaker is that we come up with a law, firstly, to protect and preserve such trees and herbs so that they will not be destroyed. Secondly, to come up with a law that enables the Ministry of Health to accept that our trees and herbs be allowed to be processed into drugs and tablets so that we do not lose trees that are important and rely on foreign drugs.
Recently you heard that the Americans have stopped aid as a country. If we have our own herbs and shrubs, we will not be bothered by the foreign aid.
Madam Speaker Ma’am, I was disturbed when we lost Hon. Hakata. There were certain herbs and shrubs that he knew that helped us as men. Because of such a loss, we now have a challenge as male Members of Parliament because we are now lacking. We once had Dr. Chavhunduka who knew herbs and shrubs that healed people to treat various elements. I urge this august House to prioritise our indigenous trees and shrubs, we have these in various forms such as ngungumira or black jack. If you apply these, you will treat your eyes or remove evil spirits. We have herbs that treat cancer, stomach ailments such as diabetes and problematic legs.
Madam Speaker, let me take my seat but I want to urge this august House that as a country, let us enhance or develop our laws in terms of [Chapter 2: 33] that says our trees, shrubs and herbs must be protected and more importantly that the Minister of Health accepts the use of these shrubs into herbs and drugs, which will then assist our people in this country. With those words Madam Speaker, I thank you.
*HON. NKANI: Thank you Madam Speaker. Let me also add a few words on this important motion brought by Hon. P. Zhou which talks about the preservation of our trees that have medicinal values. I want to congratulate this august House because of this important motion. In the past, Zimbabweans used to think that once you use our herbs, you are practicing witchcraft or something evil, especially Christians. Whenever they see mothers giving herbs to their children, they will say it is witchcraft but when a child is given capsules or drugs, they will give greenlight to that. The drugs and capsules that we have are processed from shrubs and herbs. This is the colonial mentality that brainwashed our people into thinking that everything brought by the whites is good.
If these herbs are taken, packed and processed into capsules and written made in a foreign country, we will be happier but that is not the correct position. I congratulate this august House that we are now at a level where we are implementing His Excellency, the President words that the country is built by its owners. Meaning that it is now time for us Zimbabweans to ensure that we use whatever surrounds us to help us in our everyday lives.
The question is being raised several times on what we are going to do about the removal of aid by Trump. We have a lot of trees such as sausage tree mumvee and murumanyama, these have medicinal values and if we now have this motion in this august House, it means we are progressing.
Madam Speaker, these shrubs, herbs and trees that we call for their preservation are not readily found in one place, they are scatteredly populated, so their preservation requires us as Zimbabweans to urge one another to come up with programmes to plant such trees. You may find sausage trees here and the other one in Norton but if we take the seeds and plant such trees, we will have these trees in abundance. It will help us in coming up with drugs that will treat us.
Furthermore, it is not everyone who is knowledgeable about these herbs, shrubs and trees that have medicinal values. It means us as the Government, we have a duty to come up with programmes to educate people on the benefits of shrubs, trees and herbs. It is our work that we must do. We should also further encourage those that are knowledgeable to come out openly and share their knowledge in terms of what these trees, shrubs and herbs can be used for to treat various ailments. The majority may not want to divulge this because they would also want to make a living out of that and get money out of it. As the Government, we should encourage people to be paid a certain amount for the invention or divulge that diarrhoea can be treated by such a herb and influenza can be treated by such a drug.
We have heard that in COVID-19, a lot of drugs, trees, shrubs were used in treating COVID-19, even an onion was used. When I contracted the flue bug, I just cut a few onions and administered them in my blanket, and the next morning I was as fit as a fiddle. Knowledge should be passed on.
As Zimbabweans, I urge every one of us to do so, so that we cannot be reliant on outside assistance. Madam Speaker, it is high time that we come up with research centres where people are taught, where in-depth research is conducted on the medicinal herbs like Murumanyama tree, in terms of the quantities that are needed to treat one's stomach ailments. I may use a very big cup and then I fall ill and die. We need to know the dosage. The dosage should be known.
Madam Speaker, there should be research centres where researchers will look into the medicinal value of, let us say, the sausage tree and how much is required to treat an ailment if one is ill. Once that is done, Madam Speaker, I believe that this will assist us.
Lastly, I would want to end by saying that we do have certain patented medicines. It is patented that so and so brought the use of the pawpaw tree leaves. As a result, that is patented - this country should know that pawpaw leaves can treat sore throat. I chewed a few leaves and as bitter as they may be, a few minutes after I was feeling well. The pawpaw leaves are capable of treating stomach ailments better than the capsules that you get from the pharmacy or chemist. So, this motion is giving us a chance to speak on how best we can be self-reliant as Zimbabweans.
*HON. ZEMURA: Thank you Madam Speaker, for affording me the opportunity to add my voice. I am happy to hear a lot of trees, herbs, shrubs that we were ignorant of are used in treating various ailments. I suffer from hypertension and I use the mutiti tree. If you boil the bark of the mutiti tree and drink it three times a day, it lowers your sugar levels. If a person is hospitalised and is in a critical condition, if you administer the mutiti concoction on them, they will recover quickly.
These are some of the important herbs, trees and shrubs that we have. The mutiti tree looks like mumvee tree. It has a red fruit that has a white sport on the centre. Some use them for rattles. It has red leaves and during this time, it is mostly found in Mashonaland, especially in Epworth. There is a lot of mutiti trees in Epworth.
I believe that we should urge people to be using our traditional medicines. They are cheaper than foreign drugs. In Bulawayo, they use ntolwane. If one is constantly being attacked by diarrhoea, once ntolwane is administered, whether in powder form or not and they take it in their porridge every morning, in the afternoon and in the evening, their health will be restored. They will regain their weight. It is effective even to small children.
We thank the government for allowing us to use such shrubs, herbs and trees. Dr. Chavhunduka even went to the hospitals and was advocating that even n’angas should be allowed to administer drugs. These days no one is advocating for these traditional medicines which are helping a lot of people. They are not as popular as the Zumbani tree that was exported to Britain and other countries because it was being used to treat COVID-19. The majority of people who administered Zumbani survived but Zimbabweans were looking down upon it. We saw people coming to the communal lands seeking knowledge about the Zumbani tree. As the previous speaker said, in terms of COVID-19, the majority of us used it to apply hot baths and we were healed. Why should we be looking down upon such shrubs that we have in Zimbabwe?
They are selling medicines, shrubs, trees and herbs that are administered to the children. There is a medicine that is used for Ndongorongo. You are told to administer it using the shell of a groundnut. It is important and it enabled our children to grow up well. When they board a bus, they would never fall ill once we get to Harare because they would have taken the medicine.
There were communicable diseases that small children could pass on to each other but we are grateful that we are here and we survived influenza because of our traditional medicines. We should continue and also advocate for their use. We want a law that allows the use of traditional medicines and the Ministry of Health and Child Care should recognise the use of traditional medicines in hospitals. There should not be anyone who should dissuade people from administering herbs for treatment. We used to chew leaves and then give them to our children whenever they fall ill.
In Bulawayo, we used to have the Umkhomo tree. I cannot remember the names of other trees but the majority know that they are selling medicines that are chewed by the mother and the mother gives the child orally and then the child wakes up – it is called umbondo tree. If a child has a stomach problem, if the mother chews the umbondo tree and gives the medicine to the child's orally, the child gets better.
We are grateful that our Government has allowed us to talk about this subject. We thank you for affording us the opportunity to speak on the traditional medicines that we are knowledgeable about. I thank you.
HON. KAMBUZUMA: I move that the debate do now adjourn.
HON. C. MOYO: I second.
Motion put and agreed to.
Debate to resume: Wednesday 19th March 2025.
MOTION
BUSINESS OF THE HOUSE
HON. KAMBUZUMA: I move that we revert to Order Number 16 on today’s Order Paper.
HON. C. MOYO: I second.
Motion put and agreed to.
MOTION
ENACTMENT OF LAWS THAT ADDRESS THE PLIGHT OF WOMEN IN ACCESSING THE WOMEN’S MICRO FINANCE BANK SERVICES
Sixteenth Order read: Adjourned debate on motion on the critical
role played by women in the economic development of the nation.
Question again proposed.
HON. MGUNI: Thank you Mr. Speaker Sir, for affording me this opportunity to say a few words on this motion brought in by Hon. Dr. Khupe on women’s development and empowerment. Mr. Speaker Sir, women worldwide, are known to be very industrious. In our country, more women than men are participating in business. Women’s participation in the economy in Africa as a whole is crucial in achieving gender equality and promoting inclusivity and economic growth. Despite facing numerous challenges, African women make significant contributions to their economies whether through business, farming, entrepreneurship, or unpaid care work. Women face a lot of challenges:
(1) Limited access to education and vocational training hinders them to compete in job market and financial management of their businesses.
(2) Cultural and social barriers. Traditional gender roles and stereotypes restrict women’s participation in economic activities and limit their access to resources and opportunities.
(3) Lack of access to finance. Credit and other financial services make it very hard to start or grow a business. Mr. Speaker Sir, women in and around Africa as a whole have made significant strides in business. Women produce approximately 80% of production in the sub-Saharan region. Women also dominate the informal sector in Zimbabwe with 80% of women living in the rural areas and 70% engaged in agriculture. The women’s bank should provide access to financial services by providing loans and other financial services that include business training and women empowerment which will help them start or grow their businesses. The Women’s Bank can help reduce poverty in both urban and rural areas by giving loans that have low interest rates.
Rwanda has made significant strides in promoting women’s economic empowerment through initiatives like the Rwanda Women’s Network, which has provided financial education to over 450 women per year and financed them through collaboration with financial institutions.
So, the Zimbabwe Women’s Bank can consider the following strategies to assist women in economic activities.
- Financial Service. By microfinancing which offers favourable terms such as low interest rates and flexible payment schedules. Savings accounts with attractive interest rates which will encourage women to save and building capital.
- Offer capacity building, provide training and mentorship by training them on entrepreneurship, business management and financial literacy. To hold also workshops and seminars, to provide mentorship programmes for guidance and support network opportunities.
- The bank can help establish networks to connect, share knowledge and collaborate. Hold fairs and exhibitions for women to showcase their products and services. To provide access to new markets, technology and resources. To establish training on how to start a business, teach them the need for a clear business plan which includes them doing detailed short analysis. Afford women the opportunity to access supply chains and procurement opportunities.
- Number four, to help them with technology and innovation, offer training programmes in digital literacy, e-commerce and digital marketing. To introduce financial technology solutions such as mobile payment and digital wallets to increase financial inclusion. To establish innovation hubs to support women and develop innovative solutions and programmes.
- To do advocacy and policy support. To conduct research on policies and regulations that affect women's participation. Advocate for policies and regulations that support women's economic participation. To partner with Government agencies to develop and implement policies that are favourable to women's economic involvement.
In conclusion, women's banks should implement all these strategies in order to efficiently support women on their various economic activities. To promote financial inclusion and contribute to the country's growth and development. I thank you.
HON. DR. KHUPE: I move that the debate do now adjourn.
HON. C MOYO: I second.
Motion put and agreed to.
Debate to resume: Wednesday, 19th March, 2025.
On the motion of HON. KAMBUZUMA seconded by HON. C MOYO, the House adjourned at Twenty-Three Minutes to Six o’clock p.m.
PARLIAMENT OF ZIMBABWE
Thursday, 6th March, 2025
The Senate met at Half–past Two o’clock p.m.
PRAYERS
(THE HON. DEPUTY PRESIDENT OF SENATE in the Chair)
ANNOUNCEMENT BY THE HON. DEPUTY PRESIDENT OF SENATE
SWITCHING OFF OF CELL PHONES
THE HON. DEPUTY PRESIDENT OF SENATE: I have to inform Hon. Senators to put their gadgets on silence or better still, switch them off.
HON. SEN. MBOHWA: On a point of national interest. I rise to address this august House as we look forward to the Commemoration of International Women’s Day on Saturday 8th March, 2025.
As we join the global community in celebrating the achievements of women and recommitting ourselves to the pursuit of gender parity, it is important to reflect on this year’s theme, ‘Accelerate Action’, which resonates with Zimbabwe’s ongoing efforts to empower women and girls across all sectors of the society.
Mr. President, remarkably, Zimbabwe has made significant strides in advancing gender equality on legislative reforms that protect women’s rights to initiate and promoting women’s participation in leadership, education and the economy as a whole. Mr. President, while we applaud the Government for these efforts, challenges were met, deep-rooted cultural norms and societal attitudes continue to hinder women’s progress. Gender stereotypes and discriminatory practices often limit women’s access to opportunities and decision-making roles. Very few women own land, houses, businesses, mines and so forth.
Therefore, as we celebrate International Women’s Day on Saturday 8th March, 2025, as the Zimbabwe Women Parliamentary Caucus, we call upon the Government to accelerate action and ensure that more women rise and break the glass ceiling. For Parliament, we plead for increased funding and resources dedicated to the Gender in Politics initiative in all ministries.
Mr. President, together, we can accelerate action and build a Zimbabwe where every woman and girl can achieve their full potential. I thank you.
ANNOUNCEMENT BY THE HON. DEPUTY PRESIDENT OF SENATE
APOLOGIES RECEIVED FROM MINISTERS
THE HON. DEPUTY PRESIDENT OF SENATE: Today is Thursday and following the Standing Orders, we start with Questions Without Notice. As usual, I have a very long list of apologies, sadly. The list of apologies is as follows; Hon. General Rtd. Dr. C. D. G. N. Chiwenga, the Vice President; Hon. Colonel Rtd. K. C. D Mohadi, the Vice President; Hon. M. Ncube, Minister of Finance, Economic Development and Investment Promotion; Hon. Machakaire, the Minister of Youth Empowerment, Development and Vocational Training; Hon. Murwira, Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Trade; Hon. Kazembe, Minister of Home Affairs and Cultural Heritage; Hon. Mavetera, the Minister of ICT, Postal and Courier Services; Hon. M. Ndlovu, the Minister of Industry and Commerce; Hon. F. Mhona, Minister of Transport and Infrastructural Development; Hon. J.G, Moyo, Minister of Energy and Power Development; Hon. K. D. Mnangagwa, the Deputy Minister of Finance, Economic Development and Investment Promotion; Hon. E. Jesaya, Deputy Minister of Sports, Recreation, Arts and Culture; Hon. J. Mhlanga, Deputy Minister of Women Affairs, Community, Small and Medium Enterprises Development; Hon. C. Sanyatwe, Deputy Minister of Home Affairs and Cultural Heritage; Hon. Mazungunye, Deputy Minister of Justice, Legal and Parliamentary Affairs; Hon. A. Gata, Deputy Minister of Primary and Secondary Education; Hon. R. Modi, Deputy Minister of Industry and Commerce; Hon. Y. Simbanegavi, Deputy Minister of Energy and Power Development; Hon. M. Ncube, Deputy Minister of National Housing and Social Amenities and Hon. D. Marapira, Deputy Minister of Lands, Agriculture, Fisheries, Water and Rural Resettlement.
In the Chamber today, we have Hon. T. Moyo, Minister of Primary and Secondary Education; Hon. O. Marupi, Deputy Minister of Information, Publicity and Broadcasting Services and Hon. D. Phuti, Deputy Minister of ICT.
Can we then start with those ministers who are present and hopefully, we will be joined by other Ministers as we progress?
ORAL ANSWERS TO QUESTIONS WITHOUT NOTICE
*HON. SEN. ZINDI: My question, through you, is directed to the Minister of Primary and Secondary Education Hon. Moyo. I would like to find out what is Government policy through his Ministry of Education with regards to sports and schools? Firstly, there is what they call affiliation fee which is supposed to be paid by all learners and paid by every school to the association to NAPH and NASH. The amount is quite high because it is paid by every learner at every school. When the students participate, the winners are given a prize of a plate of sadza that costs a dollar. The teachers who manage the competitions are given allowances. My question is, how come the students or learners are given a dollar plate of sadza while the teachers are given allowances? Will that motivate the learners when they are not even given prizes such as a laptop or having their fees paid just as an example, to motivate them so that they compete energetically while the teachers are given allowances and that money is paid by every learner to affiliate into those organisations. They get their meals from chicken slice but they give learners just a plate of sadza at a dollar. So, what is the policy?
THE MINISTER OF PRIMARY AND SECONDARY EDUCATION (HON. T. MOYO): Thank you Mr. President of the Senate. I also like to thank Hon. Senator Zindi for the question.
Indeed, learners pay for sports fees at primary and secondary schools. They pay so that learners may be able to compete in various sports disciplines. The fees are also paid to ensure that schools can travel to go and compete as well as being able to hire transport such as buses.
Schools that have buses will then be able to procure fuel to travel properly. These fees are very important, especially during this time when we have launched the Heritage-Based Curriculum. It encourages that all learners must exhibit their skills, be it in sports or academically as well as promoting their talents.
We have seen that some of the learners are able to compete at national level and can actually represent the country as they compete, be it in Africa or Europe. Yes, learners who compete cannot fail to get food but it is not only food. Those who win get certificates and trophies from their schools as well as these organisations such as NAPH and NASH at primary and secondary schools respectively.
Yes, indeed teachers should be given allowances. I may not respond so much because they will be at work, they are not entitled to allowances. So, we expect that the money is not misused but used properly because the whole idea is to see the competence of the learners which contributes to the development of the country.
THE HON. DEPUTY PRESIDENT OF SENATE: We have just been joined by Hon. Sacco, the Deputy Minister of Transport and Infrastructure Development. Welcome Minister.
HON. SEN. BIMHA: Thank you Mr. President for giving me this opportunity. My question is directed to the Minister of Primary and Secondary Education. During the land reform programme, people were settled in areas where there were no schools. We realised that some of the learners were using tobacco bans as classrooms. Sometimes they squash in farmhouses. Are there any plans to assist these resettled people so that education may develop through construction of schools as well as the construction of teachers’ cottages and other infrastructure?
THE MINISTER OF PRIMARY AND SECONDARY EDUCATION (HON. T. MOYO): I also like to thank Senator Bimha for the good question. It is true that during the land reform programme, learners were using tobacco bans as classrooms. In some cases, satellite schools were built. In some places, those schools still exist but Government plans, led by President Mnangagwa, is that there will be construction of schools. Last year, there were 90 schools constructed and classrooms were more than 200 classrooms. This year, Government has a lot of plans to refurbish settled schools including such schools where learners use tobacco bans. We were assisted by Government and given funds to ensure that schools are built using such structures or grass and thatch, pole and dagga. Right now, we are going to refurbish more than 200 schools.
Yes, we are going to look at all those schools and we want to solve all the problems. We want to reconstruct or refurbish such structures that may be in dilapidation. In resettlement areas, some learners travel more than five kilometers. In such areas, if we were to get Hon. Senators in this House to inform us where there is need for construction of schools, we can build a school.
Yesterday, I was in Hauna, Manicaland Province, that is where I came from. Learners travel more than 10 kilometers to attend secondary school. So, we instructed officials in the Ministry of Lands, Agriculture, Fisheries, Water and Rural Resettlement as well as the local authorities that we are going to put a school in that area. We sent the local authorities there, the DSIs and other officials. We will then disburse funds for the construction of such schools.
We also have partners such as OPEC Fund for International Development. They are also giving us resources to do that. OFID was very impressed after looking at all the countries in Africa. They are glad that we acquitted our funds properly. So, they have since disbursed USD20 million. We are going to use the uniformed forces to construct those schools so that our learners may get good structures for learning.
I would like to thank Hon. Bimha. Indeed, the Government is working very hard and being led by President Mnangagwa. We are doing a lot of work. I thank you.
*HON. SEN. SHIRI: Thank you Hon. Minister, for explaining that you are building more schools but in those schools, the teacher-pupil ratio is one teacher to 75 learners, yet we have qualified teachers who are looking for employment. What is Government plans to recruit teachers? When are you expecting to recruit more teachers to address that issue? I thank you Mr. President.
* HON. T. MOYO: Thank you Mr. President. I would like to thank Hon. Senator Shiri but hers is not a supplementary question but a new question all together. I was expecting a supplementary question where focus is on the refurbishment and construction of schools, especially in resettlement areas.
Nevertheless, let me respond to the Hon. Senator. Indeed, two years ago, the teacher-pupil ratio was 1 to 50. Last year, we recruited more than 4 000 teachers and the ratio declined. Indeed, in some schools, it still could be high but on average, the teacher-pupil ratio is 1 to 45. It is high Mr. President Sir. The Government approved the letter that we wrote as we were budgeting. We requested for 8 000 teachers. The Ministry of Finance, Economic Development and Investment Promotion approved. What is left is the Treasury concurrence.
We met the day before yesterday with the Minister of Finance, Economic Development and Investment Promotion and our Permanent Secretaries and agreed that the Treasury concurrence must be out by this month. When it comes out, they will inform us how many we may recruit. The Government may not recruit all of them at once because it depends on the budget and resources availability. So, we expect to stagger, maybe we may recruit 4 000: 3 000 the following term and 1 000 the third term. After recruiting 8 000 teachers, the teacher-pupil ratio will go down. I thank you.
THE HON. DEPUTY PRESIDENT OF SENATE: That is the last supplementary question, we want as many questions as possible.
*HON. SEN. ZINDI: Thank you for respecting me Mr. President. My supplementary question is, yes, we heard what the Hon. Minister said on the refurbishment of classrooms but there are some learners that have to cross bridges or rivers. During this rain season, some of the learners may not be able to attend school because they stay across rivers.
During that construction programme, do they also have in mind the construction of foot bridges? Especially in the Zindi area where you referred to, there are those bridges that are called Mudhebhedhebhe, it is now old and dilapidated. I have forgotten the name, for example of one such bridge. Are they also budgeting for that so that learners may be able to attend school? I thank you.
* HON. T. MOYO: Thank you Mr. President. I would like to thank Senator Zindi for the supplementary question.
The funds that were allocated are meant for classrooms. Bridges are under the purview of another ministry, which is Ministry of Transport and Infrastructural Development. I would suggest that Hon. Senators as well as Members of Parliament, put such specific questions to the Minister of Transport and Infrastructural Development to request with the specific areas. For example, at Zindi, there is such a school where there is no bridge.
As the Minister of Primary and Secondary Education as well as non-formal education, we do not encourage learners to cross flooded rivers. It is better for them to stay at home because as we speak, this year alone, we lost lives of learners who were attempting to cross flooded rivers. They should not attempt to cross rivers when they are in flood unless the rivers are dry. I thank you Mr. President.
THE HON. DEPUTY PRESIDENT OF SENATE: Can we welcome the Minister of State for National Security, Hon. Matuke, and the Leader of Government Business in the Senate.
^^HON. SEN. MOHADI: Good afternoon Mr. President. My question this afternoon is with regards to people who are staying closer to our country's borders, which could be Botswana, South Africa and Mozambique, who are unable to get radio and TV frequencies. Even at times, they cannot use their phone but instead use networks from the neighbouring countries and they cannot get access to information from their country. Whether they are advertisements for nursing or military trainings, they cannot access those things. They need to get information.
^^THE DEPUTY MINISTER OF INFORMATION, PUBLICITY AND BROADCASTING SERVICE (HON. MARUPI): Thank you Mr. President of the Senate. I would like to thank Hon. Senator Mohadi for the good question. I would like to say that under the Second Republic of Hon. Dr. Mnangagwa who realises that people staying in the borderline areas are facing challenges of lack of information which reaches these places on time because of lack of radio and television stations, we have realised the mantra of leaving no one and no place behind as always been broadcasted on. Our Excellency then established community radio stations, which are using languages that are used by people from these different borderline areas like Beitbridge, an area called Mlambapele in Gwanda, Plumtree, Binga, and Chiredzi.
These stations have been awarded licences. In addition to this, His Excellency has also encouraged that towers be erected in these areas for network purposes. So, the ICT Department is working together with the Minister of ICT so that when they are erecting their cell phone and network towers, we also erect radio frequency towers.
Mr. President of the Senate, allow me to use Venda, Ndebele, Shona and Sotho so that I can respond effectively to this august House. Under the leadership of President Mnangagwa, nobody and no place should be left behind. So, as the Minister of Information, we were empowered to ensure that we licence community radio stations so that those in borderline areas cannot be left behind. Therefore, we have since passed on the programme of radio licencing but now we are focussing on the programme of boosters or base stations although that one is under the ICT Ministry but we install our transmitters.
HON. SEN. GOTORA: Yes, I am not sure whether his Ministry is the one which is also responsible for telecommunications. If so, 45 years after independence, a district called Uzumba-Maramba-Pfungwe has not got one single telephone line.
THE HON. DEPUTY PRESIDENT OF THE SENATE: Order, order! That falls under the purview of Minister Phuti, correct? So, you ask that as a fresh question separately.
∞HON. SEN. FANUEL: Thank you Mr. President of the Senate. We all know that when a person dies, their body sleeps in state before burial. In Binga, the mortuary has not been working for over a year. What is the problem? What is happening is, soon after death, the person is stored or buried just close to the hospital in Binga, which shows no respect to the deceased. The mortuary has not been working for over a year now and that is very problematic to the people of Binga.
Why is it not working because people need to be assisted? I thank you.
*THE MINISTER OF STATE FOR NATIONAL SECURITY (HON. SEN. MATUKE): Thank you Mr. President. I would like to appreciate the question by the Hon. Senator. I believe this is a very good question but it is not a policy question. It is a specific question, so we need to investigate what exactly is happening. It is a specific area that we should look at. We need to specifically investigate it. It is not a policy issue. I thank you.
THE HON. DEPUTY PRESIDENT OF SENATE: Hon. Senator, I would urge that you put your question in writing because it is a specific question about Binga and it is a specific area that the Minister should look into. I thank you.
*HON. SEN. KADUNGURE: Thank you Mr. President for giving me the opportunity to pose my question to the Leader of Government Business, Hon. Matuke. My question is, in this country, we would like to thank God for giving us abundant mineral resources but amongst those minerals, are there any opportunities for women who might have claims that are specifically meant for women? I thank you.
*HON. SEN. MATUKE: Women are very respected by the Government of the Second Republic. So, in that respect, they have been empowered through various posts. We all know that some important offices are led by women. Government put in place Zimbabwe Women's Microfinance Bank. There is no bank made for men alone but we meet in other banks, yet there is specifically a women's bank which shows that Government respects that when women organise themselves, they can work since they were left behind in terms of empowerment. We now expect that through that empowerment, they can catch up with their male counterparts.
There are no specific programmes but if they organise themselves, I think that can be relayed to the Minister of Mines and Mining Development. If you were to put your question or your request in writing addressing it to the Ministry Informing, that you are an organisation of women and you want to venture into mining, I think you can be assisted. I thank you.
+HON. SIBANDA: Thank you Mr. President. What I wish to know is why do we have to work in organisations as women? Why can we not be able to access those funds as individuals instead of asking me to first of all organise other women to get funding? I thank you Mr. President.
HON. SEN. MATUKE: If I got the Hon. Senator well, the Hon. Senator is saying can we not get those funds as individuals? I wanted to say the explanation that I was giving is on the unity of women but in this country, we have opportunities that as a woman alone, you can look for funding, be it through banks but firstly, we have a Women's Bank that is specifically for women but women are free to approach banks to get funding for projects as individuals.
Government also has funds meant for women but it can be through the Ministry of Women Affairs, Community, Small and Medium Enterprises Development. Some of the funding is through cooperatives as well as other funding that can be accessed as individuals. We encourage that for women to do that if they want to operate as individuals, it is possible. I thank you.
THE HON. DEPUTY PRESIDENT OF SENATE: Before I was interrupted, I was saying Hon. Mupamhanga, the Deputy Minister for Youth, Empowerment, Development and Vocational Training has joined the proceedings. Welcome Minister.
HON. SEN. M. NCUBE: Thank you Mr. President. My question is directed at the Minister of Transport and Infrastructural Development. We appreciate the work which was done at Beitbridge in terms of expanding the border post and also modernising it. My question is, what plans does Government have to expand and modernise border posts, particularly Forbes Border Posts where truckers are experiencing delays of up to three days, Hon. Minister? I thank you, Mr. President.
THE DEPUTY MINISTER OF TRANSPORT AND INFRASTRUCTURAL DEVELOPMENT (HON. SACCO): Thank you Mr. President. I would also like to thank Hon. Sen. Ncube for his question but also his contribution in appreciating the modernising and upgrading of the Beitbridge Border Post which I believe has put our country, Zimbabwe, at another level.
Our Ministry is seized with projects on upgrading and modernising border posts as our ports of entry facilitate trade, tourism and really open up our country to commerce. So as a Ministry, we are looking at Forbes Border Post which, as rightly said, has traffic of about 450 trucks per day going out of the country and an average of 420 to 450 coming in. So the border post is very busy, which in itself is a good thing for the country but with Forbes Border Post, the Ministry of Transport and Infrastructure Development has gone into a public-private partnership with Forbes Border Consortium who have been awarded a concession to construct and upgrade the border post at Forbes to allow for a one-stop border post expansion of the border itself, thus allowing seamless trade through the border and the concession has been signed in the near past and we are looking that within the next couple of months, the Forbes Border Consortium shall be on the ground commencing work on this very important project. With the Chirundu Border Post, a similar arrangement is in place as well where a concession has also been allocated for the upgrading of Chirundu. We are hoping that within this year 2025, works will also commence on the Chirundu Border Post. We are also looking at other border posts across the country but to mention the two, Forbes and Chirundu, these have reached financial closure and we expect works to start in the near future. Thank you.
*HON. SEN. CHIEF CHARUMBIRA: Thank you Mr. President for giving me the opportunity. I wanted the Minister of Lands, Agriculture, Fisheries, Water and Rural Resettlement but since he is not around; I wanted a quick attention to this question. I direct to Hon. Minister Matuke. We are now in March and those who grow wheat are now preparing so that they start planting in April/May. Most of the farmers have not been paid for wheat that they sold last year. Congratulations that we are now self-sufficient in terms of wheat. Whilst we celebrate that, let us pay the farmers because they may not be able to go back to do farming. I thank you.
*THE MINISTER OF STATE FOR NATIONAL SECURITY (HON. SEN. MATUKE): Thank you for the question from Hon. Senator Chief Charumbira who is the Leader of the African Parliament. It is important that when we encourage our farmers to be active in agriculture, we should also be paying them on time. The request here is that there are some farmers that have not been paid. That is the request that we will submit to the Ministry of Finance, Economic Development and Investment Promotion. Although the Government had started paying, I know that they are still outstanding.
So, as you are aware Hon. Senator Chief Charumbira, we will inform them that they need to motivate the farmers to go back to their farms after paying them but indeed the funds are needed for so many things. I am not in disagreement and we will put the question forward to Treasury. I thank you.
THE HON. DEPUTY PRESIDENT OF SENATE: While still on that, we cannot rush to pay foreign farmers like we do when we import. Our farmers have answered the Government call to be self-sufficient in wheat. They grow the wheat and they are not paid. Morally, I think it does not sit well. You really need to follow this up urgently. –[HON. MEMBERS: Hear, hear.]-
*HON. SEN. SHIRI: Thank you Mr. President for giving me this good opportunity. Firstly, I would like to appreciate representing the disability constituency and the opportunity we are given by His Excellency, President E. D. Mnangagwa for giving us empowerment programmes as well as respecting us. My question to the Leader of Government Business is, what measures are you taking to ensure that people with disabilities are not left behind, be it in allocation of land, employment, allocation of tractors and a lot of issues?
In some provinces, some are implementing and others are not. What measures are you taking to ensure that it is no longer theory only, but it is practical and fulfilled so that no one is left behind in terms of development because they have disabilities?
THE HON. DEPUTY PRESIDENT OF THE SENATE: Before we go any further, I would want to recognise the presence of the Minister of Justice, Legal and Parliamentary Affairs, Hon. Ziyambi and the Minister of Information, Publicity and Broadcasting Services, Hon. Muswere. Welcome Hon. Ministers.
* THE MINISTER OF STATE FOR NATIONAL SECURITY (HON. SEN. MATUKE): Thank you Mr. President. I also like to appreciate the question from the Hon. Senator with regards to people with disabilities to access empowerment and that they are being left behind. Let me say, Government has put a ministry responsible for that, the Ministry of Public Service, Labour and Social Welfare which has quite a number of policies that encourage wholesome development so that no one is left behind or discriminated with regards to disabilities.
We should work together with the Department of Social Welfare, through their offices throughout the country so that we have programmes. We also would like to say, it is not all people with disabilities being subjects of the social welfare. There are other organisations that are being supported by Government without scrutinising whether that person is disabled.
I encourage the Hon. Senator to work hand-in-hand with Government to organise such people so that they know their rights and that they are accorded everything that is accessible to all in the country. We encourage that we get such organisations that will put pressure on Government but there are a lot of things Government can do to help people. Yesterday as we speak, the President met people with disabilities encouraging them and emphasised that Government supports them. I thank you.
Questions Without Notice were interrupted by the HON. DEPUTY PRESIDENT OF THE SENATE in terms of Standing Order No. 67.
HON. SEN. TONGOGARA: I move that the time for Questions Without Notice be extended for a further fifteen minutes.
HON. SEN. MOHADI: I second.
Motion put and agreed to.
THE HON. DEPUTY PRESIDENT OF SENATE: Extended not by fifteen but by thirty minutes.
HON. SEN. MDHLURI: Thank you Mr. President for giving me this opportunity to pose my question. My question is directed to the Deputy Minister of Transport and Infrastructural Development. In a few months, Zimbabwe will be hosting a very important event, an international event of the Ramsar Convention. I want to find out as a Ministry, how we are with regards to repairing the roads, especially the Bulawayo–Victoria Falls Road. On the same vein, if there is any progress, what exactly are you doing this time around so that we may not see what we saw recently; Lorraine Drive was repaired but damaged after a few months and such other roads?
THE DEPUTY MINISTER OF TRANSPORT AND INFRASTRUCTURAL DEVELOPMENT (HON. SACCO): Thank you Mr. President, I would also like to thank Hon. Senator Mdhluri for that important question. That road from Bulawayo to Victoria Falls is truly an important road to us as a country because Victoria Falls is the Convention Centre that hosts a lot of international meetings and tourism since it is one of the Seven Wonders of the World. As a Ministry, your plan from Beitbridge to Bulawayo as well as Bulawayo to Victoria Falls needs to be reconstructed under the private-public partnership. Bitumen World was awarded that contract from Beitbridge to Victoria Falls through Bulawayo. As you know, we respect that company for working professionally and as you are aware that some part of the road stretches that they constructed, they did it professionally and diligently. So our plan is, before they start working on that road because it takes time, they have a pothole patching programme as well as temporary measures for the road to be accessible.
I am glad to inform you that is our plan. We want the road to be started from Beitbridge to Victoria Falls and we then install tollgates so that the investor may recoup their money.
THE HON. DEPUTY PRESIDENT OF THE SENATE: The more supplementaries you raise, the less questions we are going to have. I want you to understand that. I know everybody has got a very important supplementary but I want you to realise that more supplementaries, less questions. – [HON. MEMBERS: Inaudible interjections.]– Do you want us to do supplementaries only for the next thirty minutes? Order, order! I have the final say.
HON. SEN. CHIEF CHARUMBIRA: Hon. Minister, may you give us timeframes instead of telling us from Beitbridge to Victoria Falls, after how many years? We expect that by June, that road must be done.
HON. SACCO: Thank you Mr. President. Hon. Senator Chief Charumbira, I am afraid of giving you a timeframe because you are a chief. I may not be moving freely because you will be accusing me of promising you that. The truth is, as a Ministry, we expect that the project should be started very soon. Right now, they are analysing the road and they are also looking at the traffic flows considering their business plan and expecting how long they can recover their money. That is the feasibility study. They are also looking for funding to start the construction of that road. We expect that the concession will be signed very soon and work will start. I am afraid that I cannot give you that timeframe.
THE HON. DEPUTY PRESIDENT OF THE SENATE: Yes Hon. Minister, you responded but the point raised by Senator Chief is very important.
HON. SEN. MLOTSHWA: Thank you Mr. President. That question is the one which was raised by Hon. Senator Chief Charumbira because it is as if we are just discussing if there are no specific timelines. I thank you.
HON. SEN. MUPFUMIRA: Thank you Mr. President for giving me this opportunity. I want to say Ramsar is a global conference that will never come back again. It is the one that will be done in July. I am glad that Minister, you are saying you have a plan. Right now, we are not talking about the plan from Beitbridge but we are talking of the plan from Bulawayo to Victoria Falls. If you have ever used that road, it is not about potholes, there is totally no road. People are using the bush, yet the conference has a date already. It is in July. It is very important. Do we want to embarrass ourselves as a country? Victoria Falls on its own without Conference of Parties (COPs) is very important. It is very advanced, COPs is coming to Zimbabwe. It will never come back in our lifetime. If we say we are going to plan this and that, there are no potholes, there is no road, people are travelling in the bush. As a Committee, we went there and there is no tarred road. People are using the bush on the sides of the road.
*HON. SEN. MAVENYENGWA: I wanted to say that these important projects on the roads, the problem is that some of those roads are stopped before they are completed. We started with the Beitbridge, Harare and Chirundu. Right now in Masvingo, there is 76 kilometres that has not been done. Currently, we are talking about new projects. What are we going to do to the old project? I thank you.
*THE DEPUTY MINISTER OF TRANSPORT AND INFRASTRUCTURAL DEVELOPMENT (HON. SACCO): Thank you, Mr. President. I want to respond to the first question on the Bulawayo-Victoria Falls Road. There are some sections or areas that are inaccessible totally. There are four areas that we have put aside where there will be new surfaces, asphalt overlay. That work will start in the near future. However, I would like to inform the House as well on our plan as the Ministry of Roads with regards to the maintenance units. This is because some of the roads require repairs that should be done by the Ministry of Transport because giving contractors is very expensive.
So, as a Ministry, we realise that it is important that we need to upgrade our maintenance units. Right now, we are in the process of procuring equipment such as graders and tippers as well as asphalt plants which we have since procured and are on their way. This will enable us where we can maintain as a Ministry, we can chip in and do that. That would be very helpful because it reduces the procurement procedures that are too long. The truth is that there is no work that can be done without tendering as well as procuring. Moreover, those are some of the bureaucracies that delay work.
Indeed, right now, I am glad to say we are upgrading our maintenance units and are procuring our equipment including asphalt plants in order for us to work on some of the roads. I got the request from this House to ensure that the road is worked. The other question that was raised by Hon. Senator Mavenyengwa. It is true that along the Masvingo- Beitbridge Road, there are 88 kilometres that are outstanding. Some of the places were stopped because of the bridges that have to be constructed. In some areas, it is the contractors that are delaying that work. We agreed that the Harare-Chirundu work will be stopped so that they finish the Harare- Beitbridge Road first. I thank you.
HON. SEN. MATIBIRI: Thank you, Mr. President. I will try to be short. I am directing this question to the Leader of Government Business in this House. Zimbabwe is a sports loving nation. Only last week, Hon. Minister, we read in the media that some patriotic Zimbabweans were stranded in South Africa when they had accompanied our women's national team there. This is because our sports facilities have been declared unfit to host international matches.
Hon. Minister, how much progress has been made in respect of the rehabilitation of our stadium, in particular the National Sports Stadium and other football stadiums? When can we expect our national teams to play at home so that Zimbabweans can attend to their business of loving soccer? Thank you.
THE MINISTER OF STATE FOR NATIONAL SECURITY (HON. SEN. MATUKE): Thank you very much Mr. President and I want to thank the Senator for...
HON. SEN. PHULU: On a point of order, Mr. Speaker. There is a motion pending in this House, exactly on that question.
THE HON. DEPUTY PRESIDENT OF SENATE: I am not a Speaker.
HON. SEN. PHULU: Sorry Mr. President, I apologise. There is a motion precisely on that. Maybe what we should do is invite the Minister to attend and listen to the debates in front of him.
THE HON. DEPUTY PRESIDENT OF SENATE: Okay. Minister, you are off the hook? I think the House is expecting a very strong debate on that. We expect the Minister to come and respond. I must say, this session, we are getting a better response of ministers responding to motions. Please keep up that spirit. - [HON. MEMBERS: Hear, hear.]
*HON. SEN. GOTORA: Thank you Mr. President for giving me the opportunity to ask my question. I would like to applaud the President's desire to ensure that no place and no one is left behind with regards to development. My question is directed to the Minister of Information. I have not seen him and I am glad that he came. Hon. Minister, what is the telecommunications policy in this country because these days education is being done mainly through the internet and other channels so that they are able to learn?
We have other districts, a whole district that has no single landline telephone, such as Uzumba-Maramba-Pfungwe, 45 years after independence, no telephone. But before independence, there were telephones which we broke when we were fighting for liberation. What is the plan with regards to ensuring that such areas get telephone lines? I thank you.
THE HON. DEPUTY PRESIDENT OF SENATE: It is ICT, is that not correct?
HON. PHUTI: Thank you, Mr. President. In his wisdom to drive a digital economy and accelerate on principles of inclusivity and access, His Excellency, the President, Dr. E. D. Mnangagwa launched a programme called the National Mobile Broadband Phase 3 a few years ago, which saw the launch last year, by the Vice President, Hon. K. C. D. Mohadi of 76 base stations across the country, as well as 20 more base stations that were 5G, coupled with 14 base stations that were constructed under the Universal Service Fund. This is to indicate the seriousness of the issue of access. The Hon. Senator has highlighted specifically the issue regarding Uzumba-Maramba-Pfungwe. What I know very well is that there has been some mapping by all mobile network operators, including operators, internet service provision, to look at all areas across the country.
I know that the issue of telecommunication lines in today's technology has been replaced by issues of fibre and in this day, we know about some low earth orbit satellites as well as some mobile network operators providing network. I, however, want to invite the Hon. Senator to probably furnish this august House with a written question, which will enable us make a research to satisfy the House with a comprehensive report specifically on Uzumba-Maramba-Pfungwe. I thank you.
THE TEMPORARY PRESIDENT OF SENATE (HON. SEN. KAMBIZI): Thank you very much, Hon. Minister.
*HON. SEN. CHIEF CHIKWAKA. Thank you, Mr. President. I would like to pose my question to the Minister of Public Service, Labour and Social Welfare. My question Mr. President is, looking at the 90 days that have elapsed since the suspension of funding from the United States of America as well as Netherlands, what is Government's plan with regards to assisting people who were benefiting from assistance that was stopped by President Donald Trump? Some of the beneficiaries are people that have chronic diseases and some are disabled. What is Government’s plan with regards to providing the assistance until such a time when we receive funding? I thank you Mr. President.
THE DEPUTY MINISTER OF PUBLIC SERVICE, LABOUR AND SOCIAL WELFARE (HON. DINHA): Thank you Mr. President. From what I got from the Senator, I think that question is supposed to be responded to by the Minister of Health since it is about diseases. I thank you.
*HON. SEN. CHIEF CHIKWAKA. I think there was a mix-up with regards to health and what I am saying, the American President stopped foreign aid that was being used to procure items used for various things, in health as well as for people with disabilities. So, as the Minister of Social Welfare, what is the plan with regards to ensuring that people get the requisite assistance in the interim? I thank you.
HON DINHA: Thank you Mr. President. With regards to the assistance that we get from other countries and organisations, yes, they chip in but Government will have started the programmes. Just like with regards to feeding programmes, it is Government that will have started and some then come to chip in. Just like with the drought assistance, there are seven districts which were getting foreign Aid and we are availing food assistance. The assistance that was removed will not affect people and people will not starve because of that. The President declared that no one will starve to death, no one will be left behind and no place will be left behind. That is why when that assistance was stopped, Government continued to assist the beneficiaries that stopped getting foreign Aid. So, even if they stop their assistance, nothing changes. Government continues because these are Government programmes. Those who chip in only ride on existing Government programmes. I thank you.
HON. SEN. GUMPO: Thank you Mr. President. My question is directed to the Minister of Primary and Secondary Education. I want to understand Hon. Minister, in the past when learners were going to school and paid fees, you would get textbooks and all the requisite stationery. But right now, a learner stops going to school because they do not have books or stationery. What is Government's plan in order to restore those services that were there in the past when stationery was available in schools? Thank you Mr. President.
THE MINISTER OF PRIMARY AND SECONDARY EDUCATION (HON. T MOYO): I would like to thank the Hon. Senator for the question posed. Government's plan is to use budgeted funds. Every year, we get money to procure stationery, which includes textbooks, pencils, rulers, and exercise books. This year, we met and we agreed that we must put aside funds for stationery, which includes textbooks and exercise books. Right now, the Heritage-Based Education requires new textbooks. The plan that we have currently is to ensure that those books are printed and taken to the schools so that when they share those books, the pupil-textbook ratio will be good. Yes, we have the funds but sometimes there is a delay in disbursement and that is when parents are asked to buy stationery. I would also like to encourage parents to know that it is their right to buy books for their children while we wait for Government assistance. Let us procure stationery for our children so that the load is alleviated both for the school and our children. I thank you.
HON. SEN. TSHABANGU: Hon. Minister, our education system has dilapidated. There has been a decline of about 86% in 2021 to 24% in 2023 in the pass rate for grade 7 and a decline of 29% pass rate for the ordinary level. My follow-up question is, what is the Ministry doing in terms of teacher training development in order to improve our pass rate, curriculum enhancement, community involvement, infrastructure development and individualised support? There is no nation that can develop without education. Our education system in this country is a major concern, if not a security concern. I thank you.
THE MINISTER OF PRIMARY AND SECONDARY EDUCATION (HON. T. MOYO): Thank you Hon. Senate President for the opportunity and I would like to appreciate the question asked by Hon. Senator Tshabangu.
Education is an enabler. It is a fundamental right enshrined in our Constitution. Section 75 of the Constitution stipulates that it is the responsibility of Government to provide all the necessities that our students need so that we can attain Sustainable Development Goal Number 4, which seeks to provide relevant, quality, inclusive and equitable education.
Mr. President, it is not true that standards of education are declining. We have seen a graph in terms of an increase in the pass rate from 2021 until 2024. Last year we managed to maintain the pass rate at Advanced Level. We maintained it at 95 percent and that is an excellent result. Honestly, you should be able to appreciate the hard work that our teachers are doing, that they have always been doing.
We have seen a rise at all levels. The results that we released for the 2024 Ordinary Level Examinations, we almost matched what was produced in 1984. That was historic, where the pass rate increased by five percent. That is a testament that our teachers are working tirelessly. At grade seven, they spoke of 27 percent. The pass rate at grade seven my brother, was 49 percent, an increase from 45 percent. That is again, evidence of the sterling work that our teachers are doing.
In terms of teacher capacitation, we are doing a lot Mr. President. In terms of training, teacher capacity, manpower development, we are training our teachers so that they can provide all the requisite skills that are needed, particularly as we roll-out and implement the Heritage-Based Curriculum, where we want to produce a learner fit for the 21st century. Among the skills that we want, we want our students to dream big, to realise and appreciate societal challenges and come up with a problem to address those challenges.
We are not only focusing on academic achievement, we are looking at the totality of a student, looking at all the attributes. We want to identify the talent of particular individuals from sporting disciplines, technical and vocational education. We want to vocationalise our education. We want to catch our students young. Very soon, we will get to a point when we are going to introduce engineering schools, engineering schools from early childhood development up to form six, musical schools, sporting schools. That is the essence of the Heritage-Based Curriculum and I am happy with the type of curriculum that we are rolling out.
We have also roped in professors from Russia. Just two weeks ago, I was in Russia, accompanying a group of teachers who were training in artificial intelligence, robotics and coding. That is what is needed in our schools.
We are rolling out innovation hubs. In Harare, we have three innovation hubs but we have said to our partners, let us go to the rural areas. That is where the competencies are needed in terms of digital technology which we need to give them so that we bridge the gaps, the disparities which used to exist between rural schools and urban schools. So, we are doing a lot as the Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education. In addition to that, we have scholarships for our teachers, those who are majoring in STEM subjects. We have the Bindura University, the University of Zimbabwe and the Midlands State University. We are giving them free bursaries, the teachers who are majoring in Physics, Chemistry, Biology, IT and free education. Those are the efforts that are being implemented by the Government. We are very happy with that and in two years Mr. President, I project that the pass rate at all levels will exceed 50 percent. Thank you very much.
HON. SEN. TONGOGARA: Thank you very much Mr. President. My question was supposed to be directed to the Minister of Justice, Legal and Parliamentary Affairs who was here but he has left and the Leader of the House has also left. So, what should I do?
THE HON. DEPUTY PRESIDENT OF SENATE: With all due respect, I think we can shelve it and then you will have to ask it next week. You can have it written down, then we will give you the first opportunity to ask it next week.
ORAL ANSWERS TO QUESTIONS WITH NOTICE
ADDRESSING OF REMUNERATION DISCREPANCIES AFFECTING TEACHERS IN GOVERNMENT SCHOOLS AND PRIVATE SCHOOLS
- HON. SEN. KATUMBA asked the Minister of Public Service, Labour and Social Welfare to appraise the House on the following: -
(a) What are the Government's plans towards addressing remuneration discrepancies affecting teachers in Government Schools, and
(b) to state the Government policy on the remuneration of teachers in private schools.
THE DEPUTY MINISTER OF PUBLIC SERVICE, LABOUR AND SOCIAL WELFARE (HON. DINHA): Mr. President, I refer to the question by Hon. Senator Katumba regarding Government's plan to address remuneration discrepancies affecting teachers in Government schools. Mr. President, it should be noted that there are no salary discrepancies between teachers in Government schools. Currently, all teachers are paid under a standard Remuneration Framework for the Public Service depending on salary grades, which takes into account such considerations as qualifications and seniority.
However, all the teaching staff is paid a monthly teaching allowance at USD80 paid in local currency at the prevailing interbank rate, which is limited to teachers and headmasters. The following are current levels of remuneration for teachers, deputy headmasters and headmasters. If someone is a headmaster and the grade of the headmaster is grade E3, the total package of the headmaster is USD461, which is payable in USD hard currency of 320 and 141; the balance is payable in ZiG at the prevailing exchange rate.
The deputy headmasters have two grades; there is grade E2 and also grade D3, if the Deputy Headmaster has a degree. If it is grade E2, the total package of remuneration is USD458, which is paid in hard currency, USD320 and the balance in ZiG at the prevailing exchange rate, USD138. For the Deputy Headmaster in D3 grade who has a degree, it is USD448 and it is payable in US dollar hard currency, USD320, and the balance is payable in the prevailing exchange rate at USD128.
It should be noted that if there are any discrepancies, they do arise from personal voluntary deduction, which apply to an individual and this is by choice and cannot be used as a basis to claim differences. Such voluntary deductions include loans, medical, funeral insurance, amongst others.
Issues of low remuneration and compressed wage differentials can only be addressed through a review of the remuneration framework subject to availability of resources, which we are eagerly waiting for the fiscus to review. Any other discrepancies which might be there across sectors are being dealt with in the context of the job evaluation exercise undertaken by Government.
To answer on the B part, which says that to state the Government policy on the remuneration of teachers in private schools; my response is as follows: The current Government policy is that private and trust schools determine their own remuneration framework guided by their National Employment Councils next for the welfare and educational institutions. It should be noted that teachers in private and trust schools were removed from the Government payroll in 2016 after the Civil Service Audit Report which noted the commercial aspect of private and trust schools and their capability to determine their own remuneration framework.
POLICY REGARDING LABOUR PRACTICES BY FOREIGN-OWNED COMPANIES
- HON. SEN. S. MOYO asked the Minister of Public Service Labour and Social Welfare to explain Government policy regarding labour practices by foreign-owned companies operating in Zimbabwe to ensure local employees of these companies are not subjected to unfair labour practices or discriminatory treatment compared to foreign nationals employed by the same companies.
THE DEPUTY MINISTER OF PUBLIC SERVICE LABOUR AND SOCIAL WELFARE (HON. DINHA): The Government of Zimbabwe is committed to ensuring that all employees, regardless of their nationality of their employer are treated fairly and with respect. The Constitution of Zimbabwe and also the Labour Act Chapter 28.01 and other relevant regulations including collective bargaining agreements, CBAs of National Employment Councils mandates fair treatment and non-discrimination in the workplace.
These laws apply equally to local and foreign-owned companies and are designed to protect the rights of all employees. Foreign-owned companies are required to comply with the same labour laws and regulations as local companies. This includes provisions related to wages, provisions related to working conditions, to health and safety and it also includes non-discrimination.
Following complaints from some stakeholders within the mining industry on the ill-treatment of local employees by foreign employers, His Excellency, President E.D. Mnangagwa launched a responsible mining audit initiative in 2023. As a starting point, the Ministry of Public Service, Labour and Social Welfare intensified workplace inspection in the eight provinces across the country to address concerns raised. Compliance with the regulations is therefore monitored regularly through inspections in cases where violations are identified.
Appropriate legal action is taken to ensure corrective measures are implemented. These include withdrawal of licences, closure of businesses, prosecution and deportation of the foreign nationals. Employees who have been subjected to unfair labour practises or discriminatory treatment have the right to report their concerns to their respective National Employment Councils or to the Department of Labour Administration. The ministry provides such mechanisms for addressing disputes such as consolidation and arbitration. I submit Madam President.
CONSTRUCTION OF BRIDGES AND ROADS ALONG MAITENGWE BORDER POST
- HON. SEN. S. MOYO asked the Minister of Transport and Infrastructural Development to inform the House why the bridges and roads have not been constructed and renovated along the busy road connecting Maitengwe Border Post, Plumtree, Tsholotsho, and Solusi.
THE DEPUTY MINISTER OF TRANSPORT AND INFRASTRUCTURAL DEVELOPMENT (HON. SACCO): Thank you Madam President. I would like to also thank Hon. Senator S. Moyo who raised the question on why the bridges and roads have not been constructed and renovated along the busy road connecting Maitengwe Border Post, Plumtree, Tsholotsho and Solusi.
Madam President, allow me to respond as follows. On this road, to date, procurement processes are underway for the construction of the road at the 10km peg along the Plumtree-Maitengwe Road. The project is expected to commence within the first quarter of 2025 upon completing the necessary procurement plans and for expediency, we are also exploring the possibility of public-private partnerships to enhance our capacity to develop sustainable agriculture. I so submit Madam President.
LACK OF INTERNET CONNECTIVITY AROUND
MAITENGWE BORDER POST
- HON. SEN. S. MOYO asked the Minister of Information Communication Technology, Postal and Courier Services to inform the House why there is no internet connectivity around Maitengwe Border Post resulting in locals having to rely on Botswana Network.
THE DEPUTY MINISTER OF INFORMATION COMMUNICATION TECHNOLOGY, POSTAL AND COURIER SERVICES (HON. D. PHUTI): Thank you Hon. Madam President. Let me also thank the Hon. Sen. Solani Njayemunyama Moyo for an important question that was raised some time ago but needed some research to furnish this House appropriately with the answer.
The very precise response is NetOne is going to construct passive infrastructure at the border funded under the PORTRAZ through the Universal Service Fund. NetOne is finalising with the contractor on boarding and expects to complete the process by the end of February, 2025.
Passive infrastructure construction works are scheduled to commence in March, 2025 and scheduled for completion in April, 2025. The base station is scheduled to be on air by 15th March, 2025 with 2G, 3G and 4G technologies and with all mobile network operators involved. I thank you Madam President.
WRITTEN SUBMISSIONS TO QUESTIONS WITH NOTICE
ADDRESSING OF REMUNERATION DISCREPANCIES AFFECTING TEACHERS IN GOVERNMENT SCHOOLS AND PRIVATE SCHOOLS
- HON. SEN. KATUMBA asked the Minister of Public Service, Labour and Social Welfare to apprise the House on the following:
- What Government’s plans towards addressing remuneration discrepancies affecting teachers in Government Schools.
- To state Government policy on the remuneration of teachers in private schools.
THE MINISTER OF PUBLIC SERVICE, LABOUR AND SOCIAL WELFARE (HON. E. MOYO): Madam President, I refer to the question by Hon. Senator Katumba regarding Government’s plans to address remuneration discrepancies affecting teachers in Government schools.
Madam President, it should be noted that there are salary discrepancies between teachers in Government schools. Currently, all teachers are paid under a standard remuneration framework from the Public Service depending on the salary grade which takes into account such considerations as qualifications and seniority. However, all the teaching staff is paid a monthly teaching allowance at USD80 paid in local currency at the prevailing interbank rate, which is limited to teaching and headmasters.
The following are the current levels of remuneration for teachers, Deputy Headmasters and Headmasters.
| DISIGNATION | GRADE | TOTAL PACKAGE | USD PAYABLE IN USD HARD CURRENCY | BALANCE PAYABLE IN ZWG AT PREVAILING EXCHANGE RATE |
| Headmaster | E3 | 461 | 320 | 141 |
| D/Headmaster | E2 | 458 | 320 | 138 |
| D/Headmaster | D3 (Degree) | 448 | 320 | 128 |
It should be noted that if there are any discrepancies, they do arise from personal voluntary deduction which apply to an individual and this is by choice and cannot be used as a basis to claim differences. Such voluntary deductions include such issues as loans, medical and funeral insurance amongst others. Madam President, issues of low remuneration and compressed wage differentials can only be addressed through a review of the remuneration framework which is subject to availability of resources which we are eagerly waiting for the fiscal review. Any other discrepancies which might be there across sectors are being dealt with in the context of the job evaluation exercise undertaken by Government.
Madam President, the current Government policy is that private and trust schools determine their own remuneration framework guided by their Nation Employment Council for the Welfare and Education Institutions. It should be noted that teachers in Private and Trust schools were removed from the Government payroll in 2016 after the Civil Service Audit Report which noted the commercial aspects of private and trust school and their capability to determine their own remuneration framework.
POLICY REGARDING LABOUR PRACTICES BY FOREIGN-OWNED COMPANIES
- HON. SEN. S. MOYO asked the Minister of Public Service, Labour and Social Welfare to explain Government policy regarding labour practices by foreign owned companies operating in Zimbabwe to ensure local employees of these companies are not subjected to unfair labour practices or discriminatory treatment compared to foreign nationals employed by the same companies.
THE MINISTER OF PUBLIC SERVICE, LABOUR AND SOCIAL WELFARE (HON. E. MOYO): The Government of Zimbabwe is committed to ensuring that all employees, regardless of the nationality of their employer are treated fairly and with respect. The Constitution of Zimbabwe, Labour Act [Chapter 28:01] and other relevant regulations including Collective Bargaining Agreements (CBAs) of the National Employment Councils (NECs) mandate fair treatment and non-discrimination in the workplace. These laws apply equally to local and foreign-owned companies and are designed to protect the rights of all employees.
Foreign owned companies are required to comply with the same labour laws and regulations as local companies. This includes provisions related to wages, working conditions, health and safety and non-discrimination. Following complaints from stakeholders within the mining industry on the ill-treatment of local employees by foreign employers, His Excellency President E. D Mnangagwa launched a responsible mining audit initiative in 2023. As a starting point the Ministry of Public Service, Labour and Social Welfare intensified workplace inspections in the eight provinces across the country to address concerns raised. Compliance with the regulations is therefore monitored regularly through inspections. In cases where violations are identified appropriate legal action is taken to ensure corrective measures are implanted. These include withdrawal of licenses, closure of businesses, prosecution and deportation of foreign nationals.
Employees who have been subjected to unfair labour practises or discriminatory treatment have the right to report their concerns to the respective National Employment Councils or to the Department of Labour Administration. The Ministry provides such mechanisms for addressing disputes such as conciliation and arbitration.
COMPLETION OF DAVIS CAMP BRIDGE
- HON. SEN. NDEBELE asked the Minister of Transport and Infrastructure Development to inform the House when the Davies Camp Bridge which links Botswana, South Africa and Zimbabwe through Mphoengs Border Post will be completed as it has been outstanding since 2018.
THE DEPUTY MINISTER OF TRANSPORT AND INFRASTRUCTURAL DEVELOPMENT (HON. SACCO): The Bridge in question spans the Simukwe River, making the boundary between Matobo Districts and Mangwe Districts, and is overseen by rural Infrastructure Development Agency (RIDA). Construction commenced under RIDA’s authority, however, work was suspended due to significant design complications related to geotechnical issues encountered during the construction process. To date, only the bridge approaches have been completed.
The road authority is currently addressing these design anomalies and the associated subsurface conditions. Construction will resume once these matters are resolved, and funding will be pursued to ensure the bridge’s completion. Moreover, we will ensure that RIDA collaborates closely with the office of the Provincial Road Engineer and our Bridges Section within the Department of Roads to expedite the design review process and the subsequent construction of the Bridge.
REHABILITATION OF PLUMTREE-MPOENGS-BEITBRIDGE BORDER POST
- HON. SEN. NDEBELE asked the Minister of Transport and Infrastructure Development to inform the House what measures the Ministry is putting in place to rehabilitate Plumtree-Mphoengs-Beitbridge Border Post which is in a deplorable state of despair.
THE DEPUTY MINISTER OF TRANSPORT AND INFRASTRUCTURAL DEVELOPMENT (HON. SACCO): The Beitbridge Border Post was successfully upgraded and modernised and was commissioned by His Excellency in September 2022.Government through the Ministry of Transport and Infrastructural Development acknowledges the importance of the Plumtree and Mpoengs Border Post, and has since commenced engagements with various partners to upgrade and modernise the aforementioned border post.
Questions with Notice were interrupted by THE TEMPORARY PRESIDENT OF SENATE in terms of Standing Order Number 67.
MOTION
BUSINESS OF THE HOUSE
HON. SEN. MUZENDA: I move that Orders of the Day, Numbers 1 to 17 be stood over until Order of the Day Number 18 has been disposed of.
HON. SEN. GOTORA: I second.
Motion put and agreed to.
MOTION
CONGRATULATORY MESSAGE TO PROSECUTOR-GENERAL FOR UPHOLDING THE DIGNITY OF THE OFFICE
Eighteenth Order read: Adjourned debate on motion on the transparency of the operations of the Prosecutor General’s office.
Question again proposed.
HON. SEN. PHULU: Thank you Madam President. As this is the 20th day of this motion, before I beg leave or I move that this House adopts the report, I would like to thank the House for participating in the debate of this report and thank those Hon. Members who did take up this debate.
Although this debate is a very formal debate, simply appreciating the manner in which the Prosecutor General's Office has discharged its mandate to disclose publicly, the general principles by which her office conducts criminal proceedings, particularly by publishing the guidelines that enhance the independence and accountability of the Prosecutor General's Office, the debate did raise important issues which highlight the need for these guidelines to be known publicly. The debate will have alerted members of the public of the existence of these guidelines so that from time to time, they read this Statutory Instrument to know how these prosecutions are done and exactly which principles are applied so that these prosecutions are done fairly and are also seen to be fair.
Madam President, with these few remarks, appreciating the vigour with which the House took up this motion and also appreciating, obviously the manner in which this particular office of the Prosecutor General has applied itself, I move with your leave, Madam President, that this House adopts this motion.
Motion that this House-
NOTING WITH APPRECIATION the manner in which the Prosecutor-General’s office formulates and publicly discloses general principles by which her office conducts criminal proceedings;
AND WHEREAS there exist guidelines that enhance independence and accountability of the Prosecutor-General;
NOW, THEREFORE, this House congratulates the Prosecutor-General for upholding the dignity of her office and independence as demonstrated by the updating of prosecutorial guidelines for the efficient discharge of her duties through the publishing of the General Notice 870 of 2024 in the Government Gazette, put and agreed to.
On the motion of HON. SEN. MUZENDA, seconded by HON. SEN. GOTORA, the Senate adjourned at Twenty-Nine Minutes to Five o’clock p.m. until Tuesday, 18th March, 2025.
PARLIAMENT OF ZIMBABWE
Thursday, 6th March, 2025
The National Assembly met at a Quarter-past Two o’clock p.m.
PRAYERS
(THE ACTING SPEAKER in the Chair)
ANNOUNCEMENTS BY THE ACTING SPEAKER
TABLING OF REPORT
THE ACTING SPEAKER (HON. MAUNGANIDZE): In terms of Section 12 (2) of the Audi Office Act where the Minister or appropriate Minister fails to lay any report before the House of Assembly in terms of subsection (1) within the period specified therein, the Auditor-General shall transmit a copy of such report to the Speaker of the National Assembly for the Speaker to lay it before the House. I therefore, lay upon the table, the Value for Money Audit Report by the Auditor-General on the utilisation of dams, a case of Tugwi-Mukosi Dam for the year ended 31 December 2024 in terms of [Chapter 22:18].
HON. O. SIBANDA: I rise on a point of national interest to address this House as we look forward to commemorating the International Women’s Day on Saturday 8 March, 2025. As we join the global community in celebrating the achievements of women and recommitting ourselves to the pursuit of gender parity, it is important to reflect on this year’s theme titled, “Accelerate Action”, which resonates deeply with Zimbabwe’s ongoing efforts to empower women and girls across all sectors of society. The theme also aligns closely with the theme of the 69th Session of the Commission on the Status of Women, which seeks to commemorate 30 years after the Beijing Declaration and Platform for Action. Both occasions emphasise the need to accelerate progress towards gender equality and women’s empowerment.
Remarkably, Zimbabwe has made significant strides in advancing gender equality from legislative reforms that protect women’s rights, promoting women’s participation in leadership education and the economy as a whole. This progress inspires hope. One of significant milestones in Zimbabwe has been the enactment of pieces of gender responsive legislation, particularly the 2013 Constitution, Amendment (No. 20), the Domestic Violence Act, Sexual Offences Act, Education Amendment Act and recently, the Marriages Act.
We applaud Parliament for working tirelessly to enact these laws which have created the enabling environment for women to excel. Of major importance for us is the introduction of quotas in local and national elections, under Section 124 of the Constitution which has contributed to more women occupying decision making roles with Parliament and local councils amplifying their voices in Government.
Madam Speaker Ma’am, while we applaud Government for all these efforts, challenges remain. Deep rooted cultural norms and social attitudes continue to hinder women’s progress. Gender stereotypes and discriminatory practices often limit women’s access to opportunities and decision making roles. Very few women own land, houses, businesses, mines, you name it. Therefore, as we celebrate International Women’s Day on Saturday, 8 March 2025, as the Zimbabwe Women Parliamentary Caucus, we call upon the Government to accelerate action and ensure that more women rise and break the glass ceiling for Parliament. We plead for increased funding and resources dedicated to gender equality initiatives in all ministries.
Let me conclude by calling upon all Zimbabweans, including civil society, the private sector and individuals, to take bold and decisive action to address the empowerment of women. Together, we can accelerate action and building a Zimbabwe where every woman and girl can achieve her full potential.
THE ACTING SPEAKER: You point is well noted. Hon Members, you are reminded that a point of national interest is not a debate. Therefore, you have to express yourself in just a minute.
HON. MHETU: I rise on a matter of national interest with regards to Constituency Development Fund accounts that Members of Parliament opened. However, these accounts are accumulating debt. As you might be aware, since 2023, we have not yet received Constituency Development Funds that are meant to ensure development in every constituency. As a prerequisite, we opened accounts that were meant to ensure smooth and transparent transfer of Constituency Development Funds.
As you know, banks pay their licence fees according to the number of accounts they service even if the accounts are not in use. Banks continue to charge them because they are also being charged. Thus, these accounts are becoming a burden to us legislators. Some of us are parting away with our hard-earned cash, personal money, to maintain these accounts and we have reached a breaking point. With me here, I have a bank statement showing what I kept paying to keep the account active knowing how difficult the process was to open these accounts.
I understand that there is a percentage allocated to bank charges when CDF finally comes. However, I wish to highlight that this percentage might be insufficient since our CDF accounts have suffered bank charges for almost three years without being funded. The disappointing part is that once the account is closed, the bank may need a justification to explain why we think it is time the account will be funded; a question I am certain that it will be difficult to prove. Moreover, if the frozen account is reopened, it is possible that the bank charges incurred in arrears might be charged a reasonable chunk from the constituency fund.
My request therefore, to the Minister of Finance, Economic Development and Investment Promotion, is that he issues a Statutory Instrument that exempts all CDF bank accounts from paying account service charges if the Government is not yet in a position to immediately channel funds to these accounts. I submit.
THE ACTING SPEAKER: The Administration of Parliament, can you please follow up with the Minister concerned.
HON. MUSHORIWA: My point is actually a point of privilege. As you maybe aware, Parliament is one of the institutions that churns a lot of information and literature, the number of Bills, Order Papers and Vote and Proceedings and a lot of information that is tabled in this House and in various Committees. What has necessitated me to stand up is that my phone today collapsed because Parliament has failed to give Members of Parliament laptops or tablets to make sure that they store the information, given that we have gone paperless.
Now, the other challenge that we then face at this Parliament, if you want to research, we do not have a library. There is no library at this beautiful and magnificent building making it difficult for MPs to go and research or to just go on to a computer and check some information. I need this and we ask the Hon. Speaker to do two things. The first thing we ask is that the Hon. Speaker should assist by standing on behalf of the Members of Parliament because we now believe that the problem of acquiring tablets and laptops is not the problem of Parliament Administration but this is a problem that is coming from the Ministry of Finance to make sure that the work of Parliament is not done fairly well. So, we need the Hon. Speaker, as the head of Parliament, to make sure that he stands for Parliament to ensure that we carry our oversight role. We have tablets or laptops that can actually contain all the information generated at this Parliament.
Secondly, we also need the Speaker to urgently cause and resuscitate a Library Committee so that it can quickly make sure that a library is set up here just like we used to have at the Old Parliament so that Members will be in a position to research their work, not the current set-up where many people, when it comes to debating Bills, they will not do so not because they do not know but because storing information is difficult on these small phones. I thank you.
THE ACTING SPEAKER (HON. MAUNGANIDZE): You have raised very important points; our world has gone digital and I think we need to adopt the same. Administration, may you please take note of that?
*HON. MAKUMIRE: I stood up to raise a very troublesome issue, an issue which is of concern to all of us. The issue of the economy. A lot of people are really –
HON. TOGAREPI: Madam Speaker, the policy in this House is we should have three points of national interest but we now have four.
THE ACTING SPEAKER: Thank you for correcting me Government Chief Whip. I have to correct procedure. Hon. Makumire, you may raise your point of interest in the next session.
HON. G. K. HLATYWAYO: Hon. Mushoriwa did not have a point of national interest. It was a point of privilege. So, we only had two points of national interest. I think Hon. Makumire must be allowed to proceed.
*THE ACTING SPEAKER: Hon. Mushoriwa stood when we were doing points of national interest and as the Speaker, I believe that what he raised is important and affects a lot of people.
MOTION
BUSINESS OF THE HOUSE
HON. TOGAREPI: Thank you Madam Speaker, I move that Order Numbers 1 to 9 be stood over until Order Number 10 has been disposed of.
HON. KAMBUZUMA: I second.
Motion put and agreed to.
MOTION
REPORT OF THE DELEGATION TO THE 56TH PLENARY ASSEMBLY SESSION OF THE SADC PARLIAMENTARY FORUM HELD IN LUSAKA, ZAMBIA
HON. NKOMO: I move the motion standing in my name that
this House takes note of the report of the delegation to the 56th Plenary Assembly Session of the SADC Parliamentary Forum held in Livingstone, Zambia from 8th to 15th December, 2024.
HON. KAMBUZUMA: I second.
HON. NKOMO:
INTRODUCTION
Mr. Speaker, thank you for the opportunity to present this report. The 56th Plenary Assembly of the SADC Parliamentary Forum, hosted by the National Assembly of Zambia from 8th to 15th December 2024 under the theme “Leveraging Technology and Innovation for Smart, Inclusive and Responsive Parliaments in the SADC Region,” provided a significant platform for advancing digital governance. From the onset, let me acknowledge and thank that your delegation was ably led by our own Hon. Adv. Speaker Mudenda. I will now summarise the report and go through the key issues and the full document will subsequently be circulated to all Hon. Members for your participation in further debate. Thank you,
The 56th Plenary Assembly Session of the SADC Parliamentary Forum (SADC PF) was graciously hosted by the National Assembly of Zambia from the 8th to 15th December 2024 under the theme: “Leveraging Technology and Innovation for Smart, Inclusive and Responsive Parliaments in the SADC Region”.
The Zimbabwe delegation was led by Hon. Advocate Jacob Francis Nzwidamilimo Mudenda, Speaker of the Parliament of Zimbabwe, and it comprised the following Members of Parliament: -
- Maybe Mbowa, Member of the Standing Committee on Gender Equality, Women Advancement and Youth Development, Chairperson of the Zimbabwe Women’s Parliamentary Caucus (ZWPC) and Member of the Executive Committee of the SADC PF;
- Chinhenza Chigwadzara (Chief Matsiwo), Member of the Standing Committee on Food, Agriculture, Natural Resources and Climate Action;
- Tendai Nyabani, Chairperson of the Standing Committee on Democratisation, Governance and Human Rights;
- Mercy Mugomo, Member of the Standing Committee on Trade, Industry, Finance and Investment; and
- Lynette Karenyi, Member of the Standing Committee on Human and Social Development and Special Programmes.
Hon. Speaker Mudenda was received in Livingstone by Zimbabwe’s Ambassador to Zambia, Her Excellency Charity Charamba.
BACKGROUND AND THEME
Themed “Leveraging Technology and Innovation for Smart, Inclusive and Responsive Parliaments in the SADC Region,” the Plenary Assembly meetings aimed to foster regional dialogue on modernising Parliamentary processes through the application of digital technologies, especially the positive application of digital technologies.
The theme is apt as the Parliament of Zimbabwe is poised to lead legislative innovation in the SADC region by integrating the use of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in its Parliamentary processes as given impetus by Speaker Mudenda, a major proponent of the AI application in Parliamentary business. This forward-thinking approach, including the proposed establishment of the “Digital Technologies Committee of the Future”, should position the Parliament of Zimbabwe as a trailblazer in modern digital governance, thereby aligning with emerging best global practices relative to the application of digital technologies in socio-economic development in Zimbabwe.
The initiative underscores a commitment towards inclusivity, transparency and responsiveness, ensuring that the tripartite Parliamentary roles of oversight, representation and legislation serve the evolving socio-economic needs of the Zimbabwe citizenry in the 21st century. The regional indaba’s main objective was to chart a pathway for leveraging digital technology in order to build smart, inclusive, democratic and responsive Parliaments in the region.
OFFICIAL OPENING OF THE 56TH SADC-PF PLENARY ASSEMBLY SESSION
The 56th Plenary Assembly Session of the SADC Parliamentary Forum (SADC-PF) was officially opened by Her Honour, Mrs. W.K. Mutale Nalumango, Vice President of the Republic of Zambia, on behalf of His Excellency, President Hakainde Hichilema of the Republic of Zambia.
In her keynote address, Vice President W.K. Mutale Nalumango, expressed fraternal and cordial welcome to all Parliamentarians present. The Vice- President of the Republic of Zambia, commended the signing of the Agreement to amend the Treaty to establish a regional Parliament by 12 SADC Member States. She expressed optimism that the remaining Member States would soon follow suit. Highlighting Zambia’s commitment, she pledged full support for operationalisation of the Regional Parliament, emphasizing its paramouncy in the region and the African continent as an anchor to the Pan African Parliament (PAP) and the African Union (AU). Furthermore, the SADC Parliament will be the fifth cog to the PAP, which to date has been the missing gap.
Acknowledging challenges like data privacy, cybersecurity and e-waste, she assured delegates of Zambia’s efforts to establish a robust data protection legal framework. She expressed keen interest in the Assembly’s deliberations and resolutions, emphasizing the criticality of leveraging digital technology to build inclusive, responsive Parliaments and strengthen citizen trust.
The Vice President concluded her address by reaffirming Zambia’s dedication to fostering a conducive environment for ICT investment and innovation, positioning the country in contributing the region’s transformative economic growth.
Prior to Her Honour Namalunga delivering her speech, Hon Credo Nanjuwa, MP, the Provincial Minister for Southern Province welcomed delegates and expressed Zambia’s pride in hosting the SADC PF and underscored Livingstone’s historical significance as the cradle of Zambia’s legislative evolution since 1924 and being Zambia’s tourist capital. He commended the SADC PF Forum for choosing Livingstone as a venue for its meeting. The Rt. Hon. Nelly Mutti, Speaker of Zambia’s National Assembly, had earlier on extended a warm welcome to the delegates as she outlined the urgent need for Members of Parliament to use digital tools to enhance legislative work. She highlighted Zambia’s commitment to digital transformation and Parliamentary modernisation, citing the centenary celebrations of the National Assembly as a milestone in the country’s democratic journey.
Ms. Boemo Sekgoma, Secretary General of the SADC PF, called out credentials of all the Parliamentary delegates in attendance country by country. Ms. Sekgoma also commended Zambia for its educational strides, especially the use of digital technologies and e-governance.
Gender focus took centre stage as Hon. Shally Josepha Raymond, Chairperson of the Regional Women’s Parliamentary Caucus, marked the conclusion of the Global 16 Days Campaign against Gender-Based Violence, where she encouraged MPs to take a leading role in tackling the scourge of Gender-Based violence in the SADC region.
Hon. Roger Mancienne, President of SADC PF and Speaker of the National Assembly of Seychelles, highlighted the forum’s
achievements and outlined strategic goals under the newly crafted Strategic Plan 2024-2028.
The Plenary Assembly Session was officially opened by Vice President W.K. Mutale Nalumango, who welcomed delegates and underscored Zambia’s commitment to establishing a robust regional Parliament. Various speakers highlighted Zambia's strides in digital transformation, legislative modernisation and gender empowerment, while celebrating the nation’s historical legacy in regional liberation movements. Notably, Speaker Mudenda delivered a heartfelt vote of thanks that resonated with the audience. He lauded the impeccable hospitality and preparatory efforts of the Zambian Government and Parliament. His tribute to Zambia’s pivotal role in the liberation struggle and his call for collective progress left a lasting impression on all present.
Speaker Adv. Mudenda extended warm fraternal greetings from the SADC Summit Chairman, His Excellency, President Dr. Emmerson Mnangagwa, the People and the Parliament of Zimbabwe to the Zambian President Hakainde Hichilema. Zambia remains a shining example in the movement of the transformation agenda of SADC PF, Speaker Mudenda highlighted.
Furthermore, Speaker Adv. Mudenda posited that while embracing the Fourth Industrial Revolution which is driven by Artificial Intelligence (AI), Parliaments must be mindful of information security threats as a critical aspect in adopting ICTs. To that an extent, Parliaments must enact appropriate legislation to mitigate the negative effects of Information Communication Technologies (ICTs) and AI.
Additionally, he exhorted legislators to advance economic emancipation for the benefit of citizens in the aftermath of successful liberation struggles whose roots can be traced to Zambia as it was the home of the Southern Africa liberation movements. In that regard, Speaker Mudenda highlighted Zambia’s role as the cradle of Southern Africa’s search for freedom and independence as the country had endured colonialist brutal retaliation through fatal bombings of guerilla camps and economic sabotage against Zambia as a frontline State supporting liberation movements unflinchingly. To that an extent, Speaker Mudenda invoked Kenneth Kaunda’s galvanising liberation clarion call, Tiyende Pamodzi ndimutima umodzi, Tuluke Zambezi Ndimtima umozi, let us march forward together with a unity of purpose as we cross the Zambezi River, which inspired Southern Africa’s liberation movements.
Further, in his vote of thanks, Speaker Mudenda commended the impeccable hospitality arrangements by the Zambian Government and its Parliament to delegates. Similar hospitality was demonstrated in 2016 when Zambia hosted the Inter-Parliamentary Union Plenary Assembly and Related Meetings in Lusaka, wherein 1500 delegates from 179 Parliaments attended.
The Hon. Speaker, as a “He for She Champion”, celebrated regional progress driven by female leaders in positions of influence exemplified by the Guest of Honour, Vice President Nalumango, Namibia’s first female President, Her Excellency, Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah, Tanzania’s President, Her Excellency, Samia Suluhu Hassan, and former Malawi President Mrs. Joyce Banda. In that context, Speaker Mudenda lauded Zambia’s Vice President, Her Honour, Mrs. W.K. Nalumango, for publishing her memoirs entitled, “True to Me: A Memoir of Loss, Resilience, Faith and Service to My Country”.
Speaker Adv. Mudenda concluded his vote of thanks by extolling the SADC PF President, Speaker Roger Mancienne and the Secretary General, Ms. Boemo Segkoma, for the immaculate preparatory arrangements in the hosting of the 56th SADC PF Plenary Assembly and related meetings in Zambia.
COCKTAIL DINNER IN HONOUR OF PROFESSOR PETER HITJITEVI KATJAVIVI
On 9th December 2024, the SADC PF hosted a Valedictory Cocktail Dinner in honour of Professor Peter HitjiteviKatjavivi, the esteemed Speaker of the Parliament of Namibia and long-serving member of the SADC PF Executive Committee. The event, held at the Radisson Blu, Mosi-oa-Tunya, brought together Presiding Officers, Parliamentarians and several stakeholders to celebrate Professor Katjavivi’s remarkable legacy of public service and unwavering commitment to regional integration, democracy and good governance in Southern Africa and beyond.
The Valedictory Dinner forms part of the SADC PF’s Legacy Project, which aims to commemorate Professor Katjavivi’s exemplary leadership and ensure his inspiring journey is remembered by future generations of Parliamentarians and leaders.
As Professor Katjavivi prepares to retire in March 2025, the celebration served as a befitting acknowledgment of his distinguished public service and enduring legacy in the service of the SADC citizenry through his sterling leadership in the SADC PF Executive Committee as well as being the Host Speaker of the institution whose Headquarters is in Namibia.
In a night marked by profound reflection and heartfelt tributes, the House was unanimous in exuding Professor Katjavivi’s unflinching dedication in advancing regional inter-parliamentary cooperation and unity. His pivotal role in advocating for the Transformation of the SADC PF into a fully-fledged SADC Parliament was highlighted as one of his many outstanding contributions to the region’s socio-political and economic development.
In response and in a deeply emotional reflection during the 56th SADC PF Plenary Assembly, the Speaker of the National Assembly of Namibia, Professor Katjavivi expressed his utmost gratitude for the moving valedictory tribute tendered by Speaker Mudenda to the extent that the Professor acknowledged how he had difficulty in holding back the swell of tears as he listened to the tribute. Furthermore, the Professor indicated how he felt touched by the selection of Livingstone as the venue of the 56th Plenary Assembly at which the tribute was being publicly expressed, a town from where he departed to Tanzania, then Tanganyika, in the company of two comrades among whom was Joe Modise who became one of the Commanders of Umkhonto Wesizwe.
As he retires, Professor Katjavivi then made a commitment that he would be available in the service of SADC PF as it transforms into a Regional Parliament. At the same time, he urged delegates to the 56th Plenary Assembly to remain totally committed to the ideals of the SADC Parliamentary Forum, especially in the institution’s quest for advancing democracy, inalienable fundamental human rights and freedoms, the rule of law and economic freedom of Southern Africa.
SYMPOSIUM ON THE THEME
A Symposium on the theme was held on 10th December 2024. During the Symposium, it became clear that the adoption of new digital technologies, including artificial intelligence, could result in enhanced efficiency in Parliamentary operations as it had the potential to eliminate inherent inefficiencies. However, there was need for full appreciation and mitigation of the possible dangers inherent in such technology if it was to be used safely.
The Parliament of Zimbabwe has developed its 7th Institutional Strategic Plan (ISP) covering the period 2025 to 2029. The Institutional Strategic Plan has identified five Key Result Areas which are expected to be attained during the period 2025 to 2029. Central to our deliberations in Zambia were Key Result Area Number Five, which focuses on the transformation of our Parliament into a modern and well-resourced institution which is capable of meeting the challenges of contemporary governance. To actualise this vision, the Strategic Plan proposes a series of strategic initiatives. Among these initiatives is the need to embrace digital technologies driven by Artificial Intelligence as the anchor.
AI presents a transformative opportunity for Zimbabwe’s Parliament, enabling advanced policy analysis, legislative drafting and public sentiment synthesis through digital analytics. Inspired by benchmarks such as Canada’s Digital Charter and Estonia’s e-Parliament, Zimbabwe aims to leverage AI to enhance transparency and inclusivity in policymaking. The integration of Internet of Things (IoT) platforms to streamline Parliamentary processes, drawing from the UK Parliament’s Digital Strategy, underscores the vision for establishing a citizen-centric Zimbabwe e-Parliament.
A hallmark of Zimbabwe’s legislative innovation is the swift production and online publication of the Hansard within three and a half hours of adjournment, setting a regional standard in Southern Africa. This prompt dissemination of parliamentary debates via digital platforms, including the Parliament’s website and social media, democratises access to proceedings and enhances global public engagement, reinforcing transparency and accountability in governance.
In this regard, the proposed Digital Technologies Committee of the Future embodies Zimbabwe’s forward-thinking approach to e-Parliament. Inspired by Finland's successful model, the Committee will explore emerging technologies like blockchain and renewable energy, pilot AI-based policy tools and address challenges such as climate change action and demographic shifts. It will also act as a hub for collaboration with the academia, the techno-savvy and civil society to drive legislative innovation.
Zimbabwe’s integration of AI and ICT systems into its Parliamentary frameworks is a commitment to citizen-centric e-Parliament systems. This vision underscores Zimbabwe’s potential to harmonize tradition with digital innovation and ensures that its democratic institutions remain adaptive and impactful in the spirit of accountable governance.
ZIMBABWE'S PROGRESS REPORT ON THE IMPLEMENTATION OF THE 54TH SADC PF PLENARY ASSEMBLY RESOLUTIONS
On 12th December 2024, the Zimbabwe delegation presented its Country Progress Report on the Resolutions from the 55th SADC Parliamentary Forum Plenary Assembly Session held in Luanda, Angola from 2nd to 7th July 2024. The report reaffirmed Zimbabwe's commitment to the promotion of renewable energy, enhancement of policies towards women advancement, regional integration, climate resilience, gender equality, youth empowerment and sustainable development as outlined in the resolutions adopted at the forum.
Speaker Adv.Mudenda’s report, ably presented by Hon. Maybe Mbowa, Member of Parliament and the Chairperson of the Zimbabwe’s Women’s Parliamentary Caucus, emphasized the laudable strides made by Zimbabwe in implementing resolutions of the July 2024 Plenary Assembly as follows;
The Report on the resolution under the theme: “The Role of Parliaments in Promoting Renewable Energy Policies in the SADC Region and Creating a Single Regional Energy Market”.
Recommendation number one (1) “Urges Member Parliaments to enact and amend national laws that encourage investment in renewable energy technologies, including solar, wind, biomass, and hydropower, to align with global climate objectives”. The Second Session of the 10th Parliament of Zimbabwe prioritised the amendment of the Rural Electrification Fund Act to expedite the installation of renewable energy mini grids in the rural areas. Additionally, Parliament in conjunction with the Executive, is facilitating the rolling out of the National Energy Efficiency Policy to enhance investments in new energy generation plants. Recommendation number two (2) “Urges Member States of the SADC region to support legislation that promotes the development of renewable energy infrastructure, ensuring that investments are directed toward innovative and scalable energy solutions that can be adopted at both national and regional levels”. In line with this trajectory, the National Renewable Energy Policy (NREP) is already in place and lays the groundwork for renewable energy development in the country with an ambitious target of attaining installed capacity of 1,100 MW by 2025 and 2,100 MW by 2030. To regulate the sector, the Energy Regulatory Authority Act (ZERA Act) creates the Zimbabwe Energy Regulatory Authority (ZERA) whose mandate is to oversee the licensing of Independent Power Producers (IPPs). Furthermore, the Joint Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) Renewable Energy Fund is a significant initiative aimed at addressing financing barriers in the renewable energy sector. This fund promotes local infrastructure investments and supports gender-responsive and inclusive renewable energy projects.
Report on the resolutions under the theme: “Enhancing the role of Parliament in Empowering Women for Economic Prosperity in the SADC Region Removing Barriers to Financial Inclusion of Women”.
Recommendation number one (1): “Calls on Member Parliaments to promote the integration of SADC Strategy on Financial Inclusion and Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) Access to Finance (2023-2028) and its implementation by SADC Member states”. In conformity with this resolution, Parliament enacted the Zimbabwe Microfinance Act which promotes financial inclusion, especially for women. The Act provides a legal framework for microfinance institutions to operate and offer financial services to underserved populations, including women and youths, as well as persons with disabilities. Furthermore, the Zimbabwe Women's Microfinance Bank, established under this framework is meant to avail business finance specifically targeting women in rural areas and marginalised persons with disabilities.
Recommendation number four (4): “Urges member states to take key actions to improve the financial inclusion of women entrepreneurs, including gender-responsive planning and budgeting, such as providing tax reliefs or subsidies to encourage the growth of women-led ventures, and gender-responsive procurement by mainstreaming gender in procurement, empowering women entrepreneurs, sourcing strategically, subcontracting and managing and improving performance through benchmarking and capacity building.” In keeping with this recommendation, the Government of Zimbabwe made a significant commitment to gender equality by introducing Gender Responsive Budgeting (GRB) through the Budget Call Circular Number 1 of 2021 from Treasury which made it mandatory for all public institutions to mainstream gender and allocate resources for gender equity in their budgets. This initiative aims to ensure that the budgeting process is gender sensitive. To promote gender-sensitive procurement, the Procurement and Disposal of Public Assets Act (Chapter 22:23) section 29 (b) encourages the participation of women and other marginalized groups in public procurement by setting aside a portion of contracts specifically for these groups. It mandates that procuring entities consider gender balance when awarding contracts as a way of promoting equity for women’s participation.
Recommendation number six (6): “Calls upon member states to develop and promote financial products specifically designed for women, such as savings accounts, microloans and insurance, tailored to meet their unique needs and preferences”. To this end, the Cooperatives Act in Zimbabwe provides for the formation, operations and regulation of cooperatives, promoting self-help and economic empowerment initiatives for women in communities. In addition, the proposed Savings and Credit Cooperative Societies (SACCOs) Bill is designed to enhance financial inclusion for women and youths through savings and access to credit for emerging enterprises.
Recommendation number eight (8): “Implores member states to promote digital financial services, such as mobile banking and e-wallets, to enhance women’s access to banking, payments and savings and to address barriers such as limited internet connectivity and digital literacy”. Parliament, in conjunction with the Reserve Bank of Zimbabwe (RBZ), facilitated the National Financial Inclusion Strategy (2022-2026) which has greatly improved women mobile banking and economic empowerment in the financial services sector. By enhancing access to financial services, promoting safety, and improving financial literacy, mobile banking can play a pivotal role in transforming the socio-economic status of women. According to RBZ 2023 data, the National Financial Inclusion Strategy 2022-2026 has increased uptake and usage of mobile money by 63% of the total population and thus, is a key driver in formal financial inclusion. Additionally, 72% of households were said to have had access to a bank, micro finance, or mobile money account thereby enabling them to transact digitally.
Report on the resolutions under the theme: “Collaborative Approach in Addressing Violence against Women in Elections and Politics in the SADC region-The Role of Parliament”. Recommendation number one (1) “Calls on national Parliaments to ensure a coordinated and collaborative approach with other stakeholders to address all forms of violence against women, through the enactment and enforcement of comprehensive laws, the establishment of robust oversight mechanisms, and the implementation of widespread public awareness campaigns”. The Parliament of Zimbabwe plays a key role in enacting and amending laws that address Gender-Based Violence (GBV), including politically motivated violence against women. To that effect, Parliament enacted the Domestic Violence Act and the Sexual Offences Act, which provide legal protections for survivors and hold perpetrators accountable. Recently, the High-Level Political Compact (HLPC) under the Spotlight Initiative launched in 2021 brought together various stakeholders, including Parliament and the Executive to promote political commitment and engagement to address and curtail Gender Based Violence against women, including during elections.
The Zimbabwe Women Parliamentary Caucus has been actively involved in raising awareness and among the members of the public and within their constituencies about the dangers of Gender Based Violence Against Women in Elections. The strategy is aimed at encouraging women to support each other during any elections. Every year, the ZWPC together with its partners participate, in the commemorations of the 16 Days of Activism against Gender-Based Violence. These activities have contributed significantly to increasing awareness among the people on the urgent need to curb GBV.
Report on the resolution on: “Advancing the AU Agenda 2040 for Children: Strengthening Parliamentary Engagement for Child-centred legislation and policies”.
Recommendation number five (5): “Encourages national Parliaments to support legislation and policies aimed at achieving universal access to quality education, particularly for marginalised and vulnerable children, and expand healthcare services to include comprehensive child health and mental health support”. The Education Amendment Act in Zimbabwe represents a significant step towards enhancing the protection of child rights within the educational system. This Act aims to address various issues related to access to education, the quality of education, and the overall well-being of learners in schools.
Report on the resolution on the theme: “Role of Parliament in Mitigating Electoral Risks and Building Greater Resilience into Electoral Processes in the SADC Region.”
Recommendation number one (i) “Calls for the establishment of regular dialogue and cooperation between EMBs and Parliaments to address emerging electoral challenges in view of their important respective roles in enhancing electoral integrity in the SADC region.” In line with this recommendation, the Electoral Code of Conduct for Political Parties and Candidates and other Stakeholders, contained in the Fourth Schedule of the Electoral Act of Zimbabwe, section 12 (1) provides that Political Parties will participate in multiparty liaison committees chaired by the Zimbabwe Electoral Commission (ZEC). The meetings are aimed at facilitating dialogue, gather insights, and ensure that parties are well-informed about the electoral process.
Recommendation number four (iv) “Calls for the establishment of robust regulatory frameworks by national Parliaments in the SADC region to address misinformation and disinformation and regulate social media during elections in order to eliminate harms such as cyber violence and safeguard the integrity of electoral processes.” The Cyber and Data Protection Act of Zimbabwe, enacted in 2021, serves as a crucial legal framework designed to regulate online activities, protect personal data, and combat cybercrime, including the challenges posed by disinformation and misinformation through the abuse of Artificial Intelligence. It establishes measures to enhance cybersecurity and thereby protects the integrity of the information economy against unauthorized access and malicious activities to the public. In addition, the Act places responsibilities on online platforms and service providers to monitor and manage content shared on their sites. This includes taking action against users who disseminate false information.
Report on the resolution on: “Progress, opportunities and challenges for SADC Member States under the African Continental Free Trade Agreement, Agenda 2063 and Programme for Infrastructural Developmental for Africa: Re-Harnessing the Role of Members of Parliament in Regional Trade and Economic Integration”.
Recommendation number four (4): “Appeals to SADC Member States to institute value addition laws and policies on the production of critical minerals such as lithium and chrome before export to ensure that locals benefit wholly through employment creation, contribution to revenue collection and industrialisation”. The Zimbabwean government imposed a 5% tax on unprocessed ore, which was later reduced to 1% after all lithium producing companies submitted their beneficiation plans by the Second Quarter of 2024. Furthermore, lithium and chrome beneficiation was given a span of not more than five years. No licencees are being granted to prospective lithium and chrome company without approval of a beneficiation plan. Recommendation number five (5) “Urges Members States to stay informed and actively participate in ongoing trade negotiations, addressing issues like tariffs, rules of origin, investment and digital trade”. Following Zimbabwe’s ratification of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) Agreement, on completion of negotiations on the rules of origin in 2023, we joined other 41 countries in submitting "Schedules of Tariff Concessions" to the AfCFTA Secretariat.
Recommendation number six (6): “Urges SADC Members States to enact appropriate policies and legislation that facilitate industrialisation and modernisation of critical sectors such as agriculture to ensure food security”. Presently, a New Industrial Policy is being drafted which will take effect after the launch of the National Development Strategy 2 in 2025. Furthermore, Zimbabwe recently launched the Zimbabwe Industrial Growth Plan, which aims to support local industry and reduce reliance on imports. The target is to increase the contribution by the manufacturing sector to at most 33% of GDP. In 2024, the sector is projected to grow by 1.6%, whilst capacity utilisation is expected to average 60%.
Recommendation number eight (8) “Urges SADC Member States to institute policies aimed at rehabilitating and upgrading various infrastructures including the rail and air transport system, in accordance with various AU and SADC Legal framework such as PIDA and AIDA”. Zimbabwe has registered remarkable strides in this regard. After successfully upgrading the Robert Mugabe International Airport, the Civil Aviation Amendment Bill is being aligned with international regulatory frameworks best practices. Major roads are being rehabilitated, linking cities and neighbouring countries to meet Southern Africa Transport and Communications Commission (SATCC) standards.
Report on the resolution on: “Enhancing the role of regional parliamentary model laws oversight committee in monitoring the domestication of SADC model laws and implementation of related policies and laws through structured reporting frameworks and mechanisms: A look at the domestication of the Sendai Framework for disaster Risk Reduction”.
Recommendation number one (i) “Implores SADC parliaments to intensify efforts in domestication initiatives by developing strategies to raise awareness on targeted laws collaborating with partners and mobilising resources to strengthen the capacity for domestication of Model Laws”. Zimbabwe aims for a collective, and holistic approach to effectively implement Disaster Risk Reduction (DRR) strategies and programmes. Mainstreaming DRR in development planning across all sectors of the Zimbabwean economy is seen as the panacea to heighten mitigation, preparedness, adaptation capacity and resilience building in the country. This is done to conform to the National Vision 2030, the Sendai Framework for Disaster Risk Reduction (2015-2030), the Paris Agreement on climate change as well as the Sustainable Development Goals, among others. Additionally, Disaster Risk Management policies and strategies that include the Disaster Risk Management Bill, Public Health Act, Environmental Management Act, Road Traffic Act, as well as Disaster Risk Management preparedness plans and strategies are aligned to regional and international frameworks for disaster risk management.
Recommendation number six (vi) “Urges Member Parliaments to assess community concerns at the grassroots level regarding DRR and to ensure the implementation of mitigation strategies that safeguard constituents and promote proactive approaches to disaster management”.
The Disaster Risk Management (DRM) architecture in Zimbabwe takes cognisance of communities as crucial and compelling stakeholders in DRM. To that end, the Civil Protection Department leverages on support from development partners and community-based organisations in conducting Community Based Disaster Risk Management programmes. The country`s Early Warning Systems are anchored by existing regional and international bodies such as SADC Climate Services Centre, Famine Early Warning Systems (FEWSNET), World Meteorological Organization (WMO) and indigenous knowledge systems at community level. Importantly, the establishment of community radios across the country has enhanced the dissemination of pertinent information in local languages.
Responses to specific questions
Transformation of the Forum into a SADC Regional Parliament
Zimbabwe signed the Agreement Amending the Treaty for the Transformation of the SADC PF into a Regional Parliament and will endeavour to influence the Executive to ensure that the Protocol Establishing the Regional Parliament is signed as the final process to complete the Transformation matrix.
Addressing the Impact of Inflation on the Budget of the Forum
The Parliament of Zimbabwe acknowledges the financial challenges posed by inflation and exchange volatility remains committed to the Forum’s vision and Transformation agenda. Zimbabwe supports exploring measures to ensure sustainability, including the proposed increase of subscriptions as from April 2026.
Secondment of Senior Parliamentary Staff to the Forum
Zimbabwe will advise when ready to second staff to the forum. However, the institution stands ready to second Staff on ad-hoc basis, as has always been the case.
Election Observation
While Zimbabwe acknowledges the importance of participating in Election Observation Missions (EOMs), competing national interests have hampered full participation. However, Zimbabwe remains committed to regional electoral integrity and will explore options for financial and human resource contributions in future.
Designation of a Focal Person to Monitor Domestication of Model Laws
Zimbabwe has designated the team of SRHR Researchers as focal persons within Parliament to support the Regional Parliamentary Model Laws Oversight Committee (RPMLOC). The appointed team will facilitate the monitoring of domestication efforts and ensure alignment with the Model Laws adopted by the forum.
Implementation of the 2023-2026 SRHR and Governance Project
Zimbabwe has made significant progress in implementing the SRHR and Governance Project:
- The Agreement to implement the project has been signed and the launch took place on 3rd October 2024.
- Parliament has utilised allocated resources to conduct awareness campaigns and stakeholder engagements.
Domestication of SADC PF Model Laws and Related Policies/Instruments
Zimbabwe has made notable strides in domesticating SADC PF Model Laws and related policies. For example, the SRHR Project funded the Joint Committee on Justice, Legal and Parliamentary Affairs and Human Rights at the Parliament of Zimbabwe to carry out Public Hearings on the Death Penalty Abolition Bill [H.B. 5, 2023], Administration of Estates Amendment Bill [H.B. 3, 2024], and Criminal Laws Amendment (Protection of Children and Young Persons) [H.B. 4, 2024]. This resulted on the Criminal Laws Amendment (Protection of Children and Young Persons) Act, 2024 (No.1) Zimbabwe remains committed to advancing regional integration and legislative harmony within the SADC framework.
ADOPTION OF THE REPORT OF THE EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE AND THE TREASURER’S REPORT
The Executive Committee (EXCO) tabled its report for consideration and adoption by the 56th Plenary Assembly. The EXCO of the SADC Parliamentary Forum (SADC PF) had met on 23rd and 24th November 2024, in Johannesburg, South Africa.
The EXCO Report, ably presented by Hon. Advocate Jacob Francis Nzwidamilimo Mudenda, Speaker of Parliament of Zimbabwe highlighted that the Executive Committee’s tenure (2022–2024) had largely achieved the objectives set at its inception, including advancing the Forum’s transformation into a Regional Parliament, resource mobilization, capacity-building initiatives and the finalisation of the Strategic Plan.
While the transformation of the Forum and the inclusion of the Comoros remain ongoing, the EXCO was handing over with significant progress made and a solid foundation for the incoming Committee to build upon.
The report noted the progress made by the EXCO in implementing the 2023–2024 Roadmap and encouraged the incoming EXCO to address and finalize the remaining issues. These include the transformation of the Forum into a SADC Regional Parliament, the inclusion of Comoros in the SADC PF family, and ongoing resource mobilisation efforts, including the proposed subscription increase starting in April 2026.
It is critically important to note that Speaker Advocate Jacob Francis Nzwidamilimo Mudenda for his work in shaping the trajectory of the forum, received the Grand Defender of Democracy award and cited as “For the unflinching dedicated service, unwavering commitment to duty and iconic visionary leadership as an inspiring Member of the Executive Committee of the SADC Parliamentary Forum for the period November 2022 to December 2024” during the just ended SADC PF Plenary Assembly and related meetings. Overally, the Zimbabwe delegation under Speaker Mudenda received accolades for its active participation and epigrammatic interventions.
MOTIONS ADOPTED DURING THE 55th PLENARY ASSEMBLY MEETINGS
Report of the Standing Committee on Democracy, Governance and Human Rights (DGHR)
The 2024 Public Hearing Session emphasized citizen participation in promoting accountability, inclusive development, and social cohesion within SADC integration efforts. Key submissions addressed strengthening SADC Parliaments, improving electoral processes, safeguarding electoral rights, and tackling regional security challenges to enhance democratic governance.
The Plenary called for collaboration with AAEA and ECF-SADC to partner with social media companies in promoting responsible digital engagement, transparency in online election information, and combating misinformation during elections.
Furthermore, SADC Member States were urged to reform electoral systems by introducing youth quotas, reducing barriers for young candidates, expanding youth-focused civic education and leveraging digital platforms for greater youth participation and representation in governance.
Standing Committee on Food, Agriculture Natural Resources and Climate Action (FANRCA)
The SADC region faces a complex array of challenges and opportunities at the intersection of climate resilience, food security, natural resource management, and sustainable development. With climate change exacerbating vulnerabilities across the region, the imperative for coordinated and innovative approaches has never been greater. Climate-smart agriculture has emerged as a critical pathway to enhance food security and resilience, addressing the immediate impacts of climate variability on crop yields and livelihoods. The establishment of a Parliamentary Food Security and Nutrition Alliance within SADC is poised to play a pivotal role in scaling up these practices through legislative advocacy, resource mobilisation, and regional collaboration.
Report of the Standing Committee on Human and Social Development and Special Programmes (HSDSP)
The Standing Committee on Human and Social Development and Special Programmes (HSDSP) presented a report on the theme: “The Role of Parliaments in Raising, Allocating and Spending resources necessary for public health and SRHR financing.
The Committee encouraged Member States to collaborate in regional health financing initiatives, such as pooled procurement of medical supplies and shared investments in regional health infrastructure, to reduce costs and improve access to essential medicines and healthcare technologies across the SADC region.
Furthermore, the Committee urged the SADC PF Secretariat to facilitate Member States in developing sustainable health financing strategies that reduce reliance on external funding and encourage long-term investment in local health value chains, such as pharmaceutical production and health infrastructure.
ELECTION OF OFFICE BEARERS
Pursuant to Article 11(2) of the forum’s Constitution and Rule 10 of the Rules of Procedure, the 56th Plenary Assembly held elections to elect the new membership of the Executive Committee to lead the forum and new office bearers for the period 2024 to 2026, as follows:
- Hon. Speaker TOKELY Justin (Madagascar) – President.
- Sylvia Elizabeth Lucas (South Africa) – Vice President.
- Dr. Pinkie Manamolela (Lesotho) – Treasurer.
RESOLUTIONS AND WAY FORWARD
The Plenary Assembly of the SADC Parliamentary Forum resolved that Hon. Advocate Jacob Francis Nzwidamilimo Mudenda, Speaker of the Parliament of Zimbabwe and Chairman of the SADC PF Strategic Lobbying Team urgently leads the efforts to secure the remaining signatures for the Amendment of the Treaty on the Transformation of the SADC PF into a regional Parliament from Botswana, Madagascar and Mauritius, ensuring that no Member State is left behind. His mission is to expedite consultations and rally all countries to finalize the transformation of the SADC PF into a fully-fledged Regional Parliament, a process he has diligently championed for over 14 years. The SADC PF Secretariat shall provide full support to ensure the seamless and timely completion of this critical task, including making the critical appointments.
Plenary Assembly resolved to encourage Member States to embrace the citizen-centric e-Parliament model, fostering inclusive, adaptive and accountable e-governance systems that blend innovation with tradition, thereby enhancing legislative institutions across the SADC region. Building on the extraordinary leadership provided by His Excellency, President Dr. Emmerson Dambudzo Mnangagwa, for his visionary leadership in championing the integration of digital technologies into the work of the Summit, Parliament of Zimbabwe will proactively incorporate the adoption of AI and ICT systems in its Parliamentary frameworks.
Proactively and in sync with the Theme of the 56th Plenary Assembly meeting, Parliament of Zimbabwe to institutionalize the following:
- Strategic Roadmap: Develop a phased digital transformation plan with clear goals.
- Capacity Building: Train Members and staff in AI tools and cybersecurity concerns in order to build institutional capabilities in the deployment of AI in Parliamentary business.
- Pilot Projects: Introduce AI in focused areas such as legislative drafting, citizen feedback systems during public hearings and enhancing Members of Parliament’s tripartite roles of oversight, legislative and representation.
- Ethical Guidelines: Implement legal frameworks to mitigate bias, ensure transparency and protect data integrity.
- Collaborative Partnerships: Work with international and regional experts to share best practices so as to establish robust digital technologies which enhance the e-Parliament architecture.
In alignment with the SADC PF Parliamentary Alliance on Agrifood Systems, Food Security and Nutrition, launched in collaboration with the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), Zimbabwe embraces the resolve to empower its Parliamentarians to spearhead legislative actions, policy reforms and advocacy efforts in this regard. This resolution underscores Zimbabwe’s proactive measures to reaffirm its commitment to combating hunger and achieving food self-sufficiency through climate-proof agriculture and sustainable practices as envisaged and spearheaded by His Excellency the President Dr. Emmerson Dambudzo Mnangagwa, through various policy measures.
The Plenary Assembly of SADC PF resolved to place on record its profound appreciation of the distinguished service rendered by Hon. Professor Peter H. Katjavivi, Speaker of the Parliament of Namibia and Host Speaker for the SADC PF Headquarters, whose retirement is anticipated in March 2025. In recognition of his long-standing contributions to the Forum's Executive Committee, interparliamentary cooperation, regional integration and the promotion of democracy in Southern Africa, the Assembly further recommended that Hon. Prof. Katjavivi’s unmatched wisdom and diplomacy continue to be utilized in advisory and strategic capacities at both national and regional levels to advance the forum’s objectives and regional body.
The Plenary adopted the resolution Assembly mandates Parliament to institute robust and proactive measures to support the established Resource Mobilisation Committee, comprising among others, Hon. Advocate Speaker Mudenda, Hon. Speaker Thoko Didiza of South Africa and Hon. Speaker Carolina Cerqueira of Angola, to secure sustainable resources for the forum’s operations and programmes, ensuring its effectiveness in promoting regional integration and inter-parliamentary cooperation.
The Plenary Assembly resolved to recognise and support the efforts of inter-parliamentary bodies and acknowledged solidarity messages from entities such as the East African Legislative Assembly and the Forum of Parliaments of the International Conference on the Great Lakes Region. To enhance democratic and institutional capacity, Parliaments are encouraged to foster collaborations with these bodies and other strategic partners to strengthen governance, legislative effectiveness and regional integration efforts.
The Plenary Assembly resolved to place on record its sincere appreciation to the National Assembly of Zambia, led by Rt. Hon. Speaker Nelly Mutti, for seamlessly hosting the 56th Plenary Assembly and selecting a timely and relevant theme for its deliberations. The Assembly further commended the Host Parliament for organizing an Indaba on the margins of the Plenary Assembly, fostering critical dialogue on advancing women’s political leadership and governance.
The full dossier of the Plenary Assembly resolutions will be availed by the SADC Parliamentary Forum in due course for consideration by Portfolio and Thematic Committees of the Parliament of Zimbabwe. The Standing Committees at Parliament of Zimbabwe are encouraged to access full reports of the Plenary Assembly on: https://plenary.sadcpf.org/documentation/
CONCLUSION
The Plenary Assembly meetings concluded with the Guided Tour of the One-Stop Border Post and Kazungula Bridge and Guided tour of Mosi-Oa-Tunya/Victoria Falls.
Parliament of Zimbabwe commits itself to the full implementation of the resolutions of the Plenary Assembly which will be shared among all Members of Parliament to facilitate action by different Portfolio and Thematic Committees.
The 57th Plenary Assembly of the SADC PF will be held here in Victoria Falls City from 31st May to 8th June 2025. This document serves as a working guide for the planning and execution of the highly anticipated Plenary Assembly in Zimbabwe. I thank you.
HON. PINDUKA: Thank you Madam Speaker Ma’am, good afternoon. I rise to second the report that has been tabled by Hon. Mugomo.
Madam Speaker Ma’am, it is important for digital technologies to be harnessed in all our institutions. In this modern era, embracing digital tools is no longer a luxury but it is essential for ensuring that its important institutions such as Parliament of Zimbabwe remains effective, transparent and responsive to the needs of our people. We must have real hands-on programmes for Members of Parliament, for example, here in Zimbabwe, to learn and master these technologies.
Madam Speaker Ma’am, that training is key if we are to keep pace with the rapid changes around us. It is not enough to simply equip ourselves with the new gadgets or a building, a modern facility without the new gadgets and the proper knowledge and skills. Even more, the advanced equipment will not save its purpose.
We must invest in a practical capacity building that we do not lag behind other nations in harnessing the power of digital innovation. Moreover, Madam Speaker Ma’am, as we sit in this beautiful building, it is critical that we integrate modern technologies into all its functions. We should be more modern ourselves, research here in Parliament, analyse data and even during our Committees, we are also supposed to contribute meaningfully in terms of the debates that we proffer in our respective Committees
Madam Speaker Ma’am, a new building without the necessary technological infrastructure is a missed opportunity. It is not just about having a new physical space but about creating a state-of-the-art hub that supports our work, encourages collaboration and enhances our ability to serve our citizens efficiently. Madam Speaker Ma’am, technology is also key to the work of our standing Committees like it is highlighted in our various Committees that we sit in. Our Committee relies on digital tools to gather data, analyse trends and communicate effectively with the stakeholders.
Madam Speaker, by leveraging technology, we can craft better policies and drive growth in our trade sector among other sectors in our economy and ultimately contribute to a stronger national economy. I must take this opportunity to thank the Honourable Speaker, Advocate, Jacob F. Mudenda, on outstanding leadership that he has always provided for this House. The guidance has steered us through many challenges and they have also led this House with vision and determination.
Madam Speaker, I am especially grateful for the way Honourable Speaker, Advocate Jacob Mudenda has led this House with vision and determination and I am especially grateful for the way he delivered the vote of thanks during the meeting and served as a Guest Speaker during the function hosted for Honourable Professor Katjavivi. In those moments, Advocate Mudenda held the House in the palm of his hand inspiring us all with commitment and rallying us to work together for the good of the work of Parliament.
Madam Speaker Ma’am, the Ministry of ICT in Zimbabwe is also spearheading the digital skills so that our nation also benefits in terms of programmes so that no one and no place is left behind as put forth by His Excellency, the President, Dr. E. D. Mnangagwa. You have also noted that the Minister of ICT is also championed the national e-learning platform which is very important in terms of advancing basic digital skills, digital literacy, ICT skills development and also digital inclusion across our nation.
Madam Speaker, in conclusion, the issue of digital technologies is critical to our future successes. We must provide the real training for Members of Parliament here in our National Assembly and as well as Senate and ensure that our new building meets the demands of a digital age and fully integrates technology into our operations, especially areas like trade and other key sectors of our economy. I urge all of us to commit to this initiative so that our Parliament can lead by example and truly serve the people of Zimbabwe. I would like to close my submission by also thanking Honourable Advocate Mudenda for exemplary leadership and for rallying us in this important mission. Together we can build a modern, efficient and forward thinking Parliament that meets the challenges of today and tomorrow. The digital space, Madam Speaker Ma’am, requires digital skills. As we take our work in this world-class Parliament, we also need to ensure that we push forward the issue of digital skills and information communication technologies. I would like to thank you, Madam Speaker Ma’am.
HON. TOGAREPI: Madam Speaker, I move that the debate do now adjourned.
HON. V. MOYO: I second.
Motion put and agreed to.
Debate to resume: Tuesday, 18th March, 2025.
MOTION
BUSINESS OF THE HOUSE
HON. TOGAREPI: I move that all other Orders of the Day, be stood over until Order of the Day Number 31 has been disposed of.
HON. V. MOYO: I second.
Motion put and agreed to
MOTION
REVIEW AND UPDATE ON THE DRIVERS’ LICENCE TESTING REGULATIONS TO INCLUDE AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION VEHICLES
Thirty-First Order read: Adjourned debate on motion on the licence testing framework in Zimbabwe.
HON. MANGONO: Thank you Madam Speaker Ma’am. I rise to add my voice on the motion which was raised by Honourable Mhetu, regarding the proposal for two categories of drivers’ licences. If you look at this motion Madam Speaker Ma’am, on paragraph A, it clearly states that the proposal is to introduce two distinct categories of drivers’ licences, one being manual and the second being automatic.
Whilst this motion takes note of the developments that have taken place over the years in terms of the prevalence of automatic vehicles, especially in this country in terms of the used vehicles that are being imported from Japan, this motion Madam Speaker proposes a system that is going to be very costly to introduce as well as to maintain. It will entail that this House would have to provide additional funding to the Ministry of Transport to be able to introduce and manage such a system. It will also bring in lame dark drivers. A driver is licenced to drive an automatic vehicle but the same driver cannot drive a manual vehicle. It means that should it happen that there would be a driver who has got a manual vehicle in his pool of vehicles, that driver would have to go and get another licence in order to drive a manual vehicle. The present system where the drivers are tested on a manual vehicle allows flexibility that once you have been licenced, you are able to drive both manual and automatic vehicles.
So, you find that when you have gone through our system of getting a driver's licence, we are coming up with a whole driver, a full driver, a driver who does not need any further testing, a driver who does not need another licence in order to drive the same class of vehicle. It will also bring another challenge in terms of enforcement. The enforcement officers, each time they are at a roadblock or each time they are attending an accident, they would have to check physically to see if this driver has got an automatic licence. Was he or she driving an automatic vehicle?
That is where the difficulty is or the difficulty would be introduced in terms of enforcement. I think there is merit in having our drivers in terms of the learners’ licence when they are preparing for their learner's licence. We can have a section within the required curriculum, that speaks to automatic vehicles. There is merit in that so that the driver is aware that we have both manual as well as automatic vehicles and the difference between those two vehicles. But not to then have two distinct categories of driver's licences.
We also have to take cognisance of the prevailing situation in the region. The region, remember the majority of countries in the region have not moved towards such a set-up where you have two distinct licences. The beauty about the Zimbabwean licence at the moment is that you can easily convert it into an international driver's licence without any further testing. It also means that when you are used to driving an automatic vehicle here in Zimbabwe and you have one licence as presently existing, it means that if you go to Malawi where there will be manual vehicles for instance, it means that you can simply use your international driver's licence without having to be retested.
It means if you are going to have these two categories of licences, in terms of conversion to an international driver's licence, some will have an international driver's licence for automatic vehicles and others will have an international driver's licence for manual vehicles. You can imagine the difficulties that are brought by that kind of an arrangement. So Madam Speaker, I think we take note of what Honourable Mhetu has proposed. However, the cost and inconveniences associated with the proposal are that, this would be a proposal which I think this House should not support.
So, in a nutshell, I am saying yes, let us include aspects of automatic vehicles in terms of the oral preparation for your learner's licence, in terms of the curriculum, in terms of the coverage that is needed to be done in terms of the Highway Code. We should have sections on automatic vehicles but let us retain one licence. It makes it easier for our people, it is cheaper to administer and it is cheaper to enforce. Thank you Madam Speaker.
HON. MUKOMBERI: Thank you Madam Speaker for the opportunity granted so that I also express my opinion to the motion in question. Madam Speaker, the prayer that Zimbabwe should adopt a separate licencing system that distinguishes manual transmission drivers from automatic transmission drivers, according to my opinion, this is tantamount to bringing more harm than benefits. Although it may be a system applied in other foreign countries, may be bring some benefits to them, it is very pertinent that as a nation, we do assess our own context vis-a-vis those economies using such systems.
Allow me to centre my debate on some potential loopholes associated with Zimbabwe adopting such a driver’s licence system. The first one is that of limited flexibility. If we introduce a system of issuing separate licences for automatic drivers and manual drivers, this actually limits flexibility to the drivers themselves. Drivers with an automatic only licence may be restricted from driving manual vehicles which could limit their employment or travel options. Besides that, this may result in additional costs to the country at large. The ministry in question would be liable to actually invest a lot of funding for the development of such a system, because currently we are running a manual driver's licence system. We would need to develop another system for automatic driver's licences. Also, besides that, we need to have instructors at every VID depot who are for, specifically automatic drivers so that will actually call for an incremental budget, given our limited fiscal space as a country. This is not a welcome initiative as we are to be parsimonious on every cent that we have in our income streams as a country, that we should utilise it for production rather than developing systems that do not bring any benefit than the actual harms that they actually cost.
Thirdly, Madam Speaker, this actually increases complexity. Separate licences could lead to increased administrative complexities, including additional paperwork, testing and even record-keeping. Apart from that, this may also result in a perception of inequality among the drivers themselves, To say an automatic driver is inferior whereas a manual driver is superior because they are both drivers but possessing different licences. That implies the one who is going to choose an automatic licence may be considered inferior because it may be considered choosing an easy route to driving. That alone is a limitation associated with introducing such a system.
Madam Speaker, besides the costs that such an initiative may cause to the country at large, it may also have a negative impact on the driving schools themselves. Driving schools may need to invest in additional resources such as separate vehicles and instructors, to accommodate the separate licencing system, Which means every driving school and how many driving schools do you have in Zimbabwe? It means their profits that they have accumulated all these years they have been operating, those funds may be going to be actually invested for other developmental projects that will benefit the economy at large.
Those are going to be reinvested again in buying other vehicles that will suit an automatic licencing system and also employing further instructors to instruct the automatic learner drivers. Also, this may create a potential room for corruption. Separate licencing systems can create opportunities for corruption such as bribery and fraudulent licencing. Why? Because it will complicate, as I said, it will increase complexities in administrative systems. So as there is an increase in complexities in any system, that will also create an opportunity for corruption and other things. Also, Madam Speaker, this may result in a loophole in terms of enforcement challenges, enforcement in terms of the law enforcement agencies like police and traffic authorities. There may face difficulties in enforcing separate licencing regulations, particularly if the public is not well informed about such. Madam Speaker, it must also be noted that we are a country which is open to trade, which is open for business, which means we are liable, we are obviously going to receive visitors or tourists from other economies.
Those who will be possessing maybe from a country where one will be actually issued a licence, they may be having a different licencing system. But if we maintain a system that a licence holder may drive any vehicle in our country, it means we will be a one-size-fits-all country. It implies Madam Speaker, that it is not worth undertaking to trouble ourselves as a country, given this period where we are actually trying to meet an upper-middle-income economy by 2030, devoting resources to unnecessary innovations which do not bring any benefit to the country. Madam Speaker, I submit.
HON. MACHANGU: Good afternoon Madam Speaker Ma'am. I rise to air my views on the motion brought in by Hon. Mhetu, where he requested that there be a need of two separate vehicle licences. I am made to ask myself what has really happened. We have been transitioning well from manual to automatic. What has really happened? Where is the challenge coming from? To be a qualified driver, you need to have the test of driving the vehicle, the zeal and the control that you are a driver. Just being there seated and operating the steering, I do not feel it in my heart that you will be doing justice to the driving industry.
Madam Speaker, manual transitioning provides more control over this vehicle, especially in situations where it requires precision and driver engagement which can lead to a more enjoyable and immense driving experience. All of us here, I will assume we went through the manual driving system where all of us succeeded and we can call ourselves today that we are tested drivers. None of us has been tested in an automatic despite that we drive the automatic vehicles.
Two separate driving licences considering our economy, our country, the region and international standards, it will not be prudent. The cost of interchanging from a manual system to an automatic system will be very high. Our system where these people are being tested requires a system that has been aligned to other standards. Madam Speaker Ma’am, can you imagine you have a licence that requires you to drive your manual vehicle then it happens that your friend lends you an automatic vehicle, what will happen there? You need to stop or wait and call somebody to come and help you to drive that car that your friend has just lent you. It will not be prudent and intelligent. It will not be good for you actually to be harmed than good.
Madam Speaker Ma'am, if I can give an elaborate example. Some 10 to15 years ago when these automatic vehicles came into being commonly in Zimbabwe, I recall, I cannot remember the year, one lady parked her car, an automatic car at Nando's there in Bulawayo. Those who come from Bulawayo may recall and testify. That lady thought that she had put her vehicle in reverse. It was an automatic. Instead, it was on drive. She went straight into Nando's and killed people because of lack of experience. Another scenario, I have got a sister, who trained using a manual vehicle. Soon after obtaining her licence, she started using an automatic vehicle. She has been driving this automatic vehicle for over 10 years and now she cannot switch over to driving a manual vehicle. We always laugh at her saying, you are now a disabled person, you cannot really drive an automatic vehicle, yet you are failing to drive a vehicle which you used until you got your driver’s licence. So, to allude to what others have said, I shall not repeat what has been said, like the cost of the drivers, system being changed, the cost of the operators; the cost of the vehicle inspector, it has been said and everything. The international standards that somebody would not be conforming to is a lie because if you go to South Africa, if you have got your manual licence, you are eligible to drive. If you go to Zambia or wherever, you can drive. Can you imagine if we have two separate licences, the other one is a manual and the other one is an automatic? Mind you, having a manual licence, a class four licence would be a bonus to drive a tractor, which is a class five. Some of us have tractors, so you enjoy driving even on your farm, you would not be required to produce another driver’s licence to drive on your farm because automatically they would have assessed you that you are able to drive a vehicle that is operated manually.
Even our heavy trucks, few are automated. The majority of them are still manual system. I will not take much of our time but I would like to argue that the separate system of licencing would not be prudent in Zimbabwe. Maybe we are not yet ready for it now. I thank you.
*HON. KARIMATSENGA-NYAMUPINGA: Thank you Madam Speaker Ma’am. I would like to support the motion that has been discussed. This is a very important issue, an issue which affects many people in Zimbabwe. First, in terms of getting a driver’s licence, we also look at a lot of factors. I want to focus on what was raised by Hon. Mhetu the mover of the motion that there should be two drivers’ licences and two different tests, which will be undertaken by people who aspire to get driver’s licences. He argued that people would be able to choose whether they are taking automatic drivers’ licences or manual drivers’ licences.
Looking at this issue, I believe that this is a good issue but it needs interrogation because when we have two drivers’ licence, you would find that someone would have an automatic car and another one has a manual car. Then a person who choses to take an automatic driver’s licence who eventually buys a manual car might end up causing accidents on our roads. So, those who instruct learner drivers in driving schools should teach their learners both automatic and manual vehicles because most of us have manual cars. It is easy for us to transition from manual cars to automatic. It might be a bit rocky when you try to transition, when there is no clutch, sometimes you will miss the clutch. The first day you might end up in an accident. My point is that we need to generate a manual where people will be taught when they do their oral lessons. There must not be two manuals but just one instruction manual, which must have a chapter on automatic driving so that student learners would read both manual and automatic instructions from the same manual. Even when they go for their tests, there should be one test and the test should allude to both manual and automatic driving. The test should be all encompassing. This would make it easy for our people because they will not have to pay money for manual tests and then automatic tests. There will be less expenses since they will be paying for just one test that will cover both manual and automatic driving lessons. Even for Government, they would not incur expenses in printing different books for manual tests and for automatic tests. This would not happen and even in the region or globally, I have never heard about people who have two licences, automatic and manual. Best practices, globally, there is one driver’s licence. So, we do not want to deviate from the norm where people will say that in Zimbabwe, there is a manual driver’s licence and an automatic driver’s licence. When you buy an automatic or manual car, you will be told that you cannot drive it because you have a different licence. This is time consuming and this will fuel corruption. People would end up saying as long as I can drive, it does not matter. I am going to urge that Government through the Highway Code or the new manual should talk about both manual and automatic driving. This will make it easier for people who aspire to acquire drivers’ licences and even for Government. This is in line with regional and global trends, where there is a universal licence.
The law was enacted long back during colonial times. Now, things are changing and now things are evolving. There were no automatic cars then, now there are automatic vehicles, we need to embrace change because change will always happen. In the past, we used to use heavy cellphones but now cellphones are getting lighter as they manufacture new types. So, we need to accept that automatic cars are in existence and we need to accept that change. Even mushika shika cars, most of them are automatic cars. We need to ensure that people are taught both automatic and manual cars. When you go for examination, you need to understand both automatic and manual cars. Even VID instructors and examiners should understand that there should be cars which can use both automatic and manual so that examiners and instructors would not say that we only have manual cars and now we are forced to buy automatic cars. When the law changes, then it means that driving schools should have cars which respond to the law. I propose that our law should be all-encompassing and it should adhere to regional and global standards where we have one universal licence in our nation which allows for both manual and automatic cars so that we will be uniform with others. We must not be left alone where people say that Zimbabwe has a different set up, we need best practices.
At one point, I lost a driver’s licence and took it a long time. When I went to the responsible authorities, there were so many driver’s licences. So, when there are manual licences and automatic licences, it means that we need more storage facilities. Indeed, let us learn both automatic and manual cars but we do not need two licences, we need an all in one, a universal licence with both manual and automatic. I thank you.
*HON. CHIGUMBU: Good afternoon Hon. Speaker. I want to thank you for this opportunity and I want to support the motion that was moved by the Hon. Member. I understand that the request might seem cumbersome and it might seem as if it is adding on the burden to the Government.
So, I want to explain the advantages of this proposal. With the advent of technology, a lot of things are evolving. For example, if we look at the database, you would find that in the past the cars that were used are now changing to automatic cars. It is important to consider that if someone can drive an automatic car and owns an automatic vehicle, that person should be given a licence which allows the person to drive an automatic car.
Also looking at best practices in other countries, licences are given but what is expected is that the driver should observe the rules and regulations of the road irrespective of the car the motorist is driving, whether it is a manual or automatic. If someone says that I am able to drive an automatic car and wants an automatic licence, it must be written that it is an automatic driver’s licence.
What is happening is that people have different licences and they are not allowed to drive different cars. For example, there are different classes, so we are not adding on the burden to Government because already people have different driver’s licences and different classes but when this proposal is taken up, it means that a lot of things should happen.
Firstly, in different departments, for example law enforcement agencies would realise that a lot of people are corrupt, they just get drivers licences so that they drive automatic cars. What we need to talk about after enacting this law is that, will our police be able to enforce this law and to observe whether people are adhering to the law? Drivers with manual and automatic drivers’ licences, will they be sticking to their respective drivers’ licences? It is important that Government and the police should monitor and arrest those who drive without proper licences. For example, people driving a manual car without a driver’s licence using an automatic driver’s licence because this will leave us with the challenge of monitoring that people are adhering to their stipulated driver’s licences. When it is a manual driver’s licence, then the person should stick to a manual driver’s licence. If it is an automatic driver’s licence then the motorist should stick to that.
We need to ensure that when the police go to do spot checks along the roads, they must work with due diligence because this might also fuel corruption. This is an issue which needs to be interrogated and there is an issue that was raised by the Minister of Transport in the past. The issue of smart transport management system, if this is done as a matter of urgency and if these systems are put in place, this would ensure that such thoughts and ideas would be done without corruption.
I believe that cameras are not very expensive. When we put such laws and mechanisms, they should be followed. When police are manning the main roads, then there should be proper mechanisms in place to avoid corruption even at VID. The issue of corruption should be avoided but you would find that people are told to go and take manual drivers’ licences yet most of them would have bought automatic cars and it is known that no matter how good you are at driving, you do not pass at the VID. So, the issues to do with corruption need to be looked into. For example, I might want to buy my mother a car but she is a bit old for her to drive a manual car and it might be difficult. It will be easy for her to use automatic car. So, even for those who are now old, it might be difficult for them to get manual drivers’ licences. This is a good proposal but we need to look at what others have done so that when this is implemented, there should not be corruption. I support this idea and it will make life easier for the people of Zimbabwe, especially for those with automatic cars. When you have an automatic car, you just go and get your driver’s licence but you cannot drive an automatic car, the Highway Code should be learnt universally because everyone who uses the road should understand the Highway Code, even those who ride bicycles. So, I believe that those who have manual cars should be trained in manual cars and those who have automatic cars should also get automatic drivers’ licences. We need to learn from other countries so that we support this idea, I thank you.
*THE ACTING SPEAKER: Hon. Members, I want to remind you to stick to one language. Do not code switch when debating.
HON. J. TSHUMA: Thank you Madam Speaker for according me this moment to also air my views on the motion that was brought into the House by Hon. Mhetu. I want to stand to differ with his line of thinking, precisely because I would tell you that the system that we use for licencing our drivers here in Zimbabwe right now, has an element of concentration and an element of understanding the use of a motor vehicle on our roads vis-a-vis other road users. Now, the automatic transmission model which has come has created a lot of laziness among its drivers. With that laziness, there is no element of concentration. People become so complacent because you just go into that seat, engage your gear to drive, hold your steering and just using one foot for acceleration and braking. While you are at it, you end up not being in that concentrative mood, unlike when you are using a manual vehicle.
Already, we are grappling with the problems of road carnages and most of the faults have been pointed back to the drivers. Then we are wanting to debate and agree on creating more lazy drivers again that will probably then create more carnages on our roads. It cannot be. Madam Speaker, an automatic vehicle can be driven by almost anyone. Anyone can just do it but we need to train drivers that can go out there and be responsible, knowing that their level of concentration must always be at maximum.
For us to achieve that, the manual system must always be done. Once you have grasped the manual system, yes, you can drive the automatic vehicle at any given time. Therefore, there is no longer need to burden Government or any other institution to say, let us have a particular licence for this and a particular licence for that because at the end of the day, we teach people to drive for them to be able to concentrate on the road and use it also with respect to the next road user.
Definitely, if you look at a certain aspect, you will then agree with me that the only correct way to go about this is to make sure that we have one licence system, which is the manual system. Then driving an automatic car just becomes an added advantage. Just like for example, we have a class two in our system, which is for big trucks, the lorries, Madam Speaker. Once you are qualified to drive that, you are then given as an added advantage, permission to actually drive the class four vehicles, which are the light motor vehicles. So, it should be like that. Automatic vehicles must just be an added advantage of saying, you have gone through a rigorous training and you are able to concentrate on how to time yourself, changing gears, clashing in and clashing out and all those kinds of things. Then you are good to go. You can now drive the automatic vehicle without any burden to the fiscus, without any extra burden to even the driving schools, the VID or whatever.
So, my submission Madam Speaker, is that I think our system that is there already is working very well. What we need now only to concentrate on is to try and say, how do we stop the issue of corruption where people are now just buying licences? People now do not even understand what they are supposed to be doing when they are driving because they bought the licences. Otherwise, if people had to go like I did, I went to VID and there was a VID officer who was trying to say to me, look I can make it easy for you if you just give me USD150, we do not have to do it. I said, my friend I am here to learn how to drive and I want to drive perfectly. So, let me go on that road and you test me. If I fail, so be it. I will go back and learn until I get it right. For your own information Madam Speaker, I have got a class two driver's licence and I got it on my first go because I really wanted to be a perfect driver. Today, I am one of the most perfect drivers you can ever think of because I went through a proper system.
Let us not change that system for whatever reason. By the way, it is not correct to say that other countries are now issuing automatic drivers’ licences. It is not correct. What happens is that other countries Madam Speaker, put point systems on their licences, which I think we must one day speak about here as a House to say, our licences must have expiry dates so that people go back and get retested. Maybe that way, it will be better. What other countries do, is that you are put on a point system whereby if you make a mistake, points are deducted on your licence.
They keep on deducting them to a point where they will say, you are banned from driving for either maybe a year, two years, five years or even for life, depending on the kind of offence that you would have committed against that licence. It is not that they are giving two licences like for a manual and an automatic one. They are simply saying that our licences must be renewable at a certain period of time so that these drivers can come back and get retested, just like what happens with the defensive driving and those drivers that drive our haulage trucks and the buses. They always needed to go back for retesting so that we see whether they still are competent enough to be able to drive such heavy duty loads and stuff like that. There is no way in the world, in any country, where there are two licences for automatic and manual. Get it correct. Do not misinform the House. I so submit. Thank you Madam Speaker.
*HON. MASHAVAVE: Thank you Madam Speaker. I rise to support and raise all my viewpoints to the motion that was moved by the Hon. Member. Indeed, it is true that after analysing what is happening, the Hon. Member decided to move this motion and it is good. Let me say that when a motorist has taken a driver's licence using a manual car, this is a competent driver who is better than an automatic driver because using a manual car is more difficult. I am saying this riding on what the previous speaker just said. When you can drive a manual car, you are at a far advanced stage. I do not see the reason why we should think of changing or having two different drivers’ licences. I do not support that idea. However, I would say that if it makes sense, then we would say that when someone is being taught to drive a manual car, then they should also be taught to drive both a manual and automatic car. This is an unnecessary burden to Government. We are in the right direction and this is the right direction.
Let me talk about corruption also. Corruption is a cancer which is not affected by whether you were taught to drive an automatic or a manual car. Corruption should be removed from this discourse because it does not arise. It is good that this august House, we work together, we support each other because what it means is that we need to really look at what a driver is being taught to position the car properly on the road and the different rules whether it is at an intersection, whether the driver stops or not. This is not affected by whether the car is a manual car or an automatic car but the driver is being taught how the law works.
I might support the idea but I differ totally and say that this does not help. I thank you.
HON. KANGAUSARU: Thank you Madam Speaker, Ma'am. Today, I want to oppose this motion which seeks to introduce separate categories for manual and automatic transmission on the drivers’ license. While I appreciate the intent to modernise our license system, the proposal is not only impractical but also detrimental to the road safety, economic efficiency and the overall competence of our drivers.
Firstly, road safety should be our foremost priority. A competent driver must be able to operate any vehicle safely, whether it be a manual or be an automatic. Creating a category for automatic licence only risks producing drivers with limited skills and competence, unable to handle emergency situations where only manual transmission vehicles are available, such as in public transport and heavy-duty operations. A well-rounded driver must be adaptable and this motion undermines that necessity.
Secondly, the proposal contradicts the economic realities of Zimbabwe. The majority of the vehicles used for public transport and in agriculture and heavy industries remains manual. Splitting licence may render many job seekers unemployable simply because they trained in an automatic vehicle alone. This will limit the opportunities for the young drivers and increase the cost burden on an individual who may later need to acquire a manual license.
Thirdly, let us consider the administrative and infrastructural burden. Creating a dual licence system requires an overhauling of the current driver testing framework. It also requires us to retrain the instructors restructuring the licence authority and unnecessary expense at a time when we should be focusing resources on road infrastructure and enforcement of the already existing traffic laws. Instead of complicating the system, we should focus on refining our current training to ensure that all our drivers, regardless of the transmission type, are competent, responsible and are roadworthy.
Madam Speaker, modernising our transport system should not come at the cost of the driver's competence and economic disadvantage rather than weakening our licence framework. Let us reinforce comprehensive training that equips our drivers with the full range of skills necessary to navigate Zimbabwean roads safely and efficiently. I thank you.
HON. KAMBUZUMA: I move that the debate do now adjourn.
HON. NYANDORO: I second.
Debate to resume: Tuesday, 18th March 2025.
MOTION
BUSINESS OF THE HOUSE
HON. KAMBUZUMA: I move that we revert back to Order of the Day Number 21 on today’s Order Paper.
HON. NYANDORO: I second.
Motion put and agreed to.
MOTION
REPORT OF THE PORTFOLIO COMMITTEE ON DEFENCE, HOME AFFAIRS, SECURITY SERVICES AND WAR VETERANS
AFFAIRS ON THE PETITION FROM SAM PARIRENYATWA ON THE EXHUMATION AND DECENT BURIAL OF HEROES AND HEROINES
Twenty First Order read: Adjourned debate on motion on the Report of the Portfolio Committee on Defence, Home Affairs, Security Services and War Veterans Affairs on the Petition from Sam Parirenyatwa.
Question again proposed.
HON. NGULUVHE: Thank you Madam Speaker. As I stand up to move the adoption of this motion from Cde. Parirenyatwa, I would like first to thank all the Members of this august House who took part in the debate from both sides of the House, which was very emotional indeed. Very emotional indeed because 40 years after our independence, we still have the remains of our fallen heroes both inside and outside the country which are still in shallow graves or some which are still not yet buried.
The challenge is that some of the comrades who are still alive, I have people like Hon. Shamu, not excluding myself, are getting old and as time goes on, we might not be there to assist in identifying where some of our fallen heroes are buried. I would also like to thank the Minister of War Veterans who is always committed to the Committee on Defence and who has shown interest in trying to resolve some of the issues concerning the war veterans.
I hope and believe that the issues which have been raised in the petition by Cde. Parirenyatwa will be considered as soon as possible. Hon. Madam Speaker, I therefore move that the motion be adopted.
Motion that this House considers and adopts the Report of the Portfolio Committee on Defence, Home Affairs, Security Services and War Veterans Affairs on the Petition from Sam Parirenyatwa on the exhumation and decent reburial of heroes and heroines who perished during the Liberation Struggle, put and agreed to.
MOTION
BUSINESS OF THE HOUSE
HON. KAMBUZUMA: I move that we revert to Order of the Day, Number 12 on today’s Order Paper.
HON. NYANDORO: I second.
Motion put and agreed to.
MOTION
REDUCTION OF LATENCY AND PROVISION OF DIGITAL INFRASTRUCTURE IN THE REGION
HON. TIMBURWA: I move the motion standing in my name that this House:
CONCERNED at the absence of neo-technology ground stations in the country owing to lack of a comprehensive legislative framework to regulate the operation of emerging technologies in Zimbabwe;
COGNISANT that His Excellency the President licenced Starlink to boost internet connectivity in the whole country hence the need for the establishment of ground stations that will revolutionise the entire SADC region;
NOW, THEREFORE, calls upon the Ministry of Information Communication Technology, Postal and Courier Services to urgently come up with measures aimed at the reduction of latency and position Zimbabwe as a key player in providing digital infrastructure in the region.
HON. KAMBUZUMA: I second.
HON. TIMBURWA: This motion is specifically pertaining low orbit ground stations. Madam Speaker, I rise to move this motion with a sense of agency and purpose. Zimbabwe stands to lead a digital gap and digital revolution within our African continent.
The licencing of Starlink by His Excellency is a monumental step forward but without our support and establishment of ground stations, it is akin to a vehicle without an engine. The latency issue plaguing our schools, clinics and farms are not abstract concerns, they are daily realities having meticulously studied the gaps in our ICT framework. I assert that by having ground stations, we will have a better quality and service delivery to the citizens.
Ground stations are economic lifelines Hon. Speaker. This motion was not drafted as a single ground station but has the potential to connect more than 10,000 rural homes, households at a speed of 100 times faster than our current best. This is not mere technical jargon, it translates to tangible economic benefits, jobs, markets and education.
As the mover of this motion, I have calculated the cost of delay every month. We hesitate to forfeit millions of potential investments. I also challenge our ministry to match the agency by the licencing by His Excellency, by making sure we create provision in making sure we have got ground stations in this country. Madam Speaker, I deliberately included the word ‘revolutionise’ to the SADC region in this motion for a reason.
Our neighbouring nations also face the lagging behind in satellite technology. With establishment of ground stations, Zimbabwe can export low latency internet to Botswana, Malawi, South Africa and Zambia. This motion is not merely a national initiative, it is also a regional ambition underpinned by infrastructure that we control. I believe with having an amendment in our ICT Act, we secure the land and position Zimbabwe as a leader whom amongst our days think small when opportunity for greatness is before us.
Madam Speaker, His Excellency’s licencing of Starlink was a visionary act aimed at transforming our nation's connectivity. However, without ground stations, we risk undermining his foresight. Ground stations reduce latency to a mere 20 milli-second. Without them, we are merely paying lip service to the progress. As the mover of this motion, I have consulted with experts and proposed a minimum of 10 stations phased over two years. I further propose the establishment of a selected committee to oversee this initiative. This motion can be a blueprint for action, not a plea just for consideration, whom among us should also stand in support of this motion.
We also need to take a step further by having global benchmarks to provide a case study. Madam Speaker, I have done my due diligence. Kenya has already operationalised Starlink with two ground stations. Ghana is negotiating deals for fibre back-ups. This motion can help us as Zimbabwe to be the lead in this regard in the SADC region. It is a strategic leap forward grounded in global precedents and I also call this House to provide a clear timeline and allocate necessary resources. With these, I am confident that Zimbabwe can rival our regional counterparts opposed to what people think when it comes to us being a champion of closing the digital gap in the SADC region.
In conclusion, Madam Speaker, history will judge us if we do not move with expedience to the establishment of this cause. This motion is not merely about connectivity. It is about the very foundation of Zimbabwe's economic future. With ground stations, we are not just unlocking the potential of low-orbit internet. We are unlocking the potential of our people. We are bridging the digital divide, empowering our entrepreneurs, modernising our education and strengthening our security infrastructure. Let it also be known that in this House today, we did not just deliberate. We decided we did not just discuss. We acted to make sure we placed Zimbabwe at the forefront of leading the digital divide and the digital gap that we suffer as the SADC region when it comes to latency. I thank you Madam Speaker.
HON. KAMBUZUMA: I move that the debate do now adjourn.
HON. NYANDORO: I second.
Motion put and agreed to.
MOTION
BUSINESS OF THE HOUSE
HON. KAMBUZUMA: Mr. Speaker, I move that we move to Order of the Day Number 11 on today’s Order Paper.
HON. PINDUKA: I second.
Motion put and agreed to.
MOTION
REPORT OF THE DELEGATION ON THE 149TH ASSEMBLY OF THE INTER-PARLIAMENTARY UNION (1PU) HELD IN GENEVA, SWITZERLAND
HON. NYELELE: Mr. Speaker, I move the motion standing in my name that this House takes note of the report of the delegation to the 149th Assembly of the Inter-Parliamentary Union (IPU) and Related Meetings which was convened in the city of peace, Geneva, Switzerland from 12th to 17th October 2024.
HON. KADEMAUNGA: I second.
NYELELE:
INTRODUCTION
- The 149th Assembly of the Inter-Parliamentary Union (IPU) and Related Meetings was convened in the city of Peace, Geneva, Switzerland from 12th to 17th October 2024, under the overarching theme: “HARNESSING SCIENCE, TECHNOLOGY, AND INNOVATION FOR A MORE PEACEFUL AND SUSTAINABLE FUTURE.”
- The Assembly was attended by six hundred and sixteen (616) parliamentarians from one hundred and twenty-nine (129) IPU Member Parliaments with 36.4% being women, a slight improvement from the 148th IPU Assembly and Related Meetings which recorded 36% women delegates. The IPU promotes gender parity within the delegations of IPU Member Parliaments to Assemblies. Accordingly, visibility was given to delegations that composed of a minimum 40% and maximum 60% of each gender. Zimbabwe should be congratulated for promoting gender parity in its delegation with 44.4% women parliamentarians in its delegation.
- The Parliament of Zimbabwe was ably represented by Hon. Advocate Jacob Francis Nzwidamilimo Mudenda, Speaker of Parliament and Hon. Mabel Memory Chinomona, President of the Senate. They were accompanied by the following Members of Parliament:
- Chief Mtshane Lucas Khumalo, member of the IPU Standing Committee on Sustainable Development Goals;
- Tsitsi Veronica Muzenda, member of the IPU Standing Committee on Democracy and Human Rights;
- Sengezo Tshabangu, member of the IPU Standing Committee on Sustainable Development Goals;
- Lusyomo Nyelele, member of the Forum of Young Parliamentarians and IPU Standing Committee on United Nations Affairs;
- Maureen Kademaunga, member of the Forum of Young Parliamentarians and IPU Standing Committee on United Nations Affairs;
- Jona Nyevera, member of the Forum of Young Parliamentarians and IPU Standing Committee on Peace and International Security; and
- Tawanda Karikoga, member of the IPU Standing Committee on Democracy and Human Rights.
1.4 On the morning of 12th October 2024, Speaker Mudenda and Hon. Chinomona, interfaced with Embassy Officials led by Mr. Nesbert Samasuwo, Charge d’affaires at the Zimbabwean Embassy in Geneva. Mr. Samasuwo provided a comprehensive brief on the operations of the Mission in Switzerland, particularly the strides made in upscaling economic cooperation between Zimbabwe and Switzerland for the mutual benefit of the citizenry of the two sister Republics, which dovetails with His Excellency, the President, Cde Dr. E.D Mnangagwa’s policy thrust of striving towards an Upper Middle-Class Economy by 2030.
Additionally, the Presiding Officers offered counsel with regards to identified challenges with a view of enhancing the work of the Embassy. In this context, the Presiding Officers assured the Embassy Officials of Parliament’s commitment to support initiatives that amplify the Second Republic’s development mantra anchored on economic diplomacy in addition to political diplomacy.
2.0 BILATERAL ENGAGEMENTS
2.1 In the spirit of engagement and re-engagement and in line with the Second Republic’s and the Presidential mantra that, “Zimbabwe is a friend to all and enemy to none”, the Hon. Speaker Mudenda, interacted with the Iranian Parliamentary delegation led by His Excellency, Dr. Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf, Speaker of the Parliament of the Republic of Iran. The two Speakers engaged in candid discussions on a wide range of issues from the deteriorating political situation in the Middle East to exploring ways of enhancing cooperation between the Parliament of the Republic of Zimbabwe and the Parliament of the Republic of Iran within the framework of the existing Zimbabwe/Iran Friendship Association.
2.2. In the same spirit of re-engagement, Hon. Speaker Mudenda also held a meeting with Hon. Sergei Rachkov, the Chairman of the Standing Committee on International Affairs of the House of Representatives of the National Assembly of the Republic of Belarus who is also the Chairman of the Eurasia Geopolitical Group. This meeting underscored the cordial and fraternal relations that continue to be strengthened between the two sisterly Republics.
However, the meeting acknowledged the noticeable gap in parliamentary relations which was deemed detrimental to the furtherance of bilateral ties between the two countries. Accordingly, it was resolved that the Belarus Parliament would initiate the drafting of a Memorandum of Agreement for consideration by the Zimbabwean Parliament.
3.0. SADC GROUP AND AFRICA GEOPOLITICAL GROUP MEETINGS
3.1. In keeping with established tradition at the IPU Assemblies, the SADC Group and the Africa Geo-political Group meetings were convened on the 12th October 2024 to caucus and reach consensus on issues under consideration during the 149th Assembly of the IPU and Related Meetings.
3.2 The SADC Group meeting was chaired by the Rt. Hon. Speaker Mancienne, President of the SADC PF and Speaker of the Parliament of Seychelles. In his welcome address, Speaker Mancienne, expressed gratitude to participating Member Parliaments for their indefatigable commitment to parliamentary diplomacy and cooperation as espoused by the core values of the IPU, which behooves Parliaments to articulate and respond to the needs and aspirations of the people in order to achieve peace, democracy, human rights and sustainable development.
Additionally, the President of the SADC PF called on Parliaments to embrace science, technology and innovation in order to derive benefits from the digital technologies for sustained economic development.
3.3. Thereafter, Rt Hon. Nelly Mutti, Speaker of the National Assembly of Zambia and SADC’s representative to the IPU Executive Committee, presented a comprehensive report on decisions of the IPU Executive Committee emanating from three (3) Meetings convened since the 148th Assembly of the IPU and Related Meetings in March 2024.
3.4. Of special note regarding the status on the amendments of the IPU Statutes and Rules, the SADC Group resolved that there is need for a more coordinated approach in responding to the proposed amendments as well as the necessity to continue exploring areas for amendments to ensure that the revised Statutes and Rules enhance the IPU’s legal stature. In this regard, a focus Working Group comprising Speaker Mudenda as Chairperson and representatives from Seychelles and Eswatini was established to spearhead this initiative. Subsequently, the Working Group met on 13th October 2024 and consolidated SADC’s position on the proposed amendments of Statutes and Rules of the IPU. Their submissions were duly submitted to the IPU Secretariat for consideration.
3.5. Additionally, Hon. Dr. Tulia Ackson, President of the IPU addressed the meeting whereby she implored SADC Member countries to take an active and leading role in the process of amending the IPU Statutes and Rules to ensure that the global institution is indeed representative and serving the interest of all geo-political groups.
3.6. Ultimately, the SADC Group Chairperson expressed approbation to the illustrious Speaker Katjavivi, who has served SADC PF with distinction as an exemplary leader whose contributions were always thoughtful and well-balanced. Accordingly, on behalf of the SADC Group at the IPU, Speaker Mancienne presented a token of appreciation to Speaker Katjavivi.
3.7. The SADC Geo-political Group was then proceeded by the Africa Geo-political Group Meeting. During the deliberations, Hon. Speaker Mudenda echoed IPU President Ackson’s call to push for the establishment of a Committee within the IPU that would deal with issues affecting the African continent. The proposal was unanimously adopted by the Africa Geo-political Group. Regarding the vacancies to be filled, the Speaker of the Parliament of the Republic of South Africa was elected as the President of the Africa Geo-political Group for the period 2025 as proposed by Speaker Mudenda.
4.0 GOVERNING COUNCIL
4.1. The Governing Council took note of the activities report by the Rt. Hon. Dr. Tulia Ackson, President of the IPU which focused on: -
- Supporting conflict areas: President Ackson held a critical dialogue meeting with President Putin on the sidelines of the BRICS Meeting with a view of exploring ways to end the Russia-Ukraine war. She is expected to interface with President Zelensky before presenting a comprehensive report to the IPU.
- Enhancing Middle East Diplomatic Engagement: The IPU President visited Egypt to promote peace in the Middle East as well as to discuss the progress on the piloting of the IPU regional office to service Africa and the Arab groups.
- Enhancing Parliamentary Innovation: The IPU President attended the 40th anniversary of China’s National People’s Congress affiliation with the IPU in Beijing.
4.2. Furthermore, the Governing Council considered and approved the interim report presented by the Secretary General on activities undertaken in the last six months in line with the strategic objectives of the IPU as articulated in the IPU Strategy Plan (2022-2026). Some major highlights during the period under review include the following:
- Four (4) regional seminars;
- Nineteen (19) in person trainings by Member Parliaments experiencing chronic instability;
- Thirty (30) national events;
- Eight (8) publications on the various thematic areas of the IPU, three of which were launched during the 149th IPU Assembly; and
- Administering of the self-assessment tool on democracy and good governance to a number of Member Parliaments.
4.3. The Governing Council took note of the report on the Implementation of IPU Resolutions by Member Parliaments. Pursuant to the framework of the IPU Strategic Plan and Article 6 of the IPU Statutes, Member Parliaments are compelled to provide feedback on the implementation of IPU Resolutions and other initiatives. Additionally, Article 7 of the IPU Statutes places a duty on IPU Member Parliaments to submit responses to all IPU resolutions by their respective Parliaments and communicate them to their governments in order to stimulate implementation of those resolutions. During the period under review, a total of thirty- seven (37) Member Parliaments were selected to provide feedback while others participated on a voluntary basis. Only 81% duly complied with this statutory requirement. Zimbabwe is expected to present its report in 2025.
4.4. With regards to the financial situation of the IPU, the Governing Council was satisfied that the financial position remains liquid and is in the blue. The major revenue streams for the organisation included Member Parliaments’ contributions and interests earned from investments accounts.
4.5 REQUEST FOR IPU MEMBERSHIP: The Governing Council approved the request for re-affiliation by the Parliament of Jamaica.
4.6 The Governing Council was apprised of the state of preparations for the Sixth World Conference of Speakers scheduled to take place from 29th to 31st July 2025 in Geneva, Switzerland. The Conference will be preceded by the Fifteenth Summit of Women Speakers which would take place on 28th July 2025 in Bern, Switzerland.
5.0. THE GENERAL DEBATE
5.1. Following the special opening segment, Presiding Officers and parliamentarians shared best parliamentary practices and experiences as they reflected on the theme, “HARNESSING SCIENCE, TECHNOLOGY AND INNOVATION (STI) FOR A MORE PEACEFUL AND SUSTAINABLE FUTURE.”
5.2. Hon. Speaker Mudenda delivered a well-received address on the General theme of the Assembly in which he articulated on the gains and milestones Zimbabwe has made in harnessing the revolution of Artificial Intelligence (AI).
5.3. Speaker Mudenda’s departure point was the centrality of STI, wherein he emphasised the critical role of Science, Technology and Innovation (STI) in bridging the gap between developed and developing countries through the application of AI. He highlighted the necessity for Parliaments to integrate these fields, particularly through Artificial Intelligence (AI), stating that the theme “is of profound and of enduring significance in addressing naked inequalities between developed and developing countries of the Global North and the Global South respectively. Accordingly, IPU Parliaments are enjoined to robustly deploy science, technology and innovation anchored on the application of Artificial Intelligence in its multifaceted architecture.”
5.4. Moving on to Zimbabwe’s initiatives to spur AI driven development under the leadership of His Excellency, Dr E.D Mnangagwa, Speaker Mudenda postulated that Zimbabwe has launched significant policies such as the Information Communication Technology Policy and the National Digital Technologies Strategy aimed at leveraging STI for sustainable development. The "EDUCATION 5.0" has transformed the educational curricula to foster industrial and innovation hubs at Tertiary Institutions across the country. To augment the foregoing, Speaker Mudenda spoke on the establishment of the Zimbabwe National Geospatial and Space Agency (ZINGSA) which focuses on enhancing precision agriculture and climate adaptation, ensuring national food sovereignty. Innovations in agriculture and renewable energy are also being prioritised by the Zimbabwean Government, he posited.
5.5. Cognisant of the risks associated with AI application, Speaker Mudenda cautioned against the hazards associated with the phenomenon of AI. To this end, Speaker Mudenda highlighted that, while recognising the potential of AI to drive development, he warned against possible misuse of AI in spreading misinformation, disinformation and pornography through use of deep fakes which can be used for character assassination. To that an extent, Speaker Mudenda advocated for responsible, ethical and sustainable deployment of STI as driven by AI.
5.6. Turning to embracing Committees of the Future, Speaker Mudenda underscored that the Parliament of Zimbabwe plans to create a Committee of the Future to catalyse the use of STI AI driven technologies over the next 50 years to maximise benefits for the nation.
5.7. With regards to global conflicts, Speaker Mudenda strongly urged the IPU President, Hon Tulia Ackson and the IPU Taskforce to continue with their peace efforts without fear or favour. Speaker Mudenda concluded his presentation by imploring for an end to hostilities in war torn regions, “I, therefore, plead for the immediate cessation of hostilities in Eastern Europe, the Middle East and some parts of Africa, especially in Sudan and the Eastern part of the Democratic Republic of Congo. Lessons from the devastating ravages of the World War 1 and 2 vividly must remind us that WAR CAN NEVER END WAR BUT DIALOGUE AROUND A ROUND TABLE CONFERENCE!” he wound up.
6.0. FORUM OF WOMEN PARLIAMENTARIANS
6.1. In order to contribute to the work of the Assembly, women Parliamentarians examined, from a gender perspective, the draft resolution of the Standing Committee on Democracy and Human Rights entitled, “The impact of artificial intelligence on democracy, human rights and the rule of law”. The discussions highlighted how technologies, including AI can be used to accelerate gender equality when appropriately regulated and used responsibly. However, without an appropriate regulatory framework for combating discrimination, stereotyping and Gender-Based Violence, AI can reproduce and amplify existing societal biases, risking further entrenchment of Gender-Based Violence. To that an extent, participants recommended the implementation of laws that regulate the use of AI.
6.2. Additionally, the Forum of Women Parliamentarians held a panel discussion on “Sustaining peace and providing justice to women and girls”. Discussions focused on legislative and policy measures to combat gender-based and sexual violence and other crimes committed against women and girls in situations of armed conflict. Parliamentarians expressed deep concern over the escalation of global wars, geo-political tensions and violations of international humanitarian law. Accordingly, participants called for greater international cooperation and solidarity as well as a substantial increase in women’s participation and the inclusion of the experience of conflict victims in peace talks and reconstruction processes. This ultimately aims to achieve justice and dignity for victims by effectively enforcing international instruments and national laws, which are essential for lasting peace.
6.3. In her interventions, Hon. Chinomona, President of the Senate posited that parliamentarians are uniquely positioned to lead the agenda for gender-sensitive AI development, regulation and governance. This includes advocating and adopting legislation that regulates AI systems from a gender perspective and ensuring transparency and accountability through mandatory discrimination risk and equality impact assessments of algorithmic systems. She further cited the Cyber and Data Protection Act [Chapter 12:07] which the Parliament of Zimbabwe passed into law in 2021 as a measure to arrest cybercrimes.
7.0. FORUM OF YOUNG PARLIAMENTARIANS
7.1. The 10th Anniversary of the Forum of Young Parliamentarians set the tone for the meeting. Indeed, it was a time to reflect and take stock of the progress made by the Forum in empowering young parliamentarians and raising awareness on youth participation in Parliament. To that an extent, Hon. B. Carden, President of the Board of the Forum of Young Parliamentarians emphasized the need to redouble efforts to enhance youth participation at all levels of decision making.
7.2. Echoing the same sentiments, Rt. Hon. Tulia Ackson, IPU President commended the Forum for bringing the IPU and Parliaments closer to the young people and youth organisations.
7.3. Similarly, Mr. Martin Chungong called for continued efforts in removing barriers and further opening up Parliaments to young people, including through quotas and lowering the age of eligibility to run for office.
7.4. In the ensuing deliberations, the young Parliamentarians shared experiences and Parliamentary best practices as well as recent developments in promoting youth participation in their respective countries. Accordingly, it was resolved that there is need to pay greater attention to young women and youth with disabilities.
7.5. The Young Parliamentarians contributed to the theme of the General debate, “Harnessing science, technology and innovation (STI) for a more peaceful and sustainable Future” from a youth perspective. The young Parliamentarians stressed the importance of ensuring accessibility to STI for young people, especially by bridging the digital divide through investing in relevant infrastructure.
7.6. In contribution to the draft Resolution entitled, “The impact of artificial intelligence on democracy, human rights and the rule of law’, the young Parliamentarians called for the benefits of artificial intelligence (AI) to be harnessed while simultaneously mitigating the risks, including integrating mechanisms that could “future proof” legislation by anticipating future changes and protecting young people from misinformation.
8.0. STANDING COMMITTEE ON PEACE AND INTERNATIONAL SECURITY
8.1. The Standing Committee on Peace and International Security held a Panel Debate on, “The role of Parliamentarians in preventing conflicts over natural resources”. Participants acknowledged the growing trend of economic aspects in conflicts. Accordingly, participants stressed the need for fair distribution of scarce resources such as water and fertile land and valuable resources such as timber, diamonds, gold and oil which often times provide economic motivation to go to war. In this context, Parliaments were called upon to enact appropriate legislation that effectively advance peace and security globally.
8.2. Furthermore, the Standing Committee also held a Panel discussion on the “Role of Parliamentarians in nuclear security”. Participants encouraged all countries, including those who do not have radioactive nuclear weapons to focus on the safety of radioactive material. In this context, Parliaments can play a pivotal role through ratifying international agreements that establish the nuclear security architecture for radioactive material. Additionally, participants called for the facilitation of multilateral cooperation for the peaceful use of radioactive material.
8.3. Finally, the Standing Committee held an expert hearing on the theme, “The Role of Parliaments in advancing a two -State solution in Palestine”. The hearing was addressed by representatives from both Palestine and Israel as well as two experts who examined how the two State solution would possibly be structured. Participants were clear that Parliaments have a critical role to play in promoting sustainable peace in the Middle East anchored on ensuring good governance, security and the dignity of the people.
9.0. STANDING COMMITTEE ON SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT
9.1. The Standing Committee deliberated on the theme of the next resolution entitled. “Parliamentary strategies to mitigate the long-lasting impact of conflicts, including armed conflicts on sustainable development’. Participants acknowledged that conflicts do indeed hinder progress on the implementation of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). In the same vein, conflicts have the potential to reverse gains already made. Accordingly, Parliaments were urged to advocate for sustainable development strategies that positively impact conflict prevention mechanisms.
9.2. In preparation for the Parliamentary Meeting on the sidelines of COP29 scheduled for Baku, Azerbaijan on 16th and 17th November 2024, participants contributed to the proposed Outcome Document, reiterating the need for Parliaments to support legislation aimed at reducing greenhouse gas emissions, facilitating the transition from green to renewable energies and implementation of the Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs).
9.3. Additionally, the Standing Committee held a Panel Debate on the theme, “Towards a fair global financial system: The role of Parliaments in preventing corporate tax avoidance and achieving sustainable development”. With only five (5) years remaining to meet the 2030 Agenda and an estimated four (4) trillion United States dollars required, effective taxation is a key tool to finance SDGs. In this context, participants acknowledged that a well-functioning tax system can generate revenue for public services. Accordingly, parliamentarians have a vital role to play in mobilising domestic resources in liaison with tax authorities and that citizens be educated on the importance of taxation compliances in order to bolster development.
10.0 STANDING COMMITTEE ON UNITED NATIONS AFFAIRS
10.1. The Standing Committee on the United Nations Affairs deliberated on various issues ranging from the complexities of the United Nations (UN) budget system, the role of the G20 in relation to the UN to the role of Parliaments in the UN Treaty making process. The following key elements were raised during the rich debate:
- Parliament has a central role to play in overseeing the UN budget processes;
- Parliaments should ensure that the assessed country contributions are paid in full and on time;
- Furthermore, Parliaments play a role in the ratification and implementation of Treaties. In this context, parliamentarians can raise public awareness on ratified Treaties;
- The financial crisis at the UN needs to be addressed without delay. To that an extent, the UN should ensure that its budgeting process be transparent;
- Parliamentarians still need a better understanding of the UN budget systems. Accordingly, the IPU will convene workshops to capacitate the Members. Additionally, Parliaments are encouraged to engage their Ministries of Foreign Affairs for briefings on the UN system.
10.0 OUTCOMES OF THE 149TH ASSEMBLY OF THE IPU AND RELATED MEETINGS
11.1. Emergency Item: In line with Assembly Rule 11 of the IPU Statutes, the Assembly considered four (4) requests for inclusion as an Emergency Item on the Agenda of the 149th Assembly of the IPU. The Assembly voted in favour of the request submitted by the delegations from France, United Kingdom, Germany, Netherlands and Canada entitled “Response by parliamentarians to the urgent plea by the UN Secretary General to recommit Multilateralism for global peace, justice and sustainability”. Accordingly, the Assembly adopted the Resolution on the Emergency Item, reaffirming unwavering support for multilateralism through the United Nations system and other global institutions. Against a backdrop of escalating conflicts around the world, devastating impacts of climate change, the risks of pandemics, among other challenges, the Resolution called for urgent collective response and cooperation at the international level in the spirit of multilateralism.
Furthermore, the resolution called for “complete rejection of the indiscriminate targeting by armed forces of civilians, wherever they may be, particularly emergency personnel, health and education workers and public infrastructure”. The Emergency Item was reinforced by the IPU’s Committee to Promote Respect for International Humanitarian Law, which issued a plea for the international community to pressure the parties to conflict in Israel, Lebanon and Gaza to in order to avert a full-scale war in the Middle-East.
11.2 Furthermore, the resolution submitted by the Standing Committee on Democracy and Human Rights entitled “The impact of artificial intelligence on human democracy, human rights and the Rule of law” was also adopted by the Assembly. The Resolution addresses the profound implications of the application of artificial intelligence (AI) on democracy, human rights and the rule of law. Additionally, it identifies both the opportunities and challenges posed by rapid advancements in AI technology. Accordingly, the Resolution identified the following key demands:
- Mitigating risks to democracy, human rights and the rule of law, with a particular focus on the disproportionate impact of AI on women and girls.
- Legislating against deepfake intimate images and AI-generated content that fuels hate speech, incites violence and engenders character assassination.
- Developing tools to verify the origin of online images and content, empowering users to discern authenticity.
- Reviewing and updating existing legislation to close loopholes exposed by AI technological advances.
11.2.1. The resolution underscores the need for Parliaments to stay ahead of the curve in regulating AI application by striking a balance between innovation and the protection of fundamental rights and freedoms.
- In order to curtail the negative impacts of AI, the Governing Council adopted a new Charter on the Ethics of Science and Technology. The Charter underpins the critical role of scientific knowledge in Parliamentary decision making and the ethical considerations essential for regulating emerging digital technologies. The Charter highlights the major concerns as follows: -
- Emphasising ethical responsibilities in scientific advancements.
- Advocating for equitable global participation in the use of digital technologies and addressing gender and socio-economic inequalities arising from the skewed digital technological applications.
- Outlining key principles for regulating science and technology ecosystem, including enacting laws promoting societal values, the preservation of research freedom, international cooperation and sustainability considerations.
11.3.1. Additionally, the Charter recommends that legislators maintain parliamentary structures for presenting evidence-based information, engaging with competent organizations on ethics, developing checklists for scrutinising legislation and consulting civil society.
11.4. Similarly, the Assembly adopted the IPU Geneva Declaration on Science and Technology which expresses parliamentarians’ resolve to harness and regulate science, technology and Innovation for the positive benefit of humanity. The Declaration extols the need to bridge the digital divide, protect human rights and foster international cooperation in STI governance. Through the Geneva Declaration on Science and Technology, parliamentarians committed themselves to regulating STI through legislative, budgetary and oversight functions.
11.5. During the Assembly sitting, the coveted 2024 Cremer-Passy Prize was awarded to Dr. Haroun Kabadi, former President of the National Assembly of Chad (2011 to 2021) in recognition of his exceptional work in promoting peace and security. During his tenure as President of the National Assembly, Dr. Kabadi worked tirelessly to strengthen peace, security and socio-political stability in Chad, the Sahel region, Central Africa and internationally. Currently, Dr. Kabadi heads Chad’s National Transitional Council as the country returns to constitutional order following the President’s death in 2021.
11.5.2. The Cremer-Passy Prize is named after the founding fathers (Frederic Passy and Sir William Randal Cremer) of the Inter-Parliamentary Union established in 1889. The Prize is open to any sitting parliamentarian who makes an outstanding contribution to the defense and promotion of the IPU’s strategic goals and objectives, as well as those parliamentarians who contribute to a more united, peaceful, sustainable and equitable world.
11.6. On the publication front, the IPU launched the following publications which are useful resources for IPU Member Parliaments:
- Human Security and Common Security to Build Peace;
- World e-Parliament Report; and
- 10 Actions for Stronger National Climate Commitment.
11.6.1. Accordingly, IPU Parliaments are encouraged to make use of these source resources during the course of their parliamentary processes.
- Another landmark event during the Assembly, was the celebration of the IPU 10th Anniversary of the Common Principles for support to Parliaments. Speaking on this occasion, the IPU President Rt. Hon. Dr. Tulia Ackson, gave the background to the adoption of the common principles which were crafted by the Working Group comprising representatives from the French National Assembly, the European Parliament, the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), the National Democratic Institute (NDI) and the IPU Secretariat to identify common principle and develop commentary on them. She further explained that the principles are intended to provide an inclusive and enabling framework for development partners by:
- Reflecting on an effective, practical approach to supporting Parliaments.
- Taking full account of the uniqueness of each parliamentary institution, while recognising emerging international standards for all democratic Parliaments.
- Emphasising inclusive parliamentary ownership of its institutional development and change process.
- Advancing a culture of partnership, trust and mutual respect.
11.7.1. The IPU President highlighted that the149th IPU Member Parliaments had endorsed the Common Principles in order to achieve positive parliamentary best practices.
12.0. RECOMMENDATIONS
12.1. The delegation once again calls on the Youth Caucus to spearhead the launch of “I SAY YES TO YOUTH IN PARLIAMENT CAMPAIGN,” which has been outstanding since the IPU 148th session. This movement has gained traction among IPU Member Parliaments where it has been successfully launched. Zimbabwe must be applauded for implementing the youth quota as well as the establishment of the Youth Caucus. This positive trajectory should ignite the launch of the “I SAY YES TO YOUTH IN PARLIAMENT CAMPAIGN”
12.2. The Portfolio Committee on Foreign Affairs and International Trade to spearhead engagements with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Trade on UN systems including the budget processes. Additionally, the Parliament of Zimbabwe may wish to engage the United Nations Development Programme Country Representative to conduct a half-day workshop on the functions of the United Nations.
12.3. Climate change remains a topical issue of global concern given its devastating impact. Accordingly, the Parliament of Zimbabwe must support the Government through legislation and oversight mechanisms that reduce greenhouse emissions that stimulate the transition to green renewable energy, resilient water supply and sanitation among others. Parliament should also participate in international platforms that seek to address climate related issues through sharing experiences and best practices.
12.3.1. Furthermore, it is critical for the Members of Parliament and relevant support staff to be continuously capacitated in these areas. The IPU offers a unique opportunity of being both a critical resource and strategic partner. Parliament should, therefore, take advantage of the available resources at the IPU to capacitate its members and staff.
12.4. In line with the Second Republic’s and the Presidential mantra that, “Zimbabwe is a friend to all and enemy to none”, the Portfolio Committee on Foreign Affairs and International Trade should spearhead engagement with other legislatures within the framework of Friendship Associations to explore areas of cooperation through exchanges of experiences and parliamentary best practices. The exchanges should be anchored on the principles of equality, trust and mutual benefit.
12.5. Parliament should expedite the creation of the Committee of the Future which will mainstream the enactment of appropriate legislation and policies for the creation, deployment and responsible use of AI.
12.6. In keeping with the Presidential mantra of “LEAVING NO ONE AND NO PLACE BEHIND”, Parliament should ensure that the most vulnerable, that is women, girls and the youth as well as those in the hinterlands have access to the STI. Appropriate legislation should be enacted to reduce digital inequalities.
2.7. The IPU announced its thematic area for 2025 as “GENDER EQUALITY”. Parliament welcomes the opportunity to discuss and share experiences and best parliamentary practices on gender equality. Accordingly, Parliament is called upon to participate in events and activities around this theme, notably the first Women Parliamentarians Conference scheduled for Mexico in March 2024.
13.0. CONCLUSION
13.1. All the rich resolutions which call for parliamentary action have been duly circulated to the Committees. Accordingly, the delegation once again encourages relevant Committees to implement, to the extent possible, the resolutions of the 149th Assembly. Parliament is duty bound by the IPU Statutes and Rules to communicate follow up action to the IPU Secretariat. Accordingly, implementation of resolutions gives credence to Parliament of Zimbabwe’s participation in the IPU Assemblies and its Related Meetings.
13.2. The delegation tenders its profound gratitude to the Government of Zimbabwe and to the Parliament of for affording it the opportunity to represent Zimbabwe at such high-profile statutory meetings of the Inter-Parliamentary Union. Thank you.
HON. KADEMAUNGA: Thank you. Good evening Mr. Speaker Sir. I rise to briefly contribute to the debate on the report of the 149th IPU Assembly and related meetings, cognisant of the profound implications of our deliberation of this report for the advancement of legislative efficiency and the deepening of democratic practices within our Parliaments. As a participant in the 149th IPU Assembly, I had a privilege of engaging with fellow parliamentarians from diverse geo-political contexts, sharing experiences and forging alliances that transcends borders. However, this experience is not a personal experience. It is an experience that we must bring back home and be able to share with all the other parliamentarians because the Interparliamentary Union (IPU), is as its motto says, for everyone, for every legislator, it is our global Parliament, so must benefit everyone. The delegates from Parliament and also our esteemed parliamentarians who remain here at home, who remain here when we met at the Assembly.
I want to speak to a few issues that were raised in the report. First of all, our experience in the Governing Council is the statutory meeting that the Speaker goes with a few Members of the delegation where we were fortunate enough to accompany the Speaker, was particularly enlightening. Hon Speaker, may I be protected, there is just too much noise.
THE TEMPORARY SPEAKER (HON. NGULUVE): Hon. Members on my left, please can the Hon. Member be heard in silence? I do not think it is good for me to mention your names.
HON. KADEMAUNGA: Thank you Hon. Speaker. The debate at the governing council was on harnessing technology, science and innovation as has been alluded to in the report. For a more peaceful future, I think it resonates deeply and underscores the imperative for African Parliaments and indeed our Parliaments to leverage on science and technology and innovation to drive sustainable development and address environmental challenges and promote good governance. I think in this context as has been said in the report, I strongly advocate for a workshop on this topic, for the relevant Committees in our Parliament as a way of feedback in addition to the report and also indeed the entire legislative board. This would be particularly beneficial to our country as we strive to leverage technology and innovation to drive economic growth and to promote good governance. I think it is also in line with the African Union’s Science and Technology for Africa STISA:2024. Furthermore, I just want to bring to the attention of this House that I was also heartened by the discussions at the Committee on women parliamentarians, as has been alluded in the report. That was a very important platform where women parliamentarians who are delegates of the IPU, including female Speakers meet to deliberate on issues affecting women parliamentarians and indeed general women in respective countries. The Committee’s focus was on sustaining peace and providing justice to women and girls and I think this is particularly crucial given that here in Zimbabwe, research highlights that violence is a significant barrier to women’s participation in public office and in leadership. I think there was an aggressive push to start this deliberation, to start this conversation even within our Parliaments. I want to impress on this House that our committees that are relevant to issues to do with women, including our Caucus, must take up some of the action points that were raised in the report.
I think also at the backdrop of this important meeting of Women Parliamentarians at IPU, the General Assembly then adopted as was reported in the report, Gender Equality 2025 as the Theme for the IPU for this year. I believe that our Parliament should join the global effort to promote gender equality in line with African Union’s gender equality, women’s empowerment strategy and the spirit of the theme of the IPU. To achieve this, I think we must workshop and share knowledge with fellow lawmakers who champion gender equality, recognising that gender equality is a fundamental human right and pre-requisite for achieving sustainable development and peace in Africa.
In fact, I just want to speak on the same theme of gender equality. I think the IPU Committee on United Nations also focused their discussion on gender equality and I want to emphasise that our Committee on Foreign Affairs needs to take up one of the resolutions that come out of that meeting. This resolution was already read out but it is a resolution on us Parliaments to push for 50/50 or equal representation within our diplomatic postings and I think this is in the spirit of our Constitution. It must also be reflected.
Lastly, I want to acknowledge the IPU Youth Committee’s effort to increase youth participation in Parliament. I was very glad to be part of the Zimbabwean delegation because from our reports, Zimbabwe has an impressive number of young people but not sufficient. There is a campaign within the IPU and this is the campaign called ‘I Vote Youth in Parliament’. It is a huge global campaign where they have spaces where they interact with other youth in Parliament. I also want to impress on this House to take up that actionable point.
I just want to urge our Parliament to embrace the knowledge and insights gained from this Assembly and to work towards creating a more engaging, efficient and effective Parliament from the lessons of the IPU Assembly and related meetings. I so submit.
HON. KAMBUZUMA: I move that the debate do now adjourn.
HON. NYANDORO: I second.
Motion put and agreed to.
Debate to resume: Tuesday, 18th March, 2025.
On the motion of HON. KAMBUZUMA, seconded by HON. NYANDORO, the House adjourned at Twenty Minutes past Five o’clock p.m. until Tuesday, 18th March, 2025.
PARLIAMENT OF ZIMBABWE
Wednesday, 5th March, 2025
The Senate met at Half–past Two o’clock p.m.
PRAYERS
(THE HON. DEPUTY PRESIDENT OF SENATE in the Chair)
ANNOUNCEMENT BY THE HON. DEPUTY PRESIDENT OF SENATE
SWITCHING OFF OF CELL PHONES
THE HON. DEPUTY PRESIDENT OF SENATE: I have to inform Hon. Senators to put their gadgets on silence or better still, switch them off.
MOTION
REPORT OF THE ZIMBABWE GENDER COMMISSION FOR THE PERIOD 2023
First Order read: Adjourned debate on motion on the Report of the Zimbabwe Gender Commission for the period 2023.
Question again proposed.
HON. SEN. GOTORA: I move that the debate do now adjourn.
HON. SEN. MOHADI: I second.
Motion put and agreed to.
Debate to resume: Thursday, 6th March, 2025.
MOTION
PRESIDENTIAL SPEECH: DEBATE ON ADDRESS
Second order read: Adjourned debate on motion in reply to the Presidential Speech.
Question again proposed.
HON. SEN. GOTORA: I move that the debate do now adjourn.
HON. SEN. MAKAMBA: I second.
Motion put and agreed to.
Debate to resume: Thursday, 6th March, 2025.
MOTION
LEGALISATION OF TERMINATION OF PREGNANCY
HON. SEN. CHINYANGA: I move the motion standing in my name that this House;
NOTING with grave concern the alarming rate of unsafe and illegal abortions occurring across Zimbabwe, often putting the lives of women and young girls at risk;
RECOGNISING that the criminalisation of abortion has not deterred the practice, but has instead driven this practice underground resulting in the unnecessary loss of life;
ACKNOWLEDGING that access to safe, legal abortion services is a fundamental reproductive right to young girls and women;
NOW, THEREFORE, calls upon the Ministry of Health and Child Care to:
(a) enact legislation that provides for appropriate safeguard and allows or legalises the termination of pregnancy during the first trimester of pregnancy in cases of unwanted pregnancy; and
(b) ensure that access to abortion services is available nationwide.
HON. SEN. RUNGANI: I second.
HON. SEN. CHINYANGA: Thank you Mr. President for awarding me the opportunity to stand before you today to open a critical debate on an issue that is not only a matter of law but also a matter of life and death for thousands of women and girls in Zimbabwe. The topic before us is the urgent need for the modernisation of our laws on abortion, specifically the reform of the Termination of Pregnancy Act [Chapter 15:10], a statute that has remained largely unchanged since the enactment in 1977.
Hon. Senators, realities facing women and girls in Zimbabwe today demand that we approach this issue with urgency, compassion and commitment to justice. The current law permits abortion only under three narrow circumstances; when the mother's life is at risk, when the foetus has severe abnormalities or when the pregnancy results from rape or incest. While these provisions were a step forward at the time of enactment, they are grossly inadequate in addressing the reproductive health challenges to our era. Let me be clear, this debate is not about promoting abortion. It is about saving lives, safeguarding public health and upholding the constitutional and human rights of women.
Our restrictive laws have forced women into clandestine and unsafe procedures with devastating consequences. The statistics paint a grim picture. Over 70,000 legal abortions are performed in Zimbabwe each year. 16% of maternal deaths are directly attributed to unsafe abortion with adolescent girls disproportionately affected. In 2014 alone, over 2,000 young girls aged 17 to 25 sought post-abortion care at Harare Hospital. The World Health Organisation estimates that between 4.7% and 13.2% of maternal death globally result from unsafe abortion - a crisis that can be prevented through legal and medical reform. These are not just numbers, these are real women and girls, mothers, daughters, sisters who are suffering, often in silence because they lack access to safe reproductive health.
Our Constitution enshrines fundamental rights that our abortion laws currently violate. Section 52 guarantees the right to bodily and psychological integrity, including reproductive rights. Section 76 guarantees the rights to health care, including reproductive health care services.
Furthermore, Zimbabwe is a signatory to international conventions, including the Convention on Elimination of all Forms of Discrimination against Women, which calls for the removal of restrictive abortion laws. By failing to modernise our laws, we are not only violating our own Constitution but also standing strong on our international commitments to uphold the rights and dignity of women.
Mr. President, restrictive abortion laws disproportionately harm the most vulnerable groups in our society, namely the poor women, rural women, adolescent girls, who cannot afford to travel to jurisdictions where abortion is legal and safe. The broader socio-economic implications are profound.
Recognising a woman's right to make decisions about her body is fundamental to gender equality and human dignity.
Legalising abortion reduces maternal mortality by ensuring procedures are performed in safe and regulated environments.
When women can plan their families, they have greater opportunities to pursue education and careers contributing to national development.
Legal barriers reinforce inequality, disproportionately affecting disadvantaged women who lack access to proper medical services.
Hon. Senators, Zimbabwe can learn from two standout examples of countries that have successfully reformed their abortion laws to prioritise women's health and rights. In South Africa, the Choice of Termination of Pregnancy Act 1996 significantly reduced maternal death from unsafe abortion by legalising abortion on broader grounds. The law allows abortion on request up to 12 weeks and under broader consent thereafter, leading to better health outcomes for women.
Rwanda, recognising the dire consequences of unsafe
abortion, reformed its laws in 2018, expanding legal grounds for abortion and ensuring medical professionals with greater discretion to provide safe services. This reform has significantly improved access to reproductive, healthcare while reducing maternal deaths.
Mr. President, it is imperative that we take action. I urge this House to consider the following reforms:
Expand access to safe abortion.
Expand access to safe abortion - amend the Termination of Pregnancy Act to allow abortion where the physical or mental health of the women is at risk, in cases of rape, within marriage and other circumstances that recognise the realities of women's lives.
Protect adolescent girls - ensure young women have access to comprehensive family planning services, education of reproductive health and confidential healthcare services without unnecessary legal barriers.
Align with international standards - bring our laws in line with CEDAW and other international human rights frameworks to protect women's and dignity.
Strengthen public health infrastructure - Invest in reproductive health clinics, training for medical professionals and public awareness campaign to provide women with accurate information and safe options.
Engage stakeholders - Conduct national consultations with legal, medical, and human rights experts, as well as community leaders and women's rights organisations to ensure a balanced and inclusive legal framework.
As I sum up, this debate is not about ideology, it is about evidence, justice and human dignity. We cannot allow outdated laws to continue endangering the lives of women and girls. We must act with courage and conviction to reform our legal framework and bring Zimbabwe into alignment with best practices that prioritise human rights and public health. Let us arise above decisive debates and work towards a policy that ensures that no women or girls in Zimbabwe is forced to risk a life due to legal constraints.
Let us uphold our duty as legislators to protect the vulnerable, uphold our Constitution and fulfill our international obligations. I now open the floor for debate and urge all Hon. Senators to engage in this discussion with honest empathy and steadfast commitment to the health, dignity and the rights of all Zimbabweans. I thank you.
THE HON. DEPUTY PRESIDENT OF SENATE: Just one small piece of advice, in future please, you do not open the floor for debate. It is my job. It is me who opens the floor for debate. I am still the President here.
ANNOUNCEMENT BY THE HON. DEPUTY PRESIDENT OF SENATE
POSTPONEMENT OF WORKSHOP ON THE IPEC BILL
THE HON. DEPUTY PRESIDENT OF SENATE: Hon. Senators, the workshop which was supposed to unpack the IPEC Bill, which was scheduled to take place tomorrow has been postponed to a later date to be advised. Any inconveniences are sincerely regretted.
*HON. SEN. RUNGANI: Thank you Mr. President. I would like to support the motion tabled by Hon. Sen. Chinyanga talking about preserving the health of our family members and children, especially if they realise that the pregnancy they have may not be worth keeping.
I would like to say it is a very sad thing to realise that young girls are impregnated. These days it is very common as some of them are impregnated by their fathers and the pregnancy is kept. What do you call that child? We are encouraging that this House comes up with a law to allow the termination of unwanted pregnancies that are very difficult to tolerate. Mr. President, when such a calamity occurs, the pregnancy must be allowed to be terminated but we need to go and conscientise people to understand the law because of the stereotype. Some people find it very difficult to express themselves if they are impregnated by someone they do not love and then end up giving birth to that unwanted child.
Our people need to be educated because it is very difficult to keep my grandfather or uncle's child after being raped. If he rapes me or someone who is straightforward easily falls pregnant through a single encounter, there are a lot of sad things happening out there. Sometimes it can be young boys or even old people. They end up destroying young people's lives. This is because of ignorance of the law. Sometimes when people do not know, they live with that suffering. Such laws must be enacted to ensure that people live happily. If a child or a young lady is raped, it is a matter of life and death.
We should come up with laws to ensure that we solve such complicated problems. There are some countries that have their laws. We are not saying young ladies should take advantage of this law to easily fall pregnant and then resort to termination or abortion. When we were young girls, we used to fear and respect men. We were not of loose morals. You would not follow a man who just swings keys by the window.
We should teach our children because once they face this problem, it becomes difficult for them. Such a problem must be solved. What sort of child will he or she become? Even the mother will not be happy at all. So we are saying, let us come up with laws that will respect our culture. I should be able to live with a child that I love, not an unwanted one. You read in the press a lot of unbelievable stories.
We saw very young girls from Binga who were impregnated in the same home. If they were taught and if one girl would speak openly, they would open up but they are continuously raped and threatened using weapons such as knives. We should teach them in all the rural areas where we live or in schools. Let us come up with laws that empower young ladies or girls who may be impregnated to be able to terminate the pregnancy. A law must be enacted and awareness campaigns must be held.
Abortion should be done safely. These days, abortions are conducted privately by doctors. Even if you are to die, it cannot be reported. There are some doctors, be it in the high-density suburbs or in some of the major hospitals, who conduct illegal abortions. Sometimes these girls resort to using traditional herbs in the rural areas whereby the foetus ends up rotting in the womb. So, our girls must be taught good cultures and manners. I thank you Mr. President.
+HON. SEN. SIBANDA: Thank you Mr. President Sir. I also want to thank the Hon. Senator who tabled this motion. Mr. President, the issue that has been discussed on abortion, on unwanted pregnancies, is an issue that can be a shocking issue to the community. What I know is that there is a reason why one would want to do that. It is a painful experience if you carry an unwanted pregnancy.
I know we are a Christian nation. We also have our chiefs. I humble myself before the chiefs who are present in this House. I know that when we leave this House, people will be pointing fingers at us but as a woman, I know that most of the time an unwanted pregnancy is a challenge to ladies. Mr. President of the Senate, when we take into consideration countries such as South Africa, you know that it is legal for them to do abortion but in our country, we have not legalised that. We realise that there are so many people who have carried unwanted pregnancies, some of them at a very young age and others because of rape.
We realise that even as a couple, we can say that one has been raped, for example if you had not agreed to have intimacy with your husband, at the end of the day, one can have an unwanted pregnancy. You end up having a child that was not planned and there is nothing that you can do because we do not have such a law.
There are so many women who have died because of trying to abort in an illegal way, which is not safe. At the end of the day, they lose their lives. I remember when we were growing up, there were so many girls, children and ladies who passed on while trying to abort using mefloquine and norolon tablets. If only by then our country had legalised abortion based on the conditions on how one would have fallen pregnant, for example, if one fell pregnant due to rape or other circumstances, then we could allow those people to terminate the pregnancy legally. Mr. President of the Senate, I know this might come as an embarrassment if someone was raped and out of rape, you then fall pregnant. At the end of the day, one would be called ‘first knock’, meaning that you fell pregnant the moment you were intimate.
If we take into consideration that most people who are very naughty, some of them is because of the way they were brought up. If I give an example of the background of one of the South African citizens, you realise he or she was not brought up well. He or she was born out of an unwanted pregnancy and even the parents failed to raise that child properly. You also realise that most of the murderers, some of them are because of the background and they do not know their origins. Furthermore, they do not know where they are coming from, all because of unwanted pregnancies like in the case of rape.
If someone is impregnated out of rape or such conditions, I move that such pregnancies be terminated legally. As a country, we can speak using one voice to say, if someone has been impregnated out of their wish, what we need to do is to agree that such pregnancies should be terminated. I will give an example of one lady who was raped but I have forgotten her name. She was attacked by murderers and was raped. When that lady went to report at the police station and tried to take up the issue to them, it dragged for a long time and even in the courts, they knew that the lady was pregnant due to rape.
The issue prolonged for a very long time and every day they were being told different stories up until that lady got to an advanced stage. When the doctor was supposed to work on the issue of terminating the pregnancy, he advised that it was already late to terminate that pregnancy. It is painful to women and if you look at your child, it gives you memories that your child was born out of rape.
My wish is to look at this issue and speak using one voice because most of the times, it brings bad memories, especially to women. When we look at how we have been taught and when we read around, you realise that when white people marry each other or when the boy brings an adopted child as the daughter-in-law, they will give them advice that yes, you can go ahead and marry but you are not supposed to have kids. The reason being, they do not know the background of the child, so they discourage them based on that.
Having a child with someone who does not know their background, you might have a child who will not behave well. I thank you.
*HON. SEN. MBOHWA: Thank you Mr. President of the Senate for giving me this opportunity to also add my voice on this motion raised by Senator Chinyanga on legal abortion to rape victims. We are debating on this motion with a very painful heart and with a bleeding heart because we never expected that in this country, we would stand up and debate or support something that we grew up considering as witchcraft and talking about abortion but I am one of the people who used to say as long as I am alive, I will never stand up on my feet to support such a thing. Let us face reality, the law for legal abortion has always been there in Zimbabwe but its existence was very explicit. If you are raped, you should be allowed to abort legally but if you go to court, there are a lot of cases which involve women.
If I recall, there was a woman in Borrowdale who was attacked by robbers and impregnated. She reported but there was evidence that indeed showed that it was rape. The challenge is that the law failed to protect that woman. She approached the court and police many a times. The doctor said there was nothing they could do until the verdict was out yet there was clear evidence that the woman was clearly injured.
The verdict came a month before she delivered. I live with my chief and we face such problems. What do you call that child? You do not even know where the clan of that child is. It is as good as hosting a goblin in your tummy. Can you then live with that, chief? As time goes on, they forget that you were raped. So that becomes a curse on you.
We are talking about Anna Machaya who died. If the law had protected her, she would not have died because she carried a pregnancy that was clear to everyone to see but the child died while everyone was watching. A child has a special place in the tummy. Imagine a child who is nine years old giving birth. Yes, the child gave birth but the damage that was done in her tummy, in her internal organs was severe. I heard that the anus and the vagina tore and ended up becoming one part and now all the excretions just came out all at once.
I hereby kindly request, Mr. President that if there is clear evidence that a person is raped, let us come up with a one-stop-centre. The court, the police and the clinic representing for that because those are the cases that are on the rise. These days those cases are at 60%. Even if we say we come up with such a court, it means they cannot solve all those cases because of the rise of such cases.
We put a law that marriage should be 18 years. If a man realises that he has impregnated a girl before she becomes 18, they go into the backyards to try abortions. Men are trying to run away from these cases of impregnating girls below 18 so they are resorting to these unscrupulous means, even the girls and women themselves are resorting to that.
Yes, indeed, we have a culture that we need to preserve but it is causing all these problems. Indeed, because of a generational gap, we are the ones who imported other cultures from the West. Now they cannot understand or follow our cultures. Now they can watch all those people on television. If you were to meet a grade seven child, they can teach you everything about pornography. They may think that it is good not knowing what it is all about. They resort to trying to experiment. I heard that at 12 years boy can impregnate a girl. Two kids impregnating each other when the male is 14 years old. I used to think that maybe only at 18 years, a boy can impregnate but these days at 12 years. We are in serious trouble. The problem is not of the children’s making. We are responsible for that. We adopted cultures that we thought are more modern and hence, they are emulating all those things.
So we kindly request, as women, if there is clear evidence that the child has been raped, instead of trying to follow all the legal proceedings or bureaucracies, let us quickly resort to legal abortion. What can that child do? If there has been incest that has resulted in pregnancy, what can they call the offspring? In the past such offsprings would be killed because it was never allowed, it was taboo. So what can we say? What are we supposed to be saying? Can we wait for such things to result in children being born? We are not saying children should find it easy to abort. That is not the intention. Such pregnancies where it is clear that it can be dangerous, either to the mother or the child, even a small young girl impregnated by a very old man, why should that child be kept?
We beg you Mr. President, we know our culture and even religion. Anyone raped by robbers or relatives or any pregnancy that may be a danger to the mother, as long as there is evidence, abortion should be legalised. If a girl child discovers that she was impregnated by her brother, they go to Mbare for those illegal abortions because they have nothing to do.
Senate Chiefs, we are not saying let us discard our cultures. Let us imagine if this happens closer to home, if it is your child raped by a robber, what are you going to do? You will resort to those illegal abortions because you cannot tolerate as your grandchild, a child conceived out of rape from a robber. I thank you Mr. President.
*HON. SEN. KATUMBA: Thank you Mr. President. I would like to thank Sen. Chinyanga for the motion. It is a very sad and touching motion, especially to us women. Mr. President, there are a lot of things happening out there. Adding on to what the previous speakers said, if you look at some of the children that we see on the streets suffering, it is because the mother was raped and the mother feels they cannot take care of that child. The child ends up becoming a street kid simply because the mother was raped and not prepared.
In schools, girl children are raped. Sometimes girls walk through bushes and may be raped by robbers. They are impregnated and drop out of school but that would not have been the plan for that child or the parents. Just like what other members alluded to earlier, we need to give those children and rape victims rights. It was not intentional. They need to go on with their lives according to their wishes. You find children discarded, be it in toilets or in bushes. For some, it is intentional but for others, it is because of rape. Sometimes they tie that pregnancy for nine months because they are afraid of opening up that they were raped. After giving birth, they dump the child. Why do we not allow them to abort before it leads to suffering of the child? I saw incestuous rape cases with my own eyes at a police station.
A girl was reporting that she was raped by her father’s brother and the police harassed her, yet she was a victim of that rape. If the law was effective and operating properly, perhaps such a child would be able to abort because they had been raped by their father. We see vagabonds raping them on the streets. We also see them suffering when they are children. She is not able to take care of herself and on top of that, she is given a child to look after. We are saying the law must be effective to those who have been raped because it is very sad. I thank you.
*HON. SEN. CHAPFUDZA: Thank you Mr. President for giving me this opportunity. I would like to thank the Hon. Senator who brought this important issue. I would like to add on a few words on this issue. It is a very important issue because when we look at it, you realise that there are two cases and it is either you may lose a life or the stillborn may lose life. If we look at the law on legal abortion, there are clear circumstances that may be seen and accepted by Government. We realise that Government should expedite dealing on such cases in order for the victim to get a solution but if we realise that if that abortion is easy to get, it may also be abused.
There may be situations whereby a lady may fall pregnant but because the parents will know that, that person is not rich enough, they end up pressurising their daughter to find someone else and deny the owner of the pregnancy. If there are clear circumstances, let us ensure that it can be legalised but if there are just two people going to a doctor, the law must not allow it that easy. It must be in such a way that processes are followed.
Let us also encourage that our women and girl children follow other procedures to prevent pregnancies if they are unplanned. Sometimes when these cases are investigated, they confess that it is because of a wrong choice, yet in the beginning, they will have agreed. We end up terminating pregnancies or other good offspring. If my mother had considered that my father is poor, I would not have been here and consider that my mother does not want that pregnancy. If anyone abuses that, they must be arrested. I thank you.
HON. SEN. ZINDI: Thank you Mr. President…
Hon. Senator Nyathi having passed between the Chair and the Hon. Member speaking.
THE HON DEPUTY PRESIDENT OF SENATE: Order!
HON. SEN. ZINDI: Thank you Mr. President. I also rise to support the motion moved by Hon. Senator Chinyanga, with the full support that this issue is long overdue for us as a country and as Government to have come up with a law that allows or legalises abortion. I am saying so because according to Derrick Matsengarwodzi’s write-up of 2024, it clearly states that the Termination of Pregnancy Act was enacted in 1977. That was before Zimbabwe was born. For us to carry on with that kind of a law which was enacted by the Rhodesians for their various interests, which to some extent, I want to take it that way, we were the labour force for the Rhodesians on their farms. This is supported by some cases that we have read in the media that some white farmers used to lock up parents in order to manufacture babies for them to continue to have labour force and generations on their farms.
For that reason, we do not know, perhaps that is why they had to enact such kind of a law. I am of the opinion that we should legalise abortion. I would further propose that it should not only be limited to victims of rape but it should be a right to each one who so feels as a woman that I cannot carry full pregnancy of this particular pregnancy. Whoever would have impregnated that person for a reason or another, it is between that woman as an individual who knows why she has got to terminate that pregnancy. I believe that it should be a right to every woman, whether raped or not. As long as I have decided that I should not carry that pregnancy, it is my right. A woman has her reasons why she would not want to carry that pregnancy.
It is not a decision that should be made on my behalf as a woman because she is the one who is on the receiving end and knows her reasons. I also fully support victims of rape that they should terminate pregnancy, inasmuch as we all agree with all those who have already contributed to this motion that we should allow or legalise abortion, I think we have all the evidence, as alluded to earlier on by other speakers about those who have carried pregnancies to full term, babies which they would not like to nurture in their homes.
Mr. President, in regards to sex education particularly to young girls, it should also involve boys as well. It takes two to tango. I cannot make a baby on my own as a woman or as a girl. Boys should also be educated. We should also have radio programmes dedicated to sexual health and reproduction, what should be done once raped and being a victim.
Mr. President, not only girls are being raped here. We also have boys who are raped. It is just that boys do not carry pregnancies but girls, the result is the pregnancy which everyone else will see as a victim of rape. It should involve both genders in terms of sexual reproductive health programmes. Let us have television programmes dedicated with clearly stated goals of what we intend to achieve to try and make the vulnerable groups understand exactly what is involved.
I also want to support what Hon. Senator Mbohwa has suggested, that we should have a one-stop shop. Immediately, I walk in to report to the police, everyone who is supposed to be involved in the whole process of resolving that matter is to be involved under one roof for the expedience of concluding such cases. We have had experiences, we read about people or victims of rape having to reach full term and the court then having to stop abortion because the baby would have already arrived at a full term to be delivered. Hence, you raise an individual whom you do not desire. We all desire to have children in our homes. If it is somebody as a result of rape, it is not desirous to raise such a human being. This is why we also end up seeing vagrants on our streets and those vagrants also ending up being rapists as well.
Therefore, we are reading cases of such incidences. In conclusion, we need whoever is responsible for enacting this law, to come to the House through you Mr. President, to respond to this motion on issues that have been demonstrated and shown by Hon. Senators who have spoken earlier than me. It is a serious matter that requires the responsible authority in terms of enacting that law or changing or repealing the 1977 law enacted by Rhodesians and aligning with the current societal status that we are faced with today. I thank you.
THE HON. DEPUTY PRESIDENT OF SENATE: Thank you Hon. Senator Zindi. The responsible Ministry for the motion that is being debated is the Ministry of Justice, Legal and Parliamentary Affairs.
HON. SEN. PHULU: Thank you Mr. President. It is my pleasure to debate such an important motion. I would like to thank the Hon. Senator Chinyanga and the seconder of this motion, Hon. Senator Rungani, for bringing it in a timely manner. I will demonstrate that this motion is one which raises issues that need to be attended to urgently.
Mr. President, I could not tell you the reasons why this motion has been brought better than the way that the Hon. Senators who have spoken before me have done. They have given concrete examples that terrible things have happened and which should invoke our inquisitiveness. Each and everyone here, you know some people are pro-abortion, some are anti-abortion and I will demonstrate that this is not the issue. The issue is that all of us who are coming from different corners or different ends or the opposing sides, should look at the disaster which is being raised here.
I will point to the case that has been cited by Hon. Members who have debated. That case is called the ‘Mildred Mapingure Case’. Mildred Mapingure has been in the press. She has been to the courts and what happened is that on the 4th of April 2006, she was attacked as has been said, by robbers in her home. Mr. President, she immediately went to the police and requested to be taken to a medical practitioner. So she went to a police station. One would assume she made a report and requested to be taken to a medical practitioner. This is a victim who had been violated, abused and traumatised and she knew her rights. She knew that if this happened, she would have to go to the police.
Then from the police, she requested to be taken to a doctor. She requested to be given a prophylaxis, the medicine or the dose that should be applied within 72 hours of intercourse which would have prevented the pregnancy altogether. When she got there, the medical practitioner said, ‘I can only attend to your request if you bring a police officer’. So she had to go back to the police station. When she got there, she was told that the police officer was not there and had gone. He will probably be back after some weeks. She went back to the doctor and the doctor insisted that he would not do anything. She went to the police and the police referred her to the prosecutor. The prosecutor also gave wrong advice, says no, you have to wait for this case to go through and for this person to be convicted first, then you can come back.
Something which actually does not make sense, given that you have 72 hours, there is a small time frame to deal with this. So, the court went on and on; this happened in April. In May, she was confirmed to be pregnant and eventually she went through all the procedures. She went to the magistrates who refused to give the certificates because of this whole big misunderstanding that was there between professionals. This was a misunderstanding by people who are trained, police officers are trained in this, the doctors are trained in this, the prosecutors and the lawyers are trained. All of them failed her, the whole system failed her and the whole country failed her. I would like to say, we as Senate, we are red-handed and are dripping with blood, we failed her.
The reason why this happened is because there is an Act of Parliament in place. Our Constitution, perhaps let me start in Section 48. Section 48, the one I want is the right to life. It says everyone has the right to life. As part of that, in Subsection 3, it says an Act of Parliament must protect the lives of unborn children and that Act must provide that pregnancy may be terminated only in accordance with the law.
So, in Zimbabwe, the fact that we cannot terminate pregnancy does not arise. The Constitution says pregnancy may be terminated, but it has to be in accordance with the law. That is why we have that law. Remember our Constitution is a 2013 Constitution Mr. President. The law we have commenced on the 1st of January 1978. The Constitution is of 2013. The people of Zimbabwe have said, this is our regime that we would like to run, put a law to make sure that the unborn children are safe.
In Section 52, it also says it protects the women. It says everyone has a right, it is called the right to personal security. Every person has a right to bodily and psychological integrity, which includes the right and then subject to other provisions of this Constitution, meaning the right to life, to make decisions concerning reproduction. So, that protects women. Do I want to keep this baby? Our law has then made these provisions, which is now why I want to zero in on the Act itself. I must just point out that it is a 1978 Act. I was born in 1976 Mr. President.
It is a 1978 law. I was two years old when that law was made. How do we expect that law to apply properly today? That is why I say as Parliament, we are culpable in Mapingure's ordeal. Why, after all this time, had we not updated that law somehow? We continue to be culpable for all those people who find themselves in her shoes. This is because as we speak today, it is happening to some lady, to some young lady or some woman somewhere. She is going to have a baby who is a product of rape or some other sexual offence.
If we do not move quickly to amend this, to make it more egregious to the courts in our country, there is a recent judgement. Women in law in Southern Africa and others, this has the Minister of Health and Child Care. The Minister of Health is the Minister responsible for that particular Act which I am going to zero in on. It has already made a finding that this law needs to be aligned to the Constitution. In many instances, it does not align to the Constitution. I will give you examples. For example, the Termination of Pregnancy Act.
When we use the terminology, I would like to invite my fellow Senators. Let us not say abortion. We are not moving for abortion. We are moving for termination of pregnancy. The Act provides for termination of pregnancy. That is the proper terminology. The Termination of Pregnancy Act says, it defines and here I am simply demonstrating that it is old. It needs to be aligned to the Constitution urgently. It defines unlawful intercourse to mean rape. And it is important because we all agree that when there is unlawful intercourse, women should be allowed responsibly, at the right time, to terminate.
However, it says unlawful intercourse means rape. Then it says other than rape within a marriage. And yet, if you go to the criminal procedure, The Criminal Law Codification and Reform Act, the Criminal Code, we have since changed that position.
In another Act, to say rape now includes, if I force my wife, it is rape because there are many instances where people no longer live together in the same house. They are literally separated. One day, the man goes home and rapes her. Then you say, no, that is your wife. The law has changed. So, this Act is now actually at odds with another piece of legislation. This was the subject matter in this case that I am talking about. The court has already found that there is a problem. It urgently needs to be aligned. Sexual intercourse within a prohibited degree of relationship, is another one where this termination would be allowed, except for those people who practice cultural practices who are named in the Act. It does not include other forms of unlawful intercourse.
Let me give you an example, Mr. President. A person may be impregnated as a result of say, for instance, indecent assault or any other form of assault. There are many other crimes which are in the criminal court which have not been included here. So, if I take a syringe without raping you and impregnate you or forcibly insert a placenta, then you cannot abort and you cannot terminate. This Act really needs to be looked at and to be aligned. We submit Mr. President, that we need to move very quickly in order to bring it in alignment.
In fact, at some point during the currency of this motion, I am going to speak to the mover and the seconder and others and I am going to move to amend the motion. To reflect in this way, it is a value addition. This is because paragraph (a) says to enact legislation that provides for appropriate standards. However, we must reflect that there already is the Termination of Pregnancy Act which needs to be aligned. It is either we align that one or we repeal it and enact a new one altogether. So, I will not be removing anything but will just do value addition. I am sure the Minister is waiting for this opportunity because in court, this Act has been set aside and he cannot afford to wait without a law in place to deal with these issues. So, I am sure he will be the first one to come and offer the necessary amendments.
One of the issues in the Act is that the procedure is too difficult and tedious in that you have to report, take it to the magistrate and there are so many formalities located in different places. They all do not know what to do. The procedures needs to be streamlined. We should not criminalise the doctors who need to do emergency evacuations. The reason why this doctor in Mapingure did not want to act was because he was afraid of being arrested since there are so many penalties. Everybody is watching and he cannot do what he obviously ought to have done. The court of course censured that doctor seriously but there are so many things in that Act that made him afraid to act. These are some of the things we need to look at in detail. I am sure when the Minister comes and the Bill is finally presented, we will go into the details that need to be streamlined. I cannot do so now because there is no time. But certainly, I would like to urge Hon. Members from across the aisle, the Hon. Senator Chief Charumbira, Hon. Senator Chief Siansali and all the chiefs, to look at this matter which is affecting their people. We think adding your weight to this debate will help us as we move because it is a sensitive topic.
There is no sensitive topic we can have without our Hon. Chiefs helping us here by telling us how we can streamline this Act so that it is in accord with what everyone believes to be our culture and what we stand for. I urge Hon. Members to debate this motion fully and put my weight behind the call for the Minister to come and listen to this debate and address the House giving a way forward. Let this debate not degenerate into an abortion, anti-abortion or pro-abortion debate. It is about what we should do with the laws that we have now which are allowed by our Constitution and what we can do to prevent this continuing disaster that we see on a daily basis. I thank you Mr. President.
*HON. SEN. MUNZVERENGI: Thank you Mr. President for giving me this opportunity to support the motion raised by Hon. Senator Chinyanga. I would like to first of all say that once a child is born and is about six months old, she gets a doll for a toy and already shows the inborn motherhood as at that tender age, she starts caring for her doll. Currently, we are losing a lot of women because of rape. They are ashamed to tell people they were raped and at times take drastic action which will result in them losing their lives. They can also look for private ways to terminate the pregnancy and at times the procedure does not go well and they die before revealing the source of where they got the medicine from. The rape may be perpetrated by a relative and even if the girl later gets married, she remains emotionally unsettled and that is when you see someone’s health deteriorating because of many thoughts going on in her head. She may think people know and scornfully laugh at her. Sometimes they even commit suicide for fear of what the community will say. We also see babies being dumped because they are born when the mother is not prepared and the man has rejected her and refused his responsibility. Mostly these will be unplanned pregnancies and that is how we see many children on the streets.
These are issues that are causing trauma to the girl child. When this law is reviewed and amended, the issue of having a one-stop-shop is very important because if all the people dealing with the issues of rape are stationed at one place, then the girl or woman is easily assisted by all concerned departments. The police and counsellors will be there doing their job to ease the mind of the affected person and make them feel protected from such harassment. One Hon. Senator referred to post-profilaxis exposure treatment meant to prevent pregnancy that can emanate from the rape. These days even fathers are lusting after their daughters and if a woman is raped by an uncle or a father, that is incest. This spirit is very bad.
Therefore, that is why we are supporting the enactment of this law to protect women as well as those who are married. Sometimes there may be protection orders, a woman may be raped by that man even if there is a peace order because they are not living in harmony. So, when this law is enacted, let us not forget that this country needs police, soldiers and nurses.
We want children but for anyone who may also open up that the pregnancy may not be unwanted, people are interviewed on why they end up deciding that they no longer want the pregnancy. Experts may concur that indeed the pregnancy should be terminated. Let us have clear procedures and come up with laws that encompass all the cases and circumstances that may be applicable to ensure that the law works effectively in its importance. I thank you Mr. President.
HON. SEN. ZVIDZAI: I wish to thank Hon. Senator Chinyanga for bringing forth this motion for debate in this House. Mr. President, standing here, I am standing between a very hard place and a very difficult position regarding this particular issue.
All the same, I feel that I should be able to ventilate this issue as I see it and perhaps as should be seen by the majority of Zimbabweans, particularly women who find themselves in difficult situations after getting a pregnancy which they do not want.
Mr. President, as Hon. Senator Phulu articulated, we have got a law in place and as I listened carefully to the majority of people who debated, it appeared to me that the feeling was that we do not have a law that allows termination of unwanted and unsuitable pregnancies. The law is there, enacted by - yes, the Rhodesians but we do not necessarily have to throw away everything that we find in our history on account of historical facts. Sometimes we just have to look at things and the value and pay no attention to the origins of matters on our tables.
Mr. President, according to the Termination of Pregnancies Act of 1977, termination of pregnancies is allowed under certain circumstances and conditions. Certainly, if the pregnancy arises from incest, the law allows that. It is incest. So, kana baba vakamuka shavi vakabata mwana, it is incest. If a brother does the same to a sister, it is incest. This colonial law allows that in such circumstances, termination is allowable. It is lawful.
Mr. President, the same law, I think it is section four of that law which says, if there are indications that the foetus that is in the stomach may have defects arising, leading to possibilities of difficulties at birth, that too is a situation where termination of a pregnancy is allowed. If there is a high risk that the pregnant mother might be in danger, if her health does not support the full carriage of the baby to full term, then under those circumstances, it is lawful to terminate. So, we have got a law.
The argument could be that it is too restrictive and then as a team, we have to say, how can we relax it so that it includes other matters that were not foreseen in 1977, that it can deal with new exigencies that arise post the enactment of that law so many years ago. In that respect, then I will not quarrel. My quarrel is concerning people who want to have their cake and eat it too because I think there are many other ways of making sure that you do not, in the first place, have that cake.
I understand Mr. President, that Zimbabwe has got a very high level of maternal deaths, some of them arising from all different situations but let me tell you a story about diagnosis, misdiagnosis, and the result that you get from ill diagnosis of a situation. A man says they are playing a game and they talk to each other. They say, you know fleas, they can take instructions. Let me show you. Then he asked the flea to jump. It jumps and he asked the flea to jump. It jumps again. The fifth time he tries to ask the flea to jump, it fails to jump and the conclusion is that fleas cannot jump more than five times.
However, what was happening, if there was a clear diagnosis, each time it jumped, it broke a leg. So, it broke five legs and was left with one. Once it has got one leg, it cannot jump. That is the correct diagnosis.
So here, we are saying let us open, let us get women an open check so that if for some reason they are three months pregnant and they have got a quarrel with their husband, the anger is expressed by removing the pregnancy so that if for some reason one day their moods are not right, then just go to the next facility and terminate the pregnancy. If this is what we are asking for, then we are asking for a Zimbabwe that has lost its ubuntu. A Zimbabwe that is immoral, a Zimbabwe that does not respect the sanctity of life, at what stage do we say we are now killing?
Mr. President, Zimbabwe is a country of very decent men and women. In Zimbabwe, the number of safe abortions is about one in every four abortions and you have got about nine in a thousand unsafe abortions compared to East Africa, where you have got something like 34 in every 1,000 pregnancies lead to unsafe abortions. It is a disaster. We are beginning to talk about a disaster. Here we are still very safe. I honestly do not think that we should just open the gates and cause unwanted killing of innocent unborn children.
As I was debating, as I was looking at some facts, there is also a danger of terminating a critical asset for the nation. You do not know who is inside there. Inside there could be President ED. Inside there could be Morgan Tsvangirai. Inside there could be Cecil Zvidzai. Leave him there to live his life. There could be Solani there. There could be you, Mr. President. There could be Hon. Senator Mbohwa there. We want these people to contribute productively to Zimbabwe. Lo and behold, if they decided to just terminate Hon. Senator Mbohwa, please, this Senate would just be completely dull and different. Happily, the Lord did not allow and we have got her here.
Nelson Mandela was an unwanted child and he is one of the most famous. Just imagine if the laws, the traditional laws, then allowed termination of pregnancies, there would not be any Mandela to talk about. Eleanor Roosevelt was an unwanted child. Imagine, just imagine all that. The havoc, the loss the world would have had. Steve Jobs was an unwanted child. Moses was an unwanted child - in the Bible, yes, unwanted. Look at the impact of these people on the dynamics of the world.
I therefore implore this House to move cautiously. Let us move with a lot of caution. Let us not move too fast around this because it could be a disaster – [AN HON. SENATOR: Zvakwana.] – I am going to conclude. My brother, I am a very disciplined guy. I am concluding just now with a verse in the Bible; Exodus 21 verse 22 – “And the Lord said, if two men are fighting and in the process you hurt a woman who is carrying a baby and she miscarries, that man should be punished severely”. This speaks about the value of an unborn child. I know this could arise from other influences.
*I am a Zion and we will not accept killing of people. I thank
you.
∞HON. SEN. MPANDE: Thank you for giving me this opportunity for me to add my voice debating on this issue that affects us as women. It is so sad that as women, if you lose a child after falling pregnant from a rape case or impregnated while at school and your daughter goes to an older woman or the grandmother and seeks for termination of that pregnancy because they are afraid of being embarrassed; we are losing a lot of such girl children who try to terminate those pregnancies.
We are losing a lot of girls from that rape. Sometimes they are given as little as a dollar and then they are embarrassed as a result of that pregnancy because she feels that she was raped by everyone and everyone knows about it. It is also embarrassing for the grandmother to take care of that child who does not have a legitimate father. It is so sad and you see a person who dies. I saw my grandchildren from my sister.
That girl was impregnated by a teacher in Kamativi. She approached her grandmother to terminate the pregnancy. She died in Bulawayo at Mpilo. We were so sad because she was very intelligent and she was very good at school. It is so sad Mr. President, that you lose a daughter who was very intelligent. It is so difficult for us as parents.
Some of the men actually resort to juju and are asked to sleep with their daughters. Then what becomes of that child? It is very sad and very bad. If you choose to use such juju, choose another option that does not require you to sleep with your daughter. I thank you, Mr. President.
*HON. SEN. PASIPAMIRE (CHIEF NGEZI): Thank you, Mr. President for giving me this opportunity. I would like to thank the Hon. Senator who brought up this motion. I would like to reveal another side of this story. Recently we debated on the termination of death sentence.
Now we are coming up with ways of killing again that we condemned. I think we should consider this carefully. If we agreed that killing is not good, what about these circumstances? If it is about a raped person, why do we not then allow the police and the doctors to ensure that it is legitimate; the termination becomes legitimate? If we are not careful, even the living ones will end up being killed because the people that are crying foul on this issue are women. They are accusing men of being raped, even being accused of raping mentally unstable women. This also happens to mentally unstable men being raped but those stories are not discussed. Yes indeed, as women, when you cry foul, you easily get attention but look closely to what you are resorting to doing. Is it good? The spirit of killing must be looked at closely. If you terminate a pregnancy, it is as good as killing, just like how we condemned the death sentence.
Mr. President, let us look closely if we come up with this law before we embrace it. Let us not finish people before they are born. I thank you.
HON. SEN. CHINYANGA: I move that the debate do now adjourn.
HON. SEN. RUNGANI: I second.
Motion put and agreed to.
Debate to resume: Thursday, 6th March, 2025.
MOTION
PROTECTION OF GENDER RIGHTS AND PENALTIES TO OFFENDERS FLOUTING GENDER LAWS
Fourth Order read: Adjourned debate on motion on the protection of gender rights.
Question again proposed.
HON. SEN. MLOTSHWA: Thank you Mr. President. I move that the debate do now adjourn.
HON. SEN. CHAPFUDZA: I second Mr. President.
Motion put and agreed to.
Debate to resume: Thursday, 6th March, 2025.
MOTION
REPORT OF THE THEMATIC COMMITTEE ON CLIMATE CHANGE ON THE ENQUIRY INTO THE IMPACT OF CLIMATE CHANGE ON HUMAN-WILDLIFE CONFLICT
Fifth Order read: Adjourned debate on motion on the Report of the Thematic Committee on Climate Change on the enquiry into the impact of Climate Change on Human-Wildlife Conflict induced by Climate Change in 2024.
Question again proposed.
+HON. SEN. PHUTI: Thank you Mr. President, for affording me this opportunity to add my voice on the debate that was tabled by Hon. Senator Mupfumira.
Mr. President, first and foremost, I want to thank the Thematic Committee on Climate Change that taught me what climate change is. I used to think climate change is all about clouds or rainy season but being a Member of this Committee, I am now knowledgeable on what climate change means.
Mr. President Sir, I want to add what causes the human and wildlife conflict. So many Members who contributed before me have already said some of the points that I wanted to add. I want to add on the issue of hunting down wildlife. Way back, we used to hunt them and you would not be arrested, for example, for killing an impala or a hare. Our grandfathers used to have a specific time or it was known that in such a family, they eat meat every day but because of the new Act, you realise that during hunting times, what our grandfathers used to do was, if they come across a dangerous wildlife, they would kill it. You realise because of change of the laws, now it is not allowed to kill even a dangerous animal.
I also want to add my voice to the fact that, for example, when they were hunting impala, they would only kill the male one and leave the female one. Nowadays, anyone will kill any of those impalas, whether male or female. In our Ndebele culture, you realise that there are so many children who are born nowadays who do not even know what a hare is. For them to know that species, they have to go to Chipangali Wildlife Orphanage.
Also, why we get to hear of cases of wildlife and human conflict is because of us as human beings causing veld fires. If there are veld fires, you realise that wild animals will leave where they are staying and come closer to where human beings are staying. This includes even the dangerous wildlife.
Also, the issue of siltation in our dams, you realise that now you can come across a crocodile anywhere. For example, last week some people came across a crocodile that was not inside the dam where we know them to be staying. We have cases whereby crocodiles come even to people's houses where there are swimming pools. A crocodile is known to be always in water. It however, pains me Mr. President Sir, that our Zimbabwean law protects a crocodile more than a human being. In areas such as Lupane and Hwange, we hardly have a case of conflict between wildlife and human beings. For example, in such areas, once you kill such an animal, as a crocodile, you are arrested. Last year, when we were touring as a Committee, what I saw - yes Mr. President, it is a law that we should not kill wildlife but you realise that such an Act does not protect even the animals. For instance, we have too many elephants as compared to human beings in our country.
Elephants do not have sufficient grazing areas. They end up grazing vegetables in people's gardens. There is need, therefore Mr. President, for the Government to come up with Acts that protect human beings. We end up having cases whereby elephants end up dying because of hunger. For example, in Victoria Falls, there were people who were claiming that where they fetch water, there are elephants that come to that area to drink water. Bulawayo to Victoria Falls Road is in a bad state, you realise that this is caused by elephants as well. People including students who reside in those areas are always attacked by elephants. They no longer live in peace.
However, you realise that there is nothing and no effort is being taken by Government to avoid such. When I asked how many elephants are there in Hwange National Park, I was told that the park is supposed to have close to 40 000 elephants that can be kept there. As of now, they say they have more than 45 000. You realise that an elephant is one animal that continuously grazes. An elephant is one animal that is very dangerous, especially during its menstruation period and it does not want to be disturbed when it is moving around.
Another request that I want to put across, especially to our Government is that, if only they could put a fence around the roads so that we avoid this issue of elephants and human conflict. My request is that if only the Government could reduce the number of elephants that we have as a country.
In addition, people are requesting that we should find a way of reducing the number of elephants that we have, somewhere close to Zambia and Botswana but because of shortage of the grazing areas, they come back again to Zimbabwe. Another point that I want to add is the reason why we end up having wildlife coming to where people are is because we no longer have specific grazing areas. Way back, we used to have areas that were kept for grazing. No one would walk across there but now you realise that anyone can go and build in these grazing areas, that is what causes human-wildlife conflict. We have taken grazing areas and changed them to be our homesteads.
I heard one of the Hon. Members saying baboons and monkeys are now living together with the humans, it is not good to stay close to where baboons and monkeys are because they destroy our fields. Whilst on the matter of grazing lands, we realise that those who are into mining, they even peg in grazing areas. Most of this wildlife species want areas where there is peace and where they feel protected. Most of the time, we are mining in those areas and we intimidate them. Hence, the reason why we end up having that conflict. Mining activities also affect the grazing areas. At the end of the day, we have animals coming to where people reside. Mr. President of the Senate, these are the few words that I wanted to contribute in this motion. I thank you.
HON. SEN. GOTORA: I move that the debate do now adjourn.
HON. SEN. MAVENYENGWA: I second.
Motion put and agreed to.
Debate to resume: Thursday, 6th March, 2025.
MOTION
OVERHAUL OF DILAPIDATED STADIA
Sixth Order read: Adjourned debate on motion on the deplorable sports infrastructure in the country.
Question again proposed.
HON. SEN. MLOTSHWA: I move that the debate do now adjourn.
HON. SEN. MDHLURI: I second.
Motion put and agreed to.
Debate to resume: Thursday, 6th March, 2025.
On the motion of HON. SEN. GOTOTA, seconded by HON. SEN. MAVENYENGWA, the Senate adjourned at Twenty-Two Minutes to Five o’clock p.m.
PARLIAMENT OF ZIMBABWE
Wednesday, 5th March, 2025
The National Assembly met at a Quarter-past Two o’clock p.m.
PRAYERS
(THE HON. DEPUTY SPEAKER in the Chair)
ANNOUNCEMENTS BY THE HON. DEPUTY SPEAKER
INVITATION TO A HALF-DAY WORKSHOP ON THE IPEC BILL
THE HON. DEPUTY SPEAKER: I have to inform the House that all Hon. Members are invited to a half-day workshop to unpack the Insurance and Pensions Commissions Bill [H.B. 7, 2024]. The workshop is scheduled for Thursday, 6th March, 2025 at 0800 hours in the National Assembly.
I am being advised that the workshop has been postponed until further notice. I thank you.
APOLOGIES RECEIVED FROM MINISTERS
THE HON. SPEAKER: I have received apologies from the Executive as follows: Hon. Gen. Rtd. Dr. C.D.G.N. Chiwenga, Vice President; Hon. Col. Rtd. K.C.D. Mohadi, Vice President; Hon. O. C. Z. Muchinguri-Kashiri, Minister of Defence; Hon. Prof. M. Ncube, Minister of Finance, Economic Development and Investment Promotion; Hon. Dr. S.G. Nyoni, Minister of Environment, Climate and Wildlife; Hon. T. Machakaire, Minister of Youth Empowerment, Development and Vocational Training; Hon. Prof. Dr. A. Murwira, Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Trade; Hon T. A. Mavetera, Minister of Information, Communication Technology, Postal and Courier Services; Hon Dr. F. M. Shava, Minister of Higher and Tertiary Education, Innovation, Science and Technology Development; Hon. M. N. Ndlovu, Minister of Industry and Commerce; Hon. T. Moyo, Minister of Primary and Secondary Education; Hon. K. D. Mnangagwa, Deputy Minister of Finance, Economic Development and Investment Promotion; Hon. J. Mhlanga, Deputy Minister of Women’s Affairs, Community, Small and Medium Enterprises Development; Hon. O. Mazungunye, Deputy Minister of Justice, Legal and Parliamentary Affairs; Hon. A. Gata, Deputy Minister of Primary and Secondary Education; Hon. R. Modi, Deputy Ministry of Industry and Commerce; Hon. Simbanegavi, Deputy Minister of Energy and Power Development; Hon. V. Haritatos, Deputy Minister of Lands, Agriculture, Fisheries, Water and Rural Resettlement.
HON. MUSHORIWA: I rise on a point of order Madam Speaker. You took quite a long time to read the list of absentee ministers. If you look at the front bench, it is actually empty and I do not think that this House should go on a routine of saying that Wednesday is a Question and Answer Session when we do not have the ministers. My suggestion would be that today’s Question and Answer Session be cancelled because ministers are not here – [HON MEMBERS: Hear, hear.]-
Hon. Mhona having walked into the Chamber.
THE HON. DEPUTY SPEAKER: It is true, you raised a very valid point but I am sorry, we are proceeding with Question and Answer Session. I am sure some of the ministers are on their way as we have witnessed the arrival of Hon. Mhona – [HON MEMBERS: Hear, hear.]-I am sure other ministers are on their way. We are proceeding Hon. Members.
ORAL ANSWERS TO QUESTIONS WITHOUT NOTICE
*HON. MANANZVA: My question is directed to the Minister of Lands, Agriculture, Fisheries, Water and Rural Resettlement. We heard that people are being given title deeds in farms. My question is, we have people who have already been farming but who do not have letters. What is Government planning to do regarding giving them title deeds?
HON. BAJILA: May we be informed of the Leader of Government Business today.
THE HON. DEPUTY SPEAKER: Hon. Minister Mhona is our Acting Leader of Government Business.
*THE MINISTER OF TRANSPORT AND INFRASTRUCTURAL DEVELOPMENT (HON. MHONA): Indeed, the question affects many people and has been raised several times. So, the Hon. Minister responsible for Agriculture and Land looked at the issue and clarified that there are some people who hold offer letters and some who have 99-year leases.
This programme is going to consider all those factors so that everything is done above board for those who have letters and those who do not have letters are going to be looked into. There are no new letters that are going to be coming out.
*HON. ZIKI: My question is that there is a directive that was given that there is no other land which is going to be distributed. So, the question is, the land that is available which does not have people, will it remain like that or what is going to happen to that land?
HON. MHONA: There are some areas that are not occupied, but
the responsible Minister is working on that programme and with what we have, the Hon. Minister is trying to ascertain whether those who are occupying land are fully utilising the land and are they legally settled. After the process is completed, then there is going to be regularisation and the Ministry will really consider these issues. After considering the issues, then the rest of the people are going to benefit. I thank you.
*HON. C. HLATYWAYO: My question pertains to the title deeds
that have been alluded to earlier and the question is, what is going to happen to those who are in rural areas without title deeds? They do not have any title deeds and what is going to happen to them? That is my question.
*HON. MHONA: I want to thank Hon. Hlatywayo and indeed it is true. We know that we have people who live in communal lands and most of them were living in reserves, farms and some were given land in the A1 and A2 schemes. Some were allocated through the land reform programme and if there is a specific programme that is going to be implemented later, then the Minister of Agriculture is going to communicate the position.
*HON. MADZIVENYIKA: My supplementary question is that is it not possible, Madam Speaker, for the Hon. Minister to bring a Ministerial Statement regarding title deeds, looking at the hectarage that is given to beneficiaries so that this Hon. House has access to that statement so that its members will be able to debate after the Ministerial Statement? I thank you.
*THE HON. DEPUTY SPEAKER: Indeed, it is possible. We will request the Minister to bring a Ministerial Statement on that issue so that Members of Parliament will be able to ask for clarifications – [HON. MADZIVANYIKA: Inaudible interjections.] – I
cannot give you the exact date because the Hon. Minister is not here, so he would communicate that. I thank you.
*HON. DR. NJANJI: My question is directed to the Minister of Lands and Agriculture. What policies are in place to promote agricultural research and development? Thank you.
THE MINISTER OF TRANSPORT AND INFRASTRUCTURAL DEVELOPMENT (HON. MHONA): Let me thank Hon. Dr. Njanji for that very important question. Madam Speaker, we have got a number of research institutes in Zimbabwe, whether they are just focusing on crops or soil. So, I am sure just to take which is closer home, SIRDC which we know is a research institution. So, already, there is a framework to actually partake in the exercise of research in this country but maybe I will be very delighted to hear, specifically for a certain category, that Hon. Dr. Njanji
is earmarking.
*HON. C. HLATYWAYO: Thank you very much. Regarding research, the question is good. We have stations, research stations where we come from, like where I come from. These are quite useful in terms of research and focusing for farmers who are in surrounding areas but the state of the research stations is deplorable. They are deteriorating. So, my question is, what plans are in place to refurbish such research stations from the infrastructure even to the quality of the service that is offered? I thank you.
*HON. MHONA: I want to thank Hon. Hlatywayo who raised
quite an important question. Most buildings have been left behind because of the developments in the sector. So, whether it is in agriculture, schools or our road networks, as Government, we are seized with infrastructure development. So, Government policy is that we need to look at these areas and I am happy because with this, when I leave this House, I am going to take the message to the responsible minister, the Minister of Agriculture, so that the Hon. Minister looks into the issue.
*HON. MATINENGA: Madam Speaker, we have diseases that are affecting goats which are leading to blindness and I would request the Hon. Leader of Government Business to tell us about such diseases.
*THE MINISTER OF TRANSPORT AND INFRASTRUCTURAL DEVELOPMENT (HON. MHONA): Thank you very much Hon. Member but the Hon. Minister cannot respond to that question because this is a question that should be put in writing so that proper research is done so that you would have a correct position. I thank you.
*HON. GWANGWABA: I want to direct my question to the Minister of Health but I note that the Deputy Minister is in the House. So, I want to ask the Government policy regarding the buffing up of nurses training colleges so that we have a lot of nurses in Zimbabwe. Thank you.
*THE DEPUTY MINISTER OF HEALTH AND CHILD CARE (HON. DR. KWIDINI): I want to thank Hon. Ngwangwaba for that question regarding the building of more nurse training colleges. Government, under the leadership of His Excellency, Dr. Mnangagwa has the mantra that no place will be left behind and no one will be left behind, which implies that we need more nurses and we are seized with the issue and are in the process of opening nurse training colleges in different districts. We have already identified in different districts where such schools are going to be in order to promote local enrolment so that in every district, we find people getting the opportunity to be trained. For instance, in Gokwe North, we are going to be opening a nurse training school and another big school which will be taking a lot of people in Zimbabwe, probably enrolling 160 or so but we believe that in every district, we are going to be having these schools as time goes on.
*HON. GWANGWABA: My supplementary question is that whilst we are waiting for new schools, why do we not use schools that are already in existence, for example, polytechnic colleges? I am saying this because we know that there are a lot of school leavers who desire to be trained as nurses.
HON. DR. KWIDINI: It is our desire that as the Ministry of Health and Child Care, we work together with other tertiary institutions instead of training our nurses but the challenge is that our hospitals should be more so that when we train nurses, it is a practical programme which requires a proper environment. So, if we churn out more graduates like what happens at universities and colleges, then they will not be absorbed into public hospitals and they will not be able to get practical experience. By so doing, we are going to compromise our standards because we will be having a lot of people with nursing diplomas but without practical experience. I thank you.
*HON. NYABANI: My supplementary questions to the Minister is that, a lot of our school leavers who are being trained as nurses are migrating to other countries. So, what is Government doing in terms of retaining nurses and having bilateral relations with other countries like what happens with Cuba and other countries? The country is losing a lot of qualified people through brain drain. So, we need to benefit from training them. What is Government doing with that?
*HON. DR. KWIDINI: It is true that we are losing a lot of money through training nurses who end up migrating to other countries despite being bonded. As I am speaking, we have International Labour Organisation representatives and other organisations that we are engaging with so that we come up with a proper document which is going to protect our workforce, at the same time ensuring that nurses who leave Zimbabwe, even upon retirement, will be able to be looked after by the social welfare and other modalities are going to be looked into because it is a basic right and it is their right because migration has always been there. However, it is important to note that when they go and produce in other countries, Zimbabwe also should benefit. We are training people and other countries are benefitting.
*HON. CHINANZVAVANA: Thank you Madam Speaker. On the same issue regarding the training of nurses, we are saying we do not understand whether the problem is our teachers or the facilities because we have big provincial hospitals which are able to absorb nurses in big hospitals. My question; is it not possible to enlarge provincial hospitals so that we absorb more nurses because this is a big challenge? We are not talking about district hospitals, how about small clinics – those which are in Muzarabani? Why do we not broaden the enrolment process? Why do we not take more students? I thank you.
* HON. DR. KWIDINI: Thank you Hon. Speaker. I want to thank the Hon. Member for that pertinent supplementary question. As the responsible Ministry, we desire that we have a lot of students taking up nurse training. It is true, we have provincial hospitals but unfortunately, the accommodation is mostly for patients – trainers do not have accommodation.
As a Ministry, after noting that, for a student nurse to perform well, they need proper and secure accommodation where they do not face challenges. The big issue is that as I am speaking, we want to look into the accommodation issue of student nurses, doctors and nurses. This is one of the issues which results in our relatives who go to hospital as patients and end up facing challenges. You would find that nurses and other healthcare workers live far from these hospitals, for example, someone who works at Parirenyatwa and they live in Norton.
We want to look into the issue, whether it is the provincial hospital, district hospital or other hospitals. We want to make sure we have proper facilities where we will be able to train a lot of students. It is not about nurses but we also want radiographers, lab scientists, pharmacists and other healthcare professionals.
For them to be trained, we need proper facilities because some lessons are done in the evening and some are done during the day. If there is no proper accommodation at the hospital, we cannot have people training without accommodation at that centre. I thank you.
*HON. MABURUTSE: Thank you Madam Speaker. I want to direct my question to the Hon. Minister of Mines and Mining Development. Last year, the offices of the Ministry of Mines generated a communique which spoke about areas that were affected by Exclusive Prospecting Orders (EPOs) where EPOs were removed and that letter implied that where EPOs were taken out, it was not possible to go and occupy such areas.
My question is; how far are we in terms of allowing people to peg in areas where EPOs were removed? For those which have been there for a long time, what is the status? I thank you.
*THE MINISTER OF MINES AND MINING DEVELOPMENT (HON. CHITANDO): Thank you Madam Speaker. I want to thank the Hon. Member for that question regarding EPOs. Firstly, the question is that there are EPOs which have been in existence in a very long time. Also, the issue of the Mining Affairs Board – how the public is going to be allowed to occupy such places. Let me respond by saying, Government policy and plans are that for EPOs which did no succeed, Government is going to take some of these areas as Government reservations, which means the Mining Promotion Company is responsible for searching and exploration about where minerals are found. EPOs that were tasked by investors to explore, when investors know that there are minerals, they are going to register their claims.
Government then said that on EPOs, Government together with Mining Promotion Company are going to be exploring and Government did that. EPOs which are not reservation areas are going to culminate in a process where these areas are going to be open to the public so that people can apply. I thank you.
*HON. KARIKOGA: Thank you Madam Speaker. My supplementary question is, what steps have been taken to ensure that the Mineral Promotion has resources for geological surveys so that we will not blame the Mineral Promotion, which probably does not have resources and which will result in us waiting for a long process and for a long time?
*HON. CHITANDO: Thank you Hon. Member for that question. There are two steps that the Government is taking into place. The first step is that Cabinet allowed the Mining Promotion Company to partner with other companies in exploring but the Mining Promotion Company is going to take the lead. So, the Mining Promotion Company is in the process of geological survey. Secondly, every year, we received an allocation from the annual budget but the annual budget cannot cater for all the needs of the responsible department. Madam Speaker, that is why as Government, we decided that joint ventures would suffice. I thank you.
*HON. S. TSHUMA: My supplementary question to the Minister is that when we look at what was happening in the past, the application of EPOs would take three years or more before being approved, which resulted in cumulative six years period without approval. What is Government planning to do with the application process and the speeding up of that process so that it does not take a long time and that the three years will just be three years without any more additional. I thank you.
*HON. CHITANDO: Thank you Madam Speaker. I am going to respond in two parts. Firstly, the first three years start when an EPO has been given to an investor but the Hon. Member raised a valid point that EPOs were taking a long time. Indeed, it is true, now all EPOs have been put together and those that were given to investors were given to them but those that were not distributed are going to be opened for applications. I thank you.
*HON. NYABANI: Hon. Minister, thank you for that programme. EPOs are blanket interventions which target big companies, how about local and small companies? How are they going to be dealt with, looking at artisanal miners and other small miners because EPOs might end up acting as monopolies for the big companies and small players will not have any space? I thank you – [HON. MEMBERS: Hear, hear.] –
*HON. CHITANDO: Thank you Hon. Speaker and I want to thank the Hon. Member for that question. The reason why EPOs are Government reservations and being given to mining promotion companies is that in most areas, our minerals are found in different areas. Some of these minerals are alluvial which when you mine, you would find that they are not very far from the surface but others are deep down, you have to go deep. The question that was raised relates to the exploration that will have been done. After explorations have been done, it will be determined that these are alluvial deposits and these are deposits that are really deep and will need a lot of funding. Government then determines who would occupy such because of the resources that are needed for alluvial deposits, even small players can partake in those. I thank you.
*HON. MAKOPE: Thank you Madam Speaker. I want to direct my question to the Minister of Local Government and Public Works. We have people who recently occupied resettlement areas and Village Heads were chosen among the people. We find that there are some Village Heads who are in communal areas who are now Government employees, who earn something from Government salary. The question is for those who are in resettlement areas, what is Government planning to do with them in terms of making them substantive Village Heads and for them to benefit like their counterparts?
*THE MINISTER OF TRANSPORT AND INFRASTRUCTURAL DEVELOPMENT (HON. MHONA): Thank you Madam Speaker and I want to thank Hon. Makope for that question. It is true, Village Heads were in our communal areas, our original areas of descent. Madam Speaker, please allow me that I take the question to the responsible Minister, the Minister of Local Government and Public Works so that he addresses the question properly.
*HON. CHITIMBE: Thank you Hon. Speaker. My question is directed to the Minister of Home Affairs and Cultural Heritage. The murdering of people by people who are intoxicated by drugs is now prevalent. What is Government planning to fight drug abuse in the country?
*THE MINISTER OF TRANSPORT AND INFRASTRUCTURAL DEVELOPMENT (HON. MHONA): I want to thank Hon. Chitimbe. This is quite a pertinent question which is worrying a lot of people and which affects a lot of people because we are losing a lot of our young people, a young generation through drug abuse which is affecting mental health of many young people. I want to thank Government because we know that there are a lot of task forces that have been set up. There is an Anti-Smuggling Team which is responsible for fighting and stopping those who are involved in drugs and substance trafficking. There are drones which were bought, which are going to be monitoring our ports and our border posts. For those who will be dealing with drugs and buying drugs, both of them will be equally prosecuted. If we do not work together, then we will not be able to fight this. It is up to us to work together and report to the police. I believe that we are going to work together so that those who sell drugs and buy drugs are prosecuted.
*HON. MUNEMO: Thank you Hon. Speaker and I want to pose my supplementary question, which says that when we look at what was happening in the past, issues of murder were dealt with decisively. People who committed homicide were arrested and these issues were dealt with totally. Now you find issues to do with human trafficking, you find issues to do with ritualistic killings happening in Mount Darwin and other areas. The question is, what plans does Government have in terms of dealing with such killings? I thank you.
*THE MINISTER OF TRANSPORT AND INFRUSTRUCTURAL DEVELOPMENT (HON. MHONA): Thank you Hon. Speaker Ma`am and I want to thank Hon. Munemo. This is quite sad. I want to emphasise that there is no Government which is happy with the burial of people without some body parts. It is true that these cases are now prevalent but I want to say that the Department of Homicide is responsible for dealing with these issues. Most of the times you would find that perpetrators are caught as soon as possible. I want to say that when such people are taken to courts, then these issues should be dealt with. But if this is not happening, then I will take this message to the responsible authority so that perpetrators are prosecuted. I thank you.
*HON. MATSUNGA: Thank you Hon. Speaker Ma`am. Let me thank you for giving me this opportunity. My supplementary question is similar to a question that was asked by Hon. Chitimbe. At the beginning of this year, regardless of the different parts that we are alluding to or different parts of the country, you would find that because of guka and other drugs, young people are committing a lot of crimes. I want to request that the Minister responsible for Home Affairs, should work together with the Ministry of Justice, Legal and Parliamentary Affairs because you would find that there are people who commit homicide after using drugs but such people are being given bail out. It shows that these cases are not being given the attention and seriousness they deserve because of that. I request that we have punitive laws because laws that are in existence are laws that have been there before some of us were born.
The responsible Ministers of Justice and that of Home Affairs, should bring a Bill or an amendment of the existing laws so that we tighten our laws in order to deal with homicide cases. I thank you.
*THE HON. DEPUTY SPEAKER: Thank you Hon. Matsunga. I believe the message has been recorded and responsible authorities are going to take up the issues with the responsible ministries. I thank you.
*HON. MUCHEMWA: Thank you Hon. Speaker. Cases of rape and where people steal livestock, such cases have clear laws and they are prosecuted. What is Government planning to do with the tightening of laws of drug-related cases? I thank you.
*THE MINISTER OF TRANSPORT AND INFRUSTRUCTURAL DEVELOPMENT (HON. MHONA): Thank you Hon. Speaker and I want to thank Hon. Muchemwa. The example that was given is an example which concerns a lot of people. It is true but I want to come back to this august House. We have three Government arms; the Executive, Legislature and the Judiciary. These two arms of the State do not have the power to enact laws but laws are enacted in this august House. Executive and the Judiciary have different roles. The Judiciary is there to interpret laws that are made in this august House, which means that the judgements that are given to perpetrators of homicide are judgements that are based on the laws. So, indeed, we need to tighten these laws.
Let me emphasise that when such laws or Bills come to this august House, we need to work together so that these Bills are tightened to make them laws which are going to be punitive and deterrent. I thank you.
*HON. MAKUMIRE: Thank you for giving me the opportunity, Hon. Speaker. This issue is quite big. I want to request that Hon. Speaker, you extend the time so that we have two or three more questions for us to properly address the question. I thank you.
*THE HON. DEPUTY SPEAKER: We are going to allow two more questions.
*HON. MAKUMIRE: Hon. Speaker, the issue at hand is of the use of mutoriro and other drugs reflects that we do not have quite punitive laws to deter those who peddle in such illicit brews and drugs. Why is it taking us a long time to stop these drugs which are affecting our young people? That is my question. I thank you.
THE HON. DEPUTY SPEAKER: It is you Hon. Members who are delaying the process. You should bring a motion to this august House so that a proper law is enacted.
*THE MINISTER OF TRANSPORT AND INFRASTRUCTURAL DEVELOPMENT (HON. MHONA): Thank you Madam Speaker Ma’am. I want to thank Hon. Makumire. Let me say that nothing is stopping us. The law which applies to these cases, let me say that there is a task force, there is a Committee being headed by the Minister of Defence, which is looking at different ways of fighting drug and alcohol abuse in Zimbabwe.
I want to appreciate the fact that it is our responsibility as this august House to tighten the laws. We are going to bring these issues back to the august House where there is a lacuna or where there is a gap, a legal gap, then we need to fill that gap. The onus is upon this august House to tighten the laws. I thank you.
+HON. S. MOYO: Thank you Madam Speaker. My question is in relation to the drug abusers, most of them are losing their minds. What has happened to these rehabilitation centres? We used to know that there were rehabilitation centres, are they still available? It will be very useful if we can make sure that these rehabilitation centres are functional again.
HON. MHONA: Thank you Hon. Speaker and I want to thank Hon. Moyo. It is true, we know that when we have people who have mental illnesses, these people are taken to rehabilitation centres. Together with the Ministry of Health and Child Care, we are setting up rehabilitation centres so that those who will be found with mental illnesses are taken to such centres for rehabilitation and that they can be reintegrated into society.
Government is seized with the matter which will culminate in mental patients receiving proper attention. These places are there but please allow me Hon. Speaker that if there is anything that I have left out, the Minister of Health and Child Care can respond.
THE HON. DEPUTY SPEAKER: Hon. Deputy Minister of Health, do you want to add on to what the Leader of Government Business has said?
THE DEPUTY MINISTER OF HEALTH AND CHILD CARE (HON. DR. KWIDINI): It is true, the Leader of Government Business has addressed it well and we are setting up rehabilitation centres in the country, especially those that are going to be addressing mental health patients. In the future, we will link them up with vocational training centres working with the Ministry of Youth so that after rehabilitating them, they will then be empowered with vocational skills because we have the Annex at Parirenyatwa Hospital at the moment. We are renovating the Annex so that our mental health patients are attended there.
We also have in Masvingo, Ngomahuru where most people go. In Matabeleland, we also have Ingutsheni Centre where those who are mentally ill go to receive treatment. We have rehabilitation centres in most of our hospitals so that those that are affected by drugs and have mental problems are given psychosocial support and empowered with survival skills. I thank you.
HON. C. HLATYWAYO: Point of privilege.
THE HON. DEPUTY SPEAKER: Point of privilege, Hon. Hlatywayo.
*HON. C. HLATYWAYO: Thank you. The response that was given by the Hon. Minister that there is a Committee which is being led by the Minister of Defence, Hon. Oppah Muchinguri, this Committee was set up for almost a year now. The Committee has been in existence and my request is, may the Hon. Minister responsible for the Committee expedite the process of working or addressing this problem so that we will be able to receive even a report from the Committee? We know what is happening and what is being done by the Committee because we know the Committee is there but we need to see the results. I thank you.
*HON. S. TSHUMA: Thank you Hon. Speaker. Let me start by saying that Hon. Speaker, the nation is losing a lot of money. We heard the Minister of Health talking about construction of rehabilitation centres. The issue of drones which are meant to monitor those who pay for drugs but let me say that these are in most high-density suburbs. I believe that this august House is aware that the drug hubs are known by people in residential areas, so we need to be frank with each other.
The police are not doing their job, they must arrest those who sell drugs. We are losing a lot of money, even the Constituency Development Fund. Hon. Speaker, my request is, may the Hon. Minister of Home Affairs come to this august House? We want to engage him regarding this issue because the nation cannot be losing a lot of money through construction of rehabilitation centres, other facilities and other amenities instead of arresting those who sell drugs. I thank you.
*THE HON. DEPUTY SPEAKER: Thank you Hon. Tshuma for those words. Let me hear from the Hon. Leader of Government Business.
*HON. MHONA: Thank you Hon. Speaker. I want to thank the Hon. Member. These are the same words that were raised by Hon. Hlatywayo and also emphasised by Hon. Tshuma. It is your right as Hon. Members to engage the responsible ministers. When you find that there is a gap and we have not done something, it is your right to call us to your different Committees before things spiral out of control. You are not using that opportunity.
However, like the Hon. Member has already said, I am going to take up this message to the responsible Minister, the Minister of Home Affairs, that the House is concerned about the issue and the Hon. Minister will respond accordingly. I thank you.
*THE HON. DEPUTY SPEAKER: Thank you Honourable Tshuma for those words. Let me hear from the Leader of Government Business on how he is going to relay the matter to the Minister of Home Affairs and Cultural Heritage and the response thereof.
*THE MINISTER OF TRANSPORT AND INFRASTRUCTURAL DEVELOPMENT (HON. MHONA): Thank you Honourable Speaker. I want to thank the Honourable Member. These are the same words that were raised by Honourable Hlatywayo and also emphasised by Honourable Tshuma. It is your right as Honourable Members to engage the responsible ministers. When you find that there is a gap and we have not done something, it is your right to call us to your committees, to the different committees, before things spiral out of control. So, you are not using that opportunity. But like the Honourable Member has already said, I am going to take up this message to the responsible minister, the Minister of Home Affairs, that the House is concerned about the issue and the Honourable Minister will respond accordingly. I thank you.
*THE HON. DEPUTY SPEAKER: Thank you Acting Leader of Government Business. It shows that both sides of the House are concerned with this matter. So, your response is very good. I do not know Hon. Nyabani, are you still on this case?
*HON. NYABANI: I wanted to say that we started discussions surrounding the issue of drugs in the 9th Parliament and we had a lot of deliberations. So the question is, what is happening? There is no progress.
*THE HON. DEPUTY SPEAKER: What you are saying has already been said, Hon. Nyabani. People have said that the Minister of Home Affairs is not prosecuting those who are selling drugs and yet people know where these people sell their drugs. So let us allow the Leader of Government Business to take that message to the Minister of Home Affairs, so that the Minister of Home Affairs will come back with a Ministerial Statement to the House regarding the progress that is happening in terms of prosecuting those who sell drugs and you will be given the opportunity to engage with the minister after the Ministerial Statement. I thank you.
*HON. KARIMATSENGA-NYAMUPINGA: Thank you, Madam Speaker. We were saying that the Ministerial Statement is going to come from the Minister of Home Affairs and Cultural Heritage but we also require a statement from the Minister of Finance who will explain how these drugs are coming into Zimbabwe and how they are imported through our borders. I thank you.- [HON. MEMBERS: Inaudible interjections.] -
*THE HON. DEPUTY SPEAKER: Please, behave in an honourable manner. If you behave as if you have taken mtoriro and you are intoxicated, then we are going to ask you to leave the House.
*HON. NHARI: Thank you, Honourable Speaker. I want to direct my question to the Minister of Tourism and Hospitality. What plans does the Government have regarding those who move around without putting on any clothes or sex workers because our country has visitors? - [HON. MEMBERS: Inaudible interjections.] -
THE HON. DEPUTY SPEAKER: May we have order Hon. Members?
*THE MINISTER OF TOURISM AND HOSPITALITY INDUSTRY (HON. RWODZI): Thank you Honourable Speaker. The Government has laws which include laws that speak to public indecency and parading without putting on clothes is illegal in Zimbabwe. But we work together with the Ministry of Home Affairs and we raise issues that affect our tourists in Zimbabwe. I thank you, Madam Speaker.
*HON. P. ZHOU: Thank you Honourable Speaker. I want to say that men who are found picking ladies of the night, how are men who pick ladies of the night going to be dealt with? Is there a law which is going to prosecute them also? Because we cannot only prosecute the ladies of the night, ignoring those who pick them up. I thank you. [HON. MEMBERS: Inaudible interjections.]-
THE HON. DEPUTY SPEAKER: Order Hon. Members!
*THE MINISTER OF TOURISM AND HOSPITALITY INDUSTRY (HON. RWODZI): Thank you. I believe these questions should be directed to the Ministry of Home Affairs and I would request that the Leader of the House respond through your indulgence, Honourable Speaker.
*THE HON. DEPUTY SPEAKER: Let me pass the question to the Acting Leader of Government Business.
*THE MINISTER OF TRANSPORT AND INFRASTRUCTURAL DEVELOPMENT (HON. MHONA): Thank you Honourable Speaker. I want to thank Honourable Zhou who asked a supplementary question. The question which says that those who will be picking up ladies of the night, let me say that when we look at the law, this is called being an accomplice and those who study the law, when you look at the explanation that was done by Justice Chidyausiku regarding commercial sex workers. Let me say that when an offence has been committed, there is no favouritism. The one who will be committing and the one who will be picking up the ladies of the night are equally liable. I thank you.
*HON. KARIMATSENGA-NYAMUPINGA: Thank you Madam Speaker. I heard the point that the man is the accomplice. Why can the woman be the accomplice because the man is the one who started? We must not be over excited about whether they move around without putting on clothes. They are called sex workers. This is their job and it is up to those who are buying the services, whether they want to buy the services or not. So, I want to seek clarification from the Honourable Minister that, is the Government going to put a curfew which will say people will not be moving around at night? Ladies of the night should not be taken advantage of but they should be paid their monies because they would have worked. I thank you.
* HON. MHONA: Thank you Honourable Speaker and I want to thank Hon. Nyamupinga for the point of clarification. I responded earlier saying that for those who do research, they should check a judgement that was passed by the late Justice Chidyausiku. What is crime loitering? When you look at the judgement, it is quite informative that when a precedence has been set, then it goes to the laws that would have been applied by the judges in dealing with cases. I request that you go and look at the judgement that was done by Justice Chidyausiku. That is why you see the ladies of the night moving around without being arrested. I believe that this is what Hon. Nyamupinga was alluding to, that for women who will be moving around working, some will be on night duty. What is a crime in loitering? When you are loitering, when you go and research, you would find what it means. Thank you.
*HON. KUKA: Thank you Madam Speaker. My supplementary seeks to find out Government plans regarding those who are seen parading naked, loitering. How does Government plan to give them employment so that they are able to work during the day instead of working at night? Thank you.
*HON. J. TSHUMA: On a point of order Madam Speaker. Before delving deeper into this issue, we need guidance as to whether it is legal or not because sex work is now taken as a profession. Is it a profession and is it legal? I thank you.
*HON. MHONA: Thank you Madam Speaker. I want to thank Hon. Kuka and Hon. Tshuma who raised pertinent questions. I believe that we are addressing the same questions over and over again. As the august House, when laws have been enacted and when precedence has been set by the courts, I want to say that for them to parade at night does not mean that they are not employed. These are their jobs and it does not mean that for them to work at night, it means they do not have day jobs. You will be surprised that maybe they have day jobs but they also do these night jobs.
So, we are saying when they are working at night, that is why you hear it being referred to as the oldest profession. As Zimbabwe, because of our culture and values, no one would come to you and tell you to go to the streets but when you look at the judgement that was given, it says that those who parade at night would not have committed any offence. That is why they are not arrested. They are moving around carrying out their night duties. When you see them doing their night duties, it does not mean they do not have jobs. We are saying that as black people, we have our culture and values.
It is not legal and we cannot say that people should go to the streets to parade naked. We also respect the law and the precedence that is set by the law. Thank you.
HON. MLEYA: Thank you Madam Speaker. My question is directed to the Minister of Health. What role is being played by the Government to ensure equitable access to malaria prevention and treatment services, particularly for the vulnerable population, taking into consideration that USAID pulled out funding that was benefiting mainly the rural population? Thank you.
THE DEPUTY MINISTER OF HEALTH AND CHILD CARE (HON. DR. KWIDINI): Thank you Madam Speaker. I want to thank the Hon. Member for the question. It is true that USAID has pulled out. Nevertheless, as Government, we had our own same programme which we were running as Government under Ministry of Health for malaria prevention, which is accessible by everyone, including ARVs and TB drugs. Everything under that mandate was also run by the Government. The USAID came in as the additional to the policy which was already formulated, which refers to the question raised by the Hon. Member. In terms of accessibility, before even the malaria programme was added on the USAID programme, we had our own programmes of malaria prevention which was being done in perennial malaria areas such as Gokwe, the Lowveld and other parts of Mashonaland Central and even Manicaland. The malaria prevention and access to drugs and also other commodities like mosquito nets are still being distributed to those areas, even after the withdrawal of USAID. As for now, we cannot say there is no accessibility for those commodities which prevents malaria. I thank you.
*HON. TOBAIWA: On a point of privilege Madam Speaker. I would request that we need a document which speaks to the USAID fund. The document should clarify what the Ministry of Health is doing regarding this issue because there are so many illnesses and chronic diseases that are affected by this. This question has been raised before, so we request the Minister to bring a ministerial statement.
*THE HON. DEPUTY SPEAKER: Indeed, this was asked but it was about HIV/AIDS. Maybe the Minister should just combine all the illnesses that were covered by the USAID.
HON. DR. KWIDINI: Thank you Madam Speaker. A ministerial statement which explains the withdrawal of USAID and its impact is important. The Hon. Minister stood before the Senate to explain this state of affairs. I believe in the near future, we are going to have a comprehensive document addressing these issues, which shows that the Government that is led by His Excellency, Dr. E. D. Mnangagwa is doing a good job.
HON BAJILA: I would like the Minister to confirm that despite the sanctions, part of our health budget was being funded by the United States of America until the recent Trump statement.
HON. DR. KWIDINI: It is very difficult to confirm that our budget is supported by United States. I have never heard of any single day when the Minister of Finance presented the budget in the House saying additional funds will come from USAID or United States of America. What I know is that each and every nation has got partners who come in to select and by selecting programmes which they want to support, they come in through MOUs which will dovetail with policies of that particular country. In the case of Zimbabwe, they came in saying they wanted to assist or support HIV/AIDS, TB and malaria.
Without their assistance, maybe we can have minimum challenges but it does not necessarily mean that our programmes are going to stop because of their withdrawal.
*HON. MURWIRA: My question is directed to the Minister of Health and Child Care. What plans does Government have, especially with regards to referral hospitals where expecting mothers sleep on the floor in maternity homes? There are no beds and water yet these mothers will be waiting to deliver. I thank you.
THE DEPUTY MINISTER OF HEALTH AND CHILD CARE (HON. DR. KWIDINI): Firstly, in both urban and rural areas, we have waiting mothers’ shelters. In urban areas, council clinics were given the task of delivering women. When you go to Sally Mugabe and Parirenyatwa Hospitals, they only deal with complicated deliveries. As the overseers, we have not been informed of any challenges in council clinics and hospitals. They have not told us that they are facing challenges in terms of bedding and accommodation.
With regards to water challenges, the Ministry of Health does not deal with water issues but in all our urban areas, water comes from the local authority. When it is in the rural areas, water is supplied by ZINWA. Our responsibility is to treat people. I thank you.
+HON. S. MOYO: Thank you for the response but my follow up question is that I heard you responding about waiting shelters for expecting mothers. Most of the time these mothers’ waiting shelters do not have security and most of the women will be lying on the floor. We expect that the mothers who are waiting to deliver babies need to have a proper place for them to rest and be admitted in hospitals rather than to be given an empty room without bedding. Again, expecting mothers are not given food at these waiting shelters. They are told to look for their own food. These mothers come from far away places. What is the Government policy pertaining to the good care of these expecting mothers? I thank you.
The Hon. Deputy Minister having responded in Shona.
HON. CHINANZVAVANA: On a point of order Madam Speaker Ma’am.
THE TEMPORARY SPEAKER (HON. TSITSI ZHOU): What is your point of order?
HON. CHINANZVAVANA: My point of order is that Hon. Ministers must answer using the language of the questioner because back home people will be waiting and would want to listen to their Member of Parliament asking questions – [HON. MEMBERS: Inaudible interjections.]
THE TEMPORARY SPEAKR: Order! Can we have order in the House? English language is a language that is used in this House and understood by many. Hon. Minister, please use English language if you cannot speak Ndebele.
+ THE DEPUTY MINISTER OF HEALTH AND CHILD CARE (HON.DR. KWIDINI): Thank you Madam Speaker, it is true that women who want to give birth at the hospital go to the hospitals and in the waiting rooms there are no beds and food. As Ministry of Health, we are trying so hard and working day and night to alleviate this problem together with the Ministry of Public and Social Welfare so that they assist with food to give to the maternity wing. The beds are not very comfortable to sleep on but we are trying to acquire beds for the maternity wing.
*HON. MADZIVANYIKA: My supplementary question is that the issue of poor maternal healthcare is becoming problematic in this country. What plans do you have so that Hon. Ministers’ wives are also put to birth in their local clinics?
THE TEMPORARY SPEAKER: That is a new question.
HON. MADZIVANYIKA: On a point of order Madam Speaker.
THE TEMPORARY SPEAKER: What is your point of order?
HON. MADZIVANYIKA: When a point of order is raised, it suspends everything Hon. Speaker. With due respect, let us follow the procedure.
THE TEMPORARY SPEAKER: I am not going to allow you.
*HON. MADZIVANYIKA: But the law does not allow you to refuse a point of order.
*HON. MAKUMIRE: Thank you Madam Speaker. Hon. Madzivanyika asked a question on what Government plans are regarding the giving birth of Ministers’ wives in our local clinics. I thank you very much.
THE TEMPORARY SPEAKER: I said this is a new question not a supplementary.
HON. TOGAREPI: Madam Speaker, this Parliament must be protected from rogue elements. We must respect our ministers Hon. Speaker. You must protect our ministers from rogue elements. There are some characters...
- HON. MEMBER: On a point of order?
THE TEMPORARY SPEAKER: How can you raise a point of order when there is another point of order?
HON. TOGAREPI: We have Hon. Members who ask questions that are not genuine questions to solicit or get answers from the ministers on policy issues but characters who are trying to distract the question time. I think we need protection to stop them from asking such questions.
THE TEMPORARY SPEAKER: You are correct Hon. Member. I think we need to take Parliament business seriously and I am not going tolerate an Hon. Member who does not respect my ruling. Hon. Madzivanyika, please be reminded.
HON. MUROMBEDZI: Thank you very much Hon. Speaker. My question is considering the chronic underfunding and neglect of maternity waiting rooms. Has your Ministry explored sustainable solutions such as community led maintenance, programmes or partnerships with private stakeholders to improve and maintain these facilities to ensure consistent support for vulnerable mothers? I so submit.
THE DEPUTY MINISTER OF HEALTH AND CHILD CARE (HON. DR. KWIDINI): Thank you so much Madam Speaker. I think this is a new question. Anyway, we have not neglected waiting mothers’ shelters as of now, whilst we are constructing; this is a new project aimed at reducing the maternal complications. We want also to alleviate the problems faced by people who stay in marginalised areas and those who stay far away from the health centres. However, as a Ministry, we have got the open-door policy and as alluded by His Excellency, the President’s mantra, ‘Nyika inovakwa nevene vayo’. This also applies to the Hon. Members who are in this House that they must also use their CDF funds to help the community by constructing the mothers’ shelters. They must also use the devolution fund which is given through the local authorities to assist in the construction of these maternal shelters and maintenance of those that have been neglected. As for now, this is a new project that the ministry is embarking on and it is a noble idea, especially for expecting mothers who live far from health centres. I so submit.
HON. DR. KHUPE: On a point of privilege
THE TEMPORARY SPEAKER: What is your point of privilege?
HON. DR. KHUPE: My point of privilege is that, why is it that Government is not formalising the waiting mothers’ shelters so that they are budgeted for next time. I think if that happens, you find that they are going to be built in all the province so that women do not have any problems. There will be a conducive place where they are going to be giving birth from. You always say that when women are giving birth, they are doing a national duty.
THE TEMPORARY SPEAKER: Hon. Dr. Khupe, is that a point of privilege or it is a good way of asking a new question?
*HON. P. ZHOU: Thank you Madam Speaker, we have beautiful roads from Bulawayo to Harare and eventually to Mutare from Masvingo to Beitbridge. Along these highways, what pains me is that when getting into cities and even in the highways, you will find that there are a lot of broken cars alongside the roads or cars that have been hijacked by thieves and parts stolen. There are also cars that are not properly parked along the roads or cars blocking the roads as a result of accidents. My question to the Ministry of Transport is; what plans are in place to bring sanity to these roads in line with vision 2030 where we want clean cities and roads that attracts tourism?
*THE MINISTER OF TRANSPORT AND INFRASTRUCTUAL DEVELOPMENT (HON. MHONA): I thank you Hon. Speaker and I want to thank Hon. P. Zhou for her question. She spoke about accidents and those drivers who do not follow road rules. Such drivers do not even put reflective triangles when there is a break down but they put tree branches. Firstly, the law is very clear that when you have a break down, you must put a red triangle. You must always carry a spare wheel in cases of emergency instead of parking your car at the side of the road when there is an emergency; that is why policemen are found looking for those things at road blocks.
Motorists must leave the required gaps of about seven or sometimes six metres between the main road and the next building along the road. You will also find rural district councils allocating stands along the major roads. Along Nemakonde which was called Lomagundi, you find car sellers along the major roads but this problem has since been solved and people were asked to obey the rules of the roads and the laws. So, along our major roads, it is not allowed to build permanent structures along the roads but you should put a temporary structure. Our major roads are not just affected by broken down cars, even vendors stand right in the middle of the roads vending. These are pertinent issues that require us to find solutions to them and preserve lives.
*HON. P. ZHOU: I thank the Hon. Minister for his response. I have noted that people in urban areas will put asbestos along the roads when there is construction going on. If there are laws to safeguard this, we need to promulgate such a law in this august House. I thank you
* HON. MHONA: I want to thank the Hon. Member for that question and I thank Hon. Speaker. There are city bye-laws which stipulate that there should be a certain distance between the major road and the building next to the road or along the road. The Road Traffic Act is quite clear in terms of building houses and structures along the road. These things are clear and they are clarified by the law. We have some people who break laws willy-nilly. You would find that some do that so the ministry of Local Government has that responsibility to ensure that what happens in cities and along roads is legal. You would find that sometimes people build such illegal structures but we need to ensure that proper procedures are done so that we stop this bad behaviour. I thank you.
*HON. TOBAIWA: I want to request the Hon. Minister, he alluded to restricted areas. We have experienced a number of accidents along the Parliament road, we have a SADC Summit that is going to be held in the near future. My question is that we have seen accidents happening along this road so we need guidance from the minister regarding what could be done in restricted areas so that we avoid such accidents. I thank you.
*THE MINISTER OF TRANSPORT AND INFRASTRUCTUAL DEVELOPMENT (HON. MHONA): I thank Hon. Tobaiwa for raising a very important question which we are seized with as a Ministry. We are coming up with a Statutory Instrument which will culminate in a process where the road will be protected. We will take papers to the Attorney General’s Office so that the office will generate a Statutory Instrument, which will preserve and protect the road which leads to the Parliament which is a protected area. So, I want to thank you and I want to inform the House that in the near future, it will be stipulated that anything which is beyond seven tonnes will not be allowed to use these roads in order to protect these roads. This will be done as soon as we get the documents from the Attorney General’s Office and when the Statutory Instrument is gazetted.
There are some people who abuse these roads using heavy construction vehicles, so your vision is in line with the Ministry’s vision, I thank you.
*HON. HUNGWE: Thank you Hon. Speaker. My supplementary question is that the question that was raided by Hon. P. Zhou pertains to accidents and broken-down cars that are found along major roads. My question is, what does Government plan to do with the scrap metal that is left along the major roads?
* HON. MHONA: Thank you Hon. Speaker and I want to thank Hon. Hungwe for that question. We have some commuter omnibuses that are left along the roads and other cars and through VID, such cars will be expounded and investigations are going to be done to ascertain the reasons behind these cars being dumped along major roads.
We do not have tight laws. You would find that some people just leave their cars deliberately along major roads. When we tour the cars, it will require you to pay storage fees. In other countries, cars are toured within a short period of time. We need to work with VID and CMED so that we can tour big cars – even 30 tonners. This is what we plan to do. When your car has been toured, then you would have to pay a storage fee everyday for that car. I thank you.
Questions Without Notice were interrupted by THE TEMPORARY SPEAKER (HON. TSITSI ZHOU) in terms of Standing Order No. 68.
HON. TOGAREPI: Madam Speaker, I move for the extension of time for Questions Without Notice by 10 minutes.
HON. NYANDORO: I second.
Motion put and agreed to.
THE TEMPORARY SPEAKER: Ten minutes have been granted.
HON. JAMES: Thank you Madam Speaker Ma’am. The clarity I seek from the Hon. Minister on Hon. Tobaiwa’s question about the protection of the road is this road coming to Parliament from the Old Mazowe Road, the curve down there is dangerous. Somebody living close by those roads recorded 54 accidents since it was opened, including the one which happened this last weekend. Can the Ministry put rumble strips or some other means there to slow the traffic and prevent these accidents? I thank you.
HON. MHONA: Thank you Hon. Madam Speaker Ma’am. Let me also thank Hon. James for that very wonderful suggestion which we do concur with, to also erect rumble strips just before the turn off and after the turn off. So, we will do accordingly. I thank you.
*HON. MAUNGANIDZE: Thank you very much Hon. Speaker Ma’am. I want to direct my question to the Hon. Minister of Transport and Infrastructural Development. We notice that in the past few days, our roads were affected by the rains. My question is; does Government have any plans of rehabilitating these roads? I thank you.
*HON. MHONA: Thank you Madam Speaker. I want to thank Hon. Maunganidze. It is true, we rejoice because of the abundant rains that we received despite that the rains destroyed our roads. I want to appreciate that Government, through the Emergency Road Rehabilitation Programme 2 which was set up by the Statutory Instrument of 2021 which ended in 2024, we thank His Excellency, President Dr. E. D. Mnangagwa for adding to the programme and stretching it to 2026. This means that we will not be going back to request for a supplementary budget.
We are working on the roads and it is my request that we have four road authorities, the Department of Roads, the local authority, rural district councils and RIDA, which was DDF in the past. It depends on where you are coming from, sometimes it will be under rural district councils or under RIDA. So, we need to sit down and look at the state of our roads and to look at the equipment that is in different localities so that we converge, we sit down and discuss about these issues. Fuel would be given to the Rural District Council for accounting purposes so that auditors audit and then they would approach the council as the accounting office.
We are doing gravelling, we have engineers at provinces, at districts who work with road authorities to ascertain the status of different roads. I also request that this august House should look into these issues in terms of allocating funds to the Ministry of Transport, particularly for such projects. We will not sit on our laurels but we are going to continue working hard so that we rehabilitate our roads. I thank you.
*HON. P. MOYO: Thank you Madam Speaker. My supplementary question is; what plans does the Hon. Minister have with regards to the roads which are damaged by these rains, especially those in highways?
*HON. MHONA: Thank you Madam Speaker. I would like to thank Hon. Moyo for the question. She mentioned the issue to do with these big roads. She did not mention specifically the route but before they get to Mwenezi, they go past the Masvingo Road but there is a programme where they want people to attend to a road in Mwenezi. There was a half-done project.
What I am simply saying is that the amount of rainfall is actually reducing, so we would like to continue with the road rehabilitation. We only have 80 kms to finish the Beitbridge- Masvingo-Harare route. I promise you that by October, we will have completed the whole project in all those ways where we used to have detours.
We initiated the programme from Chirundu to Harare. We are targeting two years and we must be done with Westgate-Chirundu Border Post route. We would like to extend and upgrade the border post. We target those people who come from Mozambique to Nyamapanda. We have private partnership and public partnership that are working on those roads.
We have our dualisation programme which is now at Melfort and we intend to proceed up to Marondera to cater for those people who have got challenges in going past Christmas Pass. We are trying to by-pass the Christmas Pass when going through the Forbes Border Post. Those are the four road networks which link us to other international companies and this other route which links to Kanyemba Border Post. I thank you.
*HON. MUDUMI: Thank you Madam Speaker for the opportunity accorded to me. My question is directed to the Minister of Transport and Infrastructural Development. Whenever you are working on the grass cutting, can you not give those duties to the local youths? We discovered that a lot of people are coming from a distance, why can you not employ youths from the local areas.
*THE TEMPORARY SPEAKER: It is a new question but I would like to allow the Hon. Minister to respond because it is targeting the youths.
*THE MINISTER OF TRANSPORT AND INFRASTRUCTURAL DEVELOPMENT (HON. MHONA): Thank you Hon. Speaker and I would like to also thank the Hon. Member for asking this question. Honestly, we actually advise those people who are working in those areas, to take into cognisance the youths and the women in those areas. I am not saying that their husbands should be left out but some of the duties actually need general hand, even for grass cutting we use wheelbarrows as well. These two categories should work in those areas. We recommend to those companies who are working in those areas to ensure that they employ people from those areas.
Madam Speaker, even if you compare with the Rwanda, the other companies in Rwanda are actually saying women, they are very specific and ensure that whenever they want to do paving, women are the ones who do paving. Whenever we work on roads, we give an opportunity to those women and youths. I thank you.
*HON. MHETU: My question is focusing on drivers. Drivers are being arrested for driving vehicles without spare wheels and reflectors, others are punished for using the biscuit spare wheels. Taking into cognisant the type of vehicles that we are buying these days, we are buying vehicles which do not have anywhere to place the spare wheel and some of them do have reflectors already. My question is, what is Government plan with regards to those people who are being arrested for using vehicles with those biscuit wheels?
*THE TEMPORARY SPEAKER: Hon. Mhetu, that is a new question. You have to ask for another opportunity for that new question.
*HON. S. TSHUMA: Thank you Madam Speaker. I want to seek clarity, on the 18th April, 2025, the whole country of Zimbabwe is celebrating its independence and this year it will be held in Gokwe North. When the Hon. Minister was mentioning the issue to do with roads, I had a certain feeling that all the areas surrounding Nembudziya, which is the central place where people will celebrate independence, the routes from Sanyati, Karoi, Matabeleland North, for all those, roads nothing has been done so far. I would like to ask the Hon. Minister of Transport to tell us what plans does he have for people to access the central point of celebrations? I thank you.
*THE TEMPORARY SPEAKER: That is a specific question Hon. Member.
*HON. BONDA: The Minister touched almost all the roads but I want to remind him that there is this road from Victoria Falls to Beitbridge, people are watching television, maybe if he had actually touched even if there are some other arrangements that are pertinent.
* HON. MHONA: Thank you Madam Speaker Ma’am. I would like to admit that this question was asked before. It does not mean that the roads which I mentioned are the only important roads. My apologies, that route is very important because that accommodates a lot of international delegates. We have a very important meeting which will be held this year. I spoke focusing in this area Mashonaland Central but if I simply sit down without mentioning it, people will say I did not mention it. We go into Mukumbura Border Post, that is the same route which leads us. If we focus on Midlands, if we go to Chikwalakwala, we have from Gweru, if I mention that area, others will say why did you not mention up to the border post. Those are some of the roads that we have in the pipeline. We have close to 760 kilometres from Beitbridge to Bulawayo, then from Bulawayo to Victoria Falls. I am happy that we have a company which is working on those roads. We mentioned that they are working together with a certain company, we agreed that the company should concentrate on the worst affected areas. We have 760 kilometres which are the worst which are Hwange to Victoria Falls, Lupane to Bulawayo, those are the areas which are actually affected. We have a company which is going to resume its duties in repairing all those roads. All those roads which are slightly damaged, they will simply repair them. Our aim is to expand the whole road from Bulawayo to Victoria Falls. We are going to start from Kwekwe, going to Lupane, Silobela, Lupane, Nkayi and so on. Those are some of the big roads which people are worried about. Do not despair, I might have omitted the name, other people from Mashonaland West might say from Binga, Cross Dete, then we link with the route to Bulawayo. Those are some of the routes which we discover are very important. I thank you.
*THE TEMPORARY SPEAKER: Order! The additional time is up so it is time for questions with notice.
HON. MADZIVANYIKA: I rise on a point of privilege Hon. Speaker. Last week on Wednesday, I rose on a point of privilege to the effect that our Questions with Notice are not appearing on the Order Paper. I sent my questions on the 19th of February, 2025, according to Standing Order No. 68 (6), and I want to quote for the second time. Notices of questions for oral answers mut be given no later than 1300 hrs on Thursdays for answers on the following Wednesday and on Monday for answers on the following Friday. This is the position of the law. I have got seven questions Madam Speaker, which I sent to the Journals Office on the 19th February, 2025. Up to date, Madam Speaker, this is for the second time that I am raising the issue that my questions are not appearing on the Order Paper. I seek your help on this very important subject. I am sure the Hon. Members are facing the same circumstances. Thank you very much.
THE HON. DEPUTY SPEAKER: We apologise for that, Hon. Madzivanyika. I am being informed that the issue is under investigation in the Journals Office. We are going to revert to you with the response. Hon. Members, please note that we are always complaining that the Hon. Ministers are not coming for Questions Without Notice. I have noticed many questions were channelled towards the same Ministers when we had quite a number of ministries in the House. When an announcement has been done on the ministries available, please can we ask as many questions to the Hon. Ministers who will be available? We should avoid asking questions to the same ministries over and over again.
*HON. ENG. MHANGWA: Madam Speaker, this is a plea. I am kindly asking in Shona. The CSC question started in July when we were still in Industry. It was moved in November to Agriculture. I am actually tired of being on number 1 which is being deferred up to now. People from Chinhoyi are actually keen to hear. Please Minister, may you kindly ask them to respond to this question. I thank you.
ORAL ANSWERS TO QUESTIONS WITH NOTICE
DETAILS ON LITHIUM MINED AT MANDIHONGOLA LITHIUM MINE
- HON. NKALA asked the Minister of Mines and Mining Development to furnish the House with details on how much lithium has been produced at Mandihongola Lithium Mine since its inception and to state the percentages of sales that have been donated towards local development programmes such as roads, clinics and others if any.
THE MINISTER OF MINES AND MINING DEVELOPMENT (HON. CHITANDO): Thank you Madam Speaker. Gwanda lithium mine has completed construction of its lithium processing plant and she has been following up on the application for an approved processing plant permit with the Ministry. They were given a waiver to proceed pending the approval of the permit. In the meantime, Gwanda lithium mine is currently producing 1 500 tonnes per day of lithium concentrate since its inception in January 2024. The Ministry granted a six-month export licence permit for trial shipment of 5 000 metric tonnes of lithium concentrate to China to establish the potential markets for their product.
Despite not being in full production, the company has been committed to undertaking corporate social responsibility programmes within the community. Since 2023, before they even built the plant, the company conducted the following: Number one, implementation of an 88-kilovolt power line running 80 kilometres from Dubane substation to the mine. Number two, they constructed a new stretching road from Mandihongola to Vela, which is about 29 kilometres long. Number three, they also rehabilitated Mandihongola Clinic premise. Number four, they constructed Sandawana Community bridge, which is about 20 metres in length. They did food distribution towards 11. Number six, they constructed a market store and subcontracting catering services to the local communities. Thank you.
HON. NKALA: Thank you Mr Speaker. I want the Minister to confirm if this 88 kv power line is dedicated to the community or it is for the benefit of the mine because the question is asking for projects that are benefiting the community. What is benefiting the mine is something else but we are talking about the community surrounding that area. Are they equitably benefiting from the existence of the company in their area?
HON. CHITANDO: Thank you Hon. Speaker. I would like to thank the Hon. Member for the follow-up question. The 88 kv line is one of the initiatives that the company has done for themselves and also, it can benefit the community in that when people want to connect to that line, they will have to apply through RIA and they will be allowed also to use that facility. Thank you.
POLICY REGARDING MINE EMPLOYEES WHO CONTRIBUTED PENSIONS IN USD CURRENCY BUT RECEIVED PAY-OUTS IN LOCAL CURRENCY
- 19. HON. MUROMBEDZI asked the Minister of Mines and Mining Development what the Government policy is regarding mine employees who contributed pension to the MIPF in USD but later received pay-outs in local currency and to elaborate on the measures being put in place to ensure those who made lifetime pension contributions get their pensions in the currency and value they contributed.
THE MINISTER OF MINES AND MINING DEVELOPMENT (HON. CHITANDO): Following the introduction of the modern currency regime in March 2009, the funds started receiving contributions in the United States dollars which was the functioning currency until 2019. Therefore, the funds' pension contributions, investment returns and benefits were paid in foreign currency during this period. The currency reform implemented in 2019 had the effect of re-denominating all foreign currency assets and liabilities into Zimbabwean currency as the new mono-currency. During lessons from the 2009 currency reform, IPEC issued a guidance paper on the conversions of insurance and pension liabilities from US dollar to local currency. Hon. Speaker Sir, if ever there should be any need for clarity on this question, the Ministry of Mines and Mining Development refers this issue to the appropriate ministry, which is the Ministry of Finance, Economic Development and Investment Promotion. Thank you.
DETAILS OF MINING ACTIVITIES AT BOTEREKWA MOUNTAINS NEAR SHURUGWI
- HON. C. HLATYWAYO asked the Minister of Mines and Mining Development to inform the House on details of mining activities taking place at Boterekwa Mountains near Shurugwi and to disclose the mining companies involved.
THE HON. MINISTER OF MINES AND MINING DEVELOPMENT (HON. CHITANDO): There are currently two mining companies that are carrying out mining activities in the Boterekwa mountains. These are Chenxi Mining Company and Saironi Mining Company, which both bought pre-existing mining locations from previous owners. Chenxi Minning Company is conducting surface mining of gold and heap leaching, while Saironi Mining Company is carrying out underground and surface mining rushing, milling, CIP and elution. The mining companies have some valid EIA certificates and mine managers in place.
CURBING OF MINING ACTIVITIES ALONG DEKA RIVER
- HON. BONDA asked the Minister of Mines and Mining Development to explain to the House what Government is doing to stop mining activities along the Deka River which are causing water pollution.
THE DEPUTY MINISTER OF MINES AND MINING DEVELOPMENT (HON KAMBAMURA): Alluvial mining or river bed mining was banned by Government and as such, the Ministry of Mines and Mining Development together with other stakeholders before the end of this month March, are going to undertake an exercise to visit the cite and assess the concerns which have been raised by the Hon Member on the effects of mining on Deka River and take immediate appropriate action.
HON. BONDA: I once asked this question last year and I was promised that there will be a Committee that will have an oversight role at Deka River. There are people who passed away at Deka River when they drank water polluted with sulphur. We are losing some domestic animals as well and today they are saying that they will have an oversight role. When I once asked this question some time ago, I think the Government neglected some of the people who are living along those places.
This mantra of leaving no one and no place behind is leaving behind some people who are living in Hwange. This issue is well known that there are miners who are mining along Deka River. The Minister of Environment and the Minister of Mines knows that very well. It is not fair to some other people to be sent in the next chapter to have an oversight role. Every minister knows about the mining activities, even people from EMA know about this issue. I thank you.
HON. KAMBAMURA: Thank you Hon. Speaker. I would like to thank Hon. Member for his concerns. We are going to take urgent reaction and action on the matter very soon. As I have said, it is any time before the end of March but with the concern that the Hon. Member has raised, we are going to take action urgently. I thank you.
HON. JAMES: Thank you Mr. Speaker. Can I ask the Minister if he is planning a visit to Deka? Would he also include in that visit, a visit to the mining activity at Hwange Game Park there? There is great concern as to why it is happening within the game park and the pollution that follows.
HON. KAMBAMURA: Hon. Speaker Sir, I would like to urge Hon. James, if ever he has other concerns with regard to activities which are happening along Deka River and areas which he wants us to also visit, can you please put it in writing so that when we undertake the visit, we make a thorough investigations and make the appropriate action?
PAYMENT OF PENSIONERS’ GRATUITY OF SERVICE BY HWANGE COLLIERY FROM THE YEAR 2000
- HON. BONDA asked the Minister of Mines and Mining Development to brief the House on measures taken by the Government to ensure the payment of pensioners’ gratuity of service by Hwange Colliery from the year 2000.
THE DEPUTY MINISTER OF MINES AND MINING DEVELOPMENT (HON. KAMBAMURA): Hon. Speaker, Hwange Colliery is a company quoted on the Harare and London Stock Exchange and also it is under administration. Considering this, it is not proper to sell out the company's shareholding and if also the workers are part of the parent company, considering that it is a listed company and under administration. Thank you.
+HON. BONDA: My question is, prior, there were shares that were sold to our workers and what is the position of the workers of those shares that were sold to Hwange employees, were they paid those shares or they are still available? I want to know about the percentage of those shares.
HON. KAMBAMURA: Hon. Speaker Sir, like I have indicated, Hwange Colliery is under administration and by such, it falls under the Ministry of Justice. So, I want to refer that question to the Ministry of Justice.
POLICY ON ALLUVIAL GOLD MINING AT CHIBARA AND CHINYUDZE AREAS IN HURUNGWE
- HON MUROMBEDZI asked the Minister of Mines and Mining Development to explain to the House, the Government policy on alluvial gold mining taking place at Chibara and Chinyudze areas along Angwa River in Hurungwe.
THE MINISTER OF MINES AND MINING DEVELOPMENT (HON. CHITANDO): Thank you Hon. Speaker Sir. All alluvial mining was banned by Government under Statutory Instrument 188 of 2024. If there is any alluvial mining taking place, stakeholders are requested to report the matters to the law enforcement agents, the ZRP so that law enforcement will be effected. Thank you.
NUMBER OF ZIMBABWEANS STUDYING IN POLAND AND AUTHENTICITY OF THE SCHOOLS AND COLLEGES
- HON. BAJILA asked the Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Trade to inform the House the number of Zimbabweans studying in Poland and to confirm the authenticity of schools and colleges that they are attending.
THE DEPUTY MINISTER OF FOREIGN AFFAIRS AND INTERNATIONAL TRADE (HON. CHIKOMO): Thank you very much Mr. Speaker Sir. The report of significant population of Zimbabweans residing in Poland on this community comprises not only students but also truck drivers who have been attracted to Poland for various opportunities and disperse throughout Poland. Poland serves as a gateway to Europe and the United Kingdom, making it an appealing destination for many Zimbabweans. In terms of figures, current estimates are just that they are around 13 000 Zimbabwean students in Poland. However, many of the students who are studying in Poland have made private arrangements to be in that country and have not reached out to our Embassy in Germany which is also accredited to Poland to notify of their presence of stay. This has made it difficult for our Embassy to accurately determine the number of Zimbabweans in Poland. The Embassy has been working closely with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Trade and of Poland, to ascertain the actual figure of Zimbabweans living in Poland. So far, the exercise has not yielded any desired results. This will then mean that it requires that our Embassy travels to Poland for some days, to conduct a comprehensive exercise within the country.
One of the factors drawing many foreigners including Zimbabweans to Poland are the relatively low university fees which are approximately 3 500 per year. Zimbabwean students in Poland are enrolled in different universities with Vincent Pol University (VPU) in Lublin being one of the most prominent options. VPU is officially registered with the Policy Ministry of Science Higher Tertiary Education, allowing it to recognise Bachelors and Masters degrees. Notably, VPU has recently seen about 300 Zimbabwean students graduate in the last year.
The comprehensive exercise to ascertain the actual population of Zimbabweans in Poland and the institutions that students are enrolled in would help us to fully respond to the question of the authenticity of the institutions that our citizens have chosen to study. I thank you.
HON. BAJILA: I would like to thank the Minister for bringing the response finally. Last year we saw publication of a list of graduates from the very VPU that you mentioned in your response. Some classes by way of name only, all graduates were Zimbabweans in those classes, the entire class at a university in Poland, all graduates will be Zimbabweans. Therefore, Hon. Minister, the question of the authenticity of those universities is of paramount importance because it is quite strange for an entire class in a country such as Poland to have only Zimbabweans graduating out of it.
HON. CHIKOMO: What is your question Hon. Member?
HON. BAJILA: Through you Mr. Speaker, my question is, how far are they going? What are they doing to verify the authenticity of the universities and colleges, at least of those Zimbabweans whom are officially in our statistics because there are some whom they are not sure whether they are there or not because of the private arrangements that they made but of those Zimbabweans who the Embassy can account for, the institutions that they are studying in, what is their authenticity? Have you verified?
HON. CHIKOMO: I think earlier in my statement, I have alluded that the members will travel to Poland for some days to conduct a comprehensive exercise within the country, so by then, that is when we will know exactly how many students are registered. Like you have already mentioned, some students have gone there on their personal will. So we would not know where they are and what they are doing but as l have told you from what I have just said earlier, kindly note that the Embassy will travel to Poland to provide you with that comprehensive response, I thank you.
THE TEMPORARY SPEAKER (HON. NGULUVHE): I think Hon. Bajila, it is better you provide the colleges and schools if you have them so that the Ministry can actually check on them.
RE-ENGAGEMENT WITH THE AMERICAN GOVERNMENT
- HON. G. K. HLATYWAYO asked the Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Trade on Government’s position on re-engagement with the American Government given the recent changes particularly on the removal of the 2003 Executive Orders and the designation of 11 individuals and three entities under the Global Magnitsky Act.
HON. CHIKOMO: Thank you Mr. Speaker Sir and thank you Hon. Hlatywayo for the question posed to our Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Trade.
As Hon. Members, we would be aware that Zimbabwe was slapped with the ZIDERA sanctions since 2001 where-in the US Government and its nationals who are directors in the international financial institution, including the International Monetary Fund, World Bank and the African Development Bank in which the US is a shareholder, were required to block any financial assistance to Zimbabwe.
In addition to ZIDERA, Presidential Executive Order No. 13288 was issued on 6 March 2003, declaring of course, a national emergency and characterising the actions and policies of certain members of the Government of Zimbabwe as constituting an unusual and extraordinary threat to the foreign policy of the United States. The Presidential Executive Order was renewed annually, since 2003 until 4th March 2024. On 4th March 2024, the then President of the United States of America, Mr. Joseph Biden, signed an Executive Order terminating the Executive Order 13288 and subsequent Executive Orders13391 of 22nd November 2005 and 13469 of 25th July 2008. By signing this Executive Order, the President of the United States of America revoked Zimbabwe's specific economic sanctions administered by the Office of Foreign Assets Control, the OFAC, of the Treasury Department. However, the Global Magnitsky Human Rights Accountability Act is still in place.
Mr. Speaker, the Global Magnitsky Human Rights Accountability Act on Zimbabwe essentially means that ZIDERA remains in place. What was terminated was the Zimbabwe Sanctions Programme administered by OFAC. Its replacement, the Global Magnitsky Sanctions Programme, remains a concern to Zimbabwe as it continues targeting of His Excellency, the President, Dr. Emerson Dambudzo Mnangagwa. We will have the same damaging effects on brand Zimbabwe. We do not view the removal of some individuals and entities of the sanctions list as a significant development.
We, therefore, continue to call for the unconditional removal of all sanctions, including the immediate delisting of all persons and businesses affected by the new Global Magnitsky Sanctions Programme. Mr. Speaker Sir, this sanctions programme will apply in the same way as the previous programme, as it imposes the following restrictions:
- The blocking of assets and prohibition of transactions.
- The freezing of any property held within the US jurisdiction and prohibition of US individuals or entities from entering into transactions with the designated person.
- Denial of entry into the United States.
- Revocation of any already issued visas, except for visits associated with the United Nations or other applicable international obligations of the United States of America.
In conclusion Mr. Speaker, we believe that our push for the removal of all US sanctions imposed on the country can only be achieved through genuine dialogue between Zimbabwe and the
United States of America. In this context, we are guided by the Constitution of Zimbabwe and by His Excellency, the President's Doctrine of Zimbabwe's Foreign Relations and International Cooperation, which provide the context that governs Zimbabwe's reaction to foreign actions within the international environment. In particular, the context of our engagement and re-engagement efforts with the US follows the philosophies of a friend to all and an enemy to none. Zimbabwe is open for business and Zimbabwe will forever be a sovereign country. I thank you.
HON. G. K. HLATYWAYO: Thank you so much Mr. Speaker Sir. I thank the Minister for her response. I need to thank her because it has taken so long for her to come and respond to the question given that was posed in March 2024. Be that as it may, my supplementary question in relation to what she has given to the House is that a perusal of the Magnitsky Act reveals that it targets the most notorious and corrupt individuals as well as human rights abusers. It is a high-level profile sanctions regime. President Mnangagwa is the only President in the world on that list. We cannot have a sitting President on such a list of shame. Why is it so hard for Government to implement political and economic reforms, opening up of the media space, respect for human rights, respect for media freedoms, electoral reforms to conduct free and fair elections? Why is it so hard for Government to undertake some of these economic and political reforms? I so submit.
HON. CHIKOMO: Thank you very much Mr. Speaker. With your indulgence, firstly, I would like to let the House know that if you sanction one person, especially the Head of State, even the confidence of
our investment in trade is at stake. We cannot tolerate having our first citizen on such a list. It is not difficult, as you have alluded to in your question, to do the right thing but I would want to let the House and the Speaker know that we are doing the right thing. That is why I have stated in my statement that we are having dialogue with America to make sure that all the sanctions are equally removed because they are coercive and proposes for unilateral coercive measures, which is not good for our country and trade. I thank you.
HON. ZVAIPA: Thank you Mr. Speaker Sir. My supplementary question is again directed to the Honourable Minister. Since 2003, when ZIDERA was crafted, was it ever used in our country as Zimbabwe? Was ZIDERA used by the United States on us? Thank you.
HON. CHIKOMO: Thank you Honourable Member and thank you Mr. Speaker for the question raised to the House. First of all, I would like to let the Honourable Member know that we are not getting any lines of credit from any other country because we are a sovereign country. The fact that - [HON. G. K. HLATYWAYO: Point of order. Point of order.] - May I be protected?
HON. G. K. HLATYWAYO: Point of order.
THE TEMPORARY SPEAKER: What is your point of order?
HON. G. K. HLATYWAYO: My point of order is that the Minister is misleading the House. The reason why Zimbabwe is not getting lines of credit is because we owe to international financial institutions. It has nothing to do with ZIDERA and the question is, was ZIDERA ever used to stop Zimbabwe from getting lines of credit? The answer is no. The United States of America has never used ZIDERA against stopping us from accessing - [HON. MEMBERS: Point of order Mr. Speaker.] - to international institutions ...
THE TEMPORARY SPEAKER: Hon. Hlatywayo, I think we
are not here to debate whether ZIDERA is there or not. So, let the Minister go ahead - [HON. G. K. HLATYWAYO: It looks like you did not hear what I said, Chairperson.] - Hon. Hlatywayo, please. I heard. You said she is misleading the House.
HON. G. K. HLATYWAYO: Yes, because she is.
THE TEMPORARY SPEAKER: Unfortunately, we cannot engage on debates on the Minister's speech. We cannot debate on this one.
HON. TIMBURWA: On a point of order Mr. Speaker Sir.
THE TEMPORARY SPEAKER: What is your point of order?
HON. TIMBURWA: On a point of order Mr. Speaker. The Member of Parliament is out of order. ZIDERA has effects on this economy in all aspects. Ever since Zimbabwe was placed under ZIDERA sanctions, we lost more than 80 lines of credit which affects every citizen to transact with any country in this country. So, the Hon. Member is out of order.
THE TEMPORARY SPEAKER: I am sure we are all aware that there is a direct effect, whether we want to believe it or not but that is the truth of the matter. So, we cannot debate on that one.
HON. P. MOYO: I recognise you Hon. Moyo. Can Hon. Hlatywayo withdraw the statement that the Hon. Minister is misleading the House? – [AN HON. MEMBER: There is no Hon. Sashwayo. There is no Sashwayo. Where is such Sashwayo?] –
THE TEMPORARY SPEAKER: Hon. Members, for the sake of progress, can we move on to question number 27?
HON. BAJILA: I would like to thank the Minister for her response, including her mentioning that Zimbabwe is in the process of engaging with the United States with the intention of having an amendment or a removal of our citizens from the Global Magnitsky list. Now, the Global Magnitsky List emanates from a Russian tax lawyer …
THE TEMPORARY SPEAKER: Go straight to your question.
HON. BAJILA: My question is that in your engagements with the United States, given that the Global Magnitsky List is a list of persons accused of using impunity when their corruption is exposed, in your engagements with the United States, are you making any commitments to ensure that there is no impunity as a response when corruption is exposed? Are you making any such commitments in your engagement with the United States?
HON. CHIKOMO: Thank you Mr Speaker. I wish to notify the Hon. Member that these are ongoing discussions. If there is anything of interest, we will update the House. I thank you.
POSITION OF SADC ON ONGOING ELECTORAL CONFLICT IN MOZAMBIQUE
- HON. G. K. HLATYWAYO asked the Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Trade to inform the House the position of SADC in the ongoing electoral conflict in Mozambique following the disputed elections of 9 October 2024, given that Zimbabwe is the current Chairperson of SADC.
THE DEPUTY MINISTER OF FOREIGN AFFAIRS AND INTERNATIONAL TRADE (HON. CHIKOMO): Firstly, let me also state that this question was asked last year in 2024 and understanding
that the Mozambique elections are already held, the Hon. Member may recall that Zimbabwe hosted an Extraordinary Summit of SADC Heads of State and Government in Harare on 20 November 2024 and during that meeting, the then President of the Republic of Mozambique, His Excellency Nyusi, updated the Summit on the political situation in his country following the conduct of the 9 October 2024 General Elections. He assured the Summit that the new President would be sworn-in mid-January 2025 and that misunderstandings related to the election will be resolved internally through the country's legal processes.
The new President of the Republic of Mozambique, His Excellency President Daniel Francisco Chapo, was sworn in on the 15th January 2025 as promised - [HON. MEMBERS: Hear, hear.]- Mr Speaker, in terms of the structure of SADC, the Organ on Politics, Defence and Security Cooperation currently chaired by Her Excellency Dr. Hassan, President of the United Republic of Tanzania, deals with the region's peace and security matters. The Organ is seized with development in the region, including in Mozambique. That would require the attention of the bloc at the level of the SADC Summit. No issues concerning Mozambique have been brought to the attention of the SADC Chair from the Organ. I thank you.
HON. G. K. HLATYWAYO: Thank you so much Hon. Minister for your response and again, like you rightly noted, this question was asked a very long time ago and never responded to. We thank you for coming and finally responding to it. My supplementary question relates to the SADC early warning, early response mechanism. I want to get your comments on whether you think this is a useful tool in terms of how it has been implemented. We were talking about a SADC Summit and you know, a SADC Extraordinary Summit that was convened to talk about Mozambique but this was convened at a very late stage when we had lost a lot of lives in Mozambique. You are also aware that there was the Panel of Elders that was supposed to go in and engage the stakeholders in Mozambique and it never happened. I want to understand whether you think the early warning, early response mechanism of SADC is functional and what needs to happen to make sure that, you know as we Chair SADC as Zimbabwe, we are able to respond to issues in a timely manner. I so submit.
HON. TIMBURWA: Order Mr. Speaker Sir!
THE TEMPORARY SPEAKER (HON. NGULUVHE): What is your point of order?
HON. TIMBURWA: My point of order, Mr. Speaker, is that this is a Parliament of the Republic of Zimbabwe. This is not a SADC Parliament. The question from the Hon. Member, as Zimbabwe, we respect the sovereignty of Mozambique as a nation and the Hon. Minister is responding on the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Affairs which is Zimbabwean, Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Affairs, not SADC.
HON. CHIKOMO: Thank you Mr. Speaker Sir. I would like to think that Hon. Hlatywayo’s statement is very insulting in the sense that you cannot say that a board that our President, His Excellency Dr. Dambudzo Mnangagwa is chairing is dysfunctional. I would also like to say that the question, is it functional…
HON. G. K. HLATYWAYO: Point of order, Mr. Speaker Sir.
HON. CHIKOMO: Can I please finish, Mr. Speaker?
THE TEMPORARY SPEAKER: Hon. Hlatywayo, your point of order is overruled. Let her finish.
HON. CHIKOMO: I would like to thank you Mr. Speaker. Her question in context is, is it really a useful tool, is it really a functional tool? So, by that statement, I would still repeat what I said earlier but in the interest of time, Mr. Speaker Sir, allow me to say Section 12 of the Constitution provides that Zimbabwe's foreign policy must be based on principle of peaceful settlement on any matter and that Zimbabwe remains non-aligned.
To follow up, allow me also to say that Zimbabwe is a friend to all and an enemy to none. Zimbabwe is committed to principles of sovereign territorial integrity and non-interference in international affairs. Lastly, Mr. Speaker Sir, the Hon. Member is relying on social media hearsays.
HON. G. K. HLATYWAYO: Point of order Mr. Speaker Sir.
THE TEMPORARY SPEAKER: Your point of order is overruled. Conclude your statement, Hon. Minister – [AN HON. MEMBER: Point of order.]
THE TEMPORARY SPEAKER: Your point of order is overruled. Let the Minister finish then you will be given a chance. You can continue Hon. Minister – [HON. MEMBERS: Inaudible interjections]
*HON. CHIKOMO: Thank you Mr. Speaker Sir. I think they have heard what I said. I thank you.
Questions With Notice were interrupted by THE TEMPORARY SPEAKER in terms of Standing Order No.68
MOTION
BUSINESS OF THE HOUSE
HON. TOGAREPI: Mr. Speaker, I move that Orders of the Day, Numbers 1 to 25 be stood over until Order of the Day Number 26 on today’s Order Paper has been disposed of.
HON. NYANDORO: I second.
Motion put and agreed to.
MOTION
REPORT OF THE PORTFOLIO COMMITTEE ON ICT, POSTAL AND COURIER SERVICES ON MOBILE AND INTERNET CONNECTIVITY
Twenty Sixth Order read: Adjourned debate on motion on the report of the Portfolio Committee on ICT, Postal and Courier Services on mobile and internet connectivity in Zimbabwe.
Question again proposed.
HON. V. MOYO: Thank you, Mr. Speaker and good afternoon. Firstly, I want to thank the Minister for the comprehensive report on all the matters that were raised and all the observations that were observed by the Committee. I would also want to thank every Hon. Member who debated on this very critical report. Without much further ado Mr. Speaker Sir, I want to move that this report be adopted;
Motion that this House considers and adopts the Report of the Portfolio Committee on ICT, Postal and Courier Services on mobile and internet connectivity in Zimbabwe, put and agreed to.
MINISTERIAL STATEMENT
FOOD DEFICIT MITIGATION STRATEGY PROGRAMME
THE DEPUTY MINISTER OF PUBLIC SERVICE, LABOUR AND SOCIAL WELFARE (HON. DINHA): I rise to give an update to the Parliament of Zimbabwe on the Food Deficit Mitigation Strategy Programme. The Fourth Blitz Food Distribution phase is underway, though at a slow pace as various depots in provinces like Manicaland, Mashonaland East, Masvingo, Matabeleland South and Midlands have run out of stocks. Currently, Manicaland and Mashonaland East are withdrawing their tonnage from concession depots with assistance from well-wishers.
Treasury released ZiG 40 million to clear transport arrears which is but a drop in the ocean out of approximately ZiG 238,162,757,032 that the Ministry owes to transporters. Vulnerable groups are finding it difficult to c ontribute to transport costs, hence Treasury should consider release of more funds to pay transportation of grain and clearance of arrears.
Update on the distribution from the first blitz to date: The first blitz of food distribution was from May to July, 2024. During the first blitz food distribution from May to July, 2024, a total of 5 579 709 food insecure people was reached, with approximately 123 293 metric tonnes which translates to about 89.2% of grain as indicated in the table below:
|
Province |
Total population to benefit |
Grain Rqmnt/3 months |
Cumulative (mt) |
% Coverage |
Balance (mt) |
|
Manicaland |
1,087,314 |
24,464.59 |
21,922.30 |
89.6% |
2,542.29 |
|
Mash. Central |
626.735 |
14,101.54 |
14,101.54 |
100.0% |
- |
|
Mash. East |
925,210 |
20,817.85 |
14,878.57 |
71.5% |
5,939.28 |
|
Mash. West |
803.370 |
18,075.82 |
16,896.12 |
93.5% |
1,179.70 |
|
Masvingo |
951,466 |
21,407.98 |
20824.01 |
97.3% |
583.97 |
|
Mat. North |
520,524 |
11,711.79 |
9,987.67 |
85.3% |
1,724.12 |
|
Mat. South |
322,336 |
7,251.81 |
7,251.81 |
100.0% |
- |
|
Midlands |
903,969 |
20,339.31 |
17,431.33 |
85.7% |
2,907.97 |
|
National |
6,140,924 |
138,170.68 |
123,293.35 |
89.2% |
14,877.33 |
The second blitz food distribution was from August to October, 2024. During the second blitz, a cumulative total of 100 985 tonnes, that is 72.2% was delivered to about 4 488 244 people. The total of coverage was 72.2%.
Table 2 below indicated the distributions by province:
|
Province |
Total population to benefit |
Grain Rqmnt/3 months |
Cumulative (mt) |
% Coverage |
Balance (mt) |
|
Manicaland |
1,087,314 |
24,464.59 |
18,405.40 |
75.2% |
6,059.17 |
|
Mash. Central |
698.256 |
15,710.76 |
11,043.54 |
70.3% |
4,667.23 |
|
Mash. East |
925,210 |
20,817.23 |
18,195.49 |
87.4% |
2,621.74 |
|
Mash. West |
803.370 |
18,075.83 |
11,802.55 |
65.3% |
1,179.70 |
|
Masvingo |
954,205 |
21,469.61 |
14,269.35 |
66.5% |
7,200.26 |
|
Mat. North |
520,524 |
11,711.79 |
9,049.55 |
77.3% |
2,662.24 |
|
Mat. South |
322,927 |
7,265.86 |
9,049.55 |
95.0% |
364.61 |
|
Midlands |
903,969 |
20,339.30 |
11,318.38 |
55.6% |
9,020.92 |
|
National |
6,215,775 |
139,854.94 |
100,985.50 |
72.2% |
38,869.44 |
The third blitz, food distribution was from November, 2024 to January, 2025. Out of the targeted six million people, a total of 4 049 424 people were reached with grain with 91 112.04 metric tonnes, which translate to 61.7% of grain. There is a coverage of 61.7%.
Table 3 Distributions by Province under 3rd Blitz
|
Province |
Total population to benefit |
Grain Rqmnt/3 months |
Cumulative (mt) |
% Coverage |
Balance (mt) |
|
Manicaland |
1,223,732 |
27,533.97 |
16,568.32 |
60.2% |
10,065.65 |
|
Mash. Central |
762.290 |
17,151.53 |
12,347.56 |
72.0% |
4,803.97 |
|
Mash. East |
960526 |
21,611.84 |
15,513.12 |
71.8% |
6,098.72 |
|
Mash. West |
867,642 |
19,521.95 |
16,808.30 |
86.1% |
2,713.62 |
|
Masvingo |
969,470 |
21,813.08 |
10,693.61 |
49.0%.5% |
11,119.47 |
|
Mat. North |
524,713 |
11,806.04 |
4,556.96 |
38.6.% |
7,249.09 |
|
Mat. South |
343,658 |
7,732.31 |
5,752.99 |
74.4% |
1,979.30 |
|
Midlands |
911,088 |
20,499.48 |
8,871.18 |
43.3% |
11,628.30 |
|
National |
6,563,119 |
47,670.18 |
91,112.04 |
61.7% |
56,558.14 |
The fourth blitz food distribution, which is February to date, nationally, a total of 26 353.53 metric tonnes which translates to 26.8% of grain has been distributed out of the targeted 98 446.79 metric tonnes. Provincial distributions; the total population to benefit is 6 563 119 people and now the coverage that we have covered so far is 26.8%. There is a balance of 72 093 metric tonnes, which is supposed to be distributed before the end of the fourth blitz.
Fourth Blitz indicated in the table below:
|
Province |
Total population to benefit |
Grain Rqmnt/3 months |
Cumulative (mt) |
% Coverage |
Balance (mt) |
|
Manicaland |
11,223,732 |
18.355.98 |
3,522.98 |
19.2% |
14,833.00 |
|
Mash. Central |
762.290 |
11,434.35 |
3,659.71 |
32.0% |
7,774.64 |
|
Mash. East |
960,526 |
14,407.89 |
4,341.78 |
30.1% |
6,098.72 |
|
Mash. West |
867,642 |
13,014.63, |
4,354.25 |
33.5% |
8,660.38 |
|
Masvingo |
969,470 |
14,542.05 |
3,582.18 |
24.6% |
10,959.87 |
|
Mat. North |
524,713 |
7,870.70 |
1,786.18 |
22.7.% |
6,084.52 |
|
Mat. South |
343,658 |
5,154.87 |
1,020.35 |
19.8% |
1,134.53 |
|
Midlands |
911,088 |
13,666.4832 |
4,086.11 |
29.9% |
9,580.22 |
|
National |
6,563,119 |
98,446.79 |
26,353.53 |
26.8.% |
72,093.26 |
Zunde RaMambo/Isiphala SeNkosi
To date, under the Zunde RaMambo/Isiphala SeNkosi, the cumulative total distributions still stand at 4,550.7 mt, of grain. As previously reported, whilst some chiefs have completed distribution of their initial allocations, they are yet to submit the acquittals which will enable more allocations.
Table 11 Zunde RaMambo/Isiphala SeNkosi Collections to date
|
Province |
Allocation |
Collection to date(mt) |
Balance (mt) |
% Collected |
|
Manicaland |
1,080 |
597.65 |
482 |
55% |
|
Mash Central |
1,095 |
543.00 |
205 |
50% |
|
Mash East |
900 |
294.10 |
606 |
33% |
|
Mash West |
550 |
371.77 |
178 |
68% |
|
Masvingo |
1,250 |
913.50 |
551 |
73% |
|
Mat North |
850 |
574.65 |
275 |
68% |
|
Mat South |
730 |
190.00 |
125 |
26% |
|
Midlands |
1,145 |
871.75 |
477 |
76% |
|
National |
7,600 |
4,372.51 |
3,243.58 |
57% |
- Urban Cash for Cereal
The Cash for Cereal programme under the FDMS which requires about ZWG322,400,000 (USD12,4 Million), is yet to be funded by Treasury. Out of the 1.7 million beneficiaries, only 28,875 were paid in October 2024.
- Development Partners
For the 4th Blitz Food Distribution, development partners have commenced distributions in various districts. As at the 27 February 2025, a total of 7,253.55mt was moved around the district. Below is a table indicating tonnage moved per province.
Table 12: Tonnage distributed by Province
|
PROVINCE |
PARTNER CUMULATIVE (mt) |
|
Mashonaland Central |
545.19 |
|
Mashonaland East |
468.17 |
|
Masvingo |
2,108.32 |
|
Matebeleland North |
2,065.91 |
|
Matebeleland South |
18.46 |
|
Midlands |
2,047. 51 |
|
National |
7,253.55 |
- Challenges
- Inadequate grain at local depots in most parts of the country due to late replenishment as transporters moving grain via road system are reporting incapacitation.
- Delayed release of funds by Treasury to both the Ministry of Public Service, Labour and Social Welfare and Grain Marketing Board for administration and transportation of grain.
- Some partners who were receiving resources from USAID have indicated that they can no longer continue supporting some districts as their funding has been suspended.
- RECOMMENDATIONS
- Whilst appreciating the ZWG40 million that Treasury has released, there is still need to avail more resources for both grain movement and cash for cereal.
- Replenishment of local depots to necessitate easy access to cereals.
- CONCLUSION
Grain distribution has entered the 4th Blitz and it is anticipated funds will continue to be released to enable efficient and timely distribution of grain to food insecure people. The urban populace require support as registration has been done in all urban areas and beneficiaries are anticipating their benefits which their rural counterparts are receiving in the spirit of leaving no one and place behind.
HON. CHIDUWA: Thank you Mr. Speaker Sir. I just wanted clarity from the Hon. Minister if she is aware that where we are coming from, we have situations where local arrangements were made so that the beneficiaries are actually paying for transport. I heard in her presentation, she mentioned quite a number of times we are calling on Treasury to avail resources especially for the payment of transport. So, I just wanted to find out if you are aware of the local arrangements that are being made where beneficiaries are paid for transport?
HON. DINHA: Thank you Mr. Speaker Sir. I want to thank the Hon. Member for the question. We are aware of the transport arrangements that are being made because from the first, second to the third blitz, the Government was providing transport from depots, surplus to depots of deficit and then from depots of surplus to the contribution point, they were also providing transport. Then there was transport arrears that the Government owed to the transporters in which the transporters refused to transport grain both from depot of surplus to depot of deficits and also from the depots of surplus to the distribution points.
HON. S. MAHLANGU: Thank you very much Mr. Speaker Sir. I want clarity Hon. Minister about the Cash Cereal Programme that was last funded in October. Whenever you get the funds, are you going to do the back pay for those months not paid? I thank you.
HON. MALINGANISO: Thank you Mr. Speaker Sir. I would like to applaud the Minister for bringing the statement. My concern is still on the numbers that are left behind. You realise that on selection of who did not have food, I do not know what was relied upon but a lot of people were left behind. I understand, it is the last blitz probably, there is nothing to do about that. Probably going forward, there is need for deliberate action to make certain detection of who is hungry so that nobody is left behind.
I heard the Minister alluding to the fact that there were local arrangements to avail transport. What are the modalities to make certain that the abuse that she alluded to on the funds collected does not go unchecked? You will realise that those transporters who were contracted by the Government continued the ferrying and in instances where sometimes grain is to be ferried from 20km to where it is distributed, beneficiaries were even made to pay a dollar for a bag of grain, which is unheard of because normally trucks are hired per kilometre. We have a situation where a transporter would get in excess of USD900 for transporting 30 tonnes of grain.
My last contribution would be on disbursements. I understand it is not done by the Ministry of Public Service, Labour and Social Welfare. I understand Mr. Speaker that budgets may suffer shocks but why is it not that we employ a situation where our budget was pegged at USD100 and we end up maybe on expected revenue, getting USD80 then disbursements are done pro rata? A ministry that was supposed to receive USD10 because you have been garnered, only 80% end up being given USD8 because the problem of disbursements hampers everything progressing because each question posed to any minister, they will tell you of disbursements. Why do we not spread pro-rata? I thank you
HON. DINHA: Thank you Mr. Speaker Sir. On the Cash for Cereal Programme as I have said, the beneficiaries for Cash for Cereal are 1.7 million and only 28 875 were being paid. The last payment was in October 2024. I think if the funds are availed by the Treasury and Cabinet have to consider approving to give those who have not received the cash transfers so that they will go back to the first blitz, second and third. We are now about to get to the end of the fourth and final blitz. It is up to the Cabinet to approve that those months that were not paid be paid to the beneficiaries when the money is being released.
On the local arrangements, that is the money for transport that is being collected in the rural areas by the headmen. Some of the money is collected by the councillors. I think the Members of Parliament should supervise to see that the monies are put to good use because there are prone to abuse. Some councillors and headmen are seeing it as a way of getting some cash. The vulnerable people who are supposed to receive grain have no money. Some are not able to pay one dollar, even one dollar fifty or two dollars. We can see that those vulnerable people end up being deprived of their share because they are not able to pay money for transport. That is why I said that we are appealing for the Treasury to release more money so that the Government may continue to transport the grains from depot to depot and also from depot to the distribution point. I thank you.
HON. TOGAREPI: Mr. Speaker, I think what the Minister is telling us here is that there is a problem between her Ministry and Treasury. Treasury is not disbursing money for the payment of transport and also payment of the transfer to vulnerable people. Would it not be prudent Mr. Speaker, if the Minister of Finance comes here to explain why money for transport has not been disbursed. It is true that it is his ministry that is not doing that. Is it his ministry that is not transferring money to the vulnerable people?
Lastly, Mr. Speaker, I heard the Minister saying people were not given money for the past three months. If that money is raised, it must be paid in retrospect. Did I get you correct because my worry is if I did not get my payment of grain last month and we are in this month, will it be correct to say you will give me the arrears to it last month or we proceed from there because you have revised? I need clarity there Minister.
With your ruling Mr. Speaker, we would want the Minister of Finance because, Hon. Members, if you hear about these transport costs, they had been closed by MPs and we are just told that noise is at GMB, people need to be given in their wards. Hon. Members look for the money and how the trucks are paid. I do not know how they are going to be reimbursed but that is the situation. That is the situation, we would want to hear you and Minister of Finance clarifying this fact.
THE TEMPORARY SPEAKER (HON. NGULUVHE): It has been noted Chief Whip. Arrangements will be made that the Minister of Finance comes to the House and give a ministerial statement on that issue. Maybe the Minister might want to clarify the last part which was asked by the Chief Whip.
THE DEPUTY MINISTER OF PUBLIC SERVICE, LABOUR AND SOCIAL WELFARE (HON. DINHA): Thank you Mr. Speaker. I have said that if the arrears are to be given, it is up to the Cabinet to approve or disapprove if they should be given or not. Thank you Mr Speaker.
HON. C. HLATYWAYO: Thank you Mr. Speaker Sir. There are areas that received rains very late this season, especially those areas in the lowveld including, Chipinge South. These areas will definitely need a Phase 5 or a Number 5 blitz. Mr. Speaker, are there any plans to deal with those communities? Obviously, we will need that intervention from Government. Thank you.
THE TEMPORARY SPEAKER: Honourable, I just wanted you to ask a question so that we give a chance to the Minister to answer.
HON. BAJILA: Thank you so much Mr. Speaker. I just have one question of clarity remaining. Others, the Minister has taken them. The Minister mentioned issues around our ability to get assistance from development partners. Some development partners prioritise countries that are low income earners. Now that Zimbabwe is a middle income earner, walking towards upper middle income, has our declaration of status as a middle income earner not affected us in getting development assistance, particularly towards the Food Mitigation Programme?
HON. M. DINHA: Thank you Mr. Speaker Sir. In the case of the development partners, they are still there. They are helping, complementing the Government in assisting vulnerable people. Up to date, I think they are covering about seven districts. They are also covering about more than five provinces. So, the development partners are still there. Thank you Mr. Speaker.
THE TEMPORARY SPEAKER: Did you hear the question from Hon. Hlatywayo Hon. Minister?
HON. DINHA: Thank you Mr. Speaker. I did not hear anything. May the Hon. Member repeat his question?
HON. C. HLATYWAYO: Thank you Mr. Speaker. I was saying there are areas that received rains very late, including areas in the lowveld like Chipinge South. There is need for Government intervention in those areas, the 5th blitz just targeting areas with that challenge. Do you have any programme or plans to deal with those specific areas to assist them to mitigate the hunger issue?
HON. DINHA: Thank you Mr. Speaker Sir. In the case of Chipinge region, it was because the depots did not have any grains. The Honourable Member has registered these complaints to the Ministry and we are looking into it. We are arranging for the grains to be moved to the depots nearer to Chipinge. The Cabinet has also approved for the 4th blitz to be extended by one month. So, there is still time for those people to be covered. Thank you Mr. Speaker Sir.
HON. S. SITHOLE: Thank you Mr. Speaker, for giving me this opportunity. Honourable Minister, Honourable Chair, His Excellency the President has said there is no one who will die of hunger in this country and no one will pay for the transport. I am here to say the Ministry is going against the President's call that they are writing some circulars to send to the provinces and to the districts, to say the vulnerable persons are supposed to pay for the transport. They are going against His Excellency's call. Thank you very much.
HON. DINHA: Thank you Mr. Speaker Sir. It is true that the President is always saying that no one should die of hunger. Surely, up to date, no one has died of hunger. This is because people are getting cereals. Moreover, on the distribution, we are not leaving anyone or no place behind. When the locals started providing money for the transport, in some cases it is the locals that are providing money for the transport and in some districts, there were well-wishers who were providing transport. The Cabinet approved that there should be transport arrangements in the districts. That is when the locals started contributing money for transport. We are appealing to the Treasury daily so that it can avail money for the transport. As I have already said, the Treasury has released 40 million to the Ministry to cover the arrears of transporters. However, the arrears are over 200 million ZiG. So, it is just a drop in the ocean.
If Treasury could avail money for covering the arrears and also for paying the transporters so that they will continue transporting grains to the distribution points, I think there will not be any problem of arrangements of getting transport by the locals. Thank you Mr. Speaker Sir.
*HON. NYABANI: Thank you Mr. Speaker Sir. Minister, I heard you speaking about well-wishers who will be assisting us in transporting food. Did you by any chance, come across those well wishers or you are just using the name well-wishers? If I look in my constituency, I have 25 wards and a lot of households. If I say I want to provide fuel to ferry food, it is a mammoth task. I just want to know which ones you call well-wishers in Rushinga who are transporting maize. What is it that is happening?
THE TEMPORARY SPEAKER: Hon. Nyabani, I think the Chief Whip did say it is better if the Minister of Finance comes into the House and clarify. He did allude to the fact that Hon. Members are using their own funds.
*HON. NYABANI: My issue is on the well-wishers. Can those well-wishers be stronger that Government? Let us look at what is happening in our constituencies because when our people fail to get food or maize, they simply say the food should have been provided as scheduled. We, however, did not get well-wishers. I thank you.
HON. DINHA: Thank you Mr. Speaker Sir. I would like to thank the Hon. Member for the question that he has asked. When we talk of well-wishers – a practical example is where we have some Members of Parliament who are transporting maize for their constituencies. Those are well-wishers. A lot of people are assisting people using their own resources because they do not want the citizens to pay the dollar or two dollars needed for transport. I thank you.
*HON. HUNGWE: Thank you Mr. Speaker Sir. I am on the issue of the Government separating transport and the food being provided that the Minister raised. An example is if a 30 tonne truck purchased by Government costs USD15000 and then transport to give food to the vulnerable costs around USD600 and we look at the proportion that Government is putting in as compared to the amount of money the citizens do not have. I think they are failing to calculate it. I propose to the Ministry that if we are distributing 70%, for example, we need to reduce by 5% or 7%, it will then cover the transport costs and the cost of the grain. So, Government will have done well but then we end up having chaotic distribution because of the USD700 or USD1000 which people are failing to pay. So, I am suggesting that it is better when we are calculating the food expenses to just say we are providing 1000 tonnes and then it gets to those people without asking them to pay anything as they are vulnerable people.
We have issues in our constituencies where the elderly are failing to get food because they cannot pay for the transport costs, yet they are the targeted beneficiaries. I propose we do a local arrangement for them so that food is not chaotically distributed and done wrongly ending up with the poor failing to benefit. I am kindly requesting the Minister to look into it as a priority. I thank you.
HON. CHIDUWA: My point of privilege is to ask the indulgence of the Chief Whip to bring in some of these issues so that when the Minister of Finance is making a Ministerial Statement, it will then cover all these other programmes and we will understand the none or late disbursements of funds. If you look at the Social Welfare Programmes, it is a compendium of programmes. We have the BEAM, AMTO, harmonised cash transfers, cash for food and we have a common problem in all these social welfare programmes. The common problem is none or late disbursement of these. I thank you.
THE TEMPORARY SPEAKER: Point taken.
On the motion of HON. TOGAREPI, seconded by HON. NYANDORO, the House adjourned at Fourteen Minutes past Six o’clock p.m.
PARLIAMENT OF ZIMBABWE
Tuesday, 4th March, 2025
The National Assembly met at a Quarter-past Two o’clock p.m.
PRAYERS
(THE HON. SPEAKER in the Chair)
*HON. P. ZHOU: I rise on a matter of national interest. We notice that on most highways and major roads, by the edges of the road, you find car breakers, different cars and this is an eyesore. We also see cars that have broken down and sometimes there are stones or tree branches and even cars that would have been involved in accidents. I want to urge responsible authorities like Ministry of Local Government and the police to do their jobs with due diligence. If anyone is held liable, then they should be prosecuted because this causes accidents. Our country cannot develop when things happen in that way. I thank you.
HON. NYANDORO: My point of national interest arises from the critical importance of Zimbabwe’s hosting of the upcoming 15th Meeting of the Conference of the Contracting Parties to the Ramsar Convention and Wetlands COP15. This is not merely an international event but it is a golden opportunity to advance our national interest on multiple fronts. Firstly, I submit that the Government must commit maximum efforts to the preparations for the COP15. This is not just a logistical undertaking but a strategic investment. We are showcasing Zimbabwe to the world, demonstrating our commitment to environmental stewardship and sustainable development.
The success of this event directly impacts to our international reputation and our ability to attract future investments and partnership. The revenue potential of hosting COP15 is substantial. We are expecting thousands of delegates, experts and observers from around the globe. This influx of visitors will inject significant capital into our tourism sector benefiting hotels, restaurants, transport services and local businesses. The multiplier effect to this expenditure will ripple through our economy, creating jobs and boosting our GDP. We must ensure that our hospitality sector is prepared to capitalise on this opportunity.
The event should also be used to market Zimbabwe as a premier tourism destination long after the conference is gone. COP15 provides a unique platform to tell the real Zimbabwean story beyond the political narratives that often dominate international discourse. We can showcase our rich biodiversity, our commitment to conservation and the innovation solutions we are implementing to protect our wetlands. This is an opportunity to highlight the resilience of our people and demonstrate our leadership in addressing global environmental challenges. Let us use this opportunity to project a positive image of Zimbabwe as a nation committed to sustainable development.
Hosting the Ramsar COP15 is a momentous occasion for Zimbabwe. If Zimbabwe maximises its effort, it can unlock significant economic benefits, enhance our international standing and most importantly, improve the lives of our people. I urge the Government to seize this opportunity to ensure that COP15 is a resounding success for Zimbabwe and the communities.
THE HON. SPEAKER: Hon Zhou, I hope the Minister of Transport will take care of your statement, the same with Hon Nyandoro. The Minister of Environment will take note of your statement of national interest.
HON. ENG. MHANGWA: Taking a snap shot on each and everyone of us today; from the house we sleep in, the alarm we wake up with, the water we use to bath and clean our teeth, the electricity that boiled our water for tea, the road that we drove on and the building that we are in today; there is one common thread. It is an omnipotent profession that we celebrate today. Today is World Engineering Day - [HON MEMBERS: Hear hear] - We celebrate the engineers, many a time, very undervalued. It is on such a day that we need to see where the nation has handed a short stick to the profession and where we have stifled their contribution to the country’ progress. This profession is not an import from the western civilisation.
A visit to Great Zimbabwe shows that since time immemorial, we have been Chartered Engineers, professional engineers of note. If you go to the Great Enclosure and you go to the main precinct where the royal wives used to stay, if you look at the structure, that is a masterpiece of engineering. You go inside, the temperature in there is much cooler than in this Parliament because they were great air-conditioning technicians. If you go and go up the mountain where the king used to stay, strategically you would stand in the cave, control the waves and send a message to his bride that he wants to call and through movement of waves, there were very brilliant communication and electrical engineers.
This has been lost overtime. By the time that we graduated, 20 or so years ago, I graduated on the 17th October and by the 1st of November, I had been employed. By February, the whole class had been absorbed; half of it by ZESA. This is no longer the case Mr. Speaker. The majority of graduates, engineering graduates, are either under- or unemployed because there are moratoriums that are there in State enterprises not to employ. There are the smaller companies that have taken over from the huge conglomerates that had management plans and skills transfer that do not have a place for skills development. It is my plea on this day Mr. Speaker, that we realise that engineering is the lifeblood of this country if we hope to be an upper middle-income country by 2030. This I submit, as I congratulate all engineers and wish them a happy Engineering Day. I so submit.
THE HON. SPEAKER: Thank you very much. I hope the relevant ministers will take note of your statement where engineers are employed and act accordingly.
HON. DR. KHUPE: Education is the strongest instrument for removing poverty. A hungry child cannot excel in their school work but a well-fed child does well in school. The school feeding programme is very commendable, the only missing link is relish. Government has been giving schools mealie-meal but without relish. When Members of Parliament were given rice by the President and we appreciate that gesture very much, some of us and many others distributed the rice to schools. I would like to give an example on the schools where l distributed rice, they said they did not have rice as part of their menu and that they were going to include it and they have since included it. The challenge they have is that of having no relish, this is so with many schools.
I would therefore like to recommend and call upon Government to put at least 1 hectare of drip irrigation systems in all schools with boreholes. We thank the Lord Almighty for the good rains leading to increased water levels because with drip irrigation, you use a small piece of land, little water and the yield will be very high and you can do three crops per year, meaning that schools will not run out of relish. Pupils will be guaranteed of a decent and nutritious meal every day and this will improve pupils’ focus on their school work and at the same time lead to achieving SDG number 4 on Quality Education as well as SDG number 1 on No Poverty. Once our children are well-fed in schools and at home, they are assured of performing well at school, which will result in them getting a decent job and a decent salary.
An educated workforce will contribute to development of our country and poverty will be a thing of the past as most people will have the means to satisfy their basic needs. Once more, I am calling on Government to put at least one hectare of drip irrigation in all schools with boreholes as well as dig boreholes in those schools that do not have them so that at least schools are able to grow their own vegetables and feed their pupils without any difficulties. I thank you.
THE HON. SPEAKER: I hope the Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education will take note of your very pertinent observations.
COMMITTEE STAGE
First Order read: Resumption of Committee: Broadcasting Services Amendment Bill [H. B. 10, 2024].
House in Committee.
On Clause 15 (now Clause 13):
*HON. MAMBIPIRI: Thank you Hon. Chair, I do not agree with Clause 15 which compels every motorist to buy the ZBC licence before they buy ZINARA licence. When we carried out public outreach programmes, Zimbabweans said they do not agree with that. Even from the different constituencies that we come from, people are in disagreement. As Zimbabweans, indeed we need to support ZBC as a national broadcaster but this approach is what they do not agree with.
What is prohibiting people is the pricing of the radio and television licences. When that is combined with ZINARA licence, it means that this will be beyond the reach of many people. People were saying that USD30 for every term for a ZBC licence is just too much. It is like buying a goat, which means per term they will be buying a goat or they will be donating a goat to ZBC. In urban areas, this amount is equivalent to primary school fees. So, parents are saying the money is as high as the money they are paying for school fees in primary schools.
The second point of concern is the point that ZBC has different revenue streams including selling, advertising but Hon. Chair …
THE MINISTER OF JUSTICE, LEGAL AND PARLIAMENTARY AFFAIRS (HON. Z. ZIYAMBI): Hon. Chair we are in Committee Stage and the Member must not be debating. Hon. Members must just zero-in on what they want done on that particular clause.
THE TEMPORARY CHAIRPERSON (HON. TSITSI ZHOU): Hon. Mambipiri, please continue but take note of what the Hon. Minister said.
HON. MAMBIPIRI: Thank you Madam Chair. People are complaining about Clause 15, the wording that compels motorists to pay for ZBC radio licence first before they buy their vehicle licences. People are not refusing to support ZBC but they do not agree with Clause 15. I would like to urge the Hon. Minister not just to focus on motorists and drivers. The money that is required to support ZBC should be taken according to what is already happening, which is legal that every household with a radio and television set should pay every year. The money should be reviewed downwards from USD30 to USD5 dollars per household.
When you look at the television sets that are in the country that are around one million multiplied by USD5, you would find that ZBC will raise USD5 million dollars per year.
THE TEMPORARY CHAIRPERSON: I wanted to remind Hon. Members that just like what the Leader of Government Business has said, the general debate was done and now we want to debate clause by clause. You only highlight what you agree with and what you do not agree with in this clause instead of getting into the general debate. Our thoughts have already been alluded to. We did that when we were doing our general debate. For example, in Clause 15 (13), lines 15 to 20, please go straight and highlight what you want changed.
HON. MADZIVANYIKA: Madam Chair, Clause 15 of the Broadcasting Services Act, what this clause seeks to achieve is to ensure that all motorists, before they acquire ZINARA insurance, they are supposed to pay for radio licence. Why is radio licence so special above others? Why does it have so much special power given by this Act? It is not necessary Madam Chair, it is discriminatory. Secondly, the problem that I have with this clause is that everyone who has got a receiver in their vehicle is liable to pay radio licence. Radio licence, under normal circumstances Madam Chair, is supposed to be paid for listening to the radio.
Who are the listeners, if you are playing ZBC on your motor vehicle then you are a listener, you deserve to pay radio licence. If I am using my memory card on your receiver, to me it does not make sense to pay. Why should you pay for that? There should be that separation to say, am I just using it to play my memory card? Am I listening to ZBC or not? That must be distinct because payment must be made to licencing of listeners of ZBC not for other things? I think it is prudent for us to pay those musicians like Alick Macheso, to pay them royalties than to pay for listening to ZBC that we do not tune on. The majority of our Members of Parliament here Madam Chair, do not listen to ZBC because of its content.
So, Madam Chair, my issue on this clause is on the receiver. Can this receiver be allowed to be divided into two so that those who want to listen to ZBC, you get a receiver and the receiver that allows you to listen from your flash disk? That must be distinct in the interest of justice. The majority of people do not listen to ZBC. I thank you very much.
HON. KAITANO: Thank you Madam Chair. It is my submission that in order to strengthen the relationship between ZBC and ZINARA on this Clause, it is critical that we add a caveat that ensures that there is an operational or an implementation agreement between the two parties in order to avoid situations where parastatals – because we have come across instances where parastatals have an operational agreement but that operational agreement is not honored by the receiver of the service.
So, I believe we can put a caveat in this Act to ensure that there is indeed an operational agreement between ZINARA and ZBC, an agreement which is then honoured when the work is executed. I thank you.
+HON. S. MAHLANGU: Thank you Madam Speaker Ma’am. ZINARA is a stand-alone entity and ZBC is equally a separate entity. ZBC should not just force itself on ZINARA. People of Phumula were saying they do not have radios in their cars. What will they do when ZINARA works together with ZBC? I thank you Madam Speaker Ma’am.
HON. TOGAREPI: Madam Chair, I think on this area, we should know that we have one Government and all these institutions run under one Government of Zimbabwe. It is critical that they can all equally cooperate.
So, for me, ZINARA and ZBC to achieve, either it is payment of fees for listenership, I think it is very correct that there should be a regulated partnership between ZBC and ZINARA. I do not see anything wrong. We definitely want to thank the Hon. Minister for proposing that section because it will even reduce costs and create convenience in terms of making people pay.
I want to emphasise that the majority of the people of Zimbabwe listen to ZBC and very few listen otherwise but still they listen to Macheso when he is played on ZBC and they dance to it. So, for that reason, I think Hon. Minister, that section must remain very intact.
+HON. S. MAPHOSA: Thank you Hon. Chair. The contributions that we are getting indicate that this move will be a disadvantage to ZINARA. I am saying this because we foresee a lot of challenges being faced by ZINARA after the promulgation of this law. I do not agree with this because regarding ZINARA licences, ZINARA officials were saying that in December last year, about 800 000 people had paid for their ZINARA licences yet ZBC says that people who paid for car radio licences were around 400 000.
What we are trying to do here is infecting this ZBC pandemic to ZINARA. When we enact this law, what will happen Madam Chair is that ZINARA already has third party insurances which we see as useless because they indicate that when you have an accident, you fix your own car and when you have an accident with someone and you are at fault, that is when the insurance pays. This is what has affected ZINARA and has brought apathy to ZINARA where you find people not being forthcoming in terms of paying for insurances because it is difficult for them to pay for insurances. So, they end up exempting their cars.
If it was not for this insurance challenge, in December, we might have had more than a million people paying. Now, with the burden of ZBC riding on the insurance and on top of ZINARA fees, it means ZINARA has twins like ZBC and the insurance. It is like being infected by HIV. Taking ZBC is like taking ZBC’s illness and infecting ZINARA.
I really do not agree with this and the people that I represent, even though we are told not to say these things, I am saying this because I represent people. I thank you Madam Speaker Ma’am.
*HON. S. TSHUMA: Thank you Hon. Chair. I agree with the others who are saying that the ZBC licence is too high. Madam Chair, we are representatives of the people - the poor and the rich. So, this money, like what Honourable Mambipiri said, is too much for the poor. There are USD800 cars, USD1000 cars, USD5000 cars, but when we talk about radio licences, this is universal for those who have USD1000 cars. There is a certain amount that they can afford. So, I agree with the fact that radio licences should be paid but it should be minimal. For example, if it is USD5,00 to be paid, it has to cover both ZINARA and ZBC licences and it has to be paid at once instead of having a condition that you must bring ZBC licence for you to buy ZINARA licence, which means we are valuing ZBC more than ZINARA.
As Members, we need to advocate for a lesser fee because not everyone can afford USD30.00. At the end of the year, we will be raising a minimum amount but when we bring an amount which is fair, then people comply. I thank you.
*HON. CHIKOMBO: Thank you so much Madam Chair and good afternoon. I have a bone to chew on this Clause, which is Clause 15, on the basis that I strongly feel that it will not pass the constitutional test. Honourable Minister, through you Madam Chair, I will take you to section 56 (3) of the Constitution which talks of equality and non-discrimination. Honourable Members, for so many times, have said this issue is so unfair in the sense that it seeks to punish only those individuals who own vehicles but those who receive radios through phones and radio stations, they are not in the same bracket. That is exactly the discrimination which is being said by the Constitution, section 56 (3) of the Constitution.
It is my view and my humble submission Madam Chair, that the burden of taxation must be shared fairly and equally. This is enunciated in section 298 (1) (a) and (2). Again, if you see what is being sponsored by this clause, it is an affront and an attack to these sections of the Constitution that I have referred to.
Madam Chair, let me remind the House about the supremacy of the Constitution which is in section 2 of the Constitution, that any law that seeks to be enacted and is inconsistent to what is promoted, that Constitution is not going to stand. So, therefore, I am equally disturbed, how did this Bill pass the Parliamentary Legal Committee? It was supposed to pass an Adverse Report on those issues that I have raised because these issues are quite fundamental.
This issue seeks to discriminate against certain individuals, which is an attack to the Bill of Rights as from section 48 to section 86 of the Constitution. My submission is that Honourable Minister, if need be, you have to withdraw this Bill and make sure that you put your mind together for the best interest of protecting the Constitution, not to further emasculate the Constitution. I so submit.
HON. MUGWADI: Thank you Madam Speaker. I want to ride on what Hon. Tshuma has said. I think we stand to persuade the Minister to understand that it is one thing to be very ambitious about taxation as a source of funding for the ZBC and it is also another thing to deal with what is realistic and what is affordable and by and large, that which is payable without unnecessary burden. I am sure, what Hon. Tshuma is seeking is to convince you Hon. Minister, it is that indeed as a House, never mind the flotsam and jetsam being raised about whether people watch ZBC or they make toys. I am sure we are all obligated to promote national institution and this House cannot take that as persuasive material to say other people choose to watch it and others do not choose to watch it.
Therefore, we must let the broadcaster or the State institutions fall in our eyes, we cannot allow that but the taxations proposed by Hon. Tshuma could really be the way to go. I am sure even when you are enforcing it, whether through the police or other instruments of the State, honestly, a person may say really what is the burden of me being arraigned before the courts or having problems with the enforcement agents on the roads for simply failing to pay USD5. Let us assume they have agreed. For example myself, when I go to the beerhall to drink Madam Chairperson, I take quite a lot beyond USD5. It will be incumbent on myself to say I have taken bottles worth more than USD5 but then on my way home, I will have a burden with enforcement agents about failing to pay a television licence of USD5.
Madam Chair, I am sure this USD5 becomes an equaliser between the rich, the haves and the have nots. We must have a balancing act. I am sure Hon. Tshuma has emphasised the differences of our vehicles on the roads. It is a realistic situation which we cannot wish it was not there. It is real, the cars that Hon. Members in this House drive courtesy of our good Government are different from the cars that we see doing mushikashika there, in terms of the costs and everything. They speak about the diversity of our lifestyles. The common denominator that is there is that we are different in terms of our lifestyles, what we can afford and what others cannot afford. That reality cannot be ignored by this section Hon. Minister.
Therefore, I choose to ride on what Hon. Tshuma has said to persuade you on the basis that the people we represent here really are not on the same wavelength. They are not getting paid from the same system, others actually are driving cars without lights and you would expect them to pay licence. Let us be considerate about the amount which we have that is balancing between an ambitious taxation system but also appreciating what is obtaining on the ground.
I must say as I sit down Madam Chair, that I seek to disagree with Hon. Chikombo, the Section he is raising is misapplied. In fact, the very nature of taxation Hon. Chikombo, I will tell you that not every person pays -I take heed of what my colleagues are saying. Indeed, this provision is very much constitutional and is not ultra vires the Constitution actually. It does not violate the provision of non-discrimination for the simple reasons that taxation is sector based. For example, you do not own a commuter omnibus, you cannot go to VID and say therefore I should pay tax for commuter omnibus when you do not have one. This provision is saying car radio licences, for example, a specific group of people that own cars or drive cars, it means that the tax proposal is clearly targeting a particular sector of our community. Therefore, rules of taxation in this matter do not violate provisions of non-discrimination. I am sure the Hon. Member was mesmerised about informing the House of how he has gone far with his studies, he was my classmate but I think this one is a misapplied provision.
HON. CHIKOMBO: On a point of order Madam Chair, I think at this juncture, you seek to protect the House …
THE TEMPORARY CHAIRPERSON: Order, order, Hon. Chikombo! We are going to proceed with the debate without having to repeat what has been said. Hon. Members, please take note that you are not supposed to talk to each other. I am still here, speak through the Chair.
*HON. HAMAUSWA: Madam Chair, my point of order emanates from the fact that when you look at the different contributions, there is a bit of a challenge from the wording that was done in Clause 15. I want to request that this Clause should be put aside and the Hon. Minister should go and review the Clause…
THE TEMPORARY CHAIRPERSON: Order, order, Hon. Hamauswa! You rise and indicate whether you want to add or you want to subtract, when you say point of order and you start debating, then you are not respecting the Chair, please take your seat.
THE MINISTER OF JUSTICE, LEGAL AND PARLIAMENTARY AFFAIRS (HON. Z. ZIYAMBI): Hon. Chair, I noticed that those who are debating are not debating about the Clause. The Clause does not speak to quantum, it speaks about having motor vehicles with radio licences. Let us zero in on what the Clause is speaking to. The issue about the quantum of the licence is not covered in this Clause, so when we are in Committee Stage, we speak to exactly what is in the Clause, we do not do a general debate where we bring in other issues.
*HON. MAUNGANIDZE: Thank you Hon. Chair. I stand to support Clause 15 because when looking at the broadcasting sector in Zimbabwe, you will find that the music industry and local content creators are behind. So, for us to have quality programming, quality film industry and quality services in broadcasting, it is important to have people pay radio and television licences for them to enjoy quality production. I thank you.
*THE TEMPORARY CHAIRPERSON: Hon. Bajila, you were saying a lot of good things but it does not help for you to just shout. I heard that you were saying Hon. Maunganidze should use one language. When you want to assist, please stand up and indicate so that we recognise you. Thank you.
HON. ENG. MHANGWA: I am against Clause 15 on five primitives. The first being, this legislation comes from an Act. This amendment seeks to come from an Act that was in the year 2000. By then, when someone spoke of a radio, it was merely a device to receive waves from a broadcaster. Nowadays, in my case, the primary purpose of the radio in my car is a radio free device. It has nothing to do with broadcasting. Secondly, when I am in Chinhoyi, I would rather have this clause talk to the community radio or the commercial radio station, that is Platinum FM in Chinhoyi because it relates directly to me. Thirdly, ZINARA and ZBC have two distinct mandates. ZINARA is for roads and ZBC has its mandate which is being a national broadcaster.
ZINARA does far with its few challenges and has been collecting efficiently. There is risk of pollution and there is risk that ZBC will pollute ZINARA in the process and reduce the collection rate that we direly need for the roads to be repaired in the process of trying to cure a lesser important mischief.
THE TEMPORARY CHAIRPERSON: Order Hon. Mhangwa. Hon. Sibanda, please approach the Chair. [Hon. Sibanda approached the Chair]. You can proceed Hon. Mhangwa.
HON. ENG. MHANGWA: I was thinking if the same approach is utilised on the cell phones, I will be made to pay because now I use SMS and email. I should pay ZIMPOST because they have lost business from letters. If the same logic is used, I will have to pay for all the applications that are on my phone, that is those that I use and those that I do not use. Fourthly, this legislation or this clause seeks to say, if I am a multiple car owner, when I licence each of my vehicle, I am made to pay for each of them. I am not someone who has presents in all the cars -[HON. MEMBERS: Inaudible interjections]-[Hon. Mhangwa having kept quiet.]-.
THE TEMPORARY CHAIRPERSON: Hon. Mhangwa, you are debating. If you keep quiet and listen to what other Hon. Members are saying, then I will request someone to stand and debate. If you want to proceed, please do.
HON. ENG. MHANGWA: I needed to proceed with your protection Madam Chair. The point that I was at is, if this gets to be a unified licence, it is supposed to be a unified licence which I presume it will be a prerequisite for every vehicle licencing. It is automatic that if I have five cars, for all the cars to be licenced, I will need to pay ZBC for each of the five. This cannot work because even if I am a user of a radio, there is nowhere I can be in five cars at the same time.
Lastly, using other regional benchmarks, they only go to a household. The fact that it is a household gadget, it means you can also listen to all gadgets. If you go to DSTv, you still streamline using the same payment that you have made. So, it is best practice that if you have multiple gadgets from which you listen to, you pay just for one and use others. It is best practice. Having said that, it is my belief that it is double taxation. When I come here, I represent more than 100 000 people of Chinhoyi, one with one car, another with two cars and others with five cars. [HON. MEMBERS: Inaudible interjections]-
THE TEMPORARY CHAIRPERSON: Order Hon. Mhangwa. Order Hon. Members. Hon. Mhangwa, please proceed and wind up.
HON. ENG. MHANGWA: Thank you Madam Chair. The point still remains. If one is made to pay for more than one car, the person is being double taxed because definitely the person is double sharing on the vehicles. The fact that you are time sharing on the vehicles, means that you cannot be made to pay as if you are using that car all the time. The same goes for gadgets. It is best practice, check everywhere else, this is the procedure. If we choose to deviate, we are on record to say, we have thrown money at ZBC and have robbed the people of Zimbabwe through wanting to fund ZBC multiple times and wanting to fund ZBC through exorbitant means. Clause Number 15 in its entirety should go. I thank you.
THE TEMPORARY CHAIRPERSON: If you have anything that has not been said, you can stand up and debate but if you are going to repeat, I will ask you to sit down.
*HON. W. MAPOSA: Thank you Madam Chair. I agree with Hon. Tshuma. People should pay for licences but there should not be a combination of ZINARA and ZBC…
*THE TEMPORARY CHAIRPESON: Hon. Maphosa are you going to emphasise on what has already been said by Hon. Tshuma. The moment you say that you want to emphasise or support, it means the point you want to mention has already been said. Bring up a different point.
HON. MANDIWANZIRA: Thank you very much Madam Chair. I do not have any challenge with Clause 15 except that it enforces the insurance companies to play the collection role of the licence fees without providing for a relationship with the insurance companies. It is easily understandable with ZINARA and it has already been explained that it is Government. However, this section also requires that even insurance companies that are not owned by the Government have an obligation to deny issuing an insurance policy to somebody who has not paid the radio licence. We are promoting double offence in that the insurance company will say to somebody who wants to insure a vehicle, walk away until you have gone to ZINARA or you have gone to ZBC to buy your listener’s licence.
Risk is higher if you do not pay your insurance policy than your radio listener’s licence. I would like to suggest that the wording of this section takes into account, first, the avoidance of promoting double non-compliance to a radio licence and non-compliance to insurance policy. Also, what is the relationship being established with private insurance companies in terms of them being either the collectors of that radio licence because it is inconveniencing to the public, to simply say go to your insurance policy provider and be told – no, walk away, we cannot do it. Unless this Clause gives authority to the insurance company to also collect the radio licence. I think that clarity needs to be put in that Clause. I thank you.
+HON. NYATHI: Thank you Hon. Chair. It is my desire to raise a different point to the Hon. Minister that there are areas like Gonde in Plumtree, the radio signal is not there. People have their cars in that particular area in Matebeleland South, North and other areas, there are no radio signals but people own cars. As a country, are we going to tax people, whether it is a rural headmaster, a licence of a radio that he listens to when he goes to Bulawayo to get his salary? Are we then going to charge that particular person the same amount with someone who listens to the ZBC radio every day from Harare? I thank you.
HON. JAMES: Thank you Madam Chair. I do not agree with this Clause for a couple of reasons, notwithstanding what has been mentioned regarding the Constitution. I feel it is discriminatory against those with hearing impairments and also the Minister has not taken into account the public hearing records where the people generally just do not want this Clause. Thank you.
HON. M. SIBANDA: Thank you Madam Chair. I really want to add my voice on this Clause to say, I really disagree with it. The fact that it is not spreading the source where it will collect the money, it is actually sparing other people who will be radio licence users. It only concentrates on the vehicle users because on a simple calculation, I realise that Zimbabwe is having about 1 400 vehicles and at the current rate, it means per term, we are likely to get about 42 million collected on 1 400 vehicles that are currently on the road and this actually pushes the cost of doing business. The vehicle users will transfer the cost to the general public and the cost of doing business in Zimbabwe will be actually higher. I want to say, let us spread the collection even to other people who are not vehicle users. Let us reduce if we are going to focus on vehicles, let us reduce to as low as USD2 per vehicle, I submit.
HON. MAKUMIRE: Thank you Hon. Chair, Clause 15 because of its content and what it implies, I believe it is improper to bring a marriage which does not exist between ZINARA and ZBC…
THE TEMPORARY CHAIRPERSON: It has already been mentioned. Thank you and take a seat. It has already been addressed, take a seat Hon. Member. This was alluded to earlier by the speaker who debated in English. This has already been addressed Hon. Member. Order Hon. Makumire! We agreed that when you stand, do not repeat what has been said but bring in new points. When you repeat, we will ask you to sit down and you have just repeated what has been said. –[Hon. Makumire having remained standing]- Order, Hon Makumire! Please take a seat. Hon. Makumire, please take your seat. Hon. Makumire and Hon. G. Hlatywayo, can you take your seats?
You are quite passionate, you want to debate and we do not deny anyone the opportunity but we agreed that when you repeat, I will ask you to sit down, thank you. You were just supposed to go to a new point, so we are going to move forward.
HON. G. K. HLATYWAYO: You said you are allowing everyone to debate. What Hon. Makumire simply did was to state his position. He had not even given his reasons and I think– [HON. MEMBERS: Inaudible interjections.]-
THE TEMPORARY CHAIRPERSON: There is no need for one to have an over-emphasis. What has already been said has been said and there is no need for that.
HON. G. K. HLATYWAYO: He stated his position, he was now going to the reasons why he is stating that position.
THE TEMPORARY CHAIRPERSON: Order, order! You have time to debate but if you repeat what has already been said, I will ask you to sit down. Order Hon. Makumire! I have the whole day and I can go into the night. It is fine with me but if you want to talk before I recognise you, we can go on, we can sleep here and I have the time to do that. Order!
THE MINISTER OF INFORMATION, PUBLICITY AND BROADCASTING SERVICES (HON. DR. MUSWERE): Thank you Madam Chair. I want to thank all the Hon. Members of Parliament for their contributions to this particular clause but I will not labour you with issues that do not relate to this particular clause. I will respond specifically to issues related to Clause 15 in the Bill. Hon. Chair, Section 194 (1) (g) of the Constitution of Zimbabwe, obligates all institutions and agencies of Government that they must cooperate at all levels. This is the supreme law of the country; the Constitution of Zimbabwe. The collaboration between ZINARA and ZBC is in terms of the Constitution of Zimbabwe.
I want to respond to one of the issues about the licence fees. This is not part of the debate in terms of the particular clause. That is provided for in terms of the Broadcasting Services Act [Chapter 12.06], in that ZBC as a corporation and the Minister will discuss about the schedule in terms of the fees. So, that matter does not arise in this particular clause. I want to distinguish a radio receiver in terms of the Post and Telecommunications Act [Chapter 12.06 (b)], which clearly elaborates that a radio receiver is capable in terms of the reception and a broadcasting service. Some of the issues alluded to in terms of dealership are well catered for in terms of Section 38 (a) of the Broadcasting Services Act. So, we have so many landmark cases, rulings by the Supreme Court and the Constitutional Court relating to what we term an electromagnetic wave or radio receiver.
What we seek to do is to collect through a radio signal receiver, which is what we should primarily focus on. Where the particular individual or company does not possess the radio receiver, the same clause, clearly elaborates that the particular individual should have a ZBC exemption certificate or a particular individual can get and sign a declaration as specified in the Eighth Schedule. The clause seeks to ensure that it complies that we utilise a whole of Government approach. The Second Republic has ensured that we do away with silos. So, this is where technology has superseded the utilisation of old manual methods. This will ensure that we boost revenue collection and ensure that there is convenience. I have already stipulated, in terms of Statutory Instrument 264, which provides for the engagement of third parties to collect licence fees.
As I conclude, I would want to add an amendment to that clause, that the Bill is amended in Clause 15 on page 6 in line 17, by the insertion of ‘and companies after individuals’, I think we should move forward, we should not discuss issues that do not relate to this Clause. I thank you.
THE TEMPORARY CHAIRPERSON: Hon. Minister, can you amend by reading the continuous line so that we can also be taking note? You can submit.
The Temporary Chair having wanted to move for adoption.
HON. MUSHORIWA: No, we want to debate. You did not give us the opportunity to debate, it is allowed.
THE TEMPORARY CHAIRPERSON: I did not say it is not allowed. It is allowed.
HON. MUSHORIWA: Thank you Madam Chair. I have listened to the Hon. Minister responding to the submissions that have been made by the Hon. Members. I would like to think that the Hon. Minister did not get what the Hon. Members were saying. I propose that this Clause 15 (4), if the Minister cannot completely remove this clause, my compromise submission is that instead of saying that ZINARA and every motor insurance company shall only issue; we delete the word shall only issue and replace with these words that ‘ZINARA and motor insurance company shall concurrently issue ZINARA licence and insurance together with ZBC licence’. We then also put a proviso, which then speaks to the need for ZBC, ZINARA and insurance company to have sort of a workable agreement in terms of the corrections.
The essence of this Hon. Ziyambi, I see you are shaking your head. The essence of it is this, right now ZINARA will tell you that it is from only 800 000 vehicles that they are managing to collect licences. The moment you then tell people that you pay ZBC on its own, the number is going to go down. It does not matter whether the law enforcement is actually implemented in which way. So, the best way in my view is that, let us have a mechanism where this collection of ZINARA licence is concurrently done with the ZBC licence. Then we will have an arrangement between ZBC and ZINARA. To me that makes more sense and it is even easier administratively to work on, rather than the current situation to simply say if you do not have the ZBC licence, you cannot pay your vehicle licence. I think it is actually prudent that we do that.
THE MINISTER OF JUSTICE, LEGAL AND PARLIAMENTARY AFFAIRS (HON. Z. ZIYAMBI): Thank you Hon. Chair. I think the Minister has explained, let us proceed. This clause, if you look at it carefully, I think what Hon. Mushoriwa is trying to say is exactly captured. If you read it carefully, it says ZINARA and every motor vehicle insurance company ‘shall only” issue a motor vehicle licence. In other words, there is already a relationship between ZINARA and an insurance company to issue a motor vehicle licence. The clause is not speaking about insurance companies that do not issue a motor vehicle licence but is saying if you are an insurance company and you are issuing a motor vehicle licence, then you also need to collect a radio licence. If you are just an insurance company and I walk in there for an insurance licence, I should be able to get it. If I go to ZINARA, they will ask for proof that you have an insurance and radio licence, then they issue the motor vehicle licence. This is a whole of business approach that we are now encouraging so that you do not visit ten offices to get something that can be collected in one office. This is the ease of doing business that His Excellency is introducing that it is done under one roof. So, exactly what Hon. Mushoriwa is alluding to, that is what is captured. So, I move that we proceed.
HON. MUSHORIWA: I think the Hon. Minister is deliberately twisting what I have said and in the process, misconstrues what I have said. The reading of this clause says, “shall only issue” that is the first thing that you have to do. You have to pay ZBC and I am saying, even the same thing that you continue to say that you do not want to operate on a silo system, the best way Hon. Minister, when we say that concurrently, we need a mechanism where ZINARA and ZBC has got an agreement. So, ZINARA can collect fees on behalf of ZBC not a situation where you say ZINARA cannot issue a vehicle licence until you have seen the ZBC licence. That to me is a contradiction at the point of departure. This clause as it stands, will have unintended consequences, revenue will go down and this I can assure you because one way or the other, this one is not proper and is not good for ZBC, neither is it good for ZINARA. - [HON. MEMBERS: Inaudible interjections.] -
THE TEMPORARY CHAIRPERSON: Order, order.
*HON. HAMAUSWA: My concern Madam Chair on Clause 15, there is an issue that the owner of the car may get an exemption that they are not going to pay. There are a lot of cars that are different from these modern cars, that if you take out the radio, it becomes ugly. For example, vehicles such as 323 commuter omnibuses, radios can be inserted inside and can be easily taken out. You will realise that engineers are going to take out those radios.
The Hon. Minister is taking it as a joke but this is the most serious issue. This is the one that is going to reduce the revenue. We have to persuade people and there must be a social contract. This clause that you have put in place that you want to arrest people but have you finished arresting thieves. If you leave this clause, it must be rectified.
*THE TEMPORARY CHAIRPERSON: Do you want to say anyone who removes radio licence, do you want to suggest a solution?
*HON. HAMAUSWA: Hon. Chair, Clause 15 must be rectified and started.
*THE TEMPORARY CHAIRPERSON: I thought you want to suggest or proffer a solution that anyone who removes that radio must be charged a fine.
*HON. HAMAUSWA: What l am trying to say is that they are saying this is a good clause but it is very bad. If we are to approve it as an august House, we are signing for a land mine that will burst tomorrow because people are going to take out their radios. That clause does not stop them.
Amongst the 800 000 vehicles that are there, you will realise that maybe 400 000 will have radios and they will take out the rest.
*THE TEMPORARY CHAIRPERSON: They have noted your point.
*HON. HAMAUSWA: We like the issue of funding ZBC but we do not agree to this clause. We want them to spread this issue instead of targeting motorists only, I thank you.
HON. SHIRIYEDENGA: I note that the exemptions certificates in this case are only applicable to those vehicles that do not have receivers. If you look at SI 264 of 2021, it issued exemptions for people who are 65 years and above. Primarily, they are for those who have the radios and TV that we have at home but in this case, I do request in terms of expanding those that are eligible for exemption that are vehicle owners who are 70 years and above should be exempted from paying radio licences, I submit.
*HON. MHETU: My argument is, if this Bill passes, let us protect the citizens of Zimbabwe because we have empowered ZBC too much. Since it is after making money, it might end up charging high fees. So, I think we must protect the citizens. Let us include a clause that says if the user fees must be increased, it must not go beyond 5% per annum, I thank you.
HON. MUGWADI: Thank you Madam Chair. It appears to me that the clause we are burdened with for the past one hour is an administrative provision and that ZBC licences will be payable through ZINARA facility is an administrative mechanism. This Parliament, in the process of legislating, must not behave as if it should be responsible for collecting the taxes on behalf of ZBC. This is an administrative arrangement between two State institutions that operate in unison. If ZBC has made an arrangement with ZINARA, they could make this arrangement even with OK Zimbabwe, if it were possible. They could make this arrangement with the Zimbabwe Republic Police, just as they are doing in the streets. It is an administrative provision.
So, my humble request, through you Madam Chair, is that the House must not venture into administrative areas that are not within the province of its responsibility. It is an administrative mechanism of collecting what we would have agreed here. In fact, it would have served very well if Members contributing knew exactly what tax is. If we start from there, Members will understand that tax is compulsory. It is imposed by an authority and payable by those targeted. This provision is very clear.
Therefore, the administrative mechanism of how the tax ends up in the hands of ZBC is exclusively and exceptionally an administrative matter which this House must not be burdened about. Otherwise, for the sake of proceeding Madam Speaker… – [AN HON. MEMBER: I also have a point of order Madam Chair. I have been standing for sometime.] –
THE TEMPORARY CHAIRPERSON: Point of order when Hon. Mugwadi has been concluded, can you please take your seat? – [AN HON. MEMBER: I just wanted to say….] – You raise a point of order while someone is still debating. When he is finished, who are you raising a point of order to? – [AN HON. MEMBER: But I was standing. Madam Chair, I was up standing but you did not recognise me.] –
HON. MADZIVANYIKA: Thank you Madam Chair. If ever we go to vote and this Bill sails through, there is a proviso to this Clause which says, if you are a motorist and your vehicle does not have a radio receiver, you are not supposed to pay for radio licence fees but then there is a requirement that you go to ZBC to complete a form according to the Eighth Schedule. I think this proviso is also administrative, it is not necessary. As we travel, if I decide to remove the receiver myself, as I travel, you will see the officers of the law, officers from ZBC manning the roads and they will see that my car does not have a radio receiver. So, this proviso, according to me, is not necessary on the Clause. I wish the Honourable Minister to consider repealing the proviso. Thank you.
THE MINISTER OF INFORMATION, PUBLICITY AND BROADCASTING SERVICES (HON. DR. MUSWERE): Thank you Madam Chair…
THE TEMPORARY CHAIRPERSON: Order Hon. Minister! I would like to ask the Government Chief Whip, the Leader of Government Business and the Hon. Minister to use the microphones that are audible so the Hon. Minister can be heard. Hon. Minister, please proceed.
HON. DR. MUSWERE: Hon. Chair, I think we are still going round in circles. I have already addressed the same issues. Madam Chair, this clause seeks to ensure that we have compliance. This Clause also seeks to ensure that we boost revenue for the public broadcaster. Madam Chair, if a person does a false declaration, there is a high risk that they can be arrested in terms of perjury. Madam Chair, the issue related to ZBC and ZINARA as institutions, I have already highlighted that in terms of Section 194 (1) (g), that institutions of Government and agencies are obliged to work together under a whole of Government framework. We already have existing agreements between ZINARA and ZBC and they have worked together very well.
Madam Chair, the issue related to the utilisation of technology in terms of collecting revenue is already addressed because it is an operational and administrative issue. This is an institution or a platform which provides a software platform in terms of what we term a national enterprise architecture, utilising a whole of Government approach which was approved by Cabinet and the Government of Zimbabwe. The national enterprise architecture provides for an inter-operability that systems should be able to talk to each other in terms of the Constitution,
which is Section 194 (1) (g).
Madam Chair, what will take place operationally, even though this issue has got nothing to do with this particular clause but is related, I want to help the Hon. Members of Parliament that this enterprise architecture allows a particular motorist or a person who owns a radio
receiver to move into any of the offices, either owned by ZINARA, ZBC, an insurance company and by any agent to be able to utilise their bank cards to be able to swipe. The money will automatically be distributed to a particular account...
HON. ENG. MHANGWA: On a point of order Madam Chair.
THE TEMPORARY CHAIRPERSON: Order Honourable Minister! What is your point of order Honourable Mhangwa?
HON. ENG. MHANGWA: Madam Chair, the Minister has been gyrating on the same issue, deliberately avoiding the sticky points. The sticky points are not for people who are exempted.
THE TEMPORARY CHAIRPERSON: Honourable Mhangwa, the Minister is in the middle of responding. He has not finished yet. Can you give him the opportunity to finish? – [HON. ENG. MHANGWA: Madam Chair, the last time you said if you bring a point of order after someone is seated…] – No, no Hon. Mhangwa, you are out of order. Please take your seat. Honourable Minister, please proceed.
HON. DR. MUSWERE: Madam Chair, I think I have addressed this matter that I want to thank all Hon. Members of Parliament for their rich contributions but I will not labour to respond to issues outside this particular clause. Let us stick to the particular clause in terms of the rules.
Madam Chair, this clause relates to individuals and companies that either hold a current radio licence issued by the Zimbabwe Broadcasting Corporation or a valid exemption certificate from ZBC. Unless the vehicle to be insured is not equipped with a radio receiver, provided the licenced applicant shall sign a declaration as specified in the Eighth Schedule. If a particular person does not own a radio receiver, I do not understand why we should be debating about that. You put in place, you sign a declaration form or you get a ZBC exemption certificate but if you own a radio receiver, then you are obliged to pay. Thank you Madam Chair.
HON. ENG. MHANGWA: Madam Chair, point of order again. Now he has finished, can I come with my point of order?
THE TEMPORARY CHAIRPERSON: Order? What is your point of order? Which question has not been responded to or which contribution that he has not referred to?
HON. ENG. MHANGWA: Please, may you patiently listen to me Madam Chair. What he refers to exempted vehicles that do not have a receiver are not in question because they already do not have the receiver. The problem or the sticky point is that one has an electro magnetic wave, a receiver is not a necessary and sufficient condition for one to pay a licence. The second sticky point is the fact that I have multiple of them, he has not referred anything to that. The two are the sticking points from my side.
THE MINISTER OF JUSTICE, LEGAL AND PARLIAMENTARY AFFAIRS (HON Z. ZIYAMBI): This is the reason why I moved that we vote because we cannot reach an agreement. We belabour ourselves repeating exactly the same issues. I move that we proceed.
Amendments to Clause 15 (now Clause 13) put and agreed to.
Clause 15 (now Clause13) as amended, put and agreed to.
On Clause 16 (now Clause 14):
*HON. MAMBIPIRI: I am not in agreement with the amendment on Clause 16 that if there are people who want to apply for a broadcasting licence in Zimbabwe, they should give ZBC three channels without any payments. My suggestion to the Minister is that three are a lot for ZBC. I think we need to go back to the one channel. As of now, we have challenges as a country in transmitting signal to remote areas. Broadcasting business is capital intensive. If we say three more channels it will be a quandary to them.
For example, as of now, DStv is carrying one ZBC channel which has advertisements and that money will be wasted on what is being suggested in Clause 16. The public broadcaster is not remitting anything to DStv. I do not think that we will have more investors in the media industry.
HON. MUSHORIWA: I do not know why we have Clause 16 in the Bill. The Hon. Minister has to explain to this august House what mischief does he seek to remedy by including the clause in the Bill. Basically, to say that you want three public broadcaster channels to be allowed to be carried by a licencee, I think it creates challenges even for business. Last week we bemoaned that broadcasting as a business is capital intensive and I do not think that it will be prudent to then say that you want to make sure that you have three.
The current status is that if you do not make payment, your subscription on DStv as a public good, you are allowed to have Channel 280 and hear Hon. Dr. Muswere there. If you are going to have an additional two, you are basically killing the business. It will not help. In my humble view, this Clause does not have a reason to survive in this Bill and I ask the Hon. Minister to consider expunging it.
*THE MINISTER OF INFORMATION, PUBLICITY AND BROADCASTING SERVICES (HON DR. MUSWERE): I would like to thank the Hon Members who have debated. Looking at the import of the Clause that we are dealing with, it is a standard procedure internationally that if you are a subscription based licence operator, you must carry three national broadcaster channels. In Zimbabwe, we had one and we are trying to come up with two more. We want this law to help us to ensure that all those that we may licence carry two more. We want to add ZBC 2 and 3. This is based on heritage broadcast. We want our content to spread internationally and cater for the sixteen languages. There is nothing new as this is international practice.
HON. MAMBIPIRI: In his response, I think the Minister missed the point that we raised this side. We are not arguing that DStv for example, must not carry the national broadcaster, far from it. We believe as a mandate, DStv must carry our own national broadcaster, ZBC. What we are debating and asking you to change is on the number of channels because already we are acknowledging that broadcasting is capital intensive and takes quite a lot from the private investors and DStv to carry our channels. So, instead of three channels, we are simply asking that they carry only ZBC and use the other two frequencies or channels that they have for proper business purposes.
THE TEMPORARY SPEAKER: Hon. Mambipiri, I thought the Hon. Minister said it is an international requirement.
HON. DR. MUSWERE: It is part of an internationally agreed position in terms of standard. Secondly, DStv which one of the Hon. Members has already mentioned is in agreement and fully supports to carry three channels. Thank you.
HON. BAJILA: International agreements have names, places and dates. The Minister should proffer us the international agreement which was agreed on such and such a place on this day. We want to know the agreement.
THE MINISTER OF JUSTICE, LEGAL AND PARLIAMENTARY AFFAIRS (HON. Z. ZIYAMBI): Hon. Chair, let us proceed. We are going in circles over debates that are useless. This is the position of the Executive that we want three and we are not going to change. So, let us proceed.
*HON. MUTSEYAMI: May we proceed in harmony as a respectable House. I respect Hon. Minister Ziyambi but now Hon. Ziyambi is now applying dirty tactics that were used before independence.
*THE TEMPORARY SPEAKER: I thought you wanted to address to me or it seems you want to talk to Hon. Ziyambi. If you want to talk to Hon. Ziyambi, call him and go outside to talk to him. If you want to talk to me –
*HON. MUTSEYAMI: My point is, let us respect and be able to understand each other. Let us not use bullying tactics.
*HON. TOGAREPI: I think he must withdraw the word ‘chitororo’ because if he does not know, we can go outside and show him what that means.
*THE TEMPORARY SPEAKER: Hon. Mutseyami, can you withdraw.
*HON. MUTSEYAMI: Hon. Togarepi leads an association of war collaborators and even when he is asleep, he knows what that means.
*THE TEMPORARY SPEAKER: Hon. Mutseyami, Hon. Togarepi is inviting you to go outside so that you two can engage in ‘chitororo’ outside. I urge you Hon. Members to take the business of Parliament with the seriousness it deserves – [HON. HAMAUSWA: Murikutidzvanyirira kunouku.] - Hon. Hamauswa, you have a habit of just standing without being recognised and say whatever you want, please respect my position.
HON. MADZIVANYIKA: My point of order arises from Order Number 65 (5) which says, ‘when a point of order is raised, the Member debating shall resume his/her seat and no other Member shall arise until the Chair has decided on a point of order’. With due respect, Hon. Bajila raised a point of order to request the Minister to explain the international standard procedure that he was talking about and a ruling was not made to that effect. So, I actually ask you Madam Chair to make a ruling so that the House is well advised on the point of order raised by Hon. Bajila.
*THE TEMPORARY SPEAKER: Hon. Madzivanyika, if you recall, when Hon. Bajila stood, that is when Hon. Leader of Government Business stood up and many other issues then came up. So, let me give the Minister the floor so that we proceed.
*HON. DR. MUSWERE: I have an agreement with the international players in terms of the licence and framework and that is our position. Can you please proceed? There is no way you can have an international subscription-based service operating in your country and without carrying your own public broadcaster channels. All these Hon. Members know that they can watch SABC from DStv. So, there is nothing new there. I thank you Hon. Chair.
HON. MAMBIPIRI: Thank you Hon. Chair. I think this Parliament is a House of record and when we make reference to items, publications, agreements, we must be clear and not deviate. The first point is that there is no international agreement that speaks to the number of channels that will be carried. There is what is called International Best Practice and that practice always mentions that the public broadcaster, at least a channel from the public broadcaster must be carried.
Secondly, I think the Hon. Minister is misleading the House when he says he has the word that DStv will carry three channels. The report that was read in this House from the Media Committee and the submissions on very bright coloured paper from DStv that came to Parliament were complaining about the three channels and asking the House to consider a single channel – that is the position from DStv. I thank you Hon. Chair.
THE MINISTER OF JUSTICE, LEGAL AND PARLIAMENTARY AFFAIRS (HON. Z. ZIYAMBI): Hon. Chair, when we have a disagreement, there are rules on how to proceed. Our position is very clear, we looked at it and we are satisfied that we need three channels, so let us proceed.
HON. TOGAREPI: On a point of order Hon. Chair.
THE TEMPORARY CHAIRPERSON: What is your point of order?
HON. TOGAREPI: DStv is opening so many channels. Why is it shocking that people on my left are surprised – [HON. MAMBIPIRI: But are they for free?] –
THE TEMPORARY CHAIRPERSON: Order Hon. Mambipiri.
Clause 16, now 14 put and agreed to.
Clause 17, now 15 put and agreed to.
On Clause 18, now Clause16:
HON. MUSHORIWA: I have got two issues on this Clause. The first one relates to subsection (e) (2) (a) where it says, ‘the Chairperson of the board may at any time, convene a special meeting of the board’. Madam Chair, this inclusion is actually not good, more-so when we are trying to make sure that the ZBC Board adheres to the Public Entities Corporate Governance Act. History has taught us that where certain public boards like the ZINARA Board that was fired, would actually end up having several meetings and to then give the Chairperson a blanket authority to just call any time, convene a special meeting, I think it is too broad to be left like that.
I want the Hon. Minister to expunge it or alternatively to amend it to say that we remove the words ‘at any time’ and say ‘may convene a special meeting of the board’ and we delete this ‘at any time’. We say ‘may convene a special meeting’, we do not to just give a blanket authority.
The second issue is on the b (ii), which says ‘shall convene a special meeting of board on the written request of not fewer than two members’. I think we agreed, the board is going to be seven and the best practice that we have actually laid in this august House is that it should not be fewer than 50% of the board and in this case, no fewer than three. We cannot have a situation where we simply say two members just write to the Chair. We want a board meeting and the Chair then calls a special meeting.
Let us say as a standard, the board is seven and we should say at least three. So, I propose that the Hon. Minister deletes the word ‘two’ and put the word ‘three’. I so submit Hon. Chair.
HON. M. C. SIBANDA: Thank you so much Hon. Chair. I want to make amendments to line number 4 which says that ‘a member shall hold office for a term of four years and the appointment may be renewed to a one further such term’. I may want to suggest why really we want to renew. I think as Zimbabweans, we need to develop a culture of passing on the button. Four years is adequate, let us not renew. That is my submission.
THE MINISTER OF INFORMATION, PUBLICITY AND BROADCASTING SERVICES (HON. DR. MUSWERE): Thank you Madam Chair. I am sure what we seek to do is to align with the Public Entities and Corporate Governance Act [Chapter 10.31] which specifies among other things, a maximum of two fixed term based contracts for the Chief Executive Officer, each term not exceeding five years. With relationship to the board members, the term is fixed for four years, which is one term and a further term upon a satisfactory performance. So, what we seek to do is just to align the Acts in terms of the Public Entities and Corporate Governance Act. There is nothing wrong with the Hon. Members of Parliament amending the Public Entities and Corporate Governance Act. In this particular case, we want to align the legislation. So, as it is exactly, it is correct.
HON. MUSHORIWA: Hon. Chair, I think the Hon. Minister forgot to answer my submissions.
HON. DR. MUSWERE: Thank you Madam Chair, it is two plus the Chair, it becomes three and the total becomes seven. So when you have a Chair, it becomes three. I thank you.
HON. MUSHORIWA: Hon. Chair, the Hon. Minister first did not respond to the question where I had suggested that he deletes where it says, ‘at any time’ so that it just remains ‘may convene a special meeting’. I think it is actually sufficient without putting ‘at any time’. The second one, the Hon. Minister is saying that it is two plus Chair then they become three. The way it is framed there, not fewer than two members, meaning he is saying that two members can actually cause – and what we are basically saying, let us remove the word ‘two’ and say ‘three’, not fewer than three members. If they are three, that is fine, so it is two members plus the Chairperson that makes them three. If you say not less than two, I think it is not proper. Let us remove the word ‘two’ and put ‘three’ and Hon. Minister, this one I will tell you, you will see the benefits of it. You will be the Hon. Minister responsible for this board. You will see where I am coming from – [HON. MEMBERS: Inaudible interjections.] -
HON. DR. MUSWERE: Thank you Hon. Chair. I want to try and assist the Hon. Member. Go to item 2, the Chairperson of the board, that is a person, it is not a piece of furniture. Subsection (a) says; “may at any time convene a special meeting of the board and shall convene a special meeting of the board on the written request of the Minister within such period as the Minister may specify or not fewer than two members, not latter than 14 days after his or her receipt of such request”.
So, there will now be three people, the Chairperson plus other two members, they become three or more. It is very clear. It does not mean he can only invite the two members, it says, plus the Chairperson, so they become three people.
The second issue on, ‘may at any time’, it is an issue of semantics. It is correct as it is and it is not limiting. I thank you Hon. Chair.
HON. MUSHORIWA: Hon. Chairman, I have got a point of order. That the leader of the House, Hon. Ziyambi – he knows and I think it is prudent that when an Hon. Minister comes to this House piloting his first Bill, they should be taught that conceding is not defeat. It is actually building a country – [HON. MEMBERS: Hear, hear.]-
THE MINISTER OF JUSTICE LEGAL AND PARLIAMENTARY AFFAIRS (HON. Z. ZIYAMBI): Hon. Chair, I do not see where Hon. Mushoriwa is getting lost. The provision is very clear. It is not a quorum of a meeting; it is who is calling the meeting.
The first person is the Chairman of the Board. The second is the Hon. Minister. Then it says; ‘not fewer than two’ – what is not fewer than two? It is three and above. I thank you.
HON. DR. MUSWERE: Thank you Chair. I think the leader of Government Business has explained that very well. ‘Not fewer than’ sets a parameter as a minimum. The second issue I want to remind the Hon. Member is that this is not my first Bill. Go and check the records, this is not the first time I am in Parliament. Go and read the Cyber and Data Protection Act, I piloted it and many other pieces of legislation – [HON. MEMBERS: Inaudible interjections.] –
HON. HAMAUSWA: I think there would be no prejudice if the Hon. Minister concedes on the proposal by Hon. Mushoriwa to deal with the text. It allows also to bring confidence …
THE TEMPORARY CHAIRPERSON (HON. NGULUVHE): I think the Hon. Minister has responded Hon. Hamauswa. Let us proceed.
Clause 18, now Clause 16 put and agreed to.
Clause 19, now Clause 17 and Clause 20, now Clause 18 put and agreed to.
On Clause 21, now Clause19:
HON. MUSHORIWA: Hon. Chairman, the Hon. Minister says that when it comes to a sport channel, 50% of its programming should be content from the local content and from Africa.
Before I raise my issue, I think the Hon. Minister needs to explain to us why you set at 50%? My thinking; given the challenge that we have in terms of broadcasting covering all the sporting disciplines in the country, requiring 50%, is too much of a threshold. I know that if you speak to Hon. Members here, those that love soccer, basketball and even tennis, most Hon. Members would possibly know international teams and other competition that goes around there.
So, 50% to me looks a bit higher. I think for starters, if the Hon. Minister could say 30% or if the Hon. Minister could actually ensure that instead of putting this per centum in this Bill, it be reflected on the regulations that the Hon. Minister can do time after time having looked and scanned the environment, to then have this proposal in the Bill at 50%, is actually putting pressure on a broadcasting channel.
So, my thinking Hon. Minister, is that can we remove this one and then we add to say that the number of channels or the per centum of content shall be determined by the Hon. Minister through regulations from time to time? Having a piece of legislation to just do that may create a problem. Maybe, at a time, you will then realise that no, you need 80% or 70% - naturally without the need of you coming back to this august House to amend, that is my proposal.
HON. DR. MUSWERE: Thank you Chair. I want to thank the Honourable Members for handing over some of the regulatory powers to the Hon. Minister. So, I want to redo this particular Clause. I want you to repeat so that I can capture in consultation with the Hon. Minister so that we can progressively increase in terms of trajectory.
Hon. Chair, we have so many sports disciplines in our country and in the region. I want just to read a few. The number one in terms of football under Zimbabwe Football Association, the projected leagues are Zimbabwe Premier Soccer League, Zimbabwe Women’s Football Super League, Central Region Division 1, Eastern Region Division 1, Northern Region Division 1, Southern Region Division 1, Community Recreation Leagues, ZPSL 18 teams, 34 matches, ZWFSL 16 teams, 30 matches.
Category 2, Zimbabwe Netball Association, Premium League, NASH League, NAPH Leagues, Community recreation leagues, Basketball Union of Zimbabwe, Super-6 League, Provincial League 7, Super-6 Rugby League, Community Recreation Leagues, Cricket, School Leagues, Provincial Leagues, Logan Cup, Pro-5 Championship, MPLT-20, Zimbabwe Rugby Union, School Leagues, Provincial Leagues and National Leagues,
Athletics: National Athletics, National Association of Zimbabwe, NASH Leagues, NAPH Leagues, Provincial Leagues, University Leagues, National Leagues. We can go on and on, we have a category for hockey, category for tennis, we have a category for table tennis, we have a category for chess, we have a category for cycling and so forth.
Hon. Chair, all this is content and sporting is universal. So, we must support local content. Sometimes I wonder Hon. Chair. These are Members of Parliament for Zimbabwean people. We should be supporting the coverage of all these sports channels but I do not have any challenge, if the Hon. Member can recite and ensure that the Minister can increase in consultation with the Minister, so each and every time they would have to consult me and we increase the content coverage. Thank you.
THE TEMPORARY CHAIRPERSON (HON. NGULUVHE): Hon. Mushoriwa, you can submit a written amendment to the Minister if there is any need.
HON. MUSHORIWA: I think the Hon. Minister of Justice, Legal and Parliamentary Affairs can actually help us. Subject to sub paragraph 1, the responsible Minister shall prescribe to a television broadcasting sport channel or the per centum of its programming in terms of local content. I think the Hon. Minister of Justice, Legal and Parliamentary Affairs can actually polish it.
HON. MAMBIPIRI: I rise on a point of privilege Hon. Chair. Thank you very much Hon. Chair. Hon. Maposa travelled all the way from Chimanimani West, he had something to say on this Bill but was denied the opportunity. I am humbly asking, if you could indulge him to say something at least.
THE TEMPORARY CHAIRPERSON: Unfortunately, your point of privilege has been overruled.
HON. TOGAREPI: Thank you Hon. Chair for the opportunity. We want the clause to read as follows; ‘that the Minister may, by regulation, prescribe the per-centum of local and African content for sport channels. I thank you.
Amendment to Clause 21, now Clause 19 put and agreed to.
Clause 21, now Clause19, as amended, put and agreed to.
Clause 22, now Clause 20 put and agreed to.
Clause 23, now Clause 21 put and agreed to.
Schedule put and agreed to.
House resumed.
Bill reported with amendments.
Bill referred to the Parliamentary Legal Committee.
MOTION
BUSINESS OF THE HOUSE
THE MINISTER OF JUSTICE, LEGAL AND PARLIAMENTARY AFFAIRS (HON. Z. ZIYAMBI): Madam Speaker, I move that Orders of the Day, Numbers 2 to 31 be stood over until Order of the Day, Number 32 on today`s Order Paper has been disposed of.
Motion put and agreed to.
MOTION
REPORT OF THE PORTFOLIO COMMITTEE ON ICT, POSTAL AND COURIER SERVICES ON MOBILE AND INTERNET CONNECTIVITY
Thirty-Second Order read: Adjourned debate on motion on the Report of the Portfolio Committee on ICT, Postal and Courier Services on mobile and internet connectivity in Zimbabwe.
Question again proposed.
THE DEPUTY MINISTER OF INFORMATION COMMUNICATION TECHNOLOGY, POSTAL AND COURIER SERVICES (HON. PHUTI): Thank you Madam Speaker Ma`am. On 14th November 2024, the Portfolio Committee on Information Communication Technology, Postal and Courier Services (ICT) tabled the report on mobile and internet service in Zimbabwe and on 26th February, 2025, the Ministry was humbly reminded of the obligation to respond to the Committee report. That report of the Portfolio Committee on ICT brought in some recommendations and I shall here present them. The Ministry of Finance, Economic Development and Investment Promotion should prioritise foreign currency allocations to capacitate infrastructure development and increase on investment in ICT infrastructure projects and new technologies to expand digital access by 31 December 2025. The Ministry concurs with the Committee’s recommendation and implores the Treasury to follow the international best practice of dedicating 3% of the national budget to ICT infrastructure development and adopting new technologies.
The Ministry of Finance, Economic Development and Investment Promotion should review policies that impact on viability of the telecommunication sector, for example the tax rebates for the ICT gadgets by December 2025. The Ministry continues to implore and appeal to Treasury to reduce taxes for the sector as well as implement tax rebates on selected electronic communication devices.
In order to develop infrastructure and attract investments, the Ministry of ICT should allow other players to provide mobile and internet services in the country to allow competition from other private players such as Huawei and Starlink by 31 December 2025. The Ministry is already implementing initiatives to develop ICT backbone infrastructure and has licenced players such as Starlink (Satellite services) and Dark Fiber Africa (DFA, fiber network) that has laid over 1500km of fiber along the NRZ rail network in the year 2024.
That, with effect from 2025, PORTAZ should effectively oversee the deployment and operations of base stations to ensure improved quality of the telecommunications services. Postal Telecommunication Regulatory Authority of Zimbabwe (POTRAZ) as the regulator is already overseeing the deployment and operations of base stations and other critical telecommunications infrastructure being deployed across the country. Postal Telecommunication Regulatory Authority of Zimbabwe (POTRAZ) is also providing infrastructure sharing in underserved areas through the USF, by derigging collocated base stations and redeploying them to underserved areas of Zimbabwe. They also keep a record of the sector developments and quarterly reports are submitted to the Ministry and now appraisals are submitted to Cabinet quarterly.
That, the Ministry of ICT must ensure that the Postal Telecommunication Regulatory Authority of Zimbabwe completes as per schedule, the tower relocation project, especially in remote areas by the first quarter of 2025. The Ministry envisions the completion of the tower relocation programme by POTRAZ in conjunction with MNOs, hoping that forex is availed for critical purchases of inputs and equipment for such initiatives to be successful. In October 2024, the Ministry superintended the deployment and commissioning of 14 relocated towers across Zimbabwe by Hon. Vice President K.C.D. Mohadi.
| NUMBER | SITE | DISTRICT | PROVINCE |
| 1 | Muchekawakasungabeta | Sanyati | Mashonaland West |
| 2 | Zvipani | Hurungwe | Mashonaland West |
| 3 | Msampakaruma | Kariba | Mashonaland Central |
| 4 | Cranham | Mazowe | Mashonaland Central |
| 5 | Chatumbama | Mt Darwin | Mashonaland Central |
| 6 | Chitsungo | Guruve | Mashonaland Central |
| 7 | Svuure | Zaka | Masvingo |
| 8 | Gezani | Chiredzi | Masvingo |
| 9 | Chikwarakwara | Chiredzi | Masvingo |
| 10 | Makaha (Mt. Nyamutanga) | Mudzi | Mashonaland East |
| 11 | Fair Adventure | Wedza | Mashonaland East |
| 12 | Nswazwi | Bulima | Matabeleland South |
| 13 | Mapholisa | Mangwe | Matabeleland South |
| 14 | Avill/Fombe | Nyanga | Manicaland |
That, the Ministry of ICT and POTRAZ should urgently prioritise border lying community network provision in areas such as Manama, as citizens are using networks for mobile and internet connectivity. There is already a running project under the NMBB Phase 2 and 3 programmes for border area connectivity. This has seen remote border areas like Mlampapele, Mphoeng, Snago, Mkumbura, Nyakomba, Kanyema Msambalaluma and others getting connectivity as new base stations have been deployed. This has been necessitated by the need to curb social challenges like cattle rustling that is rampant in border areas.
The Postal Telecommunication Regulatory Authority in Zimbabwe should fast track the 4G and 5G roll-out plan in line with the existing schedule. The Ministry is coordinating and overseeing the deployment of the 5G infrastructure together with the requisite broadband infrastructure across the country. This has seen the official launch of the Zimbabwe Broadband Policy by President, His Excellency E.D. Mnangagwa, this year in Somabula in the first quarter of 2024 as well as the launch of 21 NetOne 5G base stations in Harare in October 2024 by Hon. Vice President K.C.D. Mohadi in Harare South. A total of 81 5G base stations have been installed across the country to date (Econet 42 and NetOne 39).
The Postal and Telecommunication Regulatory Authority of Zimbabwe should create a platform of engagement with the citizens in order to assess network challenges in different parts of the country by December 2025. The Ministry takes note of the recommendations and has engaged POTRAZ and weekly programmes on radio are being aired and updates on social media handles. More efforts will be dedicated to this cause to gather as much market intelligence as possible over and above the current process of customer satisfaction surveys conducted by the Ministry and POTRAZ.
Mobile Network Operators overseeing base stations should consider installing solar power systems in addition to generators and electrical power supplies. This would guarantee uninterrupted connectivity during power outages, with a target completion date of January 2026. The solarisation projects are ongoing with each Mobile Network Operator (MNO) funding their programmes. All the Hub 5G base stations that are being deployed by MNOs have solar back-up and this is being expanded to all other new base stations.
I move that the debate do now adjourn.
Motion put and agreed to.
Debate to resume: Wednesday, 5th March, 2025.
MOTION
BUSINESS OF THE HOUSE
HON. KAMBUZUMA: I move that we revert to Order of the Day, Number 10.
HON. C. MOYO: I second.
Motion put and agreed to.
MOTION
REPORT OF THE DELEGATION TO THE SIXTEENTH CONFERENCE OF PARTIES TO THE UNITED NATIONS
HON. MATEMA: I move the motion standing in my name
that this House takes note of the report of the delegation to the Sixteenth Conference of Parties to the United Nations (COP16) Convention on Biological Diversity held from 21st October to 1st November 2024 in Cali, Colombia.
HON. NYANDORO: I second.
HON. MATEMA: The Chairperson of the Portfolio Committee on Environment, Climate and Wildlife, Hon. S. Matema, led a delegation that travelled to Cali, Colombia, to attend Sixteenth Meeting of the Conference of the Parties to the Convention on Biological Diversity (COP 16), Eleventh meeting of the Conference of the Parties serving as the meeting of the Parties to the Cartagena Protocol on Biosafety ( CP-MOP 11), and Fifth meeting of the Conference of the Parties serving as the meeting of the Parties to the Nagoya Protocol on Access to Genetic Resources and the Fair and Equitable Sharing of Benefits Arising from their Utilisation (NP-MOP 5 that was held from 21 October to 01 November, 2024. The other Members of the delegation were:
- C. Kambuzuma; Member of Parliament;
- B. Nyandoro, Member of Parliament; and
- J. Mazani, Principal Committee Clerk
2.0 OBJECTIVES
- To understand the key negotiation issues on biodiversity conservation and sustainable use.
- To appreciate diverging views from the negotiations on biodiversity conservation and sustainable use;
- To identify the key outcomes of the Biodiversity COP 16 negotiations; and
- To make policy and legislative recommendations on Biodiversity conservation.
3.0 KEY NEGOTIATION ISSUES
3.1 At COP 15 in 2022, Parties agreed on a new global plan to protect nature called the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework. Each country was expected to update its own national plan for biodiversity conservation to align with this global framework. At COP 16, the Subsidiary Body on Implementation (SBI), reviewed the progress made by countries in updating their national plans.
3.2 The negotiations at COP 16 were also centred on the sharing of benefits from the use of digital genetic information. Digital Genetic Information refers to digital data about the genetic makeup of organisms. Parties agreed that when someone uses digital information about the genes of plants or animals, they should share the benefits with the countries where those organisms come from. A new system is being set up to ensure fair sharing of benefits. This system will include a global fund to support countries, especially developing countries. A group of experts has been working to develop the details of this new system.
3.3 Negotiations at COP 16 also involved the setting up of a system to track progress on the new global plan for protecting nature (Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework). In order to monitor progress, scientists have been working on creating indicators to track how well countries are doing in achieving the goals of the plan for protection of nature. To ensure enhanced reporting on the global plan, a system for regularly checking how well all parties are doing together will be established. This system is a voluntary country review where each country would have the option to share its own progress reports and get feedback from others. Non-State actors can also report on their contributions to protecting nature. Countries will use a standardized format to report on their progress every few years.
3.4 In terms of the financial aspects of the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework, two aspects were negotiated on namely resource mobilisation and financial mechanism. Under resource mobilisation, a funding strategy has been developed to raise money to implement and support the Global Biodiversity Framework Fund. An advisory committee, is advising the COP on how to raise money and manage the funds. In addition, the funding deeds for implementing the plan are being assessed. On financial mechanism, the Global Environment Facility (GEF) is a key financial mechanism for biodiversity conservation. The performance of GEF in supporting the biodiversity plan is being reviewed. The goal is to ensure there is enough money to implement the plan effectively.
3.5 Regarding capacity building and technical cooperation, negotiations delved into ways to improve the skills and knowledge of people working on biodiversity conservation. The intention is to improve the way countries and organisations share information and build expertise to protect nature. There are intentions to establish a central hub that will coordinate efforts and share information. Furthermore, regional centres will be set up to provide specific support to different regions. The parties also negotiated on setting up a clearing-house mechanism, a platform for sharing information and data on biodiversity that is user friendly and accessible. In addition, a knowledge management strategy is being developed to effectively manage and use knowledge related to biodiversity conservation.
3.6 To achieve better results, Parties intent to work together with other international organisations and conventions to share information and coordinate efforts including joint actions to achieve common goals to protect biodiversity.
3.7 Another topical negotiation aspect at COP 16 was the rights of Indigenous Peoples and Local Communities (IPLCs) and how to better protect their traditional knowledge and practices related to biodiversity. Parties had a deeper discussion about the role of languages in passing down traditional knowledge between generations. Parties negotiated on the creation of a new plan to better protect the rights and knowledge of IPLCs. This was meant to ensure that IPLCs were fully involved in developing and implementing this plan. Thus, discussions centred on deciding the best way to organise and manage this work in the future. The Permanent Forum on Indigenous Issues, a UN body that focuses on Indigenous Peoples' rights, submitted its recommendations for consideration by the COP.
3.8 The Conference of the Parties to the Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD) was working on improving how it communicates about biodiversity issues to the public. It has adopted a new communication strategy to support the global biodiversity plan. The CBD is also updating its plan for educating people about biodiversity and raising public awareness. This includes creating guidelines for countries to use in their own communication and education efforts. The Subsidiary Body on Implementation (SBI) has reviewed these plans and made recommendations, which were considered by the COP.
3.9 The CBD is working to identify the scientific and technical needs to implement the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework. The goal is to make sure that it has the right information and tools to effectively implement the global biodiversity plan. It does this by reviewing existing tools and guidance as well as identifying gaps and redundancies to see if they are sufficient to implement the Framework. The CBD is identifying new scientific information that is needed to support the implementation of the Framework. It is working with the Intergovernmental Science-Policy Platform on Biodiversity and Ecosystem Services (IPBES) to ensure that the Platform's work aligns with the needs of the Framework.
3.10 In addition, the CBD is working to develop a long-term strategy to mainstream biodiversity considerations into various sectors of society, such as agriculture, forestry and urban planning. As a result, it is seeking input from governments, organisations and stakeholders on how to effectively mainstream biodiversity. This ensures that biodiversity is considered in all decision-making processes, leading to more sustainable and environmentally friendly practices.
3.11 The CBD is recognising the diverse values of biodiversity, beyond just its ecological importance. This includes cultural, social and economic values. It is doing this through reviewing a report from the Inter-governmental Science-Policy Platform on Biodiversity and Ecosystem Services (IPBES) that delves into these diverse values. This information will be used to inform the implementation of the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework.
3.12 The delegation learnt that the Conference of the Parties to the Convention on Biological Diversity was working to improve the management of wildlife populations. It is reviewing the current state of wildlife management and identifying areas where additional guidance or support may be needed. The CBD is collaborating with the Collaborative Partnership on Sustainable Wildlife Management to develop a comprehensive analysis of existing tools and guidance for sustainable wildlife management. This analysis will help identify gaps and opportunities for improvement. The goal is to promote sustainable wildlife management practices that balance the needs of people and nature, ensuring the long-term conservation of wildlife populations.
3.13 The delegation also noted that the Conference of the Parties to the Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD) was addressing the issue of invasive alien species, which are species that have been introduced to new environments and cause harm to native ecosystems. It was doing that by reviewing existing measures to control invasive alien species and identifying emerging threats from invasive alien species, such as those caused by pathogens and parasites. To address the issue of invasive alien species, it collaborates with other organisations to protect biodiversity and prevent the ecological and economic damage caused by these species.
3.14 The delegation learnt that CBD recognises the strong link between biodiversity and human health. It was working to promote the health of both people and the planet. To that effect, a Global Action Plan on Biodiversity and Health was developed to address the link between biodiversity loss and human health. Work is underway to integrate biodiversity considerations into health policies and practices.
3.15 The delegation also noted that the CBD is working to protect plant diversity. They are collaborating with the Global Partnership for Plant Conservation to develop a set of actions to support the implementation of the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework. The goal is to conserve plant species and their habitats, recognising the critical role that plants play in ecosystems and human well-being.
3.16 Another interesting negotiation aspect at COP16 observed by the delegation was that the Conference of the Parties to the Convention on Biological Diversity is monitoring the development of synthetic biology, a technology that involves modifying the genetic material of organisms. The CBD is concerned about the potential impacts of synthetic biology on biodiversity and ecosystems. It is working to assess the risks and benefits of this technology and to develop appropriate guidelines and regulations.
3.17 The delegation noted that CBD recognises the strong link between biodiversity and climate change. It is working to address the impacts of climate change on biodiversity and to promote nature-based solutions to climate change. In fact, the CBD is reviewing the relationship between biodiversity and climate change and exploring ways to integrate climate change considerations into biodiversity conservation efforts.
3.18 Finally, the delegation observed that the Conference of the Parties to the Convention on Biological Diversity is reviewing the implementation of Article 14, paragraph 2, of the Convention, which deals with liability and redress for damage to biological diversity. It is collecting information from Parties and other Governments on their experiences with implementing the relevant decisions and any recent developments in this area. This information will be used to assess the effectiveness of the current mechanisms and to identify any potential improvements.
- DIVERGING VIEWS FROM THE NEGOTIATING PARTIES
Negotiations highlighted the complexities of international environmental governance, with diverse interests and perspectives among different countries and regions. The discussions reflected ongoing debates on balancing economic development, environmental conservation and social equity.
4.1 Financial Mechanism and Resource Mobilisation
The primary departure points between developing and developed countries in the negotiations on the CBD Financial Mechanism lies in their differing perspectives on the adequacy and effectiveness of the current financial system, particularly the Global Environment Facility (GEF) and the Global Biodiversity Framework (GBF) Fund.
4.1.1 Developing countries argue that the current financial system, including the Global Environment Facility (GEF) and the Global Biodiversity Framework (GBF) Fund, is not providing enough money to address their biodiversity needs. They believe that these mechanisms are not adequately addressing the specific challenges faced by developing countries, such as poverty, inequality and climate change. They are calling for increased financial support, including new and additional funding, to implement the Global Biodiversity Framework. Developing countries are pushing for a new, dedicated global instrument for biodiversity finance. Developing and developed countries have different views on how much money is needed to protect biodiversity and how existing financial mechanisms are working.
4.1.2 On the other hand, developed countries often argue that the current financial system is sufficient and that the focus should be on improving the effectiveness of existing mechanisms. They believe that the GEF and the GBF Fund are important tools for financing biodiversity conservation and that they should be strengthened and better utilized. They also argue that developing countries need to improve their own financial management and governance practices to better utilize existing resources. Thus, developed countries are more hesitant to create a new mechanism and prefer to strengthen existing ones.
4.2 National Biodiversity Targets
4.2.1 Zimbabwe was amongst the 41 African countries that submitted their national targets aligned with the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework. This is significant for several reasons. Firstly, submitting national targets shows Zimbabwe's commitment to the global goals of biodiversity conservation and sustainable development. Secondly, the process of developing and submitting national targets helps Zimbabwe prioritise biodiversity conservation and sustainable use within its national development plans. Thirdly, national targets provide a framework for monitoring progress towards biodiversity goals and identifying areas where additional efforts are needed. Lastly, it helps identify global gaps in biodiversity conservation and sustainable use, informing international policy and decision-making. The next step is to revise and update its National Biodiversity Strategies and Action Plan (NBSAP) that outline the nation’s overall strategy for biodiversity conservation. It provides a framework for achieving national targets and includes a wider range of actions, such as policy framework, actions and implementation, capacity building and public awareness campaigns.
4.3 CBD Cooperation
4.3.1 The main point of contention in these negotiations revolves around the extent and nature of cooperation among various multilateral environmental agreements (MEAs) and other relevant stakeholders, especially regarding the implementation of the Global Biodiversity Framework (GBF). While there was consensus on the importance of cooperation, viewpoints differ on how to best achieve it, some parties champion broad cooperation encompassing biodiversity, food, nutrition, climate change and ocean conservation. Others stress the importance of respecting individual MEA mandates to prevent overlapping efforts. Developing countries prioritise strengthening cooperation and coordination among the Rio Conventions, particularly in resource mobilisation and capacity building, emphasising the need to address their specific needs in collaborative efforts. In contrast, developed countries focus on specific cooperation areas like data sharing and technical assistance, prioritising streamlining processes and avoiding duplication.
4.3.2 There are differing views on the role of Indigenous Peoples and Local Communities (IPLCs) in decision-making and resource access. Many developing countries, particularly those with significant Indigenous populations, strongly advocate for greater IPLC involvement and the establishment of a subsidiary body under Article 8(j) to provide a dedicated platform for their rights and participation. They emphasise the importance of recognising IPLCs' rights and contributions to biodiversity conservation and sustainable use and call for their inclusion in the work program and decisions.
4.3.3 Some developed countries have concerns about the potential costs and administrative burden associated with a new subsidiary body, arguing that existing mechanisms can adequately address IPLC needs. They also express concerns about potential overlapping mandates and the need to balance IPLC rights with other considerations like environmental protection and sustainable development.
Additionally, many developing countries, particularly those with significant African diaspora populations, advocate for recognising the contributions of people of African descent to biodiversity conservation to ensure their equitable participation and benefit-sharing. While acknowledging the importance of recognising the contributions of all groups, some developed countries express concerns about potential unintended consequences and the need to avoid creating new categories of rights holders.
4.3.4 The primary points of departure between developed and developing countries during the Working Group II negotiations centred on several key issues. Developing countries strongly advocated for increased capacity-building and financial support to implement the CBD and its Protocols, particularly the NP and CP. They emphasised the need to address capacity gaps, particularly in developing countries. Developed countries had differing views on the specific mechanisms and levels of support.
4.3.5 Many developing countries faced challenges in implementing the NP, particularly in terms of access and benefit-sharing. They sought support for capacity-building, technology transfer and financial resources to effectively implement the Protocol. Developed countries emphasised the need for compliance with the NP and may advocate for a balanced approach that ensures both access to genetic resources and fair and equitable benefit-sharing.
4.3.6 There was significant debate on the terms of technology transfer to developing countries. While some parties advocated for mutually agreed terms, others argued that this would hinder the transfer of technology. Disagreements emerged over the definition and role of bioeconomy approaches in the development of commercial products from genetic resources. The disagreement highlighted the tension between economic development and environmental protection. Some parties emphasised sustainable approaches, while others preferred a broader bioeconomy framework. Sustainable bioeconomy approach focuses on using biological resources in a way that minimises harm to the environment and ensures long-term sustainability. It prioritises practices like sustainable agriculture, renewable energy and conservation of biodiversity. A broader bioeconomy framework is more open to various commercial applications of genetic resources, potentially including those with higher environmental impact. It may prioritise economic growth and innovation, even if it means sacrificing some environmental considerations.
4.3.7 Developing countries highlighted the importance of considering socio-economic factors in biosafety assessments. They emphasise the need for capacity-building and awareness-raising to promote the use of voluntary guidance on socio-economic considerations. Developed countries had different perspectives on the specific criteria and methodologies for assessing socio-economic impacts. They prioritised scientific and technical considerations, while also recognising the importance of socio-economic factors. Developed countries have more advanced biosafety regulatory frameworks and research capacities. They prioritise risk assessment, risk management and international cooperation. Developing countries require more support in developing their biosafety capacities. They emphasised the importance of technology transfer and capacity building. Developing countries placed significant importance on fair and equitable sharing of benefits arising from the utilisation of genetic resources. They advocated for stronger implementation of the Nagoya Protocol and support mechanisms for capacity building and technology transfer. Developed Countries prioritised access to genetic resources for research and development. They emphasised the importance of intellectual property rights and the need for clear and predictable regulatory frameworks.
4.3.8 Developing countries were more supportive of reviewing liability and redress mechanisms to address potential harm caused by biodiversity loss and climate change. They advocated for strong liability and redress mechanisms to ensure that victims of environmental damage receive adequate compensation and called for financial security mechanisms to cover potential liabilities. Developed countries, on the other hand, were more hesitant to revisit the issue, concerned about potential liabilities and legal implications. They prioritised a balanced approach that avoids excessive burdens on industry and promotes sustainable development.
4.3.9 Countries argued about the need for global rules on sustainable wildlife management and the role of regional organisations in creating these guidelines. There was disagreement about what exactly is causing unsustainable use of wildlife, especially the impact of new technologies. Countries discussed the extent of unsustainable harvesting and use practices and the importance of promoting legal and sustainable trade. Everyone agreed on the need for incentives, but there were differences on how to achieve this, such as using biodiversity credit schemes and involving local governments.
4.3.10 Developed countries want to strengthen international cooperation, scientific research, and policies to address invasive alien species. They prioritize early detection, quick response, and prevention. Developing countries, on the other hand, face more challenges due to limited resources and capacity. They need financial and technical support from developed countries to effectively manage invasive alien species.
4.4 Biodiversity and Health Co-benefits
4.4.1 Developing country parties advocated for the inclusion of derivatives of genetic resources in benefit-sharing mechanisms, arguing that they are crucial for developing new medicines and treatments. Developed country parties expressed concerns about the potential implications of including derivatives, arguing that it could complicate existing intellectual property rights regimes and hinder innovation.
4.4.2 Derivatives of genetic resources are substances or products that are derived from genetic material. These include biochemical compounds produced by organisms, such as proteins, enzymes and lipids. For instance, a pharmaceutical drug can be derived from a plant's natural compounds. Genetic derivatives also consider traditional practices, innovations and knowledge associated with genetic resources. By advocating for the inclusion of derivatives of genetic resources in benefit-sharing mechanisms, developing countries aim to ensure that they receive a fair share of the benefits arising from the commercialisation of products derived from their genetic resources.
4.4.3 Traditional knowledge plays a crucial role in identifying, understanding and utilising genetic resources. Indigenous and local communities have centuries of knowledge about the properties and uses of plants, animals and other organisms. This knowledge often forms the basis for scientific research and the development of new products. Without acknowledging and respecting the traditional knowledge associated with that plant, the communities that have preserved and passed down this knowledge may not only receive compensation for their contributions to scientific research and product development but fair benefits from the commercialisation of products derived from their genetic resources.
5.0 KEY OUTCOMES OF COP 16
The 16th Conference of the Parties to the Convention on Biological Diversity (COP 16) concluded with several significant outcomes aimed at safeguarding biodiversity and addressing pressing environmental challenges.
5.1 Sharing Benefits from Digital Genetic Information
A ground-breaking agreement was reached on the operationalisation of a new global mechanism, the "Cali Fund," to share the benefits from the use of digital sequence information on genetic resources (DSI) more equitably. This mechanism will ensure that developing countries and Indigenous Peoples and Local Communities receive a fair share of the profits generated from the commercial use of genetic information.
5.2 Strengthening the Role of Indigenous Peoples and Local Communities
COP 16 recognised the vital role of Indigenous Peoples and Local Communities in biodiversity conservation. A new Programme of Work was adopted to ensure their meaningful contribution to the Convention's objectives and the implementation of the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework (KMGBF). Additionally, a new subsidiary body was established to elevate their voices and participation in decision-making processes.
5.3 Funding Biodiversity
Parties agreed on a strategy for resource mobilisation to secure USD200 billion annually by 2030 to support biodiversity initiatives. This funding will be crucial for implementing the KMGBF and addressing the biodiversity crisis.
5.4 Implementing the KMGBF
The COP took stock of progress in implementing the KMGBF and encouraged countries to accelerate their efforts. A significant number of countries have already submitted national biodiversity targets and National Biodiversity Strategy and Action Plans.
5.5 Synthetic Biology
The COP recognised the potential benefits and risks of synthetic biology. A new thematic action plan was adopted to address capacity-building, technology transfer and knowledge-sharing needs in developing countries.
5.6 Invasive Alien Species
To combat the threat of invasive alien species, the COP agreed on guidelines for managing these species, including measures to address e-commerce and cross-border trade.
5.7 Sustainable Wildlife Management and Plant Conservation
The COP emphasised the importance of sustainable wildlife management and plant conservation. A decision was adopted to strengthen monitoring, capacity-building and the involvement of Indigenous Peoples and Local Communities in wildlife management.
- Biodiversity and Health
A Global Action Plan on Biodiversity and Health was approved to address the interconnections between human health and ecosystem health. This plan aims to prevent the emergence of zoonotic diseases and promote sustainable ecosystems.
- Risk Assessment
New guidance was adopted to assess the risks posed by living modified organisms (LMO) containing engineered gene drives, ensuring a rigorous and transparent approach to risk assessment.
6.0 Delegation Observations
6.1 Zimbabwe, rich in biodiversity and cultural heritage, has long been concerned with protecting indigenous knowledge and genetic resources. The country has taken steps to safeguard these assets, including the development of Statutory Instrument 61 of 2009 and the ratification of the Nagoya Protocol. However, challenges in implementation, such as capacity building and awareness, have hindered progress. With the adoption of the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework, Zimbabwe now faces the need to update its legal framework to align with international obligations and ensure fair and equitable benefit-sharing for its communities.
6.2 The key provisions of this Bill would focus on establishing a comprehensive framework for access to genetic resources, prior informed consent, mutually agreed terms and benefit-sharing. It should also allocate resources for training and capacity building of relevant stakeholders, including government officials, researchers and local communities. In addition, the Bill should develop transparent and equitable mechanisms for sharing benefits derived from the utilisation of genetic resources, including financial benefits and technology transfer arrangements. It would be essential that the Bill establishes a robust system for monitoring compliance and enforcing its provisions.
6.3 The main purpose of the Authority would be to streamline the implementation of biodiversity policies and regulations. Its critical functions would be the development and implementation of national biodiversity policies and strategies, issuing permits for access to genetic resources facilitating benefit-sharing agreements and ensure that benefits are shared equitably with local communities and collaborate with international organisations and other countries on biodiversity issues.
7.O RECOMMENDATIONS FROM KEY OUTCOMES OF THE NEGOTIATIONS
Thus, the delegation recommends the following;
7.1 The Ministry of Environment, Climate and Wildlife should craft a comprehensive Biodiversity Bill that consolidates and strengthens existing biodiversity legislation, including the Nagoya Protocol.
7.2 The Ministry of Environment, Climate and Wildlife should establish a National Biodiversity Authority.
7.3 The Ministry of Environment, Climate and Wildlife should ensure that relevant provisions of the Parks and Wildlife Amendment Bill [HB.1.2024] which is under consideration by Parliament, extensively provides for the sustainable use and benefit sharing from the wildlife proceeds.
8.0 Conclusion
8.1 The COP 16 negotiations highlighted the critical role of international cooperation in addressing biodiversity loss and climate change. Key outcomes included agreements on sharing benefits from digital genetic information, strengthening the rights of Indigenous Peoples and Local Communities and securing funding for biodiversity conservation. Zimbabwe's participation in the COP 16 underscores the country's commitment to global biodiversity goals. To effectively implement the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework, Zimbabwe should prioritise updating its national biodiversity strategy, strengthening its legal framework and building capacity to ensure fair and equitable benefit-sharing from genetic resources. I thank you.
HON. NYANDORO: Madam Speaker, I rise to second the motion on the COP16 report. This report highlights both the progress made and the significant challenges that remain in our global effort to protect biodiversity. I want to focus my remarks today on a critical aspect of this challenge which is climate finance and how Zimbabwe can effectively access and utilise these vital resources.
As you might be aware, the absence of key world leaders from major polluting nations at the recently ended Climate Change Conference in Baku, Azerbaijan sends a chilling message. Their lack of engagement underscores the ongoing struggle to mobilise the political will and financial commitments necessary to tackle the intertwined crises of climate change and biodiversity loss. This is particularly concerning for nations like Zimbabwe, which are disproportionately vulnerable to the impacts of climate change despite contributing minimally to the problem.
Climate change is not an abstract, it is a present reality for Zimbabwe. We are witnessing increasingly erratic rainfall patterns, prolonged droughts and devastating floods. These extreme weather events wreak havoc on our agriculture sector, threaten our water resources and undermine our food security. They also exacerbate existing pressures on our biodiversity, pushing vulnerable species closer to extinction and disrupting vital ecosystems.
Therefore, security access to climate finance is not merely desirable, it is a matter of survival for Zimbabwe. The Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework, with its ambitious targets and its emphasis on resource mobilisation, provides a crucial framework for action. However, translating these global commitments into tangible support for developing nations requires concerted effort and strategic planning.
Zimbabwe must adopt a multi-pronged approach to effectively access climate finance. Firstly, we need to strengthen our national institutional capacity. This means establishing clear lines of responsibility, developing robust project proposals and ensuring transparent and accountable financial management systems. We must demonstrate to international funders that we have the capacity to utilise these resources effectively and efficiently. The proposed Biodiversity Authority, as outlined in the report, can play a pivotal role in this regard, streamlining implementation and fostering collaboration.
Secondly, we must prioritise the development of bankable climate-related projects. These projects should not only address urgent climate adaptation needs but also demonstrate clear economic and social benefits. They should be aligned with our national development priorities and contribute to building a more resilient and sustainable economy. Investing in climate-smart agriculture, promoting renewable energy and strengthening our water management systems are just a few examples of areas where we can develop impactful projects.
Thirdly, we must actively engage in international climate finance mechanisms. This includes participating in relevant forums, building relationships with donor agencies and staying abreast of evolving funding opportunities. We must also advocate for greater equity and accessibility in climate finance, ensuring that developing nations like Zimbabwe have a fair chance to access the resources they need.
Fourthly, we must strengthen our monitoring and reporting systems. Demonstrating tangible results and transparently tracking progress is essential for building trust with international funders and securing continued support. This includes establishing clear indicators, collecting reliable data and regularly reporting on the impact of climate finance investments.
Finally, Madam Speaker, we must recognise the crucial role of local communities in climate action. Empowering local communities, particularly indigenous people and local communities, participating in project design, implementation and monitoring are all essential for ensuring that climate finance investments are truly effective and sustainable. Their traditional knowledge and experience are invaluable assets in our efforts to adapt to climate change and protect our biodiversity.
In conclusion Madam Speaker Ma’am, the COP16 report highlights the urgent need for accelerated action on climate change and biodiversity loss. Securing access climate finance is a critical component of this effort. Strengthening our institutional capacity, developing bankable projects, actively engaging in international mechanisms and prioritising local community involvement, Zimbabwe can position itself to effectively access and utilise these resources, building a more resilient and sustainable future for all. I urge this august House to support the recommendations outlined in the report and to commit to taking the necessary steps to secure Zimbabwe’s access to climate finance. I thank you.
HON. TOGAREPI: I move that the debate do now adjourn.
HON. C MOYO: I second.
Motion put and agreed to.
Debate to resume: Wednesday, 5th March, 2025.
On the motion of HON. TOGAREPI, seconded by HON. C MOYO, the House adjourned at Two Minutes to Six o’clock p.m.
PARLIAMENT OF ZIMBABWE
Thursday, 27th February, 2025
The Senate met at Half-past Two o’clock p.m.
PRAYERS
(THE HON. DEPUTY PRESIDENT OF SENATE in the Chair)
ANNOUNCEMENT BY THE HON. DEPUTY PRESIDENT OF SENATE
APOLOGIES RECEIVED FROM MINISTERS
THE HON. DEPUTY PRESIDENT OF SENATE: Today is Thursday and in accordance with the Standing Orders, we start with Questions Without Notice. Before I introduce the Hon. Ministers we have in the Chamber, sadly, I have a very long list of Ministers who have apologised. Some of them, I must say we have never ever seen them here. The list of apologies is as follows;
Hon. General Rtd Dr. C. D. G. N. Chiwenga, the Vice President; Hon. Colonel Rtd K. C. D Mohadi, the Vice President; Hon. Dr. S. G. Nyoni – Minister of Environment, Climate and Wildlife, Hon. B. Rwodzi, Minister of Tourism and Hospitality Industry; Hon. Z. Ziyambi, Minister of Justice, Legal and Parliamentary Affairs; Hon. W. Chitando, Minister of Mines and Mining Development; Hon. J.G. Moyo, Minister of Energy and Power Development; Hon. Z. Soda, Minister of National Housing and Social Amenities; Hon. K. D. Mnangagwa, the Deputy Minister of Finance, Economic Development and Investment Promotion; Hon. E. Jesaya, Deputy Minister of Sports, Recreation, Arts and Culture; Hon. Brig. General Rtd. Mayihlome, Deputy Minister of Defence; Hon. J. Mhlanga, Deputy Minister of Women Affairs, Community, Small and Medium Enterprises; Hon. S. Chikomo, Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Trade; Hon. C. Sanyatwe, Deputy Minister of Home Affairs and Cultural Heritage; Hon. O. Mazungunye, Deputy Minister of Justice, Legal and Parliamentary Affairs; Hon. P. Kambamura, Deputy Minister of Mines and Mining Development; Hon. C. Makwiranzou, Deputy Minister of Mines and Mining Development; Hon. S. Sibanda, Deputy Minister of Higher and Tertiary Education, Innovation, Science and Technology Development; Hon. A. Gata, Deputy Minister of Primary and Secondary Education; Hon. R. Modi, Deputy Minister of Industry and Commerce; Hon. Y. Simbanegavi, Deputy Minister of Energy and Power Development; Hon. M. Ncube, Deputy Minister of National Housing, Social Amenities; Hon. V. Haritatos, Minister of Lands, Agriculture, Fisheries, Water and Rural Development and Hon. D. Marapira, Deputy Minister of Lands, Agriculture, Fisheries, Water and Rural Development.
In the Chamber today we have Hon. Garwe, Minister of Local Government and Public Works and we also have Hon. E. Moyo who is the Minister of Public Service, Labour and Social Welfare. Welcome Hon. Ministers.
Let us start with the two Hon. Ministers whom we have, I am sure a few more will trickle in. We will start with you Hon. Senator Sibanda.
HON. SEN. SIBANDA: Mine is a point of order Mr. President Sir.
THE HON. DEPUTY PRESIDENT OF SENATE: Wait a minute – Hon. Senator Sibanda, what were you saying?
HON. SEN. SIBANDA: Mr. President. What is the way forward with these Ministers that we have never set our eyes on ever since we sat in this august House? Surely, they cannot always apologise and be absent from work for almost two years Mr. President. Are these Ministers serious or they do not even care about us? – [HON. MEMBERS: Hear, hear.] - Because most of the time we see their cars parked outside. The Ministers always attend the Lower House, what about the Senate? Does it mean that we are useless to them? I do not think they are serious about always being busy or up to something. There should be something that they say to us at least, unless there is something that we have to do to meet the Ministers. Thank you, Mr. President Sir.
THE HON. DEPUTY PRESIDENT OF SENATE: Thank you very much Hon. Sibanda, I share your concern 100%. The behaviour of some of these Ministers is tantamount to contempt of Parliament. I promise that I will ensure that a letter is submitted to the highest authorities on this issue. I totally share your concern, you are right, it is contempt of Parliament.
*HON. SEN. MAVENYENGWA: Thank you Mr. President. My question is directed to the Minister of Local Government and Public Works. We have seen that there is a state-of-art market which was built in Harare so that those women who are engaging in SMEs can do businesses. Is it going to benefit Harare only because we see that other areas like Masvingo and other small towns, women are struggling to find places to sell their goods but there is a good programme in the country?
*THE MINISTER OF LOCAL GOVERNMENT AND PUBLIC WORKS (HON. GARWE): Thank you Mr. President. I also want to take this opportunity to thank Hon. Senator Mavenyengwa for asking a pertinent question. His question is really going to help us to extrapolate the issue of markets for SMEs, especially targeting women and youths. Mr. President, I also want to take this opportunity to explain that last year in November, 2024, the main market place at Mbare was gutted with fire and those who were operating in this market lost their wares and a lot of money and most of the goods were burnt down. Following the sad incident, we wrote to the President, His Excellency Dr. Mnangagwa requesting him to declare it as a state of emergency and His Excellency did agree that it be declared a state of emergency.
Mr. President, he sent us as the Ministry of Local Government, which is the Ministry responsible for local authorities. He tasked us to investigate and come up with a good plan to alleviate the problem. We are not targeting Harare only, we came up with the concept note which was sent to the Cabinet and the Cabinet did accept the concept note. They said since Mbare Market was gutted down, it was treated as emergency and it was taken also as a pilot project and as a ground breaking initiative for this programme to cascade to all other areas. The target from Mbare is Glen View Area 8, where there is carpentry work happening there and that market was also gutted down. From there we move to Sakubva in Mutare, Kwekwe and all other areas. We are also going to target even our rural district councils so that those who are selling their wares near the roads or at public places get proper markets. We are moving this programme under the President’s mantra of regularisation and also let us build better forward.
We are not ending in Harare only, we are going to target also Masvingo and other areas. Hon. Mavenyengwa has forgotten that when we were in Masvingo, we also discussed this issue when I told him that we were going to construct a market place like what we are constructing in Mbare. This august House may want to know when we are going to open the Mbare Market. It is going to be opened next week but one. It is the first phase of the market where about 1 600 people are expected to benefit. In this market there is a bank, ZRP, offices for the managers who are going to run this market and they also have state-of-art ablution facilities. We also have bathrooms where women can bath before selling their goods. We are building markets which are tallying with Vision 2030 where His Excellency is alluding to the fact that by 2030 as a country, we must be well developed to meet the world class status. That is what we are doing as a country.
Mr. President, let me take this opportunity to elaborate on Phase 2. The Phase 2 consists of a building with ground floor, second floor and third floor. We expect to accommodate about 10 000 traders. Those who are in the business of vegetables will be on ground floor and then those who are in computers will be on first floor. There will be no mixture of goods in terms of trade. We were trying by all means as a Government, to work hard in alleviating the issue of space barons where someone is requesting a small fee from someone so that he can have a place to operate. We requested the country to provide us with the names of the people who started with the markets in Mbare but these people were subletting their places. That is why you have seen that the number is now at 10 000.
The President is saying we must work together and alleviate the problems – we can have a store called Garwe and you find it selling clothes, groceries and also have other people who are coming and operating their businesses in front of shops of other business people. Starting this year, 2025, we are removing those people and construct stalls where they are operating their businesses from. Right now if you go to Mbare along Rufaro Road, you can see that there are many people who are selling different things but you end up seeing that as Government, we are working to construct stalls for these people so that they can have proper places to operate from. There will be need to differentiate the types of goods which will be sold. So those who are operating in the mini markets will be selling wares which are different from those who are selling their goods from these stores.
*HON. SEN. MAVENYENGWA: My supplementary question is that those who are going to be distributing these market stalls should consider the disabled so that they will be able to access these markets and even the youths should also be able to participate and benefit from the new market hub. I thank you.
*THE HON. MINISTER OF LOCAL GOVERNMENT AND PUBLIC WORKS (HON. DR. GARWE): Thank you Mr. President. The Government is going to look at traders who are already trading and who lost their properties to fire. We have about 4500 people but we are constructing a marketing hub which is going to house more than 10 000 people following the President`s mantra that no one is going to be left behind in development. So, we are looking at women, young people, the disabled and we are also looking at making the market hub accessible to the disabled because it is an emergency. The President allowed us to look at investors who are well equipped in terms of building proper structures, then they are going to be charging rentals to those who are going to be using the market store.
We do not want a free for all but councils are supposed to be making some money. The contractors who built the market hub are also supposed to get something. So, no one will be left behind. We are not going to allow space barons to bother people but as a Ministry, working together with councils, we are going to ensure that people receive market stalls in a transparent manner. You are going to be invited to see and witness the official opening which will be done by His Excellency, Dr. E. D. Mnangagwa and you will be seeing the good works that are happening in the Second Republic.
I also want to notify you that we are refurbishing Paget House so that it becomes the Paget Hotel, which is going to accommodate people from Mutoko, Mudzi and different parts of the country. People are not going to be desperate but would be able to use the Paget Hotel after paying a minimal fee to access clean water for bathing, drinking and food. What has been happening, is that people were being taken advantage of because some would want to go back home but sometimes because of desperation, people will take advantage of them when they go to sell their produce.
Let me add on by saying that on hygiene issues, there is a nearby clinic at Mbare which the investor is going to refurbish for pregnant women and mothers with small children. They are all going to access that clinic and they will be able to take their children to the clinic for treatment. I thank you.
*HON. SEN. TONGOGARA: Thank you Mr. President. I want to appreciate the good work that is being done. I wanted to ask the Hon. Minister of Local Government and Public Work whether there is a plan, considering the good work that the Ministry is doing, that they will be no be vandalism. Is there any way of educating the public on how to look after these good facilities, so that they maintain their position?
*HON. GARWE: Thank you Sen. President. I want to appreciate Hon. Senator Tongogara for that good question. Indeed, we have such plans and we mentioned that they are banking offices, they are different offices at the market house so that traders will be able to bank their monies instead of keeping cash. This will give security to our traders. There are ZRP offices. The ZRP police will be looking after the market hub. We know that the Mbare trading area is a hive of activity, so we want that security to be assured. There is security of those who will be looking after the market hub, workers of the business person, that we are working with, so that the place is clean. Waste removal trucks will be coming and going, clearing and cleaning the place to maintain hygienic standards. We also have regulation standards which will be expected to be adhered to by traders who will be working from the market hub. These are basics because this is a market hub with a standard. I thank you.
+HON. SEN. MLOTSHWA: Thank you Sen. President. I want to say that, if we note our economy is more informal than formal. I wanted to know how the Minister of Local Government and Public Work is committed to revenue collection and how the revenue collection will be done. Whether there will be offices that will be responsible for that and if tax issues are going to be addressed through that. I thank you
HON. DR. GARWE: Allow me to thank the Hon. Senator Mlotshwa for the question. As I alluded to earlier on, we have a building built within the same roof of the bigger structure which has offices for ZRP, offices for banks, offices for the investors, offices for Harare City Council, offices for the traders themselves, and the Ministry of Women Affairs, Community, Small and Medium Enterprises, which is under the same roof. So, what the President has directed us to do, is to start the process of formalising our economy. This is the beginning of the formalisation of the economy. I thank you.
+HON. SEN. M. NDLOVU: Thank you Senate President. I want to direct my question to Hon. Minister Garwe. He alluded to the Mbare Market which was gutted down by fire which has been rebuilt. In Bulawayo, we had a flea market which was housing women, young people and girls which was gutted down by fire but the owner, Mr. Mutiza, looked for loans and refurbished it. Traders went back to the market but now the traders are being hunted and arrested and their wares are being taken away. Is it not similar to the Harare Market? I thank you.
THE MINISTER OF LOCAL GOVERNMENT AND PUBLIC WORKS (HON. GARWE): Thank you Senate President. Let me also thank the Senator who asked this question. You asked a very pertinent question. The invitation of having the Zimbabwe Republic Police on site is an attempt to address the challenges that have been experienced in Bulawayo. Challenges that I do not have immediate detail, I humbly request that the Hon. Senator submit a written document, so that we will be able to interrogate, investigate and respond accordingly. Thank you very much.
*HON. SEN. CHIEF GANDAWA: Thank you President of Senate. My question is directed to the Minister of Social Welfare. Yes, the food deliveries are being done to the rural areas but most of the time some people do not get enough. I want to ask the Minister, is there any Government policy or initiative because most of the people are being turned away without anything? The second question is that the transporters who are delivering those deliveries from GMB to us the beneficiaries, are saying we are being paid in ZiG but the fuel is being bought in USD. They are saying can you pay us in USD so that we can then benefit properly and be able to buy fuel?
THE MINISTER OF PUBLIC SERVICE, LABOUR AND SOCIAL WELFARE (HON. E. MOYO): Thank you President of Senate and thank you to the Hon. Senator who asked questions. The deliveries normally depend on two variables. One, it is the number of beneficiaries who have been listed who are supposed to get the food. The second variable is availability of sufficient supplies for that food. I am not very sure why in some cases, whether it is one of the two or it is both. Where the food is insufficient and we have more people at a particular centre, those who would not have gotten are still entitled to receive the food which they did not get. Sometimes it is the issue of transport where you find a lorry might carry a particular quantity whereas the quantity required is x quantity and it is that variance. We then encourage local leaders to make follow ups on the outstanding supplies and also ensure that because of transport problems and unavailability of funds to pay transporters, we have been asking beneficiaries to put together maybe USD1 or USD2 each to hire transport from the local depot to the distribution centre. That is how it should happen. If there is anything which is very specific to a particular centre, let us have it then we will investigate and check what is happening.
The second question relates to transporters who need to be paid in foreign currency because they are currently being paid in ZiG and they do not have access to ZiG fuel. Now, the policy is that they will be paid in ZiG and I think they all understand that. Even at the point of contracting, I think they were advised that they will be paid in ZiG. They also have the opportunity to also apply for a ZiG fuel. There is a provision by the suppliers to ensure that some people can access ZiG fuel. That ZiG fuel has to be supported by the provision of forex by the Reserve Bank. They can even engage the Ministry of Energy so that they may be assisted to access foreign currency. Most of them accept the ZiG because they also do other operations apart from food distribution where they can access US dollars. Then the ZiG that they get is used to settle the obligations that can be settled in that particular currency. I thank you.
HON. SEN. TSHABANGU: Thank you Mr. President. My question is directed to the Minister of Local Government. With all due respect, can you describe the Ministry of Local Government strategic use of technology to drive transparency, efficiency and effectiveness in its delivery system?
THE MINISTER OF LOCAL GOVERNMENT AND PUBLIC WORKS (HON. GARWE): Thank you Mr. President. Let me thank Hon. Senator Tshabangu for his question. The question is too general, the Ministry of Local Government and Public Works covers its mandates very broadly. It is very broad, we cover traditional leadership, local authorities, civil protection department and many other responsibilities. I am not too sure what he means by that generalised question. If he could rephrase his question or we ignore it. Thank you very much.
THE HON. DEPUTY PRESIDENT OF SENATE: Hon. Tshabangu, can you rephrase or put it in writing?
HON. SEN. TSHABANGU: It is not a general question but it is a complicated question. I will therefore put it in writing Minister.
THE HON. DEPUTY PRESIDENT OF SENATE: Hon. Tshabangu, choose to rephrase it or put it in writing.
HON. SEN. TSHABANGU: I suggest because I am inclined for the Minister to give me a broader answer to my question because of the use of technology just to reduce corruption, so it is quite detailed. What I am opposing to the Minister is that it is a general question. So I want to put it through to him and prove beyond reasonable doubt that it is a complicated and technical question. I will put it in writing.
THE HON. DEPUTY PRESIDENT OF SENATE: Okay, the Hon. Senator will put it in writing.
*HON. SEN. KATUMBA: Thank you Mr. President. My question is directed to the Minister of Labour and Social Welfare. I want to know what programme is in place to raise the salaries of civil servants. The last time you sat for the TNF you put the minimum as USD150, yet at the moment USD140 is the poverty datum line. Then a family is expected to survive at USD841, so what plans are in place to raise salaries of civil servants? I thank you.
THE MINISTER OF PUBLIC SERVICE, LABOUR AND SOCIAL WELFARE (HON. J. MOYO): Thank you Mr. President. I would like to thank the Hon. Senator for that very complicated question. At TNF, we bring together, businesses, labour and Government. The idea of TNF is to get to a social contract, where all these three arms in the economy play to the same direction, so that we do not upset the balance of the economy. One of the key areas that you have asked about is the issue of minimum wage. Minimum wage depends on a number of factors. The range of employees begins, with the lowest up to the highest. Now, to regulate the model of the compensation system in the country, there are National Employment Councils (NECs), where the workers themselves, within the industries and the employers in that industry come together. That cannot be regulated sufficiently at TNF although we receive reports on any NEC conclusions in terms of negotiations.
The variables that determine a compensation level vary from capacity to pay to also the agreements that are reached because, for example, domestic workers, someone might be earning maybe UD250.00 and then the minimum wage is USD150.00, you would find that their capacity to pay is already affected. This is why different sections in the structure of employment through their NECs, then agree on what is to be paid, depending on the capacity and levels that we are referring to. I would say it is quite a difficult one but overally, the intention of Government is to ensure that people receive sufficient salaries within the limits of the resources available to let them live decent lives. I thank you.
*HON. SEN. SHIRI: Thank you Mr. President. My question is directed to the Minister of Women’s Affairs, Hon. Mutsvangwa. We have a big day, which is celebrated by women, 8th March and we would want to know as a nation, the theme of the year and what programmes are in place?
*THE MINISTER OF WOMEN’S AFFAIRS COMMUNITY,
SMALL AND MEDIUM ENTERPRISES DEVELOPMENT (HON. SEN. M. MUTSVANGWA): Thank you Mr. President Sir. I want to thank Hon. Shiri for that pertinent question, which pertains to the International Women’s Day. We are a member of the United Nations (UN) as Zimbabwe. This is a day which is commemorated universally. All nations that are affiliate to the UN celebrate this day, the day which values women, where issues of women are discussed. Issues of women are not just human rights issues but these are issues which pertain even to the growth of the economy. On 8th March every year, as Zimbabwe, we celebrate, not by just having women converging but even men participate on the day because gender equality, gender issues and women empowerment are issues where both genders are represented. You would find men, women, boys and girls. This is a day which commemorates the big role that is being played by women, from the family level, community level and nationally, women play quite an important role.
Firstly, we note that women are more and their health should be considered so that they will produce a healthy nation. This is a day which in Zimbabwe, we go to different provinces because it is a national day, which is celebrated at national level. Last year, we were in Midlands. We went into the communities. We went to Shurugwi because we say that no woman should be left behind, even CSOs, NGOs and different organisations are there to ensure that every woman is empowered with knowledge so that they know how important they are, with these protocols and treaties that were enacted by countries and Zimbabwe ratified such protocols. So, this is a day which this year is going to be celebrated in Manicaland on 7th March, on a Saturday. We urge stakeholders from different provinces and also communities that are found in Manicaland to participate. It is not just a Manicaland day but we are going to move from Manicaland to different provinces in the spirit of devolution and centralisation, so that national days are celebrated nationally in different communities because the people of Zimbabwe, under the able leadership of our President, Dr. E. D. Mnangagwa, who says no place is more important than any other place and no one will be left behind; no place will be left behind. So, this is what we are going to be doing. This is what we encourage our Senators that wherever you are, you need to encourage people that are in those areas that on 7th March, they should participate. A lot of activities are going to be happening. The UN says that it is their day and the Ambassador of UN, who will be leading all UN agencies in Zimbabwe and our development partners and universities that we work with are also going to be there because issues that pertain to women are issues that are universal, whether studies from universities, workshops, seminars and other programmes, so that we value issues of gender and equality because the issues of gender equality and women empowerment are issues sometimes which you find that maybe they might be issues that are interpreted as if they value women more than men. However, these are universal issues that look at both genders and focus on empowering women who were left behind. I thank you.
*HON. SEN. GOTORA: Before I raise my supplementary question, I want to appreciate the presence of the ministers in this House. I want to thank these Hon. Ministers. I want to commend them that this is what His Excellency wants because when His Excellency had a meeting with ministers, he encouraged ministers to do their job with due diligence. So, I thank the ministers who are present in this august House for respecting the Senate.
My supplementary question is, I would like to find out where exactly in Manicaland because Manicaland is from Macheke, Svosve to Mozambique? So, where exactly is the day being commemorated because we have young girls that we want to participate in this day?
*HON. SEN. M. MUTSVANGWA: Thank you Mr. President. I would like to thank Hon. Senator Gotora for praising and commending the presence of ministers in this House. We value this august House. The Hon. Senator said that during the first Cabinet, the President spoke about the importance of ministers participating in such important duties, like attending the question and answer session in the National Assembly as well as in the Senate. We know the importance of Parliament. So, Hon. President, every Tuesday, we would want to know questions that were not responded to by Ministers and sometimes we would want to name and shame and ask ministers why they are not answering such questions because the task of coming to Parliament is quite important. I thank you Hon. Senator Gotora.
I also want to thank you and the issue of upliftment of women and the importance of the commemorations that are going to be held on 7th March in Manicaland are going to be at Munyarari School under Chief Zimunya. Zimunya is around 12 km from Mutare Town. I thank you.
+HON. SEN. NDEBELE: Thank you Mr. President. Let me thank the Hon. Minister responsible for Women’s Affairs for the good job because every time when she comes to the Senate, she comes with purpose and good words about women empowerment. I want to say may God bless the Hon. Minister.
My question is directed to the Minister of Local Government and Public Works, this is the time where we look at roads that are in urban cities, that link to those roads under the Ministry of Transport which are in disrepair. Women who are pregnant use such roads sometimes do not have pleasant journeys especially when they experience labour pains. What is Government doing about such roads?
THE MINISTER OF LOCAL GOVERNMENT AND PUBLIC WORKS (HON. DR. GARWE): Thank you very much Mr. President. Allow me also to thank the Hon. Senator for the very pertinent question. Indeed, our roads in the majority of our urban councils are in a terrible state. This is a reflection of how these local authorities are being run. For us to be able to solve problems that are before us, we should be able to speak the truth about ourselves that we have contributed to the problems as Zimbabweans. Our urban local authorities are in a state of disrepair in terms of administration and leadership and this is evidenced by His Excellency appointing a Commission of Inquiry which is headed by Justice Cheda, to give a detailed report of how the City of Harare is being administered. This is a reflection of how we are running the local authorities. The commission will be concluding its findings in the coming week and will present the detailed report to His Excellency and will be guided accordingly in terms of going forward.
However, we have also realised that given some of the challenges that our economy is facing, they are caused by the sanctions that have been imposed upon us because we took our land back with all its resources. These sanctions have affected our borrowing capacity as a Government and local authorities to be able to access affordable finance from international banks such as the World Bank and IMF. We have decided to invite the private sector to work with us in privatising service delivery because what is not being done properly is service delivery and the road that the Hon. Senator referred to is part of the delivery service.
Yes, local authorities are supposed to ensure that they provide affordable and clean water for drinking purposes which is not happening in Harare, for instance to ensure that roads are built and maintained regularly which is not also happening in all the local urban authorities where solid waste management, refuse collection etcetera. All these are part of the package on service delivery. We have been given the mandate to invite private sector to come on board and assist us to form partnerships with PPPs to ensure that we continue working together with the private sector, we will change the image of our urban local authorities.
It is a sorry site Mr. President, that the capital city of Zimbabwe, that receives SADC and the whole world is in a state of disrepair. We must put aside any differences we may have or decide to have and say what is it that we want to do in our local authorities, rural district councils and in our country so that we leave a positive legacy that will come years after us. One of such things the President said “let us privatise service delivery” and we have done so in Harare. Waste collection is fully privatised that is dealing with that, we have privatised water delivery value chain from treatments, conveyancing, billing and water metering. I think from March, we will see our investors on the ground turning around the fortunes of the water delivery value chain to Zimbabweans in Harare. We are going to be visiting other cities that are facing similar challenges.
I must also say there are at least one or two local authorities that are being run well and Mutare City Council is a shining example of how local authorities should be run. Chiredzi Rural District Council, Chipinge Rural District Council and Chipinge Town Council are also shining examples of how our local authorities are done. The worst example is in Harare and Bulawayo. We are going to visit Bulawayo after we are done with Harare and ensure that we get into the details of what is happening in the city of Kings and Queens and how we can correct those things going forward so that we bring sanity in all our urban local authorities. I thank you.
HON. SEN. MATIBIRI: Thank you Mr. President, as a follow up question, there seem to be immediate issues that need to be attended to Hon. Minister. I hear you when you talk about the work that the commission is doing but we are in the midst of our rain season and only yesterday, Harare was flooding. The next thing that is going to happen is that, the water that is flooding Harare is going to find its way in the open sources that our people drink. How prepared are we to protect our people from water borne diseases in particular cholera, typhoid and dysentery while the commission is doing its work? What immediate action are we taking to protect the masses of our people especially those who live in high density areas of the city. Thank you.
THE MINISTER OF LOCAL GOVERNEMENT AND PUBLIC WORKS (HON. GARWE): Harare's drains are all blocked. The reason why Harare drains are blocked is because the City Fathers allowed street children, street men and street women to be using those drains as accommodation for some reason that we do not understand up to now. They were leaving all sorts of debris in those areas. We now need to identify some technology, a process which we are working on right now, which we then use to push away or remove the blockage in our drains. This is one of the measures that we are working on and doing so with the participation of the private sector.
The issue to do with cholera and other waterborne diseases, I am happy that the Hon. Senator has raised it. It is something that is not only confined to the blocked drains and what is now flooding the streets. It is something that has got everything to do with the way we are living as residents of Harare. You find members of the business community, particularly those that are in chemical industry, discharging effluent and all other liquids into our streams and rivers. This is what caused problems at Lake Chivero. So, the business community is also to blame.
Ourselves as residents, we decide to build where we are not supposed to build. By so doing, we are interfering with the underground water supply systems or sewer management systems and we block those drains. What comes out of that is contamination to the surface water but we must change our attitudes first as residents of Harare. It does not matter whether you come from Glenview, Budiriro or Borrowdale, the attitude is terrible. It must be changed. Let us have an attitude adjustment and say, this is our city, we will never have another Harare outside this Harare that we have. What is it that we need to do as the residents of Harare, as the citizens of Zimbabwe to ensure that our cities are supposed to be run in a professional, organised and well-planned manner?
The other problem that we are facing and I am happy that we are slowly solving that Mr. President, is the issue of informal settlements that have now encircled all our cities, particularly Harare. Informal settlements without any services, without any running water, without any sewer systems, without any imagined road, nothing. Everything that is coming from these informal settlements is being driven into the parts, those little small parts of Harare that were well planned and governed. It speaks volumes about the kind of people we are as Zimbabweans or we are as the residents of Harare. This is the time. The time is now to reflect on ourselves and join hands and correct the wrongs that we have caused in our cities. They will be beautiful cities. Harare can be a sunshine city again. Thank you very much.
Questions Without Notice were interrupted by THE TEMPORARY PRESIDENT OF SENATE in terms of Standing Order, Number 67.
*HON. SEN. CHIEF CHIKWAKA: Mr. President Sir, I move that time for Questions Without Notice be extended by 15 minutes.
HON. MHLOTSHWA: I second.
Motion put and agreed to.
*HON. SEN. MANYENGAVANA: Thank you Mr. President. My supplementary question to the Minister is that I heard him speaking of privatisation on refuse collection and water supply. I have discovered that you are doing quite a lot. You said you take everything from the council, services like refuse collection and the issue to do with water reticulation. My question is, how will we safeguard our citizens in regards to the upward review of the payments of the bills? What will you do as Government to keep the tariffs low?
*HON. GARWE: Thank you Mr. President. I would like to thank the Hon. Member for the question. I would like to inform you that as we are going to sit with the ministries, what we are going to look into first is the issue to do with the rates. They have to review them downwards. All those business people know everything. If you look at what we are doing in roads, water and refuse collection, the rates are going down. That is the first issue.
The second issue is that right now, Mr. President, all the people in here are paying water which they are not getting. Council is just charging people water bills which they are not receiving. I cannot see anything which is coming as a threat to Members of Parliament. We are trying our level best to ensure that people have a safe living where we have good roads, good refuse collection and everything. This will not lead to an upward review of these funds. The Hon. Senator is afraid of some imagined rates.
The private sector does not necessarily refer to an increase in rates, no. The private sector is bringing efficiency in service delivery, working together with the local authorities and working together with Central Government. The local authorities are partners, by the way, in the partnership agreements that are there, there is Central Government represented by the Ministry of Local Government and Public Works, there is the local authority, in the case of Harare, Harare City Council is a signatory to that agreement and the private sector. So, there is no way the private sector player will wake up one day and decide to increase rates or anything else without sitting down with the partners in that agreement. So, please do not be afraid of the unknown. There is nothing like that. Thank you very much.
HON. SEN. TSHABANGU: Thank you Mr. President Sir. This is a follow-up question. What is the Ministry doing to identify and address the poor planning in workmanship within Harare regarding drainages because most roads or most pathways do not have drainages at all?
HON. GARWE: Thank you so much Mr. President. Thank you Hon. Sen. Advocate Tshabangu for such a pertinent question – [Laughter.] – [HON. SEN. TSHABANGU: I receive.] – Ooh you are not an advocate! I withdraw that statement Hon. Senator Tshabangu. Mr. President Sir, let me take you back to the month of November in the year 2023, where His Excellency declared that we take service delivery with the seriousness it deserves. He launched the blueprint on no compromise to service delivery. The key pillars that were mentioned in the service delivery blue print is:
Recrafting of our masterplans for all the cities, including the existing infrastructure, road infrastructure, sewer infrastructure, drains infrastructure, water infrastructure and many others. We did that the whole of 2024 and I am happy to inform the House that all the 92 local authorities have submitted their masterplans which are dealing with that.
The second pillar was on the financial administration. You may want to know that the City of Harare finance management system was the old paperwork files, manual. So, we said we want to move all the local authorities from the manual system of finance management and adopt the use of new technologies and software that ensures we digitise our administration of all the local authorities and we have done that.
The third pillar and important tool Mr. President Sir, is that to deal with the assets that are owned by local authorities. The majority of local authorities did not have the inventory of the assets that they own, be they fixed assets or any other form of assets. They did not have an idea because they had not done anything and the President directed that we must work with them and ensure that they have got systems to ensure that we have a software system that assists in managing the auditing of their assets. All the local authorities have done that, including Harare.
These are the measures and interventions that we are doing to ensure that we bring back our local authorities to speed, we bring back our local authorities to the upper-middle income status that we are all looking forward to have and we bring our local authorities to jell with us to the Vision 2030. Thank you.
*HON. SEN. CHIEF CHIKWAKA: Thank you so much Hon. President of Senate Sir. My question is directed to the Leader of Government Business. We are proud as a nation that we have different minerals and this helps us to alleviate poverty in our country. How far have we gone so far on the issue to do with the mining of oil and gas? When will this help to bring revenue to our country? I thank you.
*THE MINISTER OF STATE FOR NATIONAL SECURITY (HON. SEN. MATUKE): Thank you Hon. Senator Chief Chikwaka. As of now, we still have a long way to go. The company has not indicated the quantity of oil underground. On the issue to do with gas within our country, of late the His Excellency, the President of Zimbabwe appointed a minister responsible for oil and gas. After implementing this, Zimbabwe will be one of the countries that will be supplying gas to its citizens and the quantity of oil underground, engineers are still working on it and are yet to furnish the public. I just want to tell the Senate that a lot is being done on gas and oil. I thank you.
*HON. SEN. CHITSAMBA: Thank you Hon. President of Senate Sir. My question is directed to the Leader of Government Business. I would like to know the number of children that are allowed to access BEAM per school. I thank you.
THE TEMPORARY PRESIDENT OF SENATE (HON. SEN. KAMBIZI): Hon. Senator, the Minister of Public Services is here and he is responsible for answering this question.
MINISTER OF PUBLIC SERVICE, LABOUR
AND SOCIAL WELFARE (HON. E. MOYO): Thank you Hon. President of Senate Sir. At the moment, I do not have those figures. The Hon. Senator must pose the question as a written question so that I investigate because the numbers depend on the size of the school. On small schools situated in very remote areas, you will find that the numbers are commensurate with the size of enrolment and also the location of the school. So it depends with the school and the area where it is situated. Let me take this opportunity to indicate that BEAM has not been paid for quite some time. The last payment on BEAM was made in 2022. From 2023, there was part payment and we have been engaging the Ministry of Finance and Treasury so that they can bring BEAM payments up to date. They have promised that in the very near future possibly beginning next week, they are going to be giving us resources. Not all of them at one go but as a cash management strategy, they will be giving us in tranches.
So, the BEAM programme is still on, we have been receiving disturbing reports that some schools and some leaders in the countryside have been telling people that BEAM has been discontinued, that is not true. BEAM is a social security programme that deals with vulnerable students and it is still on. We have already sent out circulars on the guidelines of how the selection should happen. So, we should be seeing a lot of activity towards selection of BEAM beneficiaries so that as the money becomes available, those students will be paid for.
In fact, no school must send away any child who is on BEAM because the responsibility for their fees is with Government and not with the child or the parent. I thank you.
∞HON. SEN. MUPANDE: Speech not recorded as there was no interpretation for Tonga.
THE TEMPORARY PRESIDENT OF: Order! There is no translation, I have been informed that the Tonga translator is in the National Assembly and not even one Hon. Minister is understanding that language. We are sorry about that and once the issue of translation has been attended to, I will ask you to ask your question.
+HON. SEN. S. MOYO: Thank you Mr. President. I am going to direct my question to the Minister of Industry and Commerce, Hon. Nqobizitha Mangaliso Ndlovu.
We note that Civil Servants earn their salaries in the local currency, the ZiG and most companies, especially in Bulawayo, do not take ZiG – whether you are buying stationery, bread and other basics.
My question is, how prepared is Government in terms of conscietising companies so that they should accept ZiG? Even for companies that are closing, like OK Zimbabwe and also the reasons why the companies are closing. I thank you.
+THE MINISTER OF INDUSTRY AND COMMERCE (HON. N. M. NDLOVU): Thank you Mr. President. I want to thank Hon. Senator S. Moyo for that pertinent question which is quite an important question.
Looking at the economic situation in our country, firstly, I also note that as Zimbabwe, we have our own currency, the Zimbabwe Gold (ZiG) which is money that is earned by Civil Servants and with a US dollar component also allocated to them. Other companies are using the same template, they use both US dollar component and ZiG. What is legal in Zimbabwe is that, any Zimbabwean can use which ever currency they have because we are in a multicurrency era.
We meet these challenges now and again, where we hear that there are companies that do not accept local currency. If you note in the past few days, we have been looking at what is being imported into Zimbabwe, what is being sold, the people who trade in different goods and who do not take the local currency.
We have been noting these things even in the past and we have engaged the Reserve Bank of Zimbabwe (RBZ) noting that big companies have been complaining that they were caught in-between a rock and a hard place especially by adhering to the official rate. Government does not have a programme which forces people to use a particular rate through price controls. There are no price controls in Zimbabwe. We were engaging business people in the past week. They were saying that they noted that it is quite easy to do business now because they are not being prosecuted for using any rate of their choice because most of the times, the official exchange rate is that of a willing buyer – willing seller.
Mr. President, there are a number of reasons for the closing of companies. If you were following our news, yesterday, OK Zimbabwe changed the Chief Executive Officer, the Chief Finance Officer was replaced as well and I believe the Chief Operating Officer was changed as well. This was done through an official statement which clarified that this is a move which is meant to resuscitate OK Zimbabwe. We are working together with our captains of industry so that we help each other when they face challenges in order to prevent the closure of companies. I thank you Mr. President.
Questions without Notice were interrupted by THE TEMPORARY PRESIDENT OF SENATE in terms of Standing Order Number 67.
ORAL ANSWERS TO QUESTIONS WITH NOTICE
ADDRESSING OF REMUNERATION DISCREPANCIES AFFECTING TEACHERS IN GOVERNMENT SCHOOLS AND PRIVATE SCHOOLS
- HON. SEN. KATUMBA asked the Minister of Public Service, Labour and Social Welfare to apprise the House on the following:
- a) Government’s plans towards addressing remuneration discrepancies affecting teachers in Government Schools and
- b) Government policy on the remuneration of teachers in private schools.
THE MINISTER OF PUBLIC SERVICE, LABOUR AND SOCIAL WELFARE (HON. E. MOYO): Mr. President, I refer to the question by Hon. Senator Katumba regarding Government’s plan to address remuneration discrepancies affecting teachers in Government schools.
Mr. President, it should be noted that there are no salary discrepancies between teachers in Government Schools. Currently all teachers are paid under a standard remuneration framework for the Public Service depending on the salary grade which takes into account such considerations as qualifications and seniority. However, all teaching staff is paid a monthly teaching allowance of USD80 paid in local currency at the prevailing interbank rate, which is limited to teachers and headmasters.
The following are the current levels of remuneration for teachers, deputy headmasters and headmasters;
|
DISGNATION |
GRADE |
TOTAL PACKAGE |
USD PAYABLE IN USD HARD CURRENCY |
BALANCE PAYABLE AT PREVAILING EXCHANGE RATE |
|
Headmaster |
E3 |
461 |
320 |
141 |
|
D/Headmaster |
E2 |
458 |
320 |
138 |
|
D/Headmaster |
E3 (Degree) |
448 |
320 |
128 |
It should be noted that if there are any discrepancies, they do arise from personal voluntary deductions which apply to individuals and this is by choice and cannot be used as a basis to claim differences. Such voluntary deductions include such issues as loans, medical and funeral insurance amongst others.
Mr. President, issues of low remunerations and compressed wage differentials can only be addressed through a review of the remuneration framework, which is subject to the availability of resources, which we are always eagerly awaiting during any reviews. Any other discrepancies which might be there across sectors are being dealt with in the context of the job evaluation exercise undertaken by Government.
(b) to state Government policy on the remuneration of teachers in private schools.
Madam President, the current Government policy is that private and trust schools determine their own remuneration framework guided by their National Employment Councils for the Welfare and Educational Institutions. It should be noted that teachers in Private and Trust schools were removed from the Government payroll in 2016 after the Civil Service Audit Report, which noted the commercial aspects of private and trust schools and their capability to determine their own remuneration framework. I thank you.
POLICY REGARDING LABOUR PRACTICES BY FOREIGN-OWNED COMPANIES
- HON. SEN. MOYO asked the Minister of Public Service, Labour and Social Welfare to explain Government policy regarding labour practices by foreign-owned companies operating in Zimbabwe to ensure local employees of these companies are not subjected to unfair labour practices or discriminatory treatment compared to foreign nationals employed by the same companies.
THE MINISTER OF LABOUR AND SOCIAL WELFARE (HON. E. MOYO): The Government of Zimbabwe is committed to ensuring that all employees, regardless of the nationality of their employer, are treated fairly and with respect. The Constitution of Zimbabwe, Labour Act (Chapter 28:01) and other relevant regulations, including Collective Bargaining Agreements of (CBAs) of National Employment Councils (NECs) mandate fair treatment and non-discrimination in the workplace. These laws apply equally to local and foreign-owned companies and are designed to protect the rights of all employees.
Foreign-owned companies are required to comply with the same labour laws and regulations as local companies. This includes provisions related to wages, working conditions, health and safety and non-discrimination.
Following complaints from some stakeholders within the Mining Industry on the ill-treatment of local employees by foreign employers, His Excellency, the President, Dr. E. D. Mnangagwa launched a responsible mining audit initiative in 2023. As a starting point, the Ministry of Public Service, Labour and Social Welfare intensified workplace inspections in the eight provinces across the country to address concerns raised. Compliance with the regulations is therefore monitored regularly through inspections. In cases where violations are identified, appropriate legal action is taken to ensure corrective measures are implemented. These include withdrawal of licenses, closure of businesses, prosecution and deportation of the foreign nationals.
Employees who have been subjected to unfair labour practices or discriminatory treatment have the right to report their concerns to their respective National Employment Councils or to the Department of Labour Administration. The Ministry provides such mechanisms for addressing disputes such as conciliation and arbitration. I thank you.
PROTECTION OF CONSUMERS FROM FAKE PRODUCTS
- HON. SEN. TONGOGARA asked the Minister of Industry and Commerce to inform the House the measures that have been put in place to ensure consumer protection from fake products.
THE MINISTER OF INDUSTRY AND COMMERCE (HON. N. M. NDLOVU): Thank you very much Madam President. Madam President with your indulgence questions Numbers 7, 8 and 9 all asked by Hon. Senator Tongogara are related, if I may address them collectively. I thought there will be a lot of repetition in answering them. I will make an attempt to make sure that they are all adequately attended to.
Madam President, let me first appreciate the questions asked by Hon. Tongogara on the three questions. The Constitution of Zimbabwe as read together with the Consumer Protection Act [Chapter 14:44] underpin consumerism in Zimbabwe. Importantly, Sections 10 and 17 of the Consumer Protection Act provides for a right to safety and health as well as the right to fair, honest dealing and protection from unconscionable conduct.
Allow me Madam President to break the three questions into five key areas. The first one I will address the mechanisms for consumers to raise concerns and complaints. The Ministry of Industry and Commerce has established consumer complaints hotline in all the 10 provinces. I attach these hotlines and I hope they will be then availed in the Hansard.
|
Ministry of Industry Region |
Hotline |
Landline |
|
Harare |
08004532 |
0242791823 |
|
Gwanda |
08004521 |
0842824106 |
|
Manicaland |
08004523 |
0202064126 |
|
Bulawayo |
08004524 |
0292267412 |
|
Chinhoyi |
08004525 |
06721079 |
|
Bindura |
08004526 |
0662106811 |
|
Mash-East |
08004527 |
0652321965 |
|
Masvingo |
08004528 |
0392262135 |
|
Midlands |
08004529 |
0542225146 |
|
Trade Measures Bulawayo |
08004530 |
0292460936 |
I want to highlight that we are as a Ministry, still in the process of making the above hotlines and we have engaged our service providers to this end.
Further Madam President, the Consumer Protection Commission has also established hotlines under the Ministry in Harare, Bulawayo and Mutare and is planning to have a footprint in all the provinces, resources permitting. As a Ministry, we also undertake Consumer Education Awareness Campaigns through the media, radio, television so that consumers are aware of their rights and mechanisms to raise these complaints. We also leverage popular talk-shows like Mai Chisamba Show to heighten the publicity.
I now address the issue of how such complaints are addressed. The Ministry has adopted a Whole of Government approach, wherein all the relevant enforcement agencies such as ZIMRA, the Department of Immigration, the ZRP, the Consumer Protection Commission and the Trade Measures Department inter alia, work together in the Education and Awareness Campaigns as well as enforcement blitz. In this regard, the complaints are addressed as follows:
-Investigations on specific complaints, to find out the real issue.
-Penalties are raised.
-Prosecution Notices are issued.
-Fines, seizures if necessary. Any expired and underweight products are instantly seized for destruction. The CPC has since partnered with Geo Pomona Waste Management for the destruction, to ensure that the condemned products do not find their way back into the market.
The third issue I want to address Madam President is on measures that have been put in place to ensure consumer protection from fake products. Cabinet has established an Inter-Ministerial Taskforce which I chair as the Minister of Industry and Commerce to deal with the problem of fake goods as well as other business malpractices in the marketplace. The taskforce that has been rolled out throughout the country’s ten provinces is made up of different Ministries, Departments and Agencies. Its mandate includes to;
-Conduct market surveillance checks.
-Gather intelligence, share information and conduct investigations on currency manipulation and smuggled and counterfeit goods among other offences. Engaging stakeholders and raising awareness on the sale of counterfeit and smuggled goods; conducting raids and seizures on underweight as well as counterfeit and smuggled goods, as well as making policy recommendations on the combating of business malpractices economy. The respective authorities are already seized with the need to institute strict penalties for offenders to deter participation in counterfeiting activities. The taskforce teams include among others, the task force ZIMRA, Law Enforcement Authorities, Immigration Authorities, Immigration Officials, Local Authorities, Consumer Protection Bodies, Small to Medium Enterprise Authorities, Citing out Departments as well as the Monetary Authorities – the Central Bank.
The Government aims to combat counterfeit goods by promoting local production, enhancing border security and increasing enforcement in order to ensure that businesses operate in accordance with established laws and regulations, industry standards, thereby safeguarding consumer welfare and maintain a level playing field for all stakeholders. The Ministry conducts consumers’ awareness campaigns to inform consumers of the devastated effects of purchasing fake products. The Ministry has established partnerships with law enforcement agencies such as ZIMRA, ZRP and other organisations to enhance our efforts to combating counterfeiting and these partnerships have enabled us to conduct inspection of products and standard enforcements to ensure product adherence to quality standards. The partnership has also enabled us to constantly share information with border control agencies to improve detection and interception substandard goods. It has also enabled us to capacitate ZIMRA and other Border Control Agencies on identifying counterfeit products.
I move Madam President Ma`am, to number 4 which is the establishment of the business malpractices command centre at the Ministry of Industry and Commerce. As the Chair of the taskforce, which I have spoken to, the Ministry has established a command centre at our head office with the mandate to coordinate the anti-smuggling activities taking place in all the ten provinces. In this regard, the Command Centre produces a consolidated weekly report and accordingly to update cabinet on developments and therein inform the requisite policy interventions necessary to address pertinent issues. The last issue I wish to address relates to the measure that have been put in place to ensure food safety and quality control in terms of regulations sale of expired products.
Food security is primarily the preserve of the Ministry of Health and Child Care and the Ministry of Industry and Commerce, mainly plays a complimentary role. However, as a Ministry, we do the following: the Ministry administers the Trade Measures Act and the Consumer Protection Act (Chapter 14:14) Statutory Instrument of 2024 on the Consignment Based Conformity Assessment Programme which is meant to protect consumers from the sale of substandard and underweight products. The Ministry is also conducting ad hoc tests of food products. Wherein samples are submitted to Standard Association of Zimbabwe (SAZ) for laboratory testing to ensure that consumers are not exposed to harmful products. I thank you.
THE TEMPORARY PRESIDENT OF SENATE (HON. SEN. DUBE): I praise the Hon. Minister of Industry and Commerce (Hon. N. M. Ndlovu) and encourage him to speak to other Ministers to emulate him and come to the House and respond to questions and Committee reports - [HON. MEMBERS: Hear, Hear.] - Hon. Minister N. M. Ndlovu, you are leading by example, Keep it up! We thank you as a House.
HON. SEN. GOTORA: Point of interjection from what you have said. Now that the leader of Government Business is here with us. I think he is the right person of ours to share our concerns and views about what happens in this House because you are the Heard of this House.
THE TEMPORARY PRESIDENT OF SENATE: Order! Hon. Senator Gotora. I think we have done a lot. Can we please finish the question, the time will be over now.
HON. SEN. GOTORA: No, it is not a question. I am actually complimenting what you have said.
THE TEMPORARY PRESIDENT OF SENATE: Yes, I understand what you want to say but because of time, let us finish the questions.
WRITTEN SUBMISSION TO QUESTIONS WITH NOTICE
PENSIONABLE AGE FOR LOCAL AUTHORITY EMPLOYEES
- HON. SEN. MAVENYENGWA: Asked the Minister of Local government and Public Works to explain to the House the position regarding pensionable age for local authority employees taking into cognisance the age limit which was raised from 65 to 70 for Government employees and to further state whether this has been aligned to the new age limit.
THE MINISTER OF LOCAL GOVERNMENT AND PUBLIC WORKS (HON. DR. GARWE): I wish to advise the House that, the Public Service Commission extended the age of retirement for the civil service from 65 to 70 years of age. Consequently, the principle brought about by the Public Service (Amendment) Regulations Statutory Instrument (SI) 197/2024 to extend the age of retirement for local authority employees will apply.
Questions With Notice were interrupted by THE TEMPORARY PRESIDENT OF SENATE in terms of Standing Order Number 67.
MOTION
BUSINESS OF THE HOUSE
THE MINISTER OF STATE FOR NATIONAL SECURITY (HON. SEN. MATUKE): Madam President, I move that Orders of the Day, Numbers 1 to 9 be stood over until Order of the Day Number 10 on today`s Order Paper has been disposed of.
Motion put and agreed to.
MOTION
INTERNET CONNECTIVITY AROUND MAITENGWE BORDER POST
Tenth Order read: Adjourned debate on motion on the Report of the Thematic Committee on Indigenisation and Empowerment on the Status of Community Share Ownership.
Question again proposed.
THE MINISTER OF INDUSTRY AND COMMERCE (HON. N. M. NDLOVU): Thank you Madam President for the opportunity. I want to thank you for according me this opportunity to respond to the report made by the Parliamentary Thematic Committee on Indigenisation and Economic Empowerment regarding the Economic Empowerment Bill and the status of the Community Share Ownership Trusts (CSOTs). Before I respond to the issues raised, I would like to give a brief background of legislative developments impacted on CSOTs.
The amendment to the Indigenisation and Economic Empowerment Act through the Finance Act No. 1 of 2018, negatively impacted on CSOTs funding. Qualifying businesses withdrew funding since it was no longer mandatory for them to fund the CSOTs. As a result of the amendment, majority of the CSOTs collapsed. Following the demise of NIEEB, the ministry is doubling its effort to revive the CSOTs. Selected CSOTs projects will be funded from the NIEEF fund and the Ministry is strategically focusing on CSOTs enterprise development projects as a strategy to ensure sustainability.
Economic Empowerment Bill, the ministry appreciates and noted the observations and recommendations of the esteemed Committee, amongst others which are as follows:
The Ministry of Industry and Commerce should ensure that the Economic Empowerment Bill provides for Community Share Ownership Trusts (CSOTs) establishment, revival and survival as a tool to community empowerment. Madam President, I would like to advise that the draft of Economic Empowerment Bill is now undergoing considerations at the AG’s office. I am pleased to note that whilst most of the recommendations will be taken on board, this august House still have an opportunity to input into the Bill before it is finalised. Without preempting the Bill, the recommendations have been taken note of and will be duly considered.
The Bill should provide for a mandatory funding of CSOTs by qualifying companies (Companies exploiting resources and operating within communities). Madam President, I am unable to address the Bill preemptively at this time. The recommendations have been duly noted and will be thoroughly reviewed and considered.
The ministry should develop a monitoring mechanism by April 2025 to ensure CSOTs are run transparently and to the satisfaction of the communities involved. Madam President, I am happy to advise that the ministry is already seized with the matter. Functional boards are being fully constituted. In November 2024 a National Strategic CSOT workshop was undertaken in Kadoma to discuss and share CSOT best practices. The ministry shared and discussed a CSOT policy and procedure manual. I am happy to advise that for the 2023 financial year, our internal auditors have already audited the CSOTs. A national CSOT strategic planning workshop will be undertaken.
The Ministry of Industry and Commerce should ensure that the new Economic Empowerment Bill carries provisions which widen the list of qualifying businesses apart from only mining entities to other sectors like tourism, conservancies and other extraction and manufacturing companies operating within communities. Madam President, I cannot preempt the Bill at the moment. The recommendations have been taken note of and will be duly considered.
The Ministry of Industry and Commerce should come up with provisions to ensure that CSOTs are autonomous in their operations to detach them from frequent meddling by Rural District Councils as observed. Madam President, the two are already autonomous. By law and policy, the two are also detached. They are complimentary with clarity of roles.
The Ministry of Industry and Commerce to propose a statutory instrument to ensure provision of budgetary allocation to bail out existing CSOTs. Community Share Ownership Trusts (CSOTs) are designed to be funded by qualifying companies exploiting resources in their respective constituencies. However, noting that there are existing CSOTs going through some funding challenges, the Ministry has taken measures to utilise the NIEEF fund to revive the CSOTs. It maybe difficult to legislate a dedicated fund.
In conclusion, I would like to thank you once again Madam President for convening this meeting. I thank you.
HON. SEN. S. MOYO: I move that the debate do now adjourn.
HON. SEN. MUZODA: I second.
Motion put and agreed to.
Debate to resume: Tuesday, 4th March, 2025.
MOTION
REPORT OF THE THEMATIC COMMITTEE ON CLIMATE CHANGE ON THE ENQUIRY INTO THE IMPACT OF CLIMATE CHANGE ON HUMAN-WILDLIFE CONFLICT
First Order read: Adjourned debate on motion on the Report of the Thematic Committee on Climate Change, on the inquiry into the impact of climate on human-wildlife conflict, induced by Climate Change in 2024.
Question again proposed.
THE MINISTER OF STATE FOR NATIONAL SECURITY (HON. SEN. MATUKE): I move that the debate do now adjourn.
Motion put and agreed to.
Debate to resume: Tuesday, 4th March, 2025.
MOTION
OVERHAUL OF DILAPIDATED STADIA
Second Order read: Adjourned debate on motion on deplorable sports infrastructure in the country.
Question again proposed.
THE MINISTER OF STATE FOR NATIONAL SECURITY (HON. SEN. MATUKE): I move that the debate do now adjourn.
Motion put and agreed to.
Debate to resume: Tuesday, 4th March, 2025.
THE MINISTER OF STATE FOR NATIONAL SECURITY (HON. SEN. MATUKE): I move that the debate do now adjourn.
Motion put and agreed to.
Debate to resume: Tuesday, 4th March, 2025.
On the motion of THE MINISTER OF STATE FOR NATIONAL SECURITY (HON. SEN. MATUKE) The Senate adjourned at Twenty-Five Minutes to Five O’clock p.m. until Tuesday, 4th March, 2025.
PARLIAMENT OF ZIMBABWE
Thursday, 27th February, 2025
The National Assembly met at a Quarter-past Two o’clock p.m.
PRAYERS
(THE HON. SPEAKER in the Chair)
*HON. NYABANI: Good afternoon Mr. Speaker Sir. I rise on a point of national interest.
THE HON. SPEAKER: Can you raise your voice?
*HON. NYABANI: Alright.
THE HON. SPEAKER: You do not say alright. Withdraw that.
*HON. NYABANI: I withdraw Mr. Speaker Sir. My point of national interest is to commend the police with regards to the excellent work they are doing on arresting drug dealers, those who are brewing illicit beer and all the thieves. It is disrespectful that there are people out there who are beating the police yet they protect our country. Commuter omnibus drivers run away from the police. Police officers are supposed to be respected because they protect us. If there is no police, we are not protected. All those who are harassing the police should face the wrath of the law so that they know that attacking the police is attacking the country. In this way, they are making the country undignified. The police work for the country and its dignity. That is my point of national interest.
HON. M. MAVHUNGA: Chitungwiza Central Hospital flighted a notice early January entitled, ‘Hospital User Fee Policy Implementation’. The main purpose of that policy implementation according to the notice is to align hospital fees with a directive or a Cabinet circular of 2006. I went through the circular – it is referenced d/1/13. That circular is entitled, ‘Circular on Review of Fees and Revenue Enhancing Measures at Public Health Institution’.
The main feature of that policy is to direct that all children below the age of five and elderly people below the age of 65 are now compelled to pay for all the services that are provided at hospitals except consultation fees. In most cases, consultation fee is probably less than five dollars, so they are only exempted from paying consultation fee according to that circular.
Mr. Speaker Sir, we are shocked that this circular is now being implemented at this stage which is almost two decades ago and obviously it has been inherited from the First Republic and we are not so sure why this retrogressive piece of legislation is actually being implemented at this particular stage in hospitals. Not only that Mr. Speaker Sir, it is not an accident that it is being implemented by these hospitals now and it is also not imaginable that the parent Ministry or Government is not aware of this implementation. It is a cruel piece of legislation. You will agree with me Mr. Speaker, it is barbaric. We are talking of old people who cannot afford, we are talking of pensioners who are not getting any pension from anywhere to compel them to pay those user fees. Even the able-bodied, Mr. Speaker Sir, they are unable to pay for services, let alone to expect such elderly people and young children to pay for user fees.
Everyone is aware that the economy is not performing very well. Most people are suffering, unless you belong to the Chigananda clan. Everyone else is suffering. I implore the relevant Ministry or the Government to actually withdraw, with immediate effect, that particular notice if it is still in circulation. If it is not in circulation, then we need the relevant Government Ministry to actually publicly announce that this particular notice is no longer applicable at the moment. Otherwise, as we speak right now, Chitungwiza is one of the hospitals where young children and elderly people are being turned away. That is my point of national interest.
THE HON. SPEAKER: In future Hon. Member, do not canvas the Speaker's position or the Chair’s position. I have never agreed with you in what you were saying. I only listen and direct accordingly. I suggest that you put that as a question next week to the relevant Ministry because it is a very important observation. Thank you.
*HON. MAVHUNGA: Thank you Mr. Speaker Sir. Wednesdays are problematic Mr. Speaker Sir as most people want to appear on television. I will try to do so Mr. Speaker.
THE HON. SPEAKER: Do you want me to agree with you? It is alright.
HON. G. K. HLATYWAYO: Thank you so much Mr. Speaker Sir. I rise on a point of national interest to bring to the attention of this august House, the recently released 2024 Corruption Index, a flagship initiative of Transparency International and also a recognised indicator under the Structured Dialogue Platform for Debt Resolution. In this latest index Mr. Speaker, Zimbabwe is ranked as number 158 out of 180 countries with a score of 21 out of 100 and therefore, making it one of the most corrupt countries in the region.
The last time Zimbabwe recorded such a low score was in 2015 and this latest ranking signifies an erosion of the country's capabilities to deal with the cancer of corruption. Given how disastrous the effects of corruption are, including the crowding out of social services to the citizenry, this House cannot be silent on this matter Mr. Speaker Sir. In an era characterised by the rolling back of international aid and development, the prudential use of national resources cannot be overemphasised.
After all, Parliament has the responsibility of oversight and to ensure the efficient use of national resources. I, therefore appeal to you Mr. Speaker, for the Minister of Justice, Legal and Parliamentary Affairs to favour this very House with a Ministerial Statement on how the Executive is tackling the question of corruption, including how far the Executive has gone in terms of the whistleblowers’ protection legislation and the witness protection legislation. I so submit. – [HON. MEMBERS: Hear, hear.] –
THE HON. SPEAKER: Thank you very much. Do not believe in some of these indexes. – [HON. MEMBERS: Hear, hear.] – You have a President in the western hemisphere accused of corrupt activities, over 400 cases and he has been exonerated by the courts, democratic courts of his country and today he is still a President. So, be very careful about these indexes. – [HON. MEMBERS: Hear, hear.] –
Why do they escape such blatant information happening in countries which are supposed to be the citadels of democracy?
HON. G. K. HLATYWAYO: Sorry Mr. Speaker, if I can – [HON. MEMBERS: Inaudible interjections] –
THE HON. SPEAKER: You want to say something?
HON. G. K. HLATYWAYO: Yes.
THE HON. SPEAKER: Yes.
HON. G. K. HLATYWAYO: I just wanted to say Mr. Speaker, what I referred to when I was giving my point of national interest, this index is actually agreed on by our Government in terms of the structured dialogue platform as one of the key indicators in terms of reforms. So, I think, we need to pay attention to it as Parliament.
THE HON. SPEAKER: I am not sure about the agreement. What I can only advise in support of part of what you have said is the Whistleblowers’ Bill that must come as soon as possible to this House. As for the indexes, I have my reservations. – [HON. MEMBERS: Hear, hear.] –
COMMITTEE STAGE
BROADCASTING SERVICES AMENDMENT BILL [H. B. 10, 2024]
House in Committee.
Clause 1, put and agreed to.
On Clause 2:
THE MINISTER OF INFORMATION, PUBLICITY AND BROADCASTING SERVICES (HON. DR. MUSWERE): I propose the amendment standing in my name that On page 3 of the Bill, by the repeal of the following definitions— (a) “Chief Executive Officer” and the substitution of the following— “Board” means the National Disability Board established in terms of section 4; (b)“Commission” On page 4 in the definition of “Director” delete “section 52” and substitute with “section 5”
HON. MUSHORIWA: Could the Hon. Minister explain the basis of the amendments that he is bringing so that we will be able to engage him?
HON. TOGAREPI: Mr. Chairman, the Hon. Minister is trying to locate a functional mic so that he is correctly recorded.
THE TEMPORARY CHAIRPERSON (HON. NGULUVHE): You may proceed Hon. Minister.
THE MINISTER OF INFORMATION, PUBLICITY AND BROADCASTING SERVICES (HON. DR. MUSWERE): Thank you Hon Chairman. Perhaps I did not quite get his question. I think if we are to recommence the proceedings as you have called upon, I propose the amendments standing in my name that The Bill is amended in clause 2⸺ (a) on page 1, in clause 2 line17 by the insertion of the following definition⸺ “internet based broadcasting” means a broadcasting service transmitted over the internet including radio, television, podcasts and other digital media platforms;” (b) on page 1, in Clause 2 line 18 by the deletion of “established by this Act”.
THE TEMPORARY CHAIRPERSON: Hon. Mushoriwa, may you repeat your question?
HON. MUSHORIWA: Thank you so much Chairman. I was asking the Hon. Minister, because generally when we do the debates here, not only do we do it here but we also do it for the other people that are not within the House.
So, I had requested that at least you explain the amendment to the clause, what you intend to do, so that at least we will be able to engage you well. Rather than for us to just start to engage you, the others that are listening may not be privy or have access to the Order Paper. It may not make sense to them.
THE MINISTER OF INFORMATION, PUBLICITY AND BROADCASTING SERVICES (HON. DR. MUSWERE): Yes, Hon. Chairman, perhaps I think the Hon. Member, if I got him correctly; I think he wants me to clearly indicate that I propose the amendment as reflected on the Order Paper amendment of Clause 2. The Bill is intended in clause 2 (a), On page 1, in Clause 2, line 17, by the insertion of the following definitions. Internet-based broadcasting means broadcasting service transmitted over the Internet, including radio, television, podcasts and other digital media platforms.
(b) On page 1, in Clause 2, line 18, by the deletion of established by this Act.
HON. MUSHORIWA: I do not have a problem with definition that the Minister proposed but I was going to suggest to the Hon. Minister another definition that I think needs to be included under Clause 2. I want the political matter to be defined within the definitions and my suggestion is that political matter refers to partisan politics, so we include it like that so that political matter will not be ambiguous because it is within the Bill. If we then put the definitions, we then define what political matter is and we say political matter refers to partisan politics because yesterday you came clear to say that it does not stop the community radio stations to discuss the other general things that are within the community.
I thought what you meant on political matters; you do not want stations to participate in partisan politics. So, that is my suggestion that let us have the definition of partisan political matter included in the Clause 2.
THE MINISTER OF INFORMATION, PUBLICITY AND BROADCASTING SERVICES (HON. DR. MUSWERE): I think we discussed this matter yesterday but at the same time any position to further elaborate to the Hon. Member in terms of the classes, the major differences between community radio broadcasting is his question and I get it. The difference between a community broadcasting service licence and a commercial radio licence. His point yesterday which has been repeated today again is that he would prefer community radio stations being a political platform. I want to elaborate further to the Hon. Member that we have different classes in terms of licencing framework for example, we have the national broadcaster. Its major mandate and obligation is national issues including political issues. Then commercial radio stations are precisely licenced to deal with commercial issues and community radio stations. The discussions around bridges and schools are not political matters in that context.
At the same time, there is no need to define the political matter in this particular clause. So, there is no debate about that. A community radio station is there to deal with community issues, and heritage-based broadcasting and it covers a certain jurisdiction. Let us say a total perimeter of around 40kms or 80kms depending with the infrastructure that has been put in place. So, we cannot politicise community radio station. At the same, Section 20 of the Broadcasting Services Act is very clear that political organisations cannot own radio licences. Thank you, Mr. Chairman.
THE TEMPORARY CHAIRPERSON: Hon. Mushoriwa, you are reminded that normally it is procedural that you submit any amendments before, rather than bringing them here as it is the structure of the Committee.
HON. MUSHORIWA: Yes, one can actually present the amendments to the Journals Office but specific Committee deliberations are there to make sure that there is an engagement with the Minister to actually persuade the Minister to see things because us backbenchers will be seeing it. If he then disagrees with our views, it is well and fine but I just believe that this question on the political matter, the Hon. Minister actually missed my point.
The point is that when you say that community radio stations can discuss about bridges, roads or anything within the community, you cannot remove the politics aspect because when you complain that your Councillor, Government, Council or MP has failed this, it is the realm of politics. If you then limit the definition of political matter to say political matter means partisan politics, then you have covered the community radio stations so that they could discuss matters within their confines without this fear of getting into politics.
Secondly, there is something that you need to take cognisance of. One of the major challenges that you have, how are you going to define that a community radio station is getting or dealing with a political matter unless you have given a definition? This is something that you need to consider because it will come to haunt you as the Minister responsible for this legislation.
HON. G. K. HLATYWAYO: Thank you very much. I associate with the thinking of Hon. Mushoriwa. Politics is simply political scientists. It is who gets what, when and how. So, what it means is everything is political. The definition of politics is so wide. The issue that we are trying to cure here is partisan politics, which is why we need to be very clear in terms of our definition of what we do not want to see, which is partisan politics. We do not want this community radio to be seen propping up certain politicians or certain political parties. That is what we do not want but issues of community development are political in nature. It is very important for us and we also know that community radios are finding it difficult to discuss community development issues in fear that they are going outside their mandate as prescribed by the law.
So, it is important Minister, for you to consider this and to include the definition of politics as partisan politics.
HON. MUGWADI: I want to disagree and I am with the previous speakers to confirm my agreement with the Minister. The Minister has properly chosen the proper ways in the context of the radio stations being secured from discussing issues of a political nature. It is important to come to the context of our community radio stations. There is a new addition to our broadcasting infrastructure. You are pretty aware that airwaves are an important area of national security. It will be geographically and administratively difficult for the Minister to be able to check the content of every radio station across the country. That means giving them or narrowing the word of political nature into partisan politics will create a Pandora’s box. In fact, it will be tantamount to opening a can of worms because then it will be difficult for the authorities to determine what matters can best be defined as partisan politics because if we then narrow the word of a political nature to partisan politics, it means those in charge of those community radio stations will have latitude to go on a frolic of their own and engage subtly or through nefarious means into political issues hiding by the word partisan.
So, the phrase ‘of political nature’ as an all-encompassing phrase, it is my humble submission and my well-considered position that it should stand as is, otherwise we run the risk of creating a Rwandan 1994 situation. I am not sure about the date, I am sure I should confess about that but we may have challenges of an editorial nature but with serious security consequences arising from some of those radio stations.
So, the phrase ‘political nature’ as it is, is all-encompassing to say they are prohibited from engaging in a lane that is otherwise not theirs to ensure that there is community harmony. There are so many things to discuss in communities, including marriage issues. Our chiefs are doing so many things in these communities and we are so happy that some of these online radio or television stations are publicising.
There are so many and so it would be very dangerous for this House to seek to prescribe the verses and chapters of the operations of these radio stations in the context or with a bias on politics simply because all of us here are therefore confirmed open, blatant politicians and therefore we would want to behave in this House as if everyone is. I am sure that is not the situation.
It would be a good idea for the Minister to proceed as is and then if there is any need to narrow down the definition, the House is a permanent institution of Government, it will always be reviewed on another date but so far so good. Thank you.
HON. MAMBIPIRI: Thank you very much Mr. Chairman. I think the basis of the laws that we make in this House is that they should be very clear and not vague to ordinary people as they interpret and live with them. On that score alone, I would urge the Minister to at least appreciate the differences that are there already in terms of interpreting political matter as it is used in this proposed Bill.
I would rather the Minister consider two options. Either a definition of political matter as in this clause, as has been asked for by Hon. Mushoriwa or to drop the clause that says political matter under community radios and clearly articulate that particular clause using the phrase partisan politics because in reality, we cannot, for all intents and purposes, stop community radios from discussing what are ideally called political matters.
When a community discusses the pass rate at their local school, why the students are failing at their ordinary level subjects, that becomes a political matter for all intents and purposes. When a community discusses why they have no medication at their local clinic, it becomes a political matter according to some other people's interpretation. Therefore, in order to support and allow our communities to freely discuss and engage in developmental community issues without the risk of being branded people who are discussing political matters, I think Hon. Minister, you simply need to provide a definition under Clause 2. Thank you.
HON. DHLIWAYO: Thank you Mr. Chairman. I would like to support the position that has been outlined by the Minister and Hon. Mugwadi. I believe that we are not looking at a global clause that encompasses everything. I think there are other pieces of legislation that define political matters. So I think we can rely on other areas of the law starting from our Constitution and other Acts. Those ones I think may clarify what political matters that are being referred to are.
I do not think every time we first say a word like woman or man in a clause, we say let us define a woman, let us define a man in that clause, so that is clear. I do not think that is progressive. So I think the position taken by the Minister that for this clause, this particular clause is not dealing with those political issues. Let us stick to what the Minister has outlined. Thank you.
*HON. NYAKUEDZWA: Thank you Chairman. I would like to support what the Hon. Minister said. He clearly explained that community radio stations must not broadcast political issues. According to the Constitution, in Section 281, subsection 1(a), it clearly states that a chief or kraal head is not supposed to be political in delivering their duties. So, these issues of political radios are the same.
There is a lot of work that needs to be broadcast in local areas or communities which are not political. So, the Hon. Minister clearly explained and I support what the Hon. Minister said.
HON. MADZIVANYIKA: I would like to highlight a point. Is it true Hon. Minister, that if a community radio station discusses politics, it becomes an offence? That is a very important question, Hon. Minister. If it is true that if a community radio station talks about politics, it becomes an offence, then we need to define what is politics to remove all unnecessary ambiguity because we do not want a situation whereby at the end of the day, someone willy-nilly defines that this is political and this is not political, yet the Parliament is here, the lawmakers are here. We are lawmakers to ensure that there is no ambiguity in this matter.
I think Hon. Chairperson, I really still need, if the Minister can suffer any prejudice in defining for all and sundry to know that if I do this, I have overstepped my mandate as a broadcasting community radio station. So, Hon. Minister, is there any prejudice for you to just allow? We want your definition, not our definition. Can you highlight to us your own definition? What do you mean by political matters so that we protect these people as lawmakers? Thank you.
HON. MUGWADI: Thank you Mr. Chairman. I want to ride on Hon. Mushoriwa’s earlier submissions that this stage is an important interactive stage. I am sure it will be good to proceed in that interactive manner. Otherwise hauling is not good because we are the majority and the consequences are obvious. I am saying in the spirit of what Hon. Mushoriwa has said, it will also be good for us to engage with them about the phrase ‘partisan politics’, for example.
We are well aware and I am sure the Minister too; and that is why he chose the phrase ‘political matter over partisan’, that there are other mortals who do not necessarily belong to political parties because the word partisan arises from the word belonging, associating with a political party or being membership thereto. There are situations where there are other mortals who do not belong to political parties but can discuss politics.
If we remove the phrase ‘political matter’, you are saying those other mortals who have a penchant of wanting to hide behind the finger to smuggle political issues into a discussion without necessarily belonging to a political party, will then be allowed to turn radio stations into theatres of political struggles hiding behind the finger that they do not belong to a political party. Therefore, they are non-partisan. That will be a very dangerous approach Mr. Chair.
In our society, we know them. We have Civil Society Organisations that have made political pronouncements and history has told us very clearly that even when we are going for elections, when we expect political parties, named political parties to be squaring, we have runner dogs or auxiliary organisations that will be playing the ground for certain political organisations hiding under the finger of Civil Society Organisation. If we say partisan, these organisations or NGOs, they are not political parties and therefore, they cannot be defined in the context of partisan. They would have escaped the hook and this one under the pretext of the substitution of the word political matter by partisan.
Secondly, we have independent political thinkers who do not belong to partisan groups. They do not belong to political parties but they are independent. Some of those people have been in this Parliament and it does not mean that they were prophets when they were here. They were politicians but they did not associate or belong to any political parties. Those ones will escape the narrow definition of partisan matters.
So, for the record, I rose to reiterate that the word political matter must stand as is, unless those who are suggesting its substitution by partisan politics must provide us a fresh definition of what is partisan politics beyond what I have said. Thank you.
HON. DR. MUSWERE: Thank you Mr. Chairman. As I have already indicated that in the interpretation section of the Act, there is no reference to political matter. In this particular case, the debate is misplaced in the context of Clause 2 and perhaps it could be raised later when we look at the 5th Schedule.
HON. MAMBIPIRI: Thank you Mr. Chairman. To the extent that the Minister agrees that the issue of political definition may be raised when we look at schedule 5, I think that also means it is a definition issue that needs to be addressed. Unfortunately, the definitions are only addressed in Clause 2. So, I would rather we finish with the definitions under Clause 2, so that we proceed all at once.
HON. DR. MUSWERE: Mr. Chairman, I have already highlighted the position. We are not here to debate on what politics means, what a political matter and so forth but I will refer them specifically to the issues that they are interested in. Statutory Instrument 39 of 2020, which is very clear in terms of the establishment of community and compass radio broadcasting station. Compass radio broadcasting services regulations that in terms of interpretation, community broadcasting service means a free to air radio television broadcasting service, not operated for profit or as part of a profit making enterprise which provides that; are for community purposes, are capable of being received by commonly available equipment and do not broadcast programme or advertisements on behalf of any political party.
Governing body means a group people constituted as the decision-making body of the community radio licence such as the board of directors, council, Commission or any others as may be appropriate to the licence concerned. These regulations shall apply to all community and compass radio broadcasting services licences issued under the Act. Requirements for community radio stations:
- To empower the community through sharing of knowledge and information relevant to that community;
- Present programmes which promote law and order;
- Provide sufficient coverage of community, regional and national news and events and languages spoken within that community and;
- Ensure that its programming is reflective of all key interest within that particular community.
Mr. Chairman, I have highlighted many times. It is an issue of semantics of what do you term partisan politics or what is not partisan politics. We want to deal with the particular clause, not issues around interpretation throughout. We will spend the whole day around this particular matter. As I have already indicated that in the interpretation section of the Act, there is no reference to political matter. In this particular case, the debate is misplaced in the context of the Clause 2. Thank you.
Amendment to Clause 2 put and agreed to.
Clause 2, as amended, put and agreed to.
Clauses 3 put and agreed to.
On Clause 4:
HON. MAVHUNGA: Mr. Chairman, as you are seated on the Chair, tarisai kuno, pane vane mapoint of order. Muri kungoramba muchimhanya. Unless if you are saying you just want to rubberstamp this Bill. Allow us to debate.
THE HON. CHAIRPERSON (HON. NGULUVHE): Your point has been noted.
HON. G. K. HLATYWAYO: Point of order Mr. Chairman.
THE TEMPORARY CHAIRPERSON: What is your point of order?
HON. G. K. HLATYWAYO: We have further debate on Clause 2 but you rushed without giving us an opportunity.
THE TEMPORARY CHAIRPERSON: We have gone past that.
- [HON. MEMBERS: Inaudible interjections.] –
HON. G. K. HLATYWAYO: We were raising points of order from this side. Go back, we cannot have this and we cannot rubber stamp.
THE TEMPORARY CHAIRPERSON: Hon. Hlatywayo, we are now debating Clause 4. Hon. Mushoriwa. - [HON. MEMBERS: Inaudible interjections.] –
HON. NYATHI: On a point of order Mr. Chairperson?
THE TEMPORARY CHAIRPERSON: What is your point of order?
+HON. NYATHI: Hon. Chair, my request is when you are seated in that Chair, you are a Chairperson. You are not participating in the debate. You are not supposed to be biased. This is something that we are doing for the country. Everyone wants this Bill to come out in a proper way because these are the laws that we are creating for the country and not for an individual. Give us an opportunity to debate. Please give us an opportunity to debate.
When you are seated in that Chair, you are a Chairperson do the task that is supposed to be done by a Chairperson and not be biased. I thank you.
THE TEMPORARY CHAIRPERSON: Hon. Nyati may you please take your seat, if you stand up properly we recognise. Most of you are just making noise and you talk before I even recognise you. Stand up properly follow the procedure and I will recognise you.
HON. NYATHI: Thank you Mr. Chair, my request is let us follow procedure, we are here to build our nation. We are here to represent the people from our constituencies. Let us follow the procedure and agree that we are moving on to the next Clause. Why are we jumping other Clauses? We are not following the procedure.
THE TEMPORARY CHAIRPERSON: Hon. Member I hear your point, what you are supposed to do is respect the Chair as well. Stand up, I recognise you and I will give you an opportunity to contribute to the floor. I thank you.
On Clause 4:
HON. MUSHORIWA: Chairperson, the proposal by the Hon. Minister to take power away from Parliament through this Clause cannot be allowed. When this Parliament came up with the Broadcasting Services Act it said that candidates that want to serve on the board have to be advertised. They have to come to Parliament for public interviews and thereafter the President and the Minister responsible will then choose amongst the shortlisted candidates by Parliament.
The Hon. Minister’s suggestion to now want to remove Parliament and make sure that the appointments are done by him and the President alone is not proper. It defeats the purpose of this Bill and even the African Charter on Broadcasting. Chairperson, I believe so strongly that as Parliament, we should allow the current system to continue. The only thing that we could be agreeable with the minister is to reduce the number of members on board from twelve to seven but not to take our power as Parliament is to ensure that there is a public platform to make sure that this is given. Those who want to serve on that board are interviewed by Parliament and with the generality of people that want to follow, are following to see what has been happening.
The Hon. Minister even when he responded yesterday, he did not even tell us what is the mischief that he wants to correct. What has he seen wrong for the Parliament performing this task that he now believe that himself and the President alone should be allowed to a free for all and have this thing alone. Parliament does not dictate to say Hon. Minister these are the people that we have interviewed can you please take our number one, two, three or four. No, Parliament will give you the list of those and the numbers who have succeeded and the Executive is then given the leeway to then choose among them. I think it is a fair position of the law rather than what the Hon. Minister wants to propose in this Bill.
HON. HAMAUSWA: Thank you Mr. Chairperson, I want to propose that whilst we agree on the reduction of the number of members of the board from twelve, I suggest that the Minister can reduce the number to eight. Increase from seven to eight; the reason being that we want to be in line with the Constitution where we move towards 50-50 in terms of representation. If it is eight, we are going to have four women and four men.
I also want to agree with Hon. Mushoriwa that as Parliament, we should not sign a law that takes away the powers of Parliament. Parliament should be allowed to interview prospective candidates. Previously we all remember that when members were interviewed, the public were also aware to see, if there was transparency and some who were not even able to answer the question who were redefining the questions that they were being asked. They did not see the light of the day because it was for everyone to see how they were performing. There was a reason why those interviews were made public. I humbly request the Minister to reconsider, we are not really against - I understand the Minister still has some powers but taking the powers from Parliament, I do not think any member here would agree to give away power. We cannot give away the power of Parliament to interview as is given by the Constitution.
HON. S. SIBANDA: Thank you Hon. Chairperson. I was just following the report by the Portfolio Committee and I noted that it came clear from the public hearing that the public was very much concerned about the excessive powers that are usually given to the Executive. I still want to concur with Hon. Mushoriwa that maybe we might need to consider reduction in terms of power levels to the Minister.
THE TEMPORARY CHAIRPERSON: I want to remind Hon. Members, let us try to avoid repetition because the past two Hon. Members were just repeating the same thing.
HON. TOGAREPI: Thank you Hon. Chairperson. I think in my view, the Minister is right to say BAZ where Parliament is an interested party it is defined in the Constitution [Chapter 12]. When we are talking about Broadcasting Authority of Zimbabwe (BAZ), it is an organisation of our national interest but are we not giving ourselves too much work for something that can be dealt with by the Executive. So, it was there but was it necessary? Is it backed by the Constitution? Let us just not argue for the purpose of just doing that. Mr. Chair, there is a Hon. Member who is saying some funny words. Let me request the Hon. Member to respect me and I respect that Hon. Member.
THE TEMPORARY CHAIRPERSON (HON. NGULUVHE): Hon. Hlatywayo, please can he be heard in silence?
HON. TOGAREPI: I think that decency is very important…
HON. G. K. HLATYWAYO: Sorry, are you saying that I was the one who was speaking Chairperson?
HON. TOGAREPI: It is not Hon. Hlatywayo, I know who was saying it…
HON. G. HLATYWAYO: Thank you so much.
HON. TOGAREPI: And I am only telling that Hon. Member to behave and not to behave like a drunkard in an honourable House.-[HON. MEMBERS: Inaudible interjections.]- So, Hon. Members, the issue …
HON. CHIGUMBU: Point of order! I kindly ask the Chief Whip to reverse the word he said. He cannot refer other Members here as drunkards.
HON. TOGAREPI: Honourable, if I say behave like, you are not but you are like.
HON. CHIGUMBU: I am speaking to the Chair. Are you the one?
HON. TOGAREPI: In fact, the Hon. Member should have told the Hon. Member who talked about whatever that nonsense, he is to do that.
HON. MUSHORIWA: On a point of order. When someone raises a point of order, they are supposed to make a ruling. This is because if you allow the Hon. Member to remain standing whilst a point of order has been raised, you are defeating the whole purpose.
THE TEMPORARY CHAIRPERSON: Your point of order is overruled. - [HON. MEMBERS: Inaudible interjections.]-
HON. TOGAREPI: Hon. Members, my view is that, yes we all agree that BAZ has everyone’s interest but for us to then try to take that to our stable to then want to do interviews and so forth for BAZ, it was there but was it necessary? Was it backed by any legislation? I think let us leave that one and we concentrate with Zimbabwe Media Commission and not this one. I think the Executive can deal with it. I thank you.
HON. G. K. HLATYWAYO: Thank you very much Chairperson. I wish to add my voice on the need for us to make sure that this Broadcasting Authority of Zimbabwe is independent and the board members are a product of processes that are coming from Parliament. I know that the Minister yesterday already suggested that he wants to make sure that at least two of the board members are coming from Parliament. I am still not yet satisfied and still think that the entire seven members have to come from Parliament through Parliament conducting interviews and giving the Executive a list of the twelve that can then be reduced to seven.
Why do I say that, I want to make reference to the African Charter on Broadcasting and in particular Article 2 of Part 1, which says that all formal powers in the areas of broadcast and telecommunication regulations should be exercised by public authorities which are protected against interference, particularly of a political or economic nature by among other things, an appointment process for members which is honest, transparent, involves the participation of civil society and is not controlled by any particular political party.
Clearly, if you look at the appointment forces that are being proposed by the Minister, it is not transparent, it does not include civil society, the citizens and it is controlled by a particular political party. So, in the interest of protecting and promoting the values that are in the African Charter on Broadcasting, we should be able to give all the powers to Parliament to conduct a very transparent process where everyone is included. I so submit.
THE MINISTER OF INFORMATION, PUBLICITY AND BROADCASTING SERVICES (HON. DR. MUSWERE): I want to thank all the Hon. Members for their contributions and also appeal to their conscience in terms of practical implementation of what we term organisational efficiency. The size of the organisation matters. The current number of employees employed by BAZ, permanent employees are 26 and we want a board with 12 people to superintend over these people.
HON. G. K. HLATYWAYO: Point of order!
THE TEMPORARY CHAIRPERSON: Point of order overruled, can you let the Minister be heard please? -[HON. MEMBERS: Inaudible Interjections.]-
HON. G. K. HLATYWAYO: There is something that the Minister is not understanding and we need to clarify it to him.
THE TEMPORARY CHAIRPERSON: Can you let the Minister be, please! - [HON. MEMBERS: Inaudible Interjections.]-
HON. DR. MUSWERE: Mr. Chairman, I want to highlight a few issues please as a former corporate executive. The scope, efficiency and span of control, the unity of command is very clear. These are simple matrixes in terms of the organisational management and efficiency. What we propose Hon. Members is a reduction from a number of 12 to a size of seven and all of you including Hon. Hlatywayo, she was her and we discussed this matter yesterday.
We said we can have two parliamentarians coming from Parliament and we have the rest coming in terms of the public entities in terms of the Corporate Governance Act. So, the Public Entities and Corporate Governance Act is very clear in terms of the processes. I want to deal with transparent issues Hon. Hlatywayo, that it is very clear that each and every Zimbabweans who is interested to be part of a board of directors shall submit a CV and qualifications through the Corporate Governance Unit. From that list, then the particular Ministry will request for the list of Members.
So, we have already dealt with that particular matter yesterday and we have said we can have two of the seven coming from Parliament. We cannot over burden an institution with 26 employees having a whole board and what purpose does it serve any way having as many people on a board? The board of directors has got a fiduciary responsibility to be in charge of an organisation.
Yes, we are a member to many agreements. I do respect that. Parliament still has a role and you still have two of the seven members. I will refer you to the Broadcasting Services Act so that you can get an appreciation of what the Act says. Establishment and functions of BAZ, I will also refer you to Section 4. The majority of these members, two shall be persons chosen for their experience or professional qualifications in the field of broadcasting technology and broadcasting content respectively. One shall be a chief as defined in the Traditional Leaders Act and nominated by the council of chiefs referred to in the Act. One shall be legal practitioner and one shall be a public accountant while one shall be a representative of churches. The current status in terms of Section 4(b), members shall be appointed by the President from a list of six nominees submitted by the Committee on Standing Rules and Orders. We have reduced the number from 12 and still retained 2. The current scenario where we have 12 members, only 3, I think it is a fair decision to have 2 coming from Parliament. I thank you.
HON. MAMBIPIRI: The whole essence of coming with a Bill here and then sending people out to do public enquiries and then gathering Members here is for the Executive to get feedback. When that feedback comes, I think it is proper for the Executive members to appreciate the sentiments that are coming from outside. The first one is the report from the Portfolio Committee saying people were worried about the Minister’s excessive powers. I think the Minister must appreciate that. Secondly, Members here are saying in terms of the appointment of this BAZ, the Minister must not have excessive powers but would rather defer the selection of these Members to Parliament as was the practice before. This is feedback that is coming from the public and from the legislators and it would be appreciated if you consider and adopt this. I thank you.
THE TEMPORARY CHAIRPERSON (HON. NGULUVHE): I think it will be proper to say some Members because it is not all.
*HON. TSITSI ZHOU: Thank you Hon. Chair. I believe that the Hon. Minister explained clearly and the most important thing is that the people elected to the board are not chosen by the Hon. Minister. Some of them come from the Council of Chiefs. You cannot continue to repeat what has already been said. Like what the Government Chief Whip said, most of Parliament time should be for conducting Parliament business. This business of conducting interviews is a burden yet there is someone who took an oath of office to do that work. The Hon. Minister took oath of office to do that and so far, he has not been accused of any wrong doing. So, he is doing his work diligently. The oath was not partisan and it is work for the country just as the President took oath of office to serve this country. So, I agree with the Hon. Minister to let it be according to the draft before us.
THE TEMPORARY CHAIRPERSON: Members on my left, when others are debating, please keep quiet and do not make noise.
HON. MATEWU: Thank you Mr. Chairman. I want the Minister to clarify when he said two will still come from Parliament. What we are amending here is the Principal Act. In this Act in Section 4, it talks about the members of the BAZ. If you read the first sentence, it says Section 4 of the Principal Act is repealed and substituted with the following, which means we are repealing entirely the Principal Act of the year 2000. I do not see anywhere on the amendments where it says two shall emanate from the Parliament of Zimbabwe or from the Committee on Standing Rules and Orders. Perhaps the Minister needs to clarify that because in the interest of protecting himself and the work of the broadcasting authority, although the thought itself has fewer employees, it plays an integral part on who governs and who manages our frequency spectrum which we are given by ICU. So, I want the Minister to clarify when he says two of these shall be from Parliament and if not there, that needs to be added in the Bill before we proceed. I thank you.
HON. MUSHORIWA: I want to buttress this point. Once an amendment says we are going to repeal a clause, it means removal and substituting with the following but the following does not include what the Hon. Minister was saying. Fundamentally however, if you check this Bill, the Hon. Minister says that the objective is also to make sure that it aligns with the Public Entity’s Corporate Governance Act. If you see the proposed amendments in Clause 4, it does not even talk about the standard that you find within the various pieces of legislation. It does not talk about the Chairperson of the Board or Deputy Chairperson of the Board. All those things are missing. I also think it is appropriate that the Hon. Minister gets assistance from the technocrats to ensure that this clause is really sorted out.
I think the Hon Minister is missing the fact that we debate on the Second Reading and we are now in the Committee Stage. This is the stage where we write down what is being said. If we leave this room today without having agreed on the text of this Bill, then whatever we said yesterday, if not included in the text of the Bill, does not become part of the law. What becomes part of the law is what we are doing as text to the Bill. This is the reason why we are saying your referral saying there is a provision in the current Act, which you are actually saying you are repealing will not hold water. So, I urge the Hon. Minister to hold consultations with his staff to ensure that this clause is looked at again. I want to insist that in liaison with his staff, the question of saying two should come from Parliament out of seven does not make sense because as Minister, you still have the power. Even if Parliament gives you the list, you still have the power to look at the list from Parliament because Parliament does not impose who to chose from the list. You chose from the list yourself. I thank you.
*HON. MUROMBEDZI: Thank you very much Hon. Chair. On the amendment with regards to gender, when the Minister said he had reduced the members to seven to include gender, I think the number allotted to women should be four. If you leave it as it is, women will be very few. We want to fight for gender equality and hereby request this through you Chair. I thank you.
HON. KAPOIKILU: Thank you Chair. The Minister said two shall come from Parliament. What is the selection criteria? We need clarity on that. I thank you.
HON. G. K. HLATYWAYO: Thank you Hon. Chairperson. I want to associate with the comments that have been made as it relates to the issue of gender. I think during the general debate, I also referred to that particular point. Every time that we have an uneven number, it is expected that the fewer members have to be women. I think we need to change that narrative. So, I support the idea that we have at least four women being appointed.
I also wanted to go back to the issue of the selection process. I think the minister needs to understand where we are coming from. We have a problem with the excessive powers of the minister or excessive powers of the Executive. So, for him to suggest that he is only going to take two from Parliament out of a total of seven, I think it does not make sense at all. Maybe a middle ground might be four out of seven coming from Parliament. We need the majority of these members to be coming from Parliament if we are going to cure the problem of excessive powers of the minister and excessive powers of the executive. I so submit.
HON. MUKOMBERI: My input is to maybe beg to differ on the issue to do with a quota which is maybe set aside for women. I think for seven members to say, let us have at least two being female, it creates an opportunity for them already. The five should be now based on merit – [HON. MEMBERS: Inaudible interjections.]-
HON. TSITSI ZHOU: On a point of order. We have competent women. We have qualified women, as indicated, there is a need for a lawyer and we have women lawyers. We have women accountants, we are qualified. We have the capacity. We need to be recognised. I thank you.
HON. MUKOMBERI: Hon. Chair, I was still debating. May I be given room to express myself? Chair, may I continue with my debate? -[HON. MEMBERS: Inaudible interjections.] –
THE TEMPORARY CHAIRPERSON (HON. NGULUVHE): Order, order. Can the Hon. Member be heard in silence, please? Order on my left. Let us give him a chance.
HON. MUKOMBERI: My point is not to say we are only having two females in the board. My point is to say already having two as a mandatory number does not limit them from even being seven. But I mean to say if they are competent, they are going to also...
HON. KARIMATSENGA-NYAMUPINGA: Point of order, Madam Speaker. Point of order. My point of order is that the Hon. Member must withdraw his words. As women, he cannot tell us about qualifying. When we had children, we were not measured on qualifications. We just produced. So, I think it is not fair for him to judge us that way. He must withdraw. Thank you, Chair.
THE TEMPORARY CHAIRPERSON: Hon. Member, withdraw please?
HON. MUKOMBERI: Hon. Chair, let me withdraw – [HON. MEMBERS: Inaudible interjections.] – I withdraw. I was referring to the applicants, not women per se. I thank you.
+HON. P. MOYO: It is sad to hear what the Hon. Member has said about women. We are being told that women are not educated to match the level of men. I want to say, if the Hon.Minister is listening, women are capable of competing on any post, including in the broadcasting services.
In addition, with regards to women, the number must be increased to four, like what women said because women are a majority in this country. So that must be considered. We want this issue to be looked at objectively. Thank you.
HON. DR. KHUPE: Thank you very much, Hon. Chairperson. The Minister is speaking. I want the attention of the Minister. Hon. Chairperson, looking at the Minister, who is sitting directly opposite me, I see a very gender-sensitive Minister. Because you are a very gender-sensitive Minister, on this clause, there must not be any debates or any compromise. I think at least four of these people must be women, without any change. I hope and trust that as the gender-sensitive minister, you are going to concede to this one, at least for once. We want to know you as a gender-sensitive minister. I thank you.
HON. TOGAREPI: I am happy to see that all women are on one side. What I want to bring to this House is when we are advocating for sensitivity to the disadvantaged, we give a minimum so that there will not – [HON. MEMBERS: Hear, hear.] - In this case what we have seen as the best way would be at least two shall be men and we have allowed women to be five – [HON. MEMBERS: Hear, hear.] - What I am trying to bring to your attention Hon. Chairman is when we are saying at least four or at least three, let us look at what we want to achieve, not the number. The first thing that we are trying to achieve when we are talking of gender sensitivity, we are not talking about women, we are talking about the two genders.
Secondly, we have now observed that many of these posts, I know women are competent. We have an example here in the House of women MPs who are doing good. We also have disadvantages that occur on women when it comes to public positions. That is why we are saying if we can then say three and we guarantee the three, then the four men can compete. Women can also compete so that women get two and men 2. We compete for the four but for the three we do not compete. We cannot appreciate that we do not compete for the three, they are given, then the four we can compete men and women. We are not saying four are guaranteed for men. We are competing for the four but we cannot compete for the three. Is that not empowerment enough? I think we need to observe that and be rational. When you have given three, that you have not competed for, then we say the four, you compete again with men. Is the Government not being sensitive to the gender issues?
HON. C. HLATYWAYO: Thank you Mr. Chairman. This is a very sensitive subject. As a country, we must take it seriously. I think there is a proposal that was given in this House earlier on, on achieving 50-50. Our law must be explicit. We do not want to say that we have a minimum of three. Let us be explicit. If you want to achieve 50-50, we must practice it. This House must set an example.
I want to support the proposal that was given by Hon. Hamauswa earlier on. Let us just have plus one. From that number seven, we just add one to have four-four. We address all the concerns from both genders, the men and the women. The BAZ Commission must be an example of our endeavour to achieve a 50-50 balance in our deployments as a country. I propose that the Minister adds just one person to have four-four. It must be explicit in the writing of that law - four women, four men.
*HON. TSVANGIRAI: Since we are talking about the quota system, as youths we have doctors, lawyers and we have doctors like Hon. Shacky. It is also our wish that on the board, at least five must be youths, bearing in mind that 60% of the population are the youths.
*HON. P. ZHOU: I would like to support what the Chief Whip said. He said three women can participate and submit their CVs. Amongst the women, we expect also the youths to be included. Mostly, that is what happens. Amongst the four, they said clearly that it is a pool where anyone can participate or compete, be it women, men or youths. With regards to the number of Committees, usually it is an odd number to ensure voting. If it is an even number, it is difficult when it comes to voting. Seven, I think is a good number according to what the Hon. Minister said. The workers are very few and I support that three women, including youths. On four, anyone can compete, be it men, women or youths, so that they can be elected successfully.
*HON. TSITSI ZHOU: Thank you very much Hon. Chair. The advantage of Clause 4 varies, it clarifies and speaks about people who are knowledgeable or qualified in broadcasting amongst the two. So, this means both males and females.
On the chief, there is no question. When it comes to the legal practitioner and Accountant, I think there is need for it to be either male or female. If it is very clear, it will not be problematic at all.
So, I think let us stick to seven members like what was alluded to by the earlier speaker. For the youths below 35 years, let it also be clear. So, it means it must be amongst the four, Hon. Zhou said of the three, one must be below 35 years. So, amongst the four, I proffer that two of them be become below 35 years old.
HON. DR. MUTODI: Thank you, Mr. Chairman. I think Hon. Members, we need to know that when we are crafting the law, we do not need to be too strict because we are not aware of the state of nature that will be prevailing during the time of the appointment of the board.
So, like what the Hon. Government Chief Whip said, women have been oppressed for too long, we understand that. The efforts we are currently taking are to ensure that there is gender equality. So, when you are faced with an odd number of seven, it means to achieve equality, you simply subtract seven minus one, you have got six. So, from six, you say three, three. Then the other person can be any gender, you leave it like that so that at one time, there are four women and three men and at another time, there are four men and three women - that is very fair.
So, those who are advocating for youths, maybe that is when you can then say three men and three women. Then the seventh person can be a youth of any gender or a disabled person. So, that makes it very fair. Thank you, Hon. Chief.
HON. KARIMATSENGA-NYAMUPINGA: Oh, thank you very much Chair for recognising me. I just wanted to say that among the seven, I would want to ask the Hon. Minister if he could also wear disability lenses so that he can also pick one of the seven to be a person with disability.
HON. ENG. MHANGWA: Thank you so much Mr. Chairman. For once, we have been united as a House with people agreeing across the divide. I agree that there is a need to follow the transcript that has come from Hon. Chair there, Mutodi. This tells us one thing, Mr. Speaker. It tells us that the dynamics involved in coming up with this board cannot be vested in one or two people. This is the very reason why people were mentioning that this should be a responsibility of the Parliament.
Thank you so much for demonstrating that it is difficult to come up with the list. It is important and incumbent on Parliament to do this. I so submit.
*HON. J. SITHOLE: Thank you Mr. Speaker. I have noticed that most of the other groups have been represented, like the women and the disabled but for us as war veterans, we are not represented. May we also be included as war veterans? I thank you.
HON. G. K. HLATYWAYO: I want to go back to the issue of four women, because I think it is very important. The reason I think it is important is that experience is the best teacher Chairperson. We tell you this because we are the women who have been facing prejudice in this country.
From our experiences, every time that we say, at least whilst I understand the submissions that are being made, that we can say three, three, and then the seventh person can be of either gender, we know the people who are making decisions are men. These men will make decisions to say the seventh person must be a man. So, we know every time that we say, you know, the person can be of either gender, we know what happens. Which is the reason why we are saying we want it to be explicit to say four women. Why? Women constitute 52% of this population.
So, if we have an uneven number, it follows that the majority have to have the seventh seat. So, we say this from an experienced perspective, you know, people are saying, no, we are just saying at least it might end up being five. It does not happen. We know it. It does not happen, which is why we need it to be very explicit in the Act to say four out of the seven.
I agree with the submission to say, for the purposes of making decisions, an even number might be difficult, like eight, or it might be difficult. We need an uneven number for decision-making, which I understand. Where we are saying, women, you know, women have to be considered and women constitute 52% of this population. So, we want four out of the seven. Thank you.
HON. TSITSI ZHOU: Thank you Hon. Chair. I think we need to be progressing. Much appreciation given to the initial suggestion of at least three. Now, I want to move on to say we need to be accommodative of the youths. If we are going to get one chief, we are left with six positions, two men, two women and two youth. We are all equal - two women, two men and two youth. The youth will consider one female and one male. I thank you.
THE TEMPORARY CHAIRPERSON: I think we have done justice to this issue. Can we ask the Hon. Minister to respond?
HON. DR. KHUPE: On a point of order. Yes, inasmuch as I agree with my dear Hon. Sister Zhou when it comes to the chief, we must also understand that these days we have got female chiefs.
So, as far as chiefs are concerned, one can be a woman and one can be a man. Thank you.
THE MINISTER OF INFORMATION, PUBLICITY AND BROADCASTING SERVICES (HON. DR. MUSWERE): Thank you Chairperson. I will respond in at least two or three languages so that everyone can understand. Others debated in Shona, others in English and Ndau. I want to thank the Hon. Members.
Chairperson, this debate is very interesting. It gives me an opportunity to explain concerning this law. Hon. Members, the amendment of Clause 4 of the principal Act by reducing the number of board members from 12 to seven and also providing for gender balance within the board of the Broadcasting Authority is very clear.
Hon. Members, Section 17 of our Constitution is very clear. The State must promote full gender balance in Zimbabwean society and in particular, the State must promote the full participation of women in all spheres of the Zimbabwean society on the basis of equality with men. The State must take all measures, including legislative measures needed to ensure that both genders are equally represented in all institutions and agencies of Government at every level. Women constitute at least half of the membership of all commissions and other elective and appointed Governmental boards established by or under this Constitution or any Act of Parliament.
The clause that we are talking about is gender sensitive. There is no way you can appoint five men and two women because the Constitution does not allow. The second issue, the Public Entities and Corporate Governance Act is very clear. If A man is Chairman, the woman becomes Deputy Chairperson. Hon. Members, before I joined Parliament, this was one of my responsibilities. I can assure you that there is correct gender representation within the boards.
I want to refer to Hon. Dr. Khupe that I am a very gender sensitive man. You go to ZimPapers, the Chairperson is a woman. You go to ZBC, the Chairperson is a woman. You go to many other institutions where I have served, I have had CEOs and Chairpersons as women. The Constitution obligates every Ministry to ensure that there is gender balance. In the Public Entities and the Corporate Governance Act also ensures that there is gender balance. As you process the paperwork in terms of gender balance, you have the Corporate Governance Unity which acts as an advisor institution established in terms of the Public Entities and Corporate Governance Act.
The issue of gender is well taken care of in terms of the Constitution of Zimbabwe. Hence, we can discuss and even decide to add the text or substitute text but the Constitution which is the Supreme Law of the country already gives us direction. So, there is no need for us…
THE TEMPORARY CHAIRPERSON: Point of order Minister, stick to one language for the sake of recording.
HON. DR. MUSWERE: Thank you Chair. I was highlighting to the Hon. Members of Parliament that the Constitution of Zimbabwe under Section 17, in terms of gender balance, obligates every one of us to ensure that we must promote full gender balance in Zimbabwe. So, this is the supreme law of the country.
The second issue is that, the Public Entities and the Corporate Governance Act are very clear in terms of gender balance. Whenever we appoint a female as a board chairperson, the male should be deputy board chairperson. So, whether we decide to amend the text but the Constitution already gives us an obligation to ensure that we are bound by the Constitution, otherwise any other legislative process or any composition that does not reflect the Constitutional obligation becomes ultra vires.
At the same time, what Hon. Dr. Mutodi has highlighted that we could add the text to say three and the chief also indicated the same, that three should be women. The Constitution obligates us to ensure that there is gender balance. The public entities and Corporate Governance Act also obligates us to ensure that there is gender balance. I do not know if it is necessary to add that text.
I also want to highlight what Hon. Dr. Khupe has highlighted. I am a very gender sensitive Minister. I want to appreciate that she has said it. There is no way any minister will appoint more men than women like in the case of five men in a board of directors with seven people. It means the Corporate Governance Unit has got the responsibility to advise the particular minister. So, we have checks and balances in terms of the Corporate Governance Act, where the advisory unit which is the Corporate Governance Unit. At the same time….
HON. HAMAUSWA: Point of order Chair.
THE TEMPORARY CHAIRPERSON: What is your point of order Honourable?
HON. HAMAUSWA: We are having challenges that the Minister wants us to agree that four and three are the same. We are not understanding what the Minister is saying. Is four and three equal? When you raised Section 17, it said 50%, it should be 50% equals. What does he lose if he puts more women in the Board? Does the country lose anything or if he puts more women? Does he lose his ministerial post? I think he should just put four women and three men. If it is so difficult, I think he should just stick to 4 equals. What I can say is that the Minister is not going to lose anything if he puts more women in the Board, it is a plus for him.
HON. DR. MUSWERE: Hon. Hamauswa, I was still elaborating in terms of why we should stick by the proposed amendment. I also want to refer to one of your points that you have raised, I am an expert in this area. What we propose is in terms of operational capacity, the size of the institution and at the same time I have already indicated that there is nothing that we can come up with which is outside the Constitution of Zimbabwe. It is very clear that we should always ….
HON. MUROMBEDZI: Point of order Hon. Chair.
THE TEMPORARY CHAIRPERSON: Your point of order is overruled. Can you let the Hon. Minister finish first?
HON. MUROMBEDZI: No, I want to quote the Constitution. I have the Constitution here.
THE TEMPORARY CHAIRPERSON: I said currently it is overruled. Let the Hon. Minister continue.
HON. DR. MUSWERE: Thank you, Mr. Chairman. I want to respond to Hon. Hamauswa’s question. I think you are all in agreement about the size of the organisation which is very small. So, we cannot continue increasing Board members. All the Hon. Members have debated and contributed towards this proposal. I have justified in terms of the magnitude of the organisation that there is no way we can come with Clauses that are ultra vires, it would not make sense. It would be unconstitutional and it would also be dismissed at the Parliamentary Legal Committee.
At the same time, I think we have all dealt with the submissions that the Hon. Members have raised. If we can please proceed and finalise these amendments. Thank you.
HON. DR. KHUPE: The Minister alluded to the fact that yes, he can change the text and we are saying, Hon. Minister, can you please change the text so that at least four are women and three are men? Just that, please.
HON. DR. MUTODI: Hon. Chair, if we allow that four out of a board of seven people is strictly women, what have we done? We have made an improper proportion. The Constitution is saying there should be gender balance. So, when we meet at the PLC, it will be unconstitutional to have a mandatory four against three. It will be unconstitutional. So do not force the Minister to say something that is not going to be approved – [HON. MEMBERS: Inaudible interjections.] - It will be unconstitutional.
HON. MUROMBEDZI: On a point of order Hon. Chair.
THE TEMPORARY CHAIRPERSON: Hon. Murombedzi, can you let him finish first?
HON. DR. MUTODI: So what we can do to achieve gender balance is either to add one person to make it four males and four females or you share the even number, which is six, three males and three females, then one can be either gender. You see that way, the Constitution, the phrase or the clause will be constitutional. Thank you – [HON. MEMBERS: Inaudible interjections.] -
*HON. TSITSI ZHOU: Hon. Chair, I do not see where we are going. One of these members will be chosen by the chiefs and we are left with three. My plea is that the youths should be accommodated. I will stick to my proposal. One of them is going to come out from the Chief's Council. So, gender balance will be met on the remaining six. Two youths, one of them will be female because we want them to be three. Two of them are men and two of them are women, then we are all equal. I do not see where we are having problems with gender balance because gender balance is there already. So, we are going to have three men and three women, which is 50/50.
THE TEMPORARY CHAIRPERSON (HON. NGULUVHE): Hon. Murombedzi are you done?
HON. MUROMBEDZI: No, Hon. Chair. I was waiting for you to recognise me. Thank you very much, Hon. Chair. In the same Constitution that has just been read, Section 17, item number B2, says women constitute at least half the membership of all Commissions and other elective and appointed governmental bodies established by or under this Constitution or any Act of Parliament. So, if we have got seven, Hon. Chair, half of seven is three and a half. Already we have three, so half, we cannot cut a person, so that means we have to put four women. That is my submission – [HON. MEMBERS: Inaudible interjections.] -
THE TEMPORARY CHAIRPERSON: Hon. Members, I think we have spent over an hour on the same topic. Can we continue on this space?
HON. MUSHORIWA: No, there is something different from this Chairman, that I need to raise. Remember when we debated on the appointment processes, the Hon. Minister said to us no, two members and then we raised that, no Minister, your Bill says you are repealing the current provision. So, I thought the Hon. Minister owes us on how he intends to ensure his suggestion of the two coming from Parliament that he was raising.
So, to that answer, I think we need the Hon. Minister to respond to and also to read the text which will be part of this Bill because so far, the Hon. Minister has not proposed anything in terms of the amendment in respect to what he had said earlier.
THE TEMPORARY CHAIRPERSON: I am not sure whether the Minister has anything to add because I thought he had finished. He has already responded – [HON. MEMBERS: Inaudible interjections.] - Hon. Members, if you raise your hand, you will be recognised. Why do you like this attitude of just trying to challenge? – [HON. MEMBERS: Inaudible interjections.] - I am talking of Hon. Hlatywayo. We always recognise you. Why are you not raising your hand?
HON. G. K. HLATYWAYO: What have I done? Are you referring to Hon. Clifford Hlatywayo or Hon. Gladys Hlatywayo?
THE TEMPORARY CHAIRPERSON: Honourable, you!
HON. G. K. HLATYWAYO: What have I done?
THE TEMPORARY CHAIRPERSON: You were making noise. You were saying he has not answered.
HON. G. K. HLATYWAYO: No, I did not. Chairperson, I do not know what is happening. You seem not to be understanding me. I did not even say a thing. If you still remember when Hon. Togarepi was speaking, you also said the same thing. I was not speaking to anybody. I was just quietly sitting here –[AN HON MEMBER: Possibly Hon Gladys is closer to your heart].
THE TEMPORARY CHAIRPERSON: Anyway, let us move on. Hon. Hamauswa it must be a new thing, not the same thing. We are not going to go back to the same issue.
*HON. HAMAUSWA: No, I am not going back to the same issues, Hon. Chair. There are a lot of things that have been proposed. So, those things cannot just slide down then the minister says continue because if you ask if there is an objection and there is no objection, it means the clause will sail through and there is no text from the Minister, which has been alluded to by Hon. Dr. Khupe. I think the drafters are here. Add the text. We can rest for a few minutes. We can change the draft so that that amendment is included.
In conclusion, if you listen to what Hon. Mutodi said, he said the other number can be three or four but he is refusing if we want that number to be added to the women. If it is added to the men, he is agreeing. He does not have a problem if we have four men and three women but he has a problem if we say four women and three men.
HON. DR. MUTODI: Why do you not write notes because when you were talking, I was writing down notes? You should listen to what is said in this House, which is recorded in the Hansard. What we are saying is that the Constitution is saying there must be gender balance but we are faced with an odd number of seven. So, what it means in the wording of a clause in our statute of instruments, we cannot say at least four women or we cannot say at least four men. What it means if we say that we have violated the Constitution. So, what we can only do in this case is the maximum, we can go is at least three women and three men. That is the maximum we can go. We cannot go beyond that. Thank you.
*HON. HAMAUSWA: Hon. Chair, that is the bone of contention. My issue is that we should rectify that.
THE TEMPORARY CHAIRPERSON: Hon. Minister, can you respond…
HON. HAMAUSWA: The point of order cannot overrule the platform that you have given me.
THE TEMPORARY CHAIRMAN: I want the Hon. Minister to respond because you are repeating the same thing.
*HON. HAMAUSWA: It is not the same, the issue is that the Minister should take the advice which has been given by Hon. Dr. Mutodi. I do not think there is a problem if one person is added so that we have a gender balance.
Hon. Mutseyami having stood up on a point of Order.
THE TEMPORARY CHAIRPERSON: Hon. Mutseyami, can you please sit down?
HON. DR. MUSWERE: Thank you Hon. Chairman. I am sure I have responded to all the issues that have been raised and I have already indicated that we proceed because we will spend more time debating on the same issue. We have already highlighted that these are constitutional obligations that we should always ensure that we comply with the Constitution of Zimbabwe. Thank you.
HON. G. K. HLATYWAYO: Thank you Mr. Chairman. There were two issues relating to the composition of the board. The first issue was around the gender question and the second issue was around the selection process. We have not heard from the minister, which is why we were requesting the text that he is putting before the House so that it is very clear on what he is saying. He has proposed two and we had said can we go up to four out of the seven. What is he saying around it? It is a very critical question that needs an answer. Thank you.
THE TEMPORARY CHAIRPERSON: But the Minister responded on the issue of gender.
HON. G. HLATYWAYO: Chairperson, you are not understanding me. The points that I am raising is that we had two questions that we were dealing with on this clause. The first question was around gender and he has responded. The second question was around the selection process where he was saying he is proposing that out of the 7 board members, two come from Parliament. We had suggested that in light of the question of excessive powers of the Minister, can we up the number to four if he cannot go for all of the seven members coming from Parliament? He needs to answer and then give us the text in terms of what we are approving before we move forward.
HON. DR. MUSWERE: Thank you Chairman. What generally happens is that some of the Hon. Members, as I will be giving responses, they will be busy objecting and making noise. This is why they do not get the responses. I have already responded to the issues. I also propose that we could divide the House so that we deal with this matter on the floor.
*HON. TSITSI ZHOU: Hon. Chair, the issue of four Members of Parliament when they are appointed to the board, they should come from the House because the law does not allow appointing them anyhow. It is not being said that Members of Parliament, but it is saying that Parliament should appoint the board members.
THE TEMPORARY CHAIRPERSON: Hon. Members, if you force me, we will end up dividing the House and it does not help.
*HON. HAMAUSWA: Why do you want to divide the House? The Hon. Minister has said two Members of Parliament should come through Parliament process. Listen to what we are saying that it should be written down in the text which we are going to approve as Members of Parliament.
*THE TEMPORARY CHAIRPERSON: I said sit down Hon. Member! I have heard you and the Hon. Minister is going to respond.
HON. HAMAUSWA: Why do you want me to sit down?
Some Hon. Members having stood up on a Point of Order
THE TEMPORARY CHAIRPERSON: Be seated Hon. Members. May the Hon. Minister please respond?
*HON. DR. MUSWERE: Thank you Chairman. Let me respond in Shona. As I have alluded to, when we are discussing these issues, people will not be paying attention. These Hon. Members will not be listening. We have to be attentive as we discuss these matters. These are important matters and I already dealt with that issue yesterday and I have dealt with the issue today. I even proposed in the text to say let us have at least two members coming from Parliament. We have four nominees from Parliament. Of the four nominees, we can only appoint two through the same legal framework.
I can rephrase it for you since you have not been listening. Hon. Members, we discussed this matter yesterday and we discussed this matter today. I can give you the text. The text as I responded Hon. Hamauswa…
THE TEMPORARY CHAIRPERSON: Hon. Minister, talk through the Chairman, do not answer them directly.
HON. DR. MUSWERE: I have said that two members of the seven shall be appointed by the President from a list of four nominees submitted by the Committee on Standing Rules and Orders. We dealt with this issue many times but you were just not listening.
HON. DHLIWAYO: I have a suggestion, Chairperson.
THE TEMPORARY CHAIRPERSON (HON. NGULUVHE): What is your suggestion? Are you on the same Section?
HON. DHLIWAYO: No, I am not commenting about the Section in particular, Hon. Chairperson. My suggestion is, as normal procedure, most of the time when a proposal has been given to the Minister and the Minister has expressly accepted it, it is incorporated in a provision and then read again for the House to adopt the provision as amended or not. This will allow us to move faster. I am sure that is the lamentation from the Members Hon. Chairperson.
THE TEMPORARY CHAIRPERSON: Hon. Member, that is why I had called the Minister here so that we could correct.
HON. DHLIWAYO: I have a suggestion, Chairperson.
THE TEMPORARY CHAIRPERSON (HON. NGULUVHE): What is your suggestion? Are you on the same Section?
HON. DHLIWAYO: No, I am not commenting about the Section in particular, Hon. Chairperson. My suggestion is, as normal procedure, most of the time when a proposal has been given to the Minister and the Minister has expressly accepted it, it is incorporated in a provision and then read again for the House to adopt the provision as amended or not. This will allow us to move faster. I am sure that is the lamentation from the Members Hon. Chairperson.
THE TEMPORARY CHAIRPERSON: Hon. Member, that is why I had called the Minister here so that we could correct. - [HON. MEMBERS: Inaudible interjections.]- Order! Can the Hon. Minister be heard in silence please? - [HON. MEMBERS: Inaudible interjections.]-
THE MINISTER OF INFORMATION, PUBLICITY AND BROADCASTING SERVICES (HON. DR. MUSWERE): Thank you Chairman. After consulting the officials, I still maintain that we retain the text as is, that there shall be seven board members. - [HON. MEMBERS: Hear, hear.]- Parliament still has the oversight role in terms of the Constitution. We need to have oversight role. Thank you, Chairman. - [HON. MEMBERS: Inaudible interjections.]-
Amendment to Clause 4, put and agreed to.
Clause 4 as amended, put and agreed to.
On Clause 5:
THE MINISTER OF INFORMATION, PUBLICITY AND BROADCASTING SERVICES (HON. DR. MUSWERE): Thank you Chairman. I propose the amendments as reflected on the Order Paper, amendment of Clause 5. The Bill as amended in Clause 5 on page 3, Clause 5 in line 19 by the insertion of: (i) internet broadcasting
(j) Webcasting
HON. MATEWU: Thank you Mr. Chairman. In sub-section 2(e), you have put subscription management service. Subscription management service is not broadcasting. Broadcasting is defined in sub-section D, a subscription broadcasting service. Subscription management service is well defined in Clause 2 what it is? It is a service which involves the provision of support services to a subscription broadcasting service. So, a subscription management service cannot be classified and licenced as a broadcasting service in itself.
This is one of the contentions that we mentioned in our report and that we agreed as a Committee that a subscription management service is not broadcasting. It is a support service rather than a broadcasting itself that needs to be licenced. I thank you. - [HON. MEMBERS: Hear, hear.]-
HON. DR. MUSWERE: Thank you Chair. I did not quite get what the Hon. Member really wants but broadcasting and communication technically in terms of broadcasting, it is about encoding and decoding of information through electrical magnetic signals. So, the major discrepancy is that whether an institution you subscribe to DSTV through MultiChoice in a particular jurisdiction, it is already broadcasting. So, it has to be licenced because you are subscribing in a particular jurisdiction and there is the encoding and decoding of broadcast information. Thank you Mr. Chairperson.
HON. MATEWU: I disagree with the Minister here. A management service, it will be very difficult for any subscription management service to comply with this Act should it become an Act. So, let us correct it here. A subscription management service is a support service to the broadcasting service. So, you rightly put it in sub-section (d) when you say classes of broadcasting licences and you put a subscription broadcasting service.
A subscription management service is a different thing and it is not broadcasting. I think that we just need to be clear there. It is not broadcasting. It is a management service not necessarily a broadcasting service. So, it should not be under the classes of broadcasting licences.
HON. MAMBIPIRI: Mr. Chair, I want to add my voice and support what Hon. Caston Matewu has just said. When we talk of licencing broadcasters, we cannot include subscription management services because these are, by their nature, aiders or supporters for example Transmedia here in Zimbabwe, it cannot be licenced as a broadcaster because it is just a support service or to put it simply in daily language.
In the transport sector, we have got buses that require permit but anyone who is operating a rank, a bus terminus would not want an operator’s permit for the buses. This subscription management services simply offer broadcasters an opportunity or a platform through which they move their signals. Therefore, there will not be any need for them to be licenced other than asking those who use the service to the licence. I thank you.
THE MINISTER OF INFORMATION, PUBLICITY AND BROADCASTING SERVICES (HON. DR. MUSWERE): Clause 5 amends Section 7(2) of the Principal Act, which provides for the classes of broadcasting services and systems. I think that is where the Hon. Member is missing it. It provides for classes of broadcasting services and systems. I will further elaborate the difference between subscription broadcast service and subscription management service. A subscription broadcasting service is a service that provides content in exchange for a subscription and the service maybe targeted. A subscription management service provides support to subscription broadcasting services. So, it is not only about the class but also the systems. I want to refer you to that. I thank you.
HON. MATEWU: You have correctly described what a subscription management service is but you have sought to use system. If I read to you what the amendment is saying, it says that the broadcasting licence shall authorise the licencee to provide any of the following classes of broadcasting services. So, I think I am still correct when I say the subscription management service is not a class but is a broadcasting service. A system renders support but it cannot be classified as a broadcasting service. I thank you.
HON. MUSHORIWA: I am going to suggest to the Hon. Minister to just expunge the inclusion of subscription management service. I believe that you do not lose anything because all broadcasting services are contained in the Bill. So, the expunging of subsection (e) is a better way to go.
HON. MATEWU: I think I have a suggestion Madam Chair, just looking at this, I think we can add a subsection to read; the licencee: then list the subscription management services and add on to the amendment. I think that would suffice because it would be impossible logically for those who provide management services to apply for a licence. Then add another line after these services, taking away SMS then bring them in terms of service, then we put that one there. That is my suggestion.
HON. DR. MUSWERE: Thank you Madam Chair. I think it is a typographical error. We could add any systems which is on the text I had initially prepared. Perhaps, I overlooked that. We could say and systems. I thank you.
THE TEMPORARY CHAIRPERSON (HON. TSITSI ZHOU): Hon. Minister, I think it is important where you are adding to revert to the clause and indicate exactly where you are adding.
HON. DR. MUSWERE: Thank you Madam Chair. We had discussions with my chairman and it is an issue about terminology. So, subsection 2, a broadcasting licence shall authorise the licence to provide any of the following classes of broadcasting service and system management service. The rest is the same text. Thank you, Chair.
Amendment to new Clause 5 put and agreed to.
New Clause 5, as amended, put and agreed to.
On Clause 5 (Now Clause 6):
THE MINISTER OF INFORMATION, PUBLICITY AND BROADCASTING SERVICES (HON. DR. MUSWERE): I move the amendment standing in my name that the Bill is amended on pages 3 in lines 20 to 45 and page 4 in lines 1 and 2, by the deletion of Clause 6 and the subsequent clauses shall accordingly be renumbered.
Amendment to 5, now Clause 6, put and agreed to.
Clause 5, now Clause 6 as amended, put and agreed to.
Clause 7, put and agreed to.
On Clause 8:
THE MINISTER OF INFORMATION, PUBLICITY AND BROADCASTING SERVICES (HON. DR. MUSWERE): I propose that the amendment of Clause 8 that the Bill is amended in clause 8 on page 4 in line 43 by insertion of a new paragraph after paragraph (d), (e) in subsection 7 by the insertion of “failing which the licence shall be deemed to be invalid after consented” and the subsequent paragraph shall be accordingly renumbered.
HON. MUSHORIWA: My submission on Clause 8 is what to do with sub-clause (c) which says that except for broadcasting service emanating from outside the country a licencee shall make one hour cumulatively per week, of which broadcasting time available for the purpose of enabling the Government of the day at its request or where necessary, to explain its polices to the nation. I am proposing Hon. Minister, that this clause needs to be relooked so that it reads that for the purpose of enabling the Local Government and Central Government so that we include both the two tiers of Government. The Local Government and the Central Government because if it is a community radio licence truly, whilst the Government has to be given but I also think that the local authority also needs to be accommodated. So I think we just need to make a minor amendment there so that we include the Local and the Central Government of the day at its request or necessary to explain its policy to the nation. I thank you.
THE MINISTER OF INFORMATION, PUBLICITY AND BROADCASTING SERVICES (HON. DR. MUSWERE): Thank you Madam Chair. I do not think it is an issue of distinguishing whether there should be Central Government and Local Government and all that. I believe that the amendment on its own is correct as it stands.
HON. MUSHORIWA: Madam Chair, if the Hon. Minister believes that it does not change, then truly Hon. Minister including the Local and the Central Government will not kill this Bill. It is imperative because you also do not want to make sure that a clause has got a lot of ambiguity. So, to me this becomes important to make sure that at least the two tiers of Government are included. What will happen is that next time a rural council wants to have a space within that community radio station, then they are denied. So, I think let us just include the two. Most of the community radio stations are in rural areas and you will understand the reason why you need those rural councils to make sure that at least they communicate their council positions. It is beneficial to the nation.
HON. DR. MUSWERE: Thank you Chair. I do not think we should labour much on first tier, second tier of Government, a Government is a Government. The distribution of content can be done practically but a Government is a Government. We should not try to distinguish as if we have many Governments at the same time. I think we should proceed.
Amendment to Clause 8 put and agreed to.
Clause 8 as amended put and agreed to.
On Clause 9:
HON. MUSHORIWA: I just want the Hon. Minister to explain to us how much are these licences costing before we talk of the duration to say ten years, three years. How much are these licence currently going for?
THE MINISTER OF INFORMATION, PUBLICITY AND BROADCASTING SERVICES (HON. DR. MUSWERE): Hon Chair, let me get the numbers from my officer. I think he wants to know how much for each and every licence. The officer is compiling the information then I will explain about that. I think the debate here on Clause 9, is that Clause 9 amends section 19 to allow for the transfer of a licence, subject to the approval of the authority. The issue is about transfer.
THE TEMPORARY CHAIRPERSON: We are on Clause 9 Hon. Minister.
THE MINISTER OF INFORMATION, PUBLICITY AND BROADCASTING SERVICES (HON. DR. MUSWERE): If this is to facilitate corporate risk, the issue is about the transfer of the licence not the pricing in terms of the licence but I can also assist if you want to know the price …
THE TEMPORARY CHAIRPERSON: Hon. Minister, please can you approach the Chair. Hon. Mushoriwa you wanted to say something.
HON. MUSHORIWA: The Minister has actually jumped the clause, we are on Clause 9, the original 9 and what he is now debating is actually on Clause 10.
THE TEMPORARY CHAIRPERSON. Minister, can you please approach the Chair?
Minister of Information, Publicity and Broadcasting Services approached the Chair.
HON. DR. MUSWERE: Madam Chair. The ranges are 23 000 for public and commercial, 40,000 for radio and television. Subscription management, 100 000 and those for three years range from 1000 to 3 000. Thank you – [HON. MUSHORIWA: The 100 000, is it USD or ZiG?] –
THE TEMPORARY CHAIRPERSON: Order, order, Hon. Mushoriwa! Hon. Minister, please come again.
HON. DR. MUSWERE: The range is around USD23 000 for public and commercial for radio and USD40 000 for television. Subscription management is USD100 000 and those for three years range from USD1 000 to USD3 000.
HON. MUSHORIWA: Thank you Honorable Minister for responding. If the figures that the Minister has talked about, the USD23 000, the USD100 000, Chair, the timeframes of 10 years, three years, I think are just too short because apart from the licences, one has to invest. There is capital injection. What it means is that somebody maybe will end up actually pumping in more than half a million dollars or possibly a million US dollars. You are then giving that person ten years and also three years for the licence to expire. I am going to propose that we need to make sure that we increase the timeframe there, if we want investors to actually consider it prudent to invest in broadcasting services.
My proposal is that (a) instead of ten there, we push it to twenty years; and (b), three years, we put it to 10 years. Otherwise, if we just give licences that have got a shorter span, many investors will not even see it as a profitable business. I also want to remind the Honourable Minister, in this digital period that we are in, where people now create content on various platforms like YouTube and other stuff, you do not want people to then shy away from applying for a broadcasting license. Let us try by all means to accommodate investment into this sector because I believe we need investment into this sector. I thank you Madam Chair.
HON. DR. MUSWERE: Thank you Madam Chair. I am sure that these models and the timeframes, when we did the study, there is a high return on investment and the investor would have recouped his initial capital plus profit. So, I am confident that we still have other institutions that are operating in terms of the same framework and have already recorded success. Madam Chair, if we could proceed after this. Thank you.
HON. MUSHORIWA: Madam Chair, I just think that the Honourable Minister should actually favour us with the figures and facts. We know it for certain that even those that were licenced to broadcast in this country are actually facing huge challenges. It is not true Honourable Minister, that you say you can recoup investment within the timeframe that you have put in there. Unless, Honourable Minister, you are basically coming up with this timeframe to make sure that there are no investors into the broadcasting services.
You cannot come up with prohibitive conditions, which makes it very difficult. What we need Honourable Minister and maybe you need to understand this, where we come from, if people cannot afford DStv, most people with the little data that they have will actually better be serviced through other social media platforms, rather than to use even the broadcasting services that are there. This clause is prohibitive. It is not meant to increase broadcasting services in this country.
HON. HAMAUSWA: I agree with Hon. Mushoriwa. Firstly, the submission by the Hon. Minister contradicts some of the principles enshrined in the Bill, I think it is Clause 15 where they are coming up with a mandatory licencing which shows that ZBC is actually struggling to cover up for the economic challenge. ZBC is coming up with a mandatory licencing to make sure that they are sustained by profit they are making. They have to get the money from tax payers, although they can argue that it is a public broadcaster but it must actually be making profit. It is now going to be sustained through a mandatory licencing.
This means that what Hon. Mushoriwa is saying there is now a lot of competition due to technological advancement like what he said. Therefore, they must be a movement by the Hon. Minister to say if he cannot go for two years but at least a movement by two or five years, from 3 if he cannot go to 10 but at least 5. As he has said that the voice of the people is the voice of God and you always say that you are a listening Government. Can you humbly listen to this just for once to say can you move a bit to five years to 10 but to say you cannot move when we know that even our journalists, there is always this popular statement of brown envelopes? It is a popular statement amongst journalists, meaning that media houses are failing to pay their journalists properly and this is an indication that this industry is now under threat. Therefore, it can only be cushioned through a well thought out legislation and this is what is coming from your Hon. Members Hon. Chair. I humble myself to the Hon. Minister to consider Hon. Mushoriwa’s proposal. I thank you.
THE MINISTER OF INFORMATION, PUBLICITY AND BROADCASTING SERVICES (HON. DR. MUSWERE): I have already indicated that if we could move over to the next area. Madam Chair, I want to explain something. The validity period, we carried out studies and I do not think today we are debating about the studies. Having a commercial radio television licence is a business decision and business idea. The question about return on investment, business plans, profit margins, we have already dealt with that before we managed to seek these amendments.
Madam Chair, I think discussing about ZBC now, I have already explained many times that these are different classes of licences in terms of the public broadcaster and in terms of a commercial radio or television licence. I can tell you Madam Chair that Capital Radio is doing well, ZFM is doing well, NRTV is doing well and tomorrow I will be celebrating in terms of the anniversary of 3KTV, tomorrow I am presiding over that function. I can tell you the sector is doing well under the licencing framework that we have in terms of duration. If we can move to the next item Madam Chair.
HON. CHIGUMBU: I did not hear the submission of the Hon. Minister pertaining the currency that he is using for the licences. He said that the currency is in USD. Do we have to use USD as a nation whilst we have our own currency? Why are they not pegging these licence fees using our own currency? Why are we resorting to US, yet we have our strongest currency that is gold backed?
HON. DR. MUSWERE: Thank you Chair in Zimbabwe we have a multi-currency system – [HON. MEMBERS: Inaudible interjections.] –
Hon. Mambipiri having stood up.
THE TEMPORARY CHAIRPERSON (HON. TSITSI ZHOU): Order, Hon. Mambipiri I have not recognised you. Allow the Hon. Minister to respond.
HON. DR. MUSWERE: I had indicated that we have a multiple currency system, I thank you.
HON. MAMBIPIRI: Madam Chair, I stood up, before you close the debate –
THE TEMPORARY CHAIRPERSON: Order Hon. Mambipiri, if I say order, I expect you to take your seat, we need to conclude Clause 10.
HON. MATEWU: Madam Chair, I need the Hon. Minister to explain if any transfer of a licence will be acceptable. We have to take into cognisance what it takes to get a broadcasting licence and the public scrutiny that comes with those who seek to purchase a broadcasting licence. Allowing someone to be transferring a licence or to purchase a licence that has gone through a public rigorous process, I think it is unacceptable. I think this Clause opens up a cane of worms. So, if I know that I have a public record that is bad, I would never get a licence. I would allow my friend to apply for a licence then I will then seek to buy that licence that that person has got. I think this is a bad Clause and anyone who wants a licence should apply for it and get it in the same process that the original person who applied got it.
Allowing the transfer of licence opens up to criminals and people who might have bad intentions. Everyone who applies for a licence must go through the same process. I think this was a recurring theme during our public consultations and the citizens are very clear that if we are going to get a licence, apply for it and go through the same process. Go through the public scrutiny and wait for someone else to get a licence then you buy that licence. So I think this Clause must be deleted. I thank you.
HON. DR. MUSWERE: I thank you Madam Chair, I think we are all aware in terms of the Companies Act that institutions have growing concerns and in the case that an institution fails to operate economically, this Clause at the same time, ensures all this is also subject to BAZ approval. So, the issue is about an institution as a going concern. We have employees, taxes and other stakeholders involved. If we have legislation that does not ensure that institutions can grow and institutions can continue to operate, then that legislation will be detrimental to macro-economic growth in our country.
We should have a situation where corporate rescue can come in and deal with some of the challenges within a particular institution.
*HON. MAMBIPIRI: I thank you. Some of the few things that are good in the Broadcasting Act is that people who want licences are subject to public scrutiny. The amendment that has been brought by the Minister is that today someone undergoes public scrutiny but behind another person comes to buy the licence using money and they will start to broadcast. I think this is bad because bogus people will end up with licences. I think what is important is that if a licence is a going concern, those who are using it must account to the people. The process must be scrutinised free of charge regardless of who is going to use the licence. People must not sell licences to unauthorised people. If we do this, this will help us to maintain our licences and our media industry. Like what you alluded to that media is very strategic and must be safeguarded and kept very well.
HON. MATEWU: I want to agree with both the Minister and my Hon. Member from Kadoma. The Minister is correct to say if it becomes a going concern, we have employees there. We also have taxes that could be affected like you said in terms of macro-finance. However what Hon. Mambipiri is alluding to here is very correct as well, to say I, Matewu may be applying for a licence knowing I am of good character and everything else but I am not the one applying for the licence. There is someone else who has a bad character who is behind me and who is using me to apply for a particular licence. Once I come in, I then file bankruptcy and say I failed to run this organisation. This clause can actually make me suggest or sell my broadcasting to a particular person, obviously subject to approval from the broadcasting authority. So why can we not then say if there is a going concern, if there is bankruptcy or failing, then that person who has the licence must cede their licence to the broadcasting authority? The broadcasting authority then advertises to say we have got 3KTV that was issued with a broadcasting licence but they failed to run that broadcasting. We are now calling for people who are interested in buying other than letting 3KTV sell to somebody who they like. Cannot it be brought back to the broadcasting authority so that they then manage a process by which anyone else who wants that licence can then go public and say I want to take over this licence? Everyone knows who they are and they get it in a clinical way.
I think that clause should be amended to allow the broadcasting authority to be the one that actually advertises should any broadcasting licence become insolvent.
HON. DR. MUSWERE: Madam Chair, he has already said they agree with what I have said. When a company starts operating, it is expected that it will continue running into a foreseeable future. There are debtors, creditors, bank loans, employees, taxes, there are many other stakeholders, there are advertisers who will have paid to that particular broadcaster. The issue about a going on concern, is an issue about comfort, it is a business decision that institutions are expected to continue running into a foreseeable future. Obviously in terms of the administration, a part of it, is also subject to BAZ at the same time operationally. The point basically is that institutions, we cannot allow broadcasters to be able to be licenced, they take bank loans, the institution collapses, debtors, creditors, bankers, employees and everything grounds to a halt.
We should be able to transfer that same licence to ensure that it is a going on concern. I think they are all in agreement with me that institutions are not created so that they fail. Institutions are created and should be supported by the necessary licencing and legal framework to ensure continuity within the broadcasting sector. This is a very critical and strategic area where we need institutions that can survive.
HON. SHIRIYEDENGA: I do appreciate the need for continuity like what the Minister is saying but I think if you could bear with the Hon. Members here. What they are simply asking for is that you should, let us not make this an open-ended clause. Let us put safeguards so that we will not have a situation where we have unqualified or undeserving people taking over licences using the backdoor.
HON. HAMAUSWA: Hon. Chair, because of my political background and how I know these licences are given, I was ordinarily going to really accept this clause but for posterity, I think the Hon. Minister should agree with us that we have laws already in this country that protect business entities and companies. There is no need, unless there is a sinister move by the Hon. Minister, why this clause must be inserted. Why would we need this clause when we already have laws that govern and give room for even judicial management? We had companies that have been under judicial management without necessarily need for that clause. Hon. Minister, I think this clause must be deleted. There is no need for this unless you are saying we have no laws that protect companies that are actually going through insolvency. But I understand we have enough laws. This clause is not really good for the industry. We do not need this clause
THE TEMPORARY CHAIRPERSON (HON. TSITSI ZHOU): I hope there is no Hon. Member who is going to repeat what has already been said.
HON. CHIGUMBU: Thank you Madam Chair. Actually, I think we need to emphasise because the Hon. Minister seems to be very determined to continue with this clause. The worry Madam Chair is that we will end up creating rent-seeking opportunity with this clause. It is very dangerous. We cannot leave it as it is because at the end of the day, we will have somebody buying that licence, putting it on his or her shelf and then transferring it to the next person. We do not need that…
THE TEMPORARY CHAIRPERSON: Hon. Chigumbu, you are repeating what Hon. Shiriyedenga has said and the Hon. Member who repeated before. – [HON. CHIGUMBU: I am not repeating!] – Hon. Minister, please can you respond?
HON. DR. MUSWERE: Madam Chair, everyone else is agreeing with me. – [HON. CHIGUMBU: Madam Chair, I think you are being unfair to me.] - Madam Chair, we cannot, in this instance, legislate based on suspicion, opinion, phobia about what is likely to take place. What we are legislating for is for continuity in order to ensure that licences are transferable. Just like what Hon. Hamauswa indicated, that we have so many laws which guard on ensuring that there is continuity in terms of businesses.
You know, the media industry is a totally different industry. It banks on image, it banks on reputation, it banks on so many aspects related to the management of the business. Madam Chair, I think we should proceed. We cannot continue dealing with what is going to happen in the case that someone is going to buy a licence. The Broadcasting Services Act provides for the mechanisms to deal with any challenges in terms of people who have been licenced and do not have financial capacity in terms of operations.
So, Madam Chair, this is about business. We should ensure that when a business starts, it continues to run into the foreseeable future. Into the foreseeable future in that the business will have hired employees, there are many stakeholders and they borrowed. We cannot support a robust media industry if we allow one institution to collapse and the licencing framework does not allow that particular investor to transfer the same licence to the next business person. I think we will have failed the media industry. What we want is robustness. We are also aware that there are shortcomings in business. The whole objective in terms of business management is to ensure that there is viability and that the institution continues to grow. This is the expectation that we have in terms of business practice.
Madam Chair, I think we should move to the next item. Thank you.
THE TEMPORARY CHAIRPERSON: Thank you Hon. Minister. I am getting an interruption from a phone. Hon. Members, please reduce volumes. If you have any conversation that you are having, you cannot have it in this august House. I hope we are not going to get such kind of interruption.
Amendment to new Clause 9, put and agreed to.
New Clause 9, as amended, put and agreed to.
On Clause 10:
- [HON. MEMBERS: Inaudible interjections.] –
THE TEMPORARY CHAIRPERSON: Order, order
Hon. Members from my left! According to the Standing Orders, you are not supposed to converse loudly or just shout in the House. We are in the middle of the business of the day. – [AN HON. MEMBER: Ko avo vari kubuda avo!] - Order, order! An Hon. Member is allowed to go and relieve themselves. – [HON. MEMBERS: Vese vari four!] -
Order, order, order! Nature has called for all of them. It is allowed. – [HON. MEMBERS: Inaudible interjections.] - Order, order! Can you allow the Hon. Minister to be heard in silence?
THE MINISTER OF INFORMATION, PUBLICITY AND BROADCASTING SERVICES (HON. DR. MUSWERE): Thank you Madam Chair. I propose the Bill is amended on page 5 in lines 20 to 26 by deletion of Clause 11 and the subsequent clauses shall accordingly be numbered. Thank you.
Amendment to Clause 10, put and agreed to.
Clause 10, as amended, put and agreed to.
New Clause 11, put and agreed to.
HON. MUSHORIWA: Can the Hon. Minister explain to this august House what he is saying in that clause?
THE TEMPORARY CHAIRPERSON (HON. TSITSI ZHOU): You are saying the Hon. Minister should interpret this clause.
HON. MUSHORIWA: Yes.
THE TEMPORARY CHAIRPERSON: Hon. Minister, the Hon. Member is asking you to explain this clause in simple language.
HON. DR. MUSWERE: Thank you Madam Chair. Clause 13 amends Section 38B by inserting a new provision which provides that the Zimbabwe National Road Administration Insurance Company shall only issue….
THE TEMPORARY CHAIRPERSON: Order Hon. Minister, we are on page five. Clause 13 now 11 amendment of Section 37 of Chapter 12:06. Hon. Minister, you can approach the Chair?
Hon. Dr. Muswere having approached the Chair
HON. DR. MUSWERE: The licencing of Public Broadcasters of the Principal Act is amended by the repeal of Sub-Section 2 and the Sub-Section of the following; the authority in consultation with the Minister shall issue public broadcasting licencing to the public broadcaster on application received from the public broadcaster or any person acting on its behalf. The licences shall be a specified term and issued on payment of service fee and renewed for amended in accordance with Section 14 and 15 respectively – [HON. MEMBERS: Inaudible interjection.] -
THE TEMPORARY CHAIRPERSON: Hon. Minister, can you proceed and use one language?
HON. DR. MUSWERE: The authority, in consultation with the minister, shall issue public broadcasting. Clause 11 amends Section 37 by repealing Sub-Section 2 and replacing it with a new Sub-Section 2, which mandates the authority to issue public broadcasting licences in consultation with the minister. The Public broadcaster has reserved channels according to the Act and there is no need to go for public enquiries. Thank you.
HON. MUSHORIWA: No, the explanation is good.
THE TEMPORARY CHAIRPERSON (HON. TSITSI ZHOU): Order! Order! The Hon. Minister has given the simple language he understands but it looks like you understand it better. Can you please take your seat? – [HON. MEMBERS: Inaudible interjections.] Order! Order! Hon. Mushoriwa when you started to debate you indicated that the Hon. Minister has not given adequate explanation. That went on to tell us you have the explanation for this. You asked a question you had answers to. We need to progress.
HON. MUSHORIWA: Madam Chair, I think you are not hearing me. I think it is only fair that we debate this clause. When we asked the Minister to explain, you should also realise what the Minister did. We remained quiet when you were saying, no, you want me to talk in Shona and you were actually ridiculing us. You did not even caution him. We are simply saying that his explanation...
THE TEMPORARY CHAIRPERSON: I was supposed to question him if he wants to continue to speak in Shona.
HON. MUSHORIWA: Yes, because he cannot come here and think that this side we do not understand.
THE TEMPORARY CHAIRPERSON: Order! Order! Hon. Mushoriwa. The Hon. Minister had a different clause. I called him to the Chair so that I can show him the clause. He went back and read loudly, which is fine to read loudly. Then he went on to explain the clause. Which he has done.
Hon. Mushoriwa, if you want to debate without insulting the Minister, it is fine.
HON. G. K. HLATYWAYO: Point of order, Madam Chair.
THE TEMPORARY CHAIRPERSON: What is your point of order?
HON. G. K. HLATYWAYO: Madam Chair, what we are requesting the Minister to do is to explain in as far as giving the rationale for the clause. What is it that he is proposing and why is he proposing? That is what we are asking. He cannot just read out...
THE TEMPORARY CHAIRPERSON: That is what you are asking. It is different from what Hon. Mushoriwa is requesting.
HON. G. K. HLATYWAYO: It is the same, actually.
THE TEMPORARY CHAIRPERSON: It is not the same.
HON. DR. MUSWERE: Hon. Chair, I have already explained that the public broadcaster, in terms of the Broadcasting Services Act has reserved channels according to the Act and there is no need to go for public enquiries. Thank you.
HON. MUSHORIWA: Madam Chair, if indeed the submission by the Minister to say that the public broadcaster has reserved channels and the public broadcaster, according to this Bill is ZBC and he is saying that it does have reserved channels. This proposed amendment says that the application can actually come either from ZBC itself for a specified term.
Hon. Chair, I think what we need, the clarification is very simple. How much are we talking about and what is the current setup in terms of the specified fee? You admitted it does not need to go the same route as commercial applications but what is the specified fee in this issue so that at least we understand whether certain channels may end up being given to ZBC of which ZBC may not have the capacity to run them.
The current setup that we have in this country is that ZBC with the channel that it does in the broadcasting, for instance remember we used to have ZTV1, ZTV2 but because of content they failed to sustain the two operations.
My question which the Hon. Minister needs to explain to us is what is the specified fee so that at least we will be able to understand the rationale of actually having this amendment within this Act?
HON. MAMBIPIRI: Thank you very much Madam Chair. I do not agree with this provision that specifically says that the public broadcaster must just acquire its licence via the Broadcasting Authority of Zimbabwe with the concurrence of the Minister.
I think for all intents and purposes, the public broadcaster must also go through a public enquiry on what it needs the licence for and how it ought to use the new licence differently from the licences that it already holds. That Act in itself, Hon. Minister, improves on not only accountability on the part of ZBC but also challenges them to perform knowing fully well that they are not just going to get licences on a platter but they have to work for them, produce strategic plans, present to the public and win the confidence of the public before they get a licence. Thank you.
HON. DR. MUSWERE: Madam Chair, I think we keep going round and round. I have already explained that the Act is very clear in that the public broadcaster has reserved channels according to the Act and there is no need to go for public enquiries.
The current setup, Madam Chair, is that ZBC has got six channels and I indicated yesterday and I indicated today that we are technically almost 50% in terms of fulfilling in terms of these current channels that ZBC currently holds in terms of channels and that work is underway in order to fulfil in terms of these six channels. There is no issue about whether we should seek to curtail the growth of a public broadcaster. I have explained many times the role of a public broadcaster. What we should seek is actually the growth of the public broadcaster because it has a national obligation and national responsibility in terms of information, entertainment and also in terms of education.
Part of the growth, Madam Chair, includes the commissioning in the next two months of two educational channels as I have already indicated that there is growth in terms of the technical architecture that is taking place at Montrose studios currently. What we should seek actually is more expansion of the public broadcaster because it has got a national obligation. Thank you, Madam Chair.
HON. MUSHORIWA: I asked for the specified fee. The Minister has not responded to that. What is the specified fee and where is it specified?
HON. DR. MUSWERE: Madam Chair, the fees are managed by way of regulation and are reviewed regularly. It is not like it is cast in stone that this remains the fixed fee. Currently we are working together with the Parliamentary Portfolio Committee to review these numbers but the current circumstances, as I have indicated in our last discussion was that it is 40,000. Thank you, Madam Chair.
Amendment to Clause 13 put and agreed to.
Clause 13 as amended put and agreed to.
On Clause 14 now 12:
HON. MUSHORIWA: Chair, I need to understand from the Honourable Minister why this clause is necessary and I want to understand the definition of a dealer and why is it necessary to include these definitions that you have actually put.
Secondly, can the Hon. Minister explain to us is this list exhaustive in respect to the dealer? Are these the only dealers that the Hon. Minister could come up with and if not, is there a reason and justification to even have this clause and what does this clause do to enhance this Bill because just coming up with the definition of a few names of dealers without probably expanding and telling us what benefit does it have. I do not believe that it can be exhaustive in terms of coming up with the names and classes of people that could actually be in the same profession because if we include this, any other person or organisation that is a dealer in the true sense of a dealer in the broadcasting service, if it is not included there, it means that they do not qualify to be dealers. So, I am asking, is it necessary to have this clause?
HON. DR. MUSWERE: Thank you Madam Chair. I think his question is related to what is a dealer. This is with respect to a person who carries on a business, a trade or industry in which receivers are assembled, manufactured, imported, bought, sold, hired or exchanged or offered or exposed for sale, hire or exchange or a person who deals in motor vehicles in which receivers are installed or an auctioneer of receivers or a person who is a seller of motor vehicle licence and motor vehicle insurance policy or an employee or agent of a person referred to Paragraph A, B, C or D.
Hon. Member, the issue is about compliance within this framework and for now, we believe that through this expansion and redefinition of a dealer we are in a position to ensure that we increase in terms of compliance, in terms of those who receive electromagnetic signals. The issue is about a receiver. Thank you Madam Chair.
Amendment to 14 now Clause 12 put and agreed to.
Clause 14 now Clause 12, as amended, put and agreed to.
On Clause 15, now Clause13:
HON. MUSHORIWA: Hon. Chair, this clause is very dangerous. The Hon. Minister wants to tell this House that before you can be allowed to pay your vehicle licence, you need to tell ZINARA or you need to prove to them that you have actually paid the ZBC licence. I do not think, Hon. Chair, we could pass such a provision because you need to equate the two, ZBC and ZINARA. ZINARA is there for the licencing of our vehicles and then the Hon. Minister wants to tell us that no, you need to make sure that you pay ZBC licence first. I think that is not proper.
Secondly, Hon. Chair, in respect to radio service, right now we have got a challenge and the Minister is aware. ZBC inspectors cannot move around within the suburbs. I tell you, for instance in my constituents in Dzivarasekwa, knocking and asking for radio licence or TV licence, you cannot come there because they will be chased away because the public broadcaster has not been sufficient to cater for all the citizens. If the public broadcaster wants to ensure that we continue to have this situation where we have got roadblocks asking for ZBC licences and concentrating on licences for vehicles, it does not make sense.
Our taxation system, Madam Chair, is built on equity. You wanted to tell me that somebody who is driving a vehicle worth US$300 000 and a pensioner who is driving a 12 year or 20 year old 323 has to pay the same amount of radio licence. It does not make sense.
Then thirdly, Madam Chair, everybody who has got a phone has got access to radio. Anybody who has got access to a computer has got access to radio. What we expected the Hon. Minister to do was to think outside the box and ask us in this august House how best we can actually fund the public broadcaster rather than to create a crisis or a confusion to ZINARA. What will then end up happening, Madam Chair, before I sit down, you need to understand that the cost of paying a ZBC licence, if you compare it to South Africa, you compare it within the region, it is too much. What you are going to end up doing is you are going to end up having people not only failing to pay ZBC licence but also failing to pay Zinara licences and that is actually bad, Madam Chair.
So, Madam Chair, the Hon. Minister then says unless the vehicle to be insured is not equipped with a radio receiver and what does he do? He then goes on the back page of the Bill to have a declaration by motorist in terms of section 38B of the Broadcasting Service Act and I am saying that we cannot criminalise our people to that extent. We need to think outside the manner in which we do things. There are several ways of doing that. You can actually do a search even on the other revenue streams of Government where we could actually take a certain percentage. Let us say for instance you could actually say that 0.2%, something that can actually be proper, but to allow ZINARA and say ZINARA you cannot issue a licence, I think that is dangerous, Madam Chair. I want to say to Hon. Members, we also do not want to burden ZINARA.
One of the major challenges we have is that does ZBC have a memorandum of understanding with ZINARA? Remember in the previous clause when we were asking about the definition of a dealer, ZINARA is not included in that. I want to find out how we can sustain such a provision. If we do that Hon. Members, I think this will be dangerous. With due respect Madam Chair, I want to ask the Hon. Minister to expunge this clause. It is not right for the country, it is not good even for ZBC.
THE TEMPORARY CHAIRPERSON: Considering the time, the time for adjournment is 6.45 p.m. We are supposed to report progress to the Hon. Speaker and our time does not allow that. I am going to allow the Hon. Minister to respond to Hon. Mshoriwa then we will report progress.
THE MINISTER OF INFORMATION, PUBLICITY AND BROADCASTING SERVICES (HON. DR. MUSWERE): Thank you Madam Chair. I will also elaborate further, I will refer the Hon. Member to Section 194 of the Constitution in terms of Subsection 1 (g), which is very clear that institutions and agencies of Government at all levels must cooperate with each other.
Chair, this is not the first time institutions and Government have cooperated as agencies and as institutions. We have a carbon tax which is secured through the other ministries and the Ministry of Environment also benefits. We can discuss about AIDS levy. We can discuss about many other taxes that are related to this. At the same time, we have a Cabinet Committee and at the Cabinet Committee Level, the Minister of Transport agreed to this at Cabinet Level when we brought these principles. The Minister of Transport also agreed to this at the same time there is an agreement between ZINARA and the Zimbabwe Broadcasting Corporation.
Madam Chair, the issue is not about ZINARA or PTC or whichever organisation. The issue is about compliance. For now, through our analysis and in terms of the Constitution and in terms of the agreements between the sister institutions through our survey, we established that there was more compliance in terms of the Vehicle Registration Legislation and less compliance in terms of the licence fees from the Zimbabwe Broadcasting Corporation.
In the same way, we can continue to argue that before a person pays for a motor vehicle registration licence, they are obliged to have a Third Party Insurance Policy. I think almost all these Members have vehicles, either they have a third-party insurance policy. The issue here is about compliance and receiving a radio signal.
The issue about content, we have discussed about it that part of the Zim Digital Phase 2 project also includes the establishment of content hub centres across the country. The expansion of television and radio I have mentioned many times in compliance with the Constitution that we have all stations broadcasting all the officially recognised languages. With a population of more than 15 million, all that is content. The issue about the performance of ZBC as an institution that is taking place has been re-capitalisation from Government. There is restructuring going on. The issue about compliance has got to be supported by Parliament as per the proposal.
I do not think we should go further into the other issues because they do not concern this particular Bill. I have already elaborated on why institutions should work together. If the other Hon. Members have ideas, they can bring them.
THE TEMPORARY CHAIRPERSON: Order, order Hon. Minister! There is still room for debate Hon. Members, we are going to proceed on Tuesday with this particular Clause.
HON. MUSHORIWA: On a point of order Madam Chair.
THE TEMPORARY CHAIRPERSON: What is your point of order?
HON. MUSHORIWA: I wish to raise that reporting progress must be done to Clause 14. If we can concur with that one, I think it is very important, Madam Chair.
THE TEMPORARY CHAIRPERSON: Well noted.
House resumed
Progress reported.
Committee to resume: Tuesday, 4 March, 2025.
On the motion of HON. TOGAREPI, seconded by HON. NYANDORO, the House adjourned at Sixteen minutes to Seven o’clock p.m. until Tuesday, 4th March, 2025.
PARLIAMENT OF ZIMBABWE
Wednesday, 26th February, 2025
The Senate met at Half-past Two o’clock p.m.
PRAYERS
(THE HON. PRESIDENT OF SENATE in the Chair)
ANNOUNCEMENT BY THE HON. PRESIDENT OF SENATE
ROMAN CATHOLIC CHURCH SERVICE
THE HON. PRESIDENT OF SENATE: I have to remind the Senate that on Thursday, 27th February, 2025, there will be a Catholic Church Service in Special Committee Room Number 1 at 12 o’clock noon. All Hon. Senators are invited to attend.
MOTION
REPORT OF THE ZIMBABWE GENDER COMMISSION FOR THE PERIOD 2023.
First Order read: Adjourned debate on motion on the Report of the Zimbabwe Gender Commission for the period 2023.
Question again proposed.
HON. SEN. MOHADI: Thank you Madam President. Allow me to just add my voice to this motion, which was presented by Hon. Minister Senator Mutsvangwa.
Madam President, I rise to address the interlinked and urgent national issues that continue to undermine Zimbabwe’s democratic progress and social justice, the present stage of Gender-Based Violence and the alarming low political participation of women.
The Zimbabwe Gender Commission 2023 Annual Report has laid bare the systematic barriers, institutional failures and social injustices that prevent women from enjoying their constitutional rights to safety, dignity and equal political representation.
The report highlights that those cases of GBV, particularly sexual harassment and violence against women in elections, workplaces and institutions remain rampant. Sexual harassment remains a widespread issue, especially in workplaces, tertiary institutions and political spaces where power imbalances, institutional silence and lack of enforcement of policies continue to expose women and job insecurity, while in politics, female candidates are subjected to cyberbullying, verbal threats and even physical violence, thus discouraging them from actively participating in the electoral process. The absence of a dedicated Sexual Harassment Act and gaps in existing GBV-related legislation has left survivors vulnerable with no clear legal protection and delays in prosecuting perpetrators further emboldening offenders.
The undermining of survivors’ support services is another key concern. One-Stop Centres and Safe Shelters which play a critical role in rehabilitating survivors of GBV remain inaccessible to many victims, particularly in rural areas. Reports indicate that over 800 survivors sought shelter at Msasa’s urban Safe Shelter in 2023 alone, demonstrating the urgent need to expand support services.
Furthermore, economic dependence continues to trap many women in abusive relationships without access to financial safety nets or economic empowerment programmes. Many survivors are forced to endure violence due to lack of viable alternatives for survival.
Equally troubling is low participation of women in Zimbabwe politics. Despite national and international commitment to gender equality, women continue to face systematic barriers that prevent them from occupying leadership positions. The 2023 Harmonised Elections saw only 11% of National Assembly candidates and 15% of Local Government candidates being women, a clear indication of the obstacles they face. One of the most significant barriers was the exorbitant nomination fees, required Parliamentary candidates to pay USD1 000 and Presidential candidates USD 20 000. These fees disproportionately excluded women, who already face economic marginalisation. Political parties also failed to uphold gender parity using the Women Quota System as an excuse to deny female candidates’ access to direct electoral seats. The absence of a legal framework compelling political parties to field an equal number of male and female candidates further reinforces this inequality.
Gender-Based Violence during elections remains a major deterrent for female participation. The ZGC report documents numerous instances where women were harassed, threatened and bullied both online and offline, forcing many to withdraw from elections. Without concrete legislative reforms and enforcement mechanisms, women will continue to be marginalised in politics, undermining Zimbabwe’s commitment to gender equality as enshrined in Sections 17, 56 and 80 of the Constitution.
To address these challenges, I propose several urgent interventions. Firstly, Parliament must fast-track the enactment of a Sexual Harassment Act that criminalises sexual harassment in workplaces, learning institutions and public spaces with clear penalties and enforcement mechanisms. Additionally, there is need to amend the Electoral Act to introduce gender responsive reforms, including the requirement for political parties to field an equal number of male and female candidates. Laws addressing violence against women in elections must also be strengthened to ensure swift prosecution of political violence perpetrators.
Secondly, I call for increased budget allocations for gender equality programmes. Safe Shelters, One-Stop Centres and legal aid services for GBV survivors must be adequately funded to ensure victims receive psychosocial support, legal representation and economic rehabilitation.
Thirdly, the justice system must be reformed to improve access to justice for GBV survivors. GBV Fast-Track Courts should be introduced to expedite cases and ensure perpetrators face severe and deterrent penalties. Law enforcement officers and the Judiciary must also be trained to handle GBV and sexual harassment cases sensitively and efficiently, reducing secondary victimisation of survivors.
Finally, women’s representation in politics must be actively promoted through legislative and policy interventions. Nomination fees must be lowered for women, youth and persons with disabilities to remove financial barriers. Political parties must be compelled to amend their constitutions to enforce a 50-50 gender parity requirement in candidate selection – [HON. SENATORS: Hear, hear.] – Furthermore, the Government should introduce campaign financing and mentorship programmes to equip women with the necessary skills and resources to compete in elections.
Madam President, failure to act decisively on those issues will continue to rob Zimbabwe of the potential leadership and contributions of half of its population. Gender equality is not a privilege nor a concession, it is a constitutional and moral obligation. This House must stand firm in dismantling the barriers that keep women from political leadership and ensuring every woman and girl in Zimbabwe can live free from violence and discrimination. I so move Madam President.
THE MINISTER OF VETERANS OF THE LIBERATON STRUGGLE AFFAIRS (HON. H. MOYO): Madam President, I move that the debate do now adjourn.
Motion put and agreed to.
Debate to resume: Thursday, 27th February, 2025.
MOTION
REPORT OF THE THEMATIC COMMITTEE ON CLIMATE CHANGE ON THE ENQUIRY INTO THE IMPACT OF CLIMATE CHANGE ON HUMAN-WILDLIFE CONFLICT
HON. SEN. MUPFUMIRA: I move the motion standing in my name that this House considers and adopts the Report of the Thematic Committee on Climate Change on the enquiry into the impact of Climate Change on Human Wildlife Conflict induced by Climate Change in 2024 (S.C. 26, 2024).
HON. SEN. MOHADI: I second.
HON. SEN. MUPFUMIRA: Thank you Madam President I rise to present a report on the Thematic Committee on Climate Change on an enquiry into the impact of climate change on wildlife and human wildlife conflict induced at the climate change, subject to Standing Order Number 20.
Human-wildlife conflict is a growing concern in Zimbabwe exacerbated by climate change. As temperatures rise, wildlife habitats are disrupted leading to increased encounters between humans and wildlife. Human wildlife conflict causes habitat fragmentation and loss, drought and water scarcity, crop destruction, destruction of trees, overgrasing and loss of human life. It is against this background that the Committee resolved to undertake the visits to different National Parks and their bordering communities. The Committee therefore, visited the following- Gonarezhou National Park, Hwange National Park, Matetsi, Mabale and Malipati to appreciate the impact of climate change, the challenges faced by people leaving near national parks, and to verify on programmes done by Parks and Wildlife to support communities near national parks.
The objectives of the fact-finding visits and community engagement were to; Assess the extent and impact of human-wildlife conflict resulting from climate change. Evaluate the effectiveness of measures implemented by the Parks and Wildlife Management Authority to mitigate the challenges posed by climate change on the wildlife sector. To engage with stakeholder, communities, gather information on human wildlife conflicts and policy gaps in addressing these challenges.
Methodology; The Committee received oral evidence from the Zimbabwe Parks and Wildlife (ZIMPARKS) on 20 May 2024 on the impact of climate change in exacerbating human-wildlife conflicts. The Committee received written submissions from ZIMPARKS on the measures being implemented to ameliorate the challenges posed by climate change to wild life and the programmes being implemented to support communities bordering the national parks. Subsequently, the Committee conducted fact-finding visits to Gonarezhou National Park and Hwange National Park and the following communities, Malipati, Matetsi and Mabale from 05 to 09 August 2024 to appreciate and verify the programmes implemented by ZIMPARKS in addressing climate change impact to both wildlife and people.
Zimbabwe is a signatory to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) and the Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD). These conventions seek to protect and preserve wildlife and biodiversity sustainably. Concurrently, Zimbabwe is grappling with far-reaching consequences of climate change on its rich wildlife heritage and human co-existence. As the country strives to achieve Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) 13 (Climate Action), and 15 (Life on Land), it faces escalating human-wildlife conflicts (HWCs) induced by climate change. Rising temperatures, altered precipitation patterns and increased frequency of extreme weather events are disrupting ecosystems, forcing wildlife to encroach on human settlements and agricultural lands in search of food and water. This, in turn, is leading to conflicts between humans and wildlife, resulting in crop damage, property loss and even human injury and death of human beings. It is against this background that the Committee resolved to conduct an inquiry into the impact of climate change on wildlife and human wildlife conflicts.
The Committee noted that climate change, characterised by changing rainfall patterns, drought and heatwaves has significantly impacted wildlife and biodiversity in Zimbabwe's National Parks, including Gonarezhou and Hwange National Park. The following impacts of climate change on wildlife were noted:
The Committee noted that climate change has caused frequent droughts and reduced rainfall patterns. This has further caused water scarcity in Hwange and Gonarezhou National Park. This has resulted in wildlife competing for water. Consequently, large and powerful species, like elephants and lions, dominate water sources, depriving other animals of this precious resource. In Hwange National Park, the Committee found out that there are no perennial rivers to support the ecosystem. The Committee established that Zimbabwe Parks and Wildlife Authority constructed artificial water pools supplied with water from 130 boreholes. However, poor rainfall has resulted in reduced groundwater levels which is further threatening water supply from the boreholes.
In contrast, Gonarezhou National Park has perennial rivers that support wildlife, however, pools were silted due to floods and human activities upstream. Gonarezhou National Park is experiencing environmental degradation due to water pollution, resulting from human activities occurring upstream of the major perennial rivers that provide water to the park for instance ethanol reticulation, and stream bank cultivation. Moreover, excessive heat has caused evaporation and infiltration in these rivers. This has resulted in animal populations congregating in areas near water sources, causing further ecosystem degradation through overconsumption of plants species.
Excessive Destruction of Trees and Overgrazing; The Committee was informed that elephant’s numbers have exceeded the carrying capacity of both Hwange and Gonarezhou National Parks. The Committee noted that due to the overpopulation of elephants, certain plant species like mopane trees, grass and baobab trees are facing severe destruction due to over- consumption by elephants especially in areas which are close to water sources. In addition, shortened rainy seasons have also led to poor vegetation growth which leads to overgrazing and prompt animals to look for pastures outside the park where they encroach into human settlements.
Crop Destruction; Members of public from Matetsi, Mabale, and Malipati communities reported that they have a challenge of wild animals encroaching into their agricultural lands searching for food and water. The public and ZIMPARKS authorities attributed this to climate change as rising temperatures and low rainfall affected water source levels and growth of plants needed by animals for their survival. Subsequently, as wild animals migrate in search of food and water they encroach into fields resulting in crop destruction. Communities reported that elephants, hippos and other wildlife raid fields, devouring valuable crops and have caused significant losses to farmers. Moreover, crop destruction by wild animals exacerbates food insecurity, threatening the livelihoods of rural communities who rely on agriculture for survival.
Loss of Domestic Animals; The Committee was informed by local communities surrounding Hwange and Gonarezhou National Parks that as wildlife ventures out of protected areas in search of food and water due to the El Nino induced drought, they come into contact with domestic livestock leading to transmission of diseases such as foot-and-mouth, brucellosis, anthrax and rabies to livestock, resulting in significant economic losses for farmers. In addition, predators like lions, leopards and hyenas prey on livestock, causing financial losses and emotional distress for farmers. In Matetsi and Malipati, the Committee was informed that farmers had lost a significant number of livestock to lions and hyenas.
Loss of Human Life and Destruction of Properties; The Committee received reports of human deaths caused by wild animal attacks due to wildlife encroachment in human settlements. In Hwange district, animals like elephants, buffalos and hippos have been responsible for human deaths. Community members raised concerns that no compensation is provided to assist those injured or to compensate the families of the deceased.
Gonarezhou Trust stakeholder community engagement; The Committee found that the Gonarezhou Trust has played a crucial role in addressing human-wildlife conflict by linking the community to development partners like Kacholo Agro Company to Mabale Community. This partnership has enabled community members to grow chili, a cash crop that has improved food security and provided a climate change drought mitigation measure through gardening. In addition, the chili residues are used to deter elephants from encroaching into communities.
In Malipati, the Committee noted a collaborative initiative done by ZIMPARKS to the community. The Committee witnessed the partnership of the Malipati Development Trust, Chikombedzi Rural District and the Manjinji-Bosman Project to establish a community solar-powered irrigation system. This project aims to mitigate drought effects and introduce sustainable agriculture technology.
Hunting Quotas; The Committee noted that ZIMPARKS has a tripartite hunting quota system, allowing communities surrounding national parks to benefit from hunting elephants and other animals. In addition, the Committee found out that hunting quotas provide nutrition and income for communities.
Committee Observations; The Committee observed the following during the visits and public engagement.
Artificial Water Supply; The Committee observed that Hwange National Park depends on borehole water to support wild animals. Hwange National Park has 130 solar powered boreholes feeding water into different artificial pools. The Committee noted that in all the National Parks visited, the areas around the water sources had higher animal concentration including large elephant population. Moreover, these areas were severely overgrazed.
Collaring and Tracking; The Committee observed that ZIMPARKS authorities have put collars and trackers on elephants, lions, rhinos and vultures in both Gonarezhou and Hwange National Parks to monitor their movements and prevent encroachment into communities. The Committee ascertained that the most pressing challenge confronting ZIMPARKS in its wildlife management efforts, compounded by climate change, is the overpopulation of elephants. The current elephant population in Hwange and Gonarezhou National Parks exceeds the nation's carrying capacity by a factor of more than two. This escalation is primarily attributed to the constraints on elephant culling, necessitated by the CITES convention, which has limited the implementation of effective population management strategies.
Awareness and Capacitation; The Committee observed that ZIMPARKS authorities engages and educates communities on protective measures against wildlife, including reinforcement methods on their livestock pens to deter predators.
Green Energy Initiative; The Committee observed that both Hwange and Gonarezhou National Parks have adopted green energy initiatives, replacing fossil fuels with solar power to reduce emissions. The Committee witnessed two solar plants in Gonarezhou and solar boreholes with lithium battery backup in Hwange National Park.
Lack of tools of trade and operational vehicles; The Committee observed that Hwange National Park is hindered by a lack of operational vehicles, which impedes effective patrolling and response to reports of wild animals in adjacent communities such as Matetsi.
The Ministry of Lands, Agriculture, Water, Fisheries and Rural Development should invest in developing and expanding irrigation infrastructure to support agricultural activities in communities surrounding national parks by 31 April 2025. The Ministry of Tourism and Hospitality Industry should come up with a compensatory policy for losses incurred due to human-wildlife conflict by 30 June 2025 that will be used by the ZIMPARKS authorities to assist people affected by wild animals. The Ministry of Lands, Agriculture, Fisheries, Water, and Rural Development should engage in drilling boreholes for communities surrounding national parks to prevent people from sharing water sources with dangerous animals like Hippos and crocodiles by 30 September 2025.
At the 2025 CITES conference, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Trade should propose a motion, on behalf of the Southern African block, to reconsider the resumption of controlled elephant culling and trade. The Ministry of Tourism and Hospitality Industry through ZIMPARKS authorities should consider to raise the elephant quota per year from the current 3 to a minimum of 10 elephants per year for the communities core-existing with wild animals. Addressing human-wildlife conflict in the context of climate change requires a comprehensive approach that integrates ecological, social and economic considerations. By implementing the recommended strategies and strengthening collaborative efforts, Zimbabwe can work towards achieving a more sustainable and harmonious co-existence between its wildlife and local communities. I thank you.
*HON. SEN. GOTORA: Thank you Mr. President Sir. Let me start by thanking our Chair for that comprehensive report, which really captures everything that was said when we were gathering evidence. It seems like she was recording using electronic devices. Let me go to the challenges which pertain to human-wildlife conflict. Firstly, as Black people in Southern Africa, we have a strong relationship with animals, that is why we have surnames and totems which are related to animals. This is a way which relates and speaks to the relationship between animals and people. The Ndlovus do not eat elephants, Sokos do not eat baboons and monkeys. This is a relationship which has always been there.
The challenges are now that the human population has grown significantly and we are now occupying areas where wildlife is supposed to be. That is what the Hon. Chair was talking about, areas like Matetsi. Due to the large population of people, people are now co-habiting with animals, so animals end up feeling that their spaces are being invaded and this leads to conflicts. Secondly, there are so many people and with the poor rainfall patterns because of climate change, wildlife is not getting enough water for drinking in the bushes and forests. So, it becomes a challenge when they come to communities in search of water.
Thirdly, where there is supposed to be dense vegetation, so that our animals would graze and browse, people have occupied that space. This is happening because of climate change, where you find that the proportion of wildlife to humans does not tally. The other thing is that there are some wild fruits that are supposed to be eaten by wild animals that we are harvesting and selling, like matamba, mazhanje and other wild fruits. So, we find that conflict because it is their food. The other challenge is that God created animals with the natural process and places but now you find that people are poaching and hunting down these animals which are supposed to be eaten by lions. Eventually, lions will end up coming to communities where people live to devour domestic animals. So, there is no peace between wildlife and people.
The other thing is that Zimparks, the custodians of our forests and animals are not capacitated. They do not have enough resources to look after our wildlife in the bushes. Even workers who intervene when there is a conflict between wildlife and the human beings, the reaction teams are not properly equipped. Zimparks does not have enough arms, vehicles and money to buy all the necessities. The other challenge is that we have International Geo-political Conventions, like CBD, CITES and Ramsar. These conventions have rules which guide, sometimes which interfere with the human-wildlife interaction and this sometimes results in an over population of wildlife, which end up coming to communities where people live in search of water and food. So, what do we do with such a situation?
Firstly, I believe that we need to empower Zimparks with adequate utilities so that Zimparks would be able to look after wildlife. They need cars and boats in areas like Kariba and Save. They need equipment so that Zimparks would move around different parks to ensure that there is no human and wildlife interaction, where the wild animals come into communities and where human beings go to the parks to hunt or poach for wild animals.
We also face a challenge as a nation, we do not have enough resources but we might have partnerships, like what was said by the mover of the motion. For example, like what has happened at the Gonarezhou, we have a society which created the Gonarezhou Conservation Trust between Zimbabwe and Germany. We have resources from such countries. You would find that they do not want to give our Government money but when we work with them, things become different. We have an International Fund for Animal Welfare. These organisations are coming and we need more who would work with us, who would capacitate us with resources like cars, guns and uniforms, even ecologists so that the human-wildlife conflict is resolved amicably.
The conventions that I alluded to, like the Ramsar Convention, CITES and others have annotations which are done during conferences. These annotations speak to what is supposed to be done to help people who live in different countries but without disturbing the existence of wildlife. For example, in Zimbabwe, we have a lot of ivory and rhinoceros’ horns but as a nation, we need permission to use ivory tasks locally. For example, in Nairobi, Kenya, there is a street in Nairobi, Kenya, which has ivory crafts and rhino horns. This is what we are not allowed to sell internationally and we are not training our people so that we capacitate them on using these God-given resources, despite being restricted by international conventions. So, we need to train our experts, who can use these internally, not externally. Instead of exporting, because exporting is the issue; the rest of the world is saying that no one can say that wildlife is mine but wildlife belongs to everyone. There is CITES and other conventions which speak to that. So, because of that, this results in a situation where we are told that you cannot kill them. When you hunt them down, those who do not have, what is going to them? What CITES prescribed to us as Zimbabwe in 1997 we were given four annotations which can be used in terms of culling of wildlife and in terms of alleviating human wildlife conflict and also to adapt to climate variations and climate change so that we will not find our wildlife without a proper habitable place and proper food. We have a lot of companies like the one that was alluded to by the Chairperson. Kacholo, is a company which uses chillies to scare elephants because they are allergic to chillies. This will also solve human wildlife conflict. It is important for us to educate and train our people because it is inherent in our society as the black people who have traditional leaders even in this Senate who know that there are cultures for example you do not go to hunt and bring four rabbits in a day but you just take enough for consumption. You only hunt for what you want to eat but you cannot continue hunting even for what you do not need. Because of ignorance, people need to be educated and be taught about human wildlife conflict.
Wildlife is a big business because one elephant can give us millions of dollars through tourism – people would come to take photos and videos. This can help us in alleviating the human wildlife conflict. The people who are here, who went to this particular tour would testify that we need to have regular tours where we appreciate the human wildlife conflict. I thank you for this opportunity.
THE HON. DEPUTY PRESIDENT OF SENATE: Thank you very much Hon. Senator Gotora. It is my hope that the responsible Minister will be able to provide a comprehensive response to the issues which are being raised on this very important subject. It is not a secret that the elephants in Zimbabwe, Botswana and Namibia are now causing so much damage to the environment and increasing human wildlife conflict as a result of overpopulation which we have and we need a solution. If we cannot get a solution from the international community, let us have some home-grown solutions. So, I hope the Minister will come and address this very important issue. Thank you for those who have debated.
*HON. SEN. MBOHWA: Thank you Mr. President for giving me this opportunity to add a few words to what has already been said by the previous speakers especially the Chairperson of the Committee who explained everything. She really captures it in a comprehensive manner, she did not leave anything and I appreciate the work of the Committee in terms of identifying the causes of human wildlife conflict.
Mr. President the situation is quite bad, there is no peace between human beings and wildlife. There is a Hon Member who said that these are our totems and we need to co-exist. The outreach programme showed us that the drought that we are facing as a nation resulted in people ending up participating in artisanal mining. These were not given opportunity because of the rains to do their job hence they now face hunger. It is said that they are now moving around breaking people’s doors using machetes. This is because of climate change, they do not know that farming pays so they end up resorting to stealing. In the past, parks and our forests were quite a pride. Wild animals would consume wild fruits but because of climate change, this resulted in wildlife facing challenges of water and food. What they used to get from the parks is no longer there. Wildlife need water and they can get water from wherever they want without any restrictions. Sometimes this is a result of people who move to areas where wildlife live and end up farming thereby affecting the wildlife’s livelihoods.
We went to Manyene and we were told that there is a woman who was killed by a Buffalo. So, we said is there anything we can do about buffaloes and they said that they cannot be killed. If you call the ZimParks to attend to the buffalo which has killed a person, they will tell you that you are not allowed but they do not have resources to come to the community but we can deal with them in our own ways but we are not allowed and we can be arrested. We cannot kill them. This is quite worrying because it brings strife between wildlife and people. The people who co-habit with wildlife in these areas do not harvest anything from their farms because elephants would consume from their fields. They cannot stop elephants from grazing in their fields because this will lead to conflict.
What worries me is that we got an explanation that we do not want a lot of water in parks because this will increase the population of elephants, so there should be limited water until we have a solution. If elephants have a conducive environment, then they procreate a lot. I said how come because we are told that they have doubled? There are other animals that we desire to multiply, can they suffer because of the population of elephants? I do not know how Government is going to intervene and deal with this issue because these are our elephants. Can we not do anything about them? Indeed, it is like having a father, mother, their children and grandchildren in the same room. The room will be small.
There are so many elephants here in Zimbabwe. Are there no ways we can use ivory tusks as Zimbabwe? Education 5.0 is critical. Can we use it to see how and what we can do about ivory tusks because we heard that there are so many of them and this is money? The money can even help in our hospitals. I asked and someone said your question is not clear. Why do we not just kill the elephants and take the food to the poor? I was told that when you kill an elephant, you will be arrested and it means jail term. This really pains me when such resources are in excess and we have a lot of elephants. Now other wild animals are suffering because of this.
Mr. President, indeed we want to farm but I believe that we must not tamper with our forests. You would find that there are streams known to always have water but now because of streambank cultivation and other forms of farming along the riverbanks, this is now affecting the flow of water from streams to rivers. Even in our big rivers which are supposed to have adequate water running through forests, now you would find that there is not much water and there is just mud. At times, there is just dry soil and river sand. I believe that streambank cultivation should be stopped. Our traditional leaders, working together with Government, should work on that. Maybe this would help us if it happens. I believe that the issue of value addition that was alluded to earlier should be done on the issue of these elephants.
Let me also repeat a question that I asked and people laughed that if they are so many, then they should just be killed so that we help the poor who need meat. Some are quite old. I believe that if they were people, they would say that we need to rest. Maybe, there should be a way of culling our elephants whilst we pile ivory tusks. Mr. President, there is a painful phenomenon where you find that communities will not benefit from their resources. Sometimes, you would find that money is not going back to communities. Sometimes it is taken by the council but those who suffer are the people who interact with wildlife daily.
We need laws which would ensure that communities will benefit from animals that are hunted from their areas. When there are accidents, they must get something to cushion them. For example, when you ask, you will find that someone might face a challenge or an accident and there is no compensation. The Zimbabwe National Parks would say that there is no budget for that. So, when communities are given the opportunity to partake in wealth that comes from wildlife, then they will be able to look after their relatives, even to attend to funerals, buying coffins and other necessities in their communities. I just wanted to add these few words supporting my Chairperson.
*HON. SEN. MAVENYENGWA: Thank you Mr. President of the Senate. Firstly, I would like to thank the Thematic Committee on Climate Change that visited the game parks and I saw it fit that I must add my voice to the report which has been presented to the august House. Wild animals are struggling to live in their designated areas because of hunger and lack of water. Mr. President Sir, wild animals are important in our daily lives. If I look at national parks, for example, Gonarezhou among others, we see that all the protected areas are important because as a country, we get local and foreign currency through tourists who visit these areas. Others are now engaging in tourism activities from foreign lands where they are doing hunting and some other people doing game viewing. These people are paying money which is being used for the development of our country.
Some of the tourists are engaging in activities such as hunting and they leave huge sums of money which is being used for the development of our country. You see there are areas like Gonarezhou where school children visit to see wild animals and learn a lot. These children are from infant level up to university level. As a country, we also get money from selling the products from wild animals such as hides among other things. Right now, I am mentioning the importance of wildlife which is pertinent for us as a country to take proper care of these animals.
Community members who live near game parks or protected areas must benefit from community share ownership trusts. When tourists come for hunting or view the wildlife, they must benefit from that money, through programmes such as provision of primary healthcare, drilling of boreholes, refurbishment or construction of roads. Although these wild animals are very important, I heard from the report that was presented in this Senate by Hon. Senator Mupfumira that people who are living near national parks, there is human-wildlife conflict, especially in the rainy season. Wildlife will be invading homes and destroying crops. Wild animals can also destroy property, for example, elephants can pull down homesteads and people end up without shelter.
Wild animals can go to distant places to search for food. Boundary fences are not being maintained. When wildlife and livestock mix, diseases such as foot and mouth can spread. Most livestock will die as a result of these infectious diseases.
Mr. President of Senate Sir, I heard the Chair saying that we are a member of CITES. CITES banned us from selling elephant tusks and right now as a country, we have thousands of tonnes of elephant tusks but as a country, we are not benefiting because we are not allowed to sell them. I am imploring Government that if need be, the Government must cease to be a member so that we can sell our ivory tusks. Most countries are eager to buy these ivory tusks from Zimbabwe but we are not allowed to sell these tusks. There is shortage of food and water for our wildlife. If we are allowed to sell our ivory, that money can be used to drill boreholes and construct small dams that wildlife can drink from. This will also help in preventing human wildlife conflict.
Right now, as a country, we are not benefiting anything, we are just staying without any benefits. We must come up with a solution to cease to be a member of CITES and sell our ivory. We must engage experts and see the benefits of moving out of CITES as a country. There is a Bill in the National Assembly, we are losing human lives and livestock due to wildlife. We must craft a law that says when a person is attacked by wildlife or their properties are destroyed, we must compensate those people.
Wildlife like lions can destroy cattle for the villagers. When the Bill comes to Senate, I really implore Hon. Senators to include the issues of compensation for those who are attacked, killed or those who have their livestock destroyed. Those people who stay near parks, the Government must work with community leaders so that they relocate people. Farming land can be a challenge but people cannot continue to risk staying near national parks, this is very dangerous. By this, we can preserve the lives of people and livestock.
I also agree with you that when we have wounded this debate, we must invite the Hon. Minister to come and respond on this motion. Hon. Ministers must also attend Senate and answer questions on Thursdays when we have question time. Most of the time we contribute meaningfully but Hon. Ministers do not attend question time or respond to our contributions on motions. Right now, there was a debate going on about the elderly people and we held public hearings. Now the motion is almost being wounnd up but the Hon. Minister has not come to give input on our contributions. I do not know if Hon. Ministers have the opportunities to read our Hansard or we are just debating and our contributions are not being considered. I am appealing to you Hon. President of Senate that our Hon. Ministers must come to this august Senate to respond to motions and questions. I thank you.
+HON. SEN. NYATHI: Thank you Hon. President of Senate for giving me this opportunity, I want to thank Hon. Senator Mupfumira, the Chairperson, for the way she presented her motion because she did not leave out anything. I just want to add my voice as I was part of the team that went round. All the areas that were mentioned like Gonarezhou, Hwange National Park, Matetsu and Malipati are the areas that we visited. What has been said already is what we have seen and what we are experiencing.
Wildlife and human beings are facing different challenges like hunger and shortage of water. In all the areas that we visited, there was no tree with leaves, there was no grass, it was just dust. Wildlife is struggling to find water. The National Parks employees must sink boreholes so that they provide drinking water to the wildlife but with the alarming numbers of our wildlife, it is quite difficult. Most wildlife is not properly catered for because what makes them visit people’ homes is their proximity to the National Parks and hunger. Most people were complaining that wildlife comes to their homes looking for food, which results in human and wild life conflict. We were given the statistics of people who were injured and those who were killed by wild animals.
Hon. President, when talking to communities, they really wanted a situation where those who are injured be compensated and those killed by wild animals their families be compensated also. We also concurred and agreed with the villagers that indeed when such damage has been done, then the communities should be compensated because they do not have an option.
During the season when they till their land, sometimes their crops are destroyed and they do not have an option. Whatever, they grow is consumed by wildlife, they do not harvest anything. We also noted Mr. President, that water is not there; we have said this earlier and if possible, there should be separate sources where people and wildlife can have water for drinking.
We would want a situation where Government can assist but because of the laws, sanctions and different conventions, there is no way that we can export ivory tasks. We need to consider ways of dealing with this issue internally so that we can get money from the sale of ivory locally. This motion is quite important because people's lives depend on the coexistence. In farms wildlife is now extinct because of poaching. Government should find a way of enacting laws that prohibit the killing of wildlife because if this happens, it means that our children in the future, will not have access to such animals. They would not know what rabbits are including different other kinds of animals.
In the past when we were growing up, we used to identify animals by their stool and we would know that this is an elephant or any other animal. These are the words I wanted to add to the motion Mr. President, as evidence that I was also on the Committee. I thank you, Mr. President.
*HON. SEN. FANUEL: Thank you Mr. President Sir, for awarding me this opportunity to debate on the motion raised by the Hon. Senator Mupfumira. This motion is a very painful motion.
This wildlife is for all of us. It started as an awareness for all of us to desist from killing wildlife but right now, wildlife is not being kept in protected areas. They are moving from one point to another. People are now being killed by wild animals whilst they are at their homes. I am saying this because there is conflict between humans and wildlife. Right now, a hospital was destroyed by monkeys.
Yes, we are talking about elephants but there are monkeys that are destroying a clinic in Binga District. Mr. President, I am Tonga, if I debate in Tonga, people say they do not understand my language. At the end of the day, I will speak in Chinese. Hence, bear with me my Shona is not perfect.
I am saying, a health facility has already been destroyed by monkeys. The Government have put in place infrastructure to make sure that when people are being treated at a health facility, they are given proper care. Right now, Government is re-starting again the programme of making sure that they are refurbishing this health facility because it has been destroyed by monkeys.
There are expecting mothers who are staying at hospitals waiting for their delivery day but the baboons are taking away food from these mothers. This is something we have seen happening. I was once admitted at that hospital. Baboons are very clever. I was asleep whilst I was on drip, I could see the baboons entering the hospital. I asked myself if the nurses were seeing it but instead, they advised me to remain asleep and the baboons went to the next bed and opened the locker and took away the bread and drinks and all the food stuffs which were in the locker.
It might seem as a joke but it is something that is happening. I informed my fellow patient who was on the next bed that a baboon had opened her locker and had taken away her food. I saw it fit to notify my bedmate so that she can know where her food had gone. We must not focus on the conflicts of wildlife and human conflicts only looking at elephants. There is conflict with baboons and all other types of wildlife.
There is a person who was attacked by a hippopotamus. Since the that day, we have not seen her up to date. There was also another human being who was attacked by a crocodile. Today is the fourth day but they have not seen the person. They were looking for the person thinking that he had crossed to the other side but they did not see the person during the night and the following day as well and they ended up seeing the leg two days ago.
Mr. President, what my fellow Senators spoke about, indeed sanctions are there. When the meat is processed following the loss, it should be sold at a low price so that this will benefit communities. When it is sold, the money raised might help in building projects like schools because we talk about sanctions but what are we doing as a nation? We also talk about an electric fence, there should be communication and communities should be told that an electric fence has been erected so that people will be cautious. When one is affected by an electric fence, then that is something else because maybe they will be thieves.
Mr. President, Government has given people inputs, when people have tilled their land, you would find wild animals getting into their fields and animals graze on their crops. This is happening and this is what I wanted to share. Thank you very much Mr. President – [HON. SENATORS: Hear, hear.]
THE TEMPORARY PRESIDENT OF SENATE (HON. SEN. KAMBIZI): Thank you Hon. Senator for that good Shona.
+HON. SEN. RITTA NDLOVU: Thank you Mr. President. I want to start by thanking our Chairperson for that report. Even though the report is quite sad, we have to talk about the situation of human- wildlife conflict. I will just say a few words because a lot has been said. I will talk about water, when we went into the communities, there was no water. The Zimparks officials were saying that they do not want a lot of water because it will result in elephants breeding and there will be a lot of them.
Mr. President, now that there is a lot of water, what is going to happen? The wildlife that we are talking about which is dangerous to human beings are elephants and elephants are not just dangerous to people, they are dangerous to other animals as well. Elephants sometimes are bullies, they do not want to see other animals drinking water. They must drink water until they are full then the other animals can have the water. In Zimbabwe, it is not a marvel to have elephants because there are too many of them and they are dangerous to other animals and to people.
Mr. President, let me add on to say that the Hon. Minister should come to the august House so that we can have a question and answer segment where we are going to ask the Hon. Minister regarding the situation of elephants. They are quite many because of the rains that have come. So we are also going to ask about the human-wildlife conflict.
Mr. President, I am going to talk about a security fence which is supposed to be erected around national parks and we were told that it is difficult to fence national parks because they are quite large. I do not know how people will be protected if it is difficult for ZimParks to secure their parks as big as they are. These are questions that the Hon. Minister should address so that people are protected because it is quite a big responsibility and the Zimparks officials said that they do not have the capacity.
Mr. President, let me also talk about Sikabela in Victoria Falls where we went to visit and we thought we were empathising with the communities who are suffering from the conflict. They stood up to say that they love their animals. They really care for them and I was asking myself how they are benefiting. From my own point of view, I thought that the villagers were poaching maybe that is why they said that because poaching is illegal in Zimbabwe. When we look at the population of wildlife in all the camps that we attended, you would find that most animals that you find are elephants. Elephants cannot be poached easily unlike the rest of the animals.
Government should ensure that wildlife is protected because it brings foreign currency through tourism. They are part of our environment and heritage that was given to us by God. I want to request Government to assist communities who find their relatives being killed by elephants. At the moment, they are not compensated and Zimparks sometimes is found intervening, assisting even though they are not supposed to intervene. Sometimes the Zimparks have different challenges in terms of protecting people.
I also believe that much has been said Mr. President. I am a Member of the Committee and I was part of the delegation which went to investigate the human-wildlife conflict issue. I thank you.
HON. SEN. KABONDO: Thank you Mr. President for giving me this chance to say out something about the animals. I have been listening to what was being debated and people kept saying people told us this, when they visited people said this. I stood up to tell them that I am one of those people who stays with animals because where I stay, it is in the national park. So, we literally share everything with animals, our water, our mangoes and our bananas. We do not plant bananas anymore because they look like the elephants’ favourite fruits, so they destroy them. We do not have fences because elephants destroy those fences when they come during the mango season. I heard Hon. Sen. Gotora saying some people have not seen elephants.
I do game viewing through my bedroom window because they come almost every night. So, we stay with them and it is not a good experience because the other time we had no power and we made fire outside. It was at around 5 p.m. and we had kids from two houses away from mine making noise. Elephants were passing by the road just next to me. They never did anything though; I do not know but I ran at a break neck speed - [Laughter.] - So, we are always on the alert. It is scary. At times it is exciting when you see them knowing that you are protected by the window or the wall but when you are outside, it is very scary.
It is not only the animals like what Hon. Senator Fanuel said but also the baboons and monkeys because we cannot plant anything. If you try to plant, they come and destroy everything. Monkeys are worse because you cannot even chase them. You can chase baboons but the monkeys go up the tree and by the time you turn to chase the other monkeys, other monkeys will be back again eating. So, you cannot plant anything. I also had an experience with the baboons because I made some maheu. I wanted the maheu to ferment, I put the container on top of my small car then the baboons came and opened that pot and drank from it. By the time I saw them through the window, everything was gone.
So, it is quite a challenge with us who stay there but then we love them, they are our animals. However, it is proving to be difficult, especially when there are no rains because our water comes from Chibi. We have boreholes there and elephants destroy those pipes when they have no water. So, you find that at times we go for two or three weeks without water. They will still be trying to fix because Chibi is also in the national park. So, it is really difficult for us. Those are some of the challenges that we have. We have difficulties with water and planting, we have to buy everything. There is an organisation called Painted Dogs. I want to mention this because of what they do to young people. It is an organisation that looks after the Painted Dogs. It is also called amaganyani. They always make sure that when kids are doing grade six or seven, they take them to their camp and teach them the importance of animals. That helped because my grandson, before he went to amaganyani, he would use a catapult for birds but when he went there, they were given some bangles and they were told that every time you want to shoot a bird, you look at the bird. It is a promise that you have made. That way kids grow up knowing the importance and the need to protect these animals and birds. I thank you.
HON. SEN. MATIBIRI: Thank you Mr. President for allowing me this opportunity to add my voice to this very important debate. This is probably the second report that we are receiving from Hon. Sen. Mupfumira. Last week she brought in another report related to their visit of the IPU to Azerbaijan and running within these two reports is the issue of climate change. This particular Thematic report is coming in consequence to a visit that was informed by human animal conflict, which conflict is coming because of changes in our climate patterns. The House must stand guided in respect of that, the human wildlife conflict is being driven by climate change.
A conflict involves two parties. As I was listening to debates being advanced by Hon. Senators here, it would seem the solutions were one sided. Surely, there were those who were proposing that we need to cull these animals, we need to do this and that. The most unfortunate part of our debate is that the animals themselves are not represented in this House. It would been good to hear their side of the story - [HON. MEMBERS: Hear, Hear.] - I will try as much as possible to give them a voice. This is a conflict arising out of climate change.
I am happy Mr. President that Hon. Mupfumira went for this important meeting, part of the resolution was the launch of an IPU campaign, Parliament for Planet. If this Parliament does not take note of its responsibility to planet earth, then the conflict between human beings and animals is going to continue. In such a conflict, let me be very categorical Mr. President, human beings will lose. Human beings will lose because they do not know the life of the jungle. Animals are cut for the jungle and human beings are cut for this life. So, we will lose. Let me digress a bit Mr. President, during the Christmas break, closer to where I live, we lost a young girl to a snake bite, she was in form three, bitten by a rare snake but very dangerous.
The most dangerous snake in African, the black mouthed mamba. In Shona we call it rovambira. This is a very dangerous snake. The Parks authorities who came to investigate this unfortunate tragedy also left some lessons for us, that it is rare for this kind of a snake to live close to human habitants. The question that still remains is how this dangerous snake got closer to human habitants. Climate change is an issue. These animals are saying human beings, you have destroyed our habitats, our food sources, rivers and caused siltation. [HON. SENATORS: Hear, hear] - you have destroyed our food so what do we do? We compete for what is there. We visit your homes and we destroy your own food and we even destroy your own lives if it comes to that. Part of the theme in the IPU Session talked about climate accountability and climate action. If we do not begin to act for planet earth this conflict is going to remain. If we are not going to be accountable to issues of climate change, this conflict is going to remain. I am challenging this, Parliament.
Mr. President I am also inspired by the campaign that Zimbabwe was part of. Our campaign against the scourge of HIV and AIDS. It was inspired by certain campaigns with a byline it begins with you. Zimbabwe today has scoured a milestone in our fight against HIV because we internalised this campaign to say the fight against HIV begins with me. It must also begin with this Parliament to act in our small community to preserve the planet earth so that we lessen the conflict between human being and animals. We must think globally but act locally. Thank you Mr. President.
*HON. SEN. MUZODA: Thank you Mr. President for according me this opportunity to add my voice on the issue of conflict between human and wildlife. Honestly speaking we do not own wildlife. If we owned wildlife, we could have been in good books with them but simply because the animals were created in their own way to live in the jungle, we have our own way which we were created and we build our homes. It will not surprise us that somebody has been killed by an elephant after invading its territory but it is quite a surprise to hear that somebody was killed by an elephant whilst in a street in Victoria Falls.
Mr. President Sir, I heard my fellow Members of Parliament saying we will be sanctioned if we chase away troublesome wildlife or even if we kill any animal which has killed a human being. If the wildlife discovers that one of their animals which has killed a human being is shot they will change their mind. The issue of climate change is not a big issue which caused us to have wildlife come closer to us because the areas where wildlife is habitant is very hot. I have never seen where there is a game park receiving vast amounts of rainfall. The issue of climate change is to safeguard wildlife and ensure that they stay far away from human beings.
We must not leave wildlife approaching closer to human beings simply because there is drought. It is not the first year we have experienced drought. Mr. President, also us as Zimbabweans let us maintain order. I must not go and ensure that I built my homestead near the Hwange National Park borders. I cannot be allocated a homestead closer to the lions’ den and admit to stay there. This country has few numbers of human beings of 15 to 16 million and the places that we occupy should tally with our numbers. We must try by all means to safeguard all those things which were created by the Almighty. Honestly if we encroach into the wildlife territory, disaster will start.
Also, we have some other animals like baboons, snakes and leopards, those ones they actually like to enjoy or feast on domestic animals. I once heard Hon. Gotora saying these monkeys and baboons rely on stealing our harvests. They come and destroy our crops. Mr. President Sir, according to my knowledge and according to what I studied as I grew up, honestly speaking, let us try our level best to safeguard our forests. It is very rare for a lion to breakout of its territory and approach human beings’ residents. Something must have happened. Let us safeguard those forests and wildlife. Let us avoid crying simply because we did not safeguard those forests that will then make those animals to go astray. We know other areas like Kariba and Victoria Falls were there is no security fence or boundary for wildlife and human beings. If we do not encroach into their territory, they will stay there. Those animals that we see loitering around in Victoria Falls, we are the ones who invited them by providing them with food.
On elephants, you heard one of the Hon. Senators saying they actually like bananas. It is very true, they like bananas. If an elephant discovers that there is a banana plantation here, it will start to protect that area...
A cellphone rang.
THE HON. DEPUTY PRESIDENT OF SENATE: Put it on silent because it disturbs a Member who is debating.
*HON. SEN. MUZODA: Thank you Mr. President. I would like to conclude by giving a warning to us human beings in relation to human and wildlife relationship. We would like to ask those who are in charge of safeguarding these forests, they have to respect the life of human beings. Yes, wildlife is very important in our ecosystem but a human being is more important than any other living creature on earth. Let us try our level best to safeguard our forests. Let us try our best to safeguard our wildlife. Simply because we do not want to cry and say climate change – yes we have drought and hunger but the areas where the wildlife is kept, those areas have never had a lot of grass without thorny bushes. So, I would like to thank you for giving me this opportunity to say these few words. Kindly allow and ensure that those people who are safeguarding the forests take care of human beings as well.
∞HON. SEN. MUPANDE: Thank you Madam President for giving me the opportunity to add my voice on this human and wildlife protection. This wildlife is for all us. The Almighty is the one who blessed us with this wildlife. If we did not have this wildlife, this country would not be good to live in. The challenge that we are facing is that this wildlife endangers our lives. If our children go into the forests and happen to meet these animals, they would be in danger or even lose their lives.
Prior, we used to like these animals because they would assist us in different ways. For example, where I come from, we had a block where we used these horns to construct grinding meals. Now, the challenge that we are facing is that these animals endanger our lives, we do not even go to herd cattle because we would be in danger if we happen to meet these animals. I faced some challenges when the elephants came at my place and they took away all the food stocks in the house. Those are the few words that I wanted to add. I thank you.
HON. SEN. MUPFUMIRA: I move that the debate do now adjourn.
HON. SEN. GOTORA: I second.
Motion put and agreed to.
Debate to resume: Thursday, 27th February, 2025.
MOTION
OVERHAUL OF DILAPIDATED STADIA
HON. SEN. TSHABANGU: I move the motion standing in my name that this House –
DISTURBED by the deplorable sports infrastructure in the country;
CONCERNED that despite our concerted efforts to revive our stadia to meet international standards, the country still lags behind and no international matches can be hosted at all;
NOTING with dismay that the status quo has
resulted in our national teams playing their home matches in other countries resulting in heavy revenue losses thus compromising sports development and national pride;
NOW THEREFORE, implores the Ministry of
Sports, Recreation, Arts and Culture to:
- conduct a complete overhaul of our dilapidated
stadia and to refurbish those currently in need of this exercise.
- engage the Confederation of African Football to
rescind their decision which has seen our football teams playing their home matches in other countries.
- review and reform the National Sports Policy.
HON. SEN. PHULU: I second.
HON. SEN. TSHABANGU: Thank you Madam
President. Sport is a critical component in our society. Sport is a unifier, it brings together ethnic, religious and political differences. Sport brings marginalised communities and youths in the marginalised communities. It also creates themes of development such as poverty and conflict resolutions. Sports also creates legacies. These are the three principles that I am going to present my motion on.
I rise today in this Chamber to address a matter of significance, of national concern, of the current state of sports in Zimbabwe, with particular focus on the troubling reality that our developed country does not have a single stadium approved by CAF, to host any international matches. This has resulted in a situation where our national team ought to play their home games in foreign countries. This issue extends beyond the realm of sports, affecting various factors of our national development and therefore warrants urgent attention and intervention.
Our national team faces and struggles to find a suitable stadium to host CAF matches. Zimbabwe Mighty Warriors, very soon will host COSAFA rivals in the second leg of the first round encounter of women AFCON Qualifiers. The game will be played in Lucas Moripe Stadium in Pretoria, on 26th February, 2025. This is a stark reminder of our nation’s embarrassment. We are forced to look for alternative venues in neighbouring countries giving our opponents an unfair advantage. This is not just sports, it is the national pride issue. How can as a nation, claim to be a proud, unified nation, when we cannot provide a basic infrastructure for our athletes?
Furthermore, the urgency of this matter as underscored by the fact Zimbabwe’s national team, the Warriors, last year, when they were preparing for a crucial 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifier against Lesotho, regrettably due to the condemnation of our national facilities, the critical match was played again in South Africa at Orlando Stadium, rather than on our home soil. This has not only deprived our team of home advantage, but also highlights the dire need of us to address the infrastructure challenges.
I may take you back again last year Madam President. Our beloved team club Dynamos exited the opportunity to qualify into the group stages of the CAF Confederation competition when they were beaten in Botswana. They bit Botswana in the first leg away from home and they went on to lose 1-0 in Botswana and they were beaten 3-1 on penalties, that gave an advantage to the Botswana team, deprived in a way and contributed to Dynamos losing on penalties, losing the potential of getting into the group stages matches where they were likely to get about USD400 000.
While I comment the efforts by the Government to upgrade our stadiums including installation of bucket seats, I express concern that the progress is very slow. The initial promise was to complete the upgrades by March in time of the African qualifiers for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. However, despite this assurance, our national team games continue to be shifted to foreign stadiums. A case in point is the upcoming 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifier against Benin scheduled for Thursday, 21st March, 2025 at the iconic Moses Mabhida Stadium in Durban, South Africa.
This development is alarming and underscores an urgent need for accelerated action in order to resolve the impasse that we are currently facing. The slow pace of progress not only affects our national pride but also has severe consequences for our sports development, economy and society. It is imperative therefore that we prioritise completion of these upgrades to ensure our stadiums meet CAF standards.
Madam President, the inability to host international matches within our borders has significant political implications and ramifications. Sport has always been a powerful tool for fostering national pride and unity. When our national teams plays at home, they draw crowds form all corners of the country, creating a sense of belonging, a sense of ownership, a shared purpose among the citizens. However, the current situation erodes the fundamental unity as our people are deprived of the collective experience of supporting their teams on home soils.
Furthermore, Zimbabwe’s standing in international diplomacy is weakened. Hosting international events allows us to showcase our talent, our nation to the world fostering good will and strengthening diplomatic ties through sports. The absence of such opportunities diminishes our influence and visibility on the global stage.
Our country’s inability to host international sports events due to sub-standard stadiums has far reaching consequences. We are not only loosing revenue but also comprising the quality of sports development. The lack of investment in sports infrastructure is a missed opportunity, economic opportunity and economic growth. Hosting international events could generate significant revenue, create jobs and stimulate local economies. Local businesses, particularly those in the hospitality industry and service sectors missed out on significant revenue opportunities. Hotels, restaurants, transport services and other local business that will have benefited from the influx of fans and teams during these events are left without these vital economic boosts. Moreover, the Government loses potential income from gate receipts, taxes and other related economic activities.
The cost implications are not limited to lost revenue, there is also substantial burden of renting foreign stadiums, managing logistics of transporting teams and officials abroad. These expenses strain the already limited resources of our sports associations and diverts the funds that could otherwise be invested in developing our infrastructure.
The social impact of this issue can not be overstated, sports play a critical role in society serving as a unifying force and providing positive role models for our youths. The absence of international games on home soil diminishes the inspiration and motivation for our young aspiring athletes who are deprived of the opportunity to support their heroes in action. This lack of exposure can have long- term negative effects on the popularity and development of sports at grassroots level, leading to a potential decline in talent for future generations.
Madam President, it is ironic that many Zimbabweans are passionate sports enthusiasts eagerly following international leagues like the French Premier League, Laliga and even engaging in betting. Yet, when it comes to supporting their own national teams, they are faced with harsh reality of subpar stadiums. How can we expect our citizens to take pride in their national teams when we cannot even provide a descent venue to host home matches? This can lead to a decline in national moral, weaken cultural, social fabric that binds us together as a nation. This does not only suppress the quality of sports development but also dampens the enthusiasm of our sports loving citizens.
Sport knows no tribe, sport knows no gender, sport knows no religion and sport knows no race or ethnicity. Madam President, the lack of CAF approved facilities is indicative of a broader issue of under investment in sports infrastructure. This problem extends beyond the physical condition of our stadiums. It includes the need to improve sports management systems and technological upgrades. Modern sports facilities require state-of-art technology to meet international standards, including advanced lightning systems, seating arrangements, security measures and broadcasting capabilities. The absence of such technology not only hinders our ability to host international events, but also limits the development of our sports industry as a whole.
To compete on a global stage, we must invest in the latest technologies that enhance the spectator experience, improve athlete performance and ensure safety and security of all participants. Madam President, the legal implications of not having CAF-approved stadiums are also concerning. There may be contractual obligations, legal ramifications, arising from our inability to host games as stipulated in international sports agreements.
These could include penalties, loss of hosting rights for future events or other legal actions taken by CAF and other governing bodies. Such challenges, Madam President, could further strain our sports associations, potentially lead to damage on our international stage. It is imperative that we address these legal issues by ensuring that our facilities meet the required standards and that we are fully compliant with all international regulations governing sports events.
However, I am optimistic about the Zimbabwean football. With the recent appointment or elections of ZIFA President Mr. Ngobile Magwizi and his leadership on 25th January 2025, we will restore order and sanity in our football fraternity. We hope it is a vote of confidence in the football fraternity because a major resounding victory of about 66 votes in 77 ballots cast is a huge vote of confidence. I urge the new ZIFA leadership to work closely with the Government and other stakeholders to expedite and upgrade our national stadiums and ensure Madam President that Zimbabwe regains its status to host international sports events.
Madam President, allow me, in light of the comprehensive analysis that I have presented, it is clear that the current state of sports infrastructure in Zimbabwe is a matter of national importance that requires immediate action. I therefore, through your permission, propose the following recommendations to address the critical issues:
- The Government should urgently collaborate with relevant stakeholders, including the private sector, to rehabilitate and upgrade our stadiums to meet standards of CAF. This includes, addressing all structural, technological and regulatory requirements necessary to regain the CAF approval.
- A comprehensive plan should be developed for the construction of maintenance of sports facilities across the country, ensuring that they meet international standards. This plan should include the development of the new stadiums and the modernisation of existing ones.
- I encourage public-private partnership to fund and manage sports facilities, ensuring sustained investment and innovation in our sports infrastructure. The PPs can provide the necessary capital expertise to develop world-class facilities that benefit both public and private sectors.
- A thorough review and reform of our national sports policy are necessary to prioritise infrastructure development, talent nurturing and international sports diplomacy. This policy should include clear guidelines and objectives for the development of sports in Zimbabwe, with a focus on achieving international competitiveness.
- The Government and relevant sports authorities should engage directly with CAF to understand the specific requirements and work closely with them to regain our status as a host nation for international matches. This engagement should be ongoing, ensuring that we remain compliant with all standards and are prepared to host future events.
- Madam President Ma’am, it is our collective responsibility to ensure that Zimbabwe returns to its rightful place on the international sports stage. The benefits of doing so extends far beyond the realm of sports; they impact our economy, our society, our international standing and our future generations. I urge this House to support this motion and take the necessary steps to restore pride in Zimbabwean sports and by extension in our nation. I thank you.
HON. SEN. PHULU: Thank you Madam President. I stand today to second this vital motion presented by Hon. Senator Tshabangu. We find ourselves at a time of urgent reflection regarding our sport infrastructure. It is imperative that we address the serious concerns raised. The deplorable state of our sports facilities as outlined by the mover of this motion is indeed very disappointing. It is not merely an inconvenience, it is a dire disservice to our national identity and our athlete’s aspirations.
As you may recall and this has been explained by the mover of the motion, the Confederation of African Football recently condemned our National Sports Stadium. A facility that has long been a symbol of our sporting potential. I cannot emphasise this more; I will reflect on my own experience, believe it or not. As a young student at Plumtree High School many years ago, I had the occasion of competing in many athletics competitions, where the ultimate goal was to go to the National Sports Stadium and compete there. Indeed, I succeeded and I did compete there. It was a wonderful facility but for a young person, it is a thing to behold. It makes you have hope in your nation when we have such symbolic infrastructure. I am now not dwelling on the aspect of the sport only but simply the national symbol. These are our national symbols and certainly we would want to urge Government to step up its efforts. If ever they had allocated some amount towards this and if ever, they had made certain efforts towards redressing this situation, certainly, we would request that they double or triple those efforts. These national symbols are being viewed by the world.
As the world weighs us on whatever scales they rate nations, these are some of the significant things that they look at. Madam President, this is why Government has built this Parliament where we are sitting right now. It is not only as a building where we can run our business, yes, it is a good building, it has all the technologies allowing us to conduct our business, it was also built as a national symbol in mind. That is why when you drive down the boulevard at the end, you will see the conical tower. It is there as a symbol, someone, somewhere recognises that we need these symbols. Right now, you are seated under our seal, it is our symbol. The National Sports Stadium, our national stadia and facilities are such symbols. I would urge every Member in this Senate to really rally behind this motion to ensure we take symbols seriously.
The ongoing renovations and the announcement of the collaboration between Zimbabwe and China to upgrade the National Sport Stadium are commendable steps and we must ask ourselves. However, why did it come to this? How did we let such a valuable and monumental symbol dilapidate to this extent? Our national teams Madam President have been forced to play their home matches on foreign soil as we have heard. A development that not only incurs heavy revenue losses but also compromises our national pride and the spirit of unity that sports itself can foster. So here again, we see sports itself emerging as a national symbol. Our football is a national symbol, it offers a platform for us to engage with the world, a matter that I will come to later in my debate. Madam President, we have three major stadiums in our nation, the big ones with a capacity of above 10 000. We have Barbourfields, a council run stadium, we have Rufaro Stadium another council run stadium and the National Sports Stadium being at the apex as the biggest one of them all with a capacity of up to 80 000.
However, with the National Sports Stadium current undergoing refurbishment, we are left with only those two Barbourfields and Rufaro. But even these do not qualify to host these important matches. We are left with a stark reality of only two functional stadiums which failed to meet the criteria that CAF wants. The reality is inadequate for a nation that aspires to excel in sports, arts and entertainment. It does not represent our achievements nor does it sufficiently cater for our needs.
The time has come for us to invest significantly in flagship stadiums across all provinces. It is not enough to focus solemnly on State owned venues. We must create an environment where community teams and local organisations can access land and funding to construct their own facilities by reducing pressure on State owned stadiums. We can supplement our needs and provide multiple venues in our nation for diverse activities.
It is not only about football; I think this case merely highlights a problem that has always been there. These facilities do not only cater for football. If they are not good enough to host international football matches, they cannot be good enough to hold any other activities. Certainly, the upgrade of these facilities would put the entire nation in a good state. We must ensure that the State-owned stadia are designed to be multi-disciplinary, accommodating various sports and cultural events, thus fostering a more inclusive sporting culture.
We cannot ignore the significant population residing in rural areas. Their involvement is vital for the holistic development of our nation’s sporting landscape. Stadiums must be accessible and designed with inclusivity in mind, even for people with disabilities Madam President. This is the opportunity to upgrade and renovate the stadium and build new ones. We saw it in South Africa when there was the World Cup – they built a huge number of national stadiums. One of which is Moses Mabhida which my friend Hon. Tshabangu mentioned just now. We think that Zimbabwe cannot fail to build one or two in different provinces.
I hope that Hon. Members who debate this motion will emphasise and elucidate on these points. I do know, one or two are going to look particularly at how we could make it more inclusive for everybody.
Statistics reveal that active participation in sports has a profound impact Madam President, on youth and community development. However, a lack of adequate infrastructure translates to reduced engagement and this should worry us. It means that the more that we rehabilitate our infrastructure, the more participation in engagement we will see. This is a positive indicator which should really inspire anyone, spur anybody to really support this motion and its conclusions.
Madam President, in conclusion, I whole heartedly support this motion, imploring the Ministry of Sports, Recreation, Arts and Culture to conduct a complete overhaul of our sporting facilities. Noting here that this complete overhaul will truly show that we embody a spirit of inclusivity as I said before and remember that the mandate of the Second Republic is to ensure that no one is left behind. We must act decisively and invest in sports infrastructure that reflects our aspirations and accommodate the diverse needs of our citizens.
In line with that mantra, our job as opposition is to monitor whether Government is actually living up to that mantra. If Government makes a policy proposition, a statement of intention, certainly we would want to monitor whether they are actually not leaving anyone behind. Hence, the emphasis on our youth not being left behind, people who participate in sports not being left behind, the rural folk not being left behind and the people with disabilities not being left behind.
So far as we measure these Madam President, the state of our national stadium is an indictment on all of us which must be remedied at the earliest possible conclusion.
It is a subject where we cannot come here and pontificate and shout and point fingers and blame. It is a subject where we want to urge every Zimbabwean to hold hands and move forward together – [HON. MEMBERS: Hear, hear.] - I would urge therefore this entire Parliament, to come together and support this motion. After the motion goes through, we must find a mechanism of following up to ensure that at the end of the day, we will see significant progress where one day all of us will be invited.
Madam President, as the leader of this Republic, perhaps, cast a ribbon somewhere signifying that we have taken steps towards realisation of the dream of the goals that I have just painted.
Let us work together to ensure that our national teams can take to the field at home surrounded by their supporters, not in foreign lands as mentioned by the mover of the motion. Together we can pave way for a brighter, more inclusive sporting future for all Zimbabweans. I thank you Madam President.
HON. SEN. TSHABANGU: I move that the debate do now adjourn.
HON. SEN. PHULU: I second.
Motion put and agreed to.
Debate to resume: Thursday, 27th February, 2025.
On the motion of HON. SEN. MUZENDA, seconded by HON. SEN. GOTORA the Senate adjourned at Sixteen Minutes past Five o’clock p.m. until Thursday, 27th February, 2025.
PARLIAMENT OF ZIMBABWE
Wednesday, 26th February, 2025
The National Assembly met at a Quarter-past Two o’clock p.m.
PRAYERS
(THE HON. SPEAKER in the Chair)
ANNOUNCEMENTS BY THE HON. SPEAKER
ROMAN CATHOLIC CHURCH SERVICE
THE HON. SPEAKER: I wish to inform the House that there will be a Catholic Church Service tomorrow, 27th February, 2025 at 1200 noon in the Special Committee Room Number 1. All Members are invited including even non-Catholic members.
APOLOGIES RECEIVED FROM MINISTERS
THE HON. SPEAKER: I have received apologies from the Executive as follows: Hon. Gen. Rtd Dr. Chiwenga, Vice President; Hon. Col. Rtd. K.C.D Mohadi, Vice President; Hon. K. D. Mnangagwa, Deputy Minister of Finance, Economic Development and Investment Promotion; Hon. Dr. S.G. Nyoni, Minister of Environment, Climate and Wildlife; Hon. J. Paradza, Deputy Minister of Environment, Climate and Wildlife; Hon. T. Machakaire, Minister of Youth Empowerment; Hon. E. Jesaya, Deputy Minister of Sports, Recreation Arts and Culture; Hon. T. Mnangagwa, Deputy Minister of Tourism and Hospitality Industry; Hon. Brig. Gen. Rtd. Mayihlome, Deputy Minister of Defence; Hon. J. Mhlanga, Deputy Minister of Women’s Affairs, Communities, Small and Medium Enterprises Development; Hon. Prof. Dr. A. Murwira, Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Trade; Hon. S. Chikomo, Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Trade; Hon. K. Kazembe, Minister of Home Affairs and Cultural Heritage; Hon. C. Sanyatwe, Deputy Minister of Home Affairs and Cultural Heritage; Hon. Ziyambi, Minister of Justice, Legal and Parliamentary Affairs; Hon. W. Chitando, Minister of Mines and Mining Development; Hon. P. Kambamura, Deputy Minister of Mines and Mining Development; Hon. S. Sibanda, Deputy Minister of Higher and Tertiary Education, Innovation Science and Technology Development; Hon. A. Gata, Deputy Minister of Primary and Secondary Education; Hon. R. Modi, Deputy Ministry of Industry and Commerce; Hon. Simbanegavi, Deputy Minister of Energy and Power Development; Hon. Z. Soda, Minister of National Housing and Social Amenities; Hon. V. Haritatos, Deputy Minister of Lands, Agriculture, Fisheries, Water and Rural Development and Hon. D. Marapira, Deputy Minister of Lands, Agriculture, Fisheries, Water and Rural Development.
My observation is that there are quite clear apologies that have been very consistent. My suspicion is that these Ministers who tender apologies cannot be on national duty every week - [HON. MEMBERS: Hear, hear.] – It is impossible. I am therefore directing the Clerk and his staff to make a proper analysis of those Ministers who have been consistently tendering their apologies and appropriate action therefore must be taken sooner than later. That is the first observation.
The second observation is that when His Excellency addressed the Cabinet in the 2025 Cabinet Session; he made a very telling statement in which he was appealing to all the Ministers and their Deputies to perform in terms of their constitutional mandates. Such apologies do not seem to answer to that appeal and where you have Deputy Ministers again consistently absenting themselves with some apologies, that cannot be acceptable.
In terms of Constitution provision Section 107(2), it is very clear. Every Vice President, minister and deputy minister must attend Parliament and Parliamentary Committees in order to answer questions concerning matters for which he or she is collectively or individually responsible. I think the public or we owe to the public performance.
When the Hon. Ministers answer to parliamentary processes, it is their time to shine on public policy in which they are telling the world what Government is doing, the challenges Government is facing and what Government is doing about those challenges and that creates public trust in the Government of the day – [HON. MEMBERS: Hear, hear.] - We cannot afford to miss that golden opportunity. We should not and above all, it is the taxpayer who shoulders the responsibilities for us to be in our offices and that must be respected as well.
I have been analysing Written Questions which have not been attended to. I will go through them – [HON. MEMBERS: Hear, hear] - A question to Minister of Industry and Commerce, one question has been outstanding since 16th October, 2024 – [HON. MEMBERS: Hear, hear.] -. Then there are three questions outstanding for the Minister of Lands, Agriculture, Fisheries, Water and Rural Development, outstanding since 27th November, 2024 up to 12th February, 2025.
Then we have six questions that have not been attended to by the Hon. Minister of Health and Child Care, from 16th October, 2024 – [HON. MEMBERS: Hear, hear.] - to 12th February, 2025. Another six questions that have not been attended to since 16th October, 2024 are for the Minister of Public Service, Labour and Social Welfare up to 12th February, 2025. Then we have 11 questions that have not been attended to by the Minister of Finance, Economic Development and Investment Promotion – [HON. MEMBERS: Hear, hear.] - from 16th October, 2024 right up to 12th February, 2025.
In fact, all the questions are of national interest. I analysed them. Then Minister of Mines and Mining Development, seven questions outstanding. Deferred since 16th October, 2024 up to 12th February, 2025. Then we have three questions for the Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Trade, deferred from 30th October, 2024 up to 12th February, 2025. Then we have three questions for the Minister of Local Government and Public Works. This one is not bad, deferred from 12th February, 2025 - just three weeks only. I hope there will be answers today, that is the only one that seems to be better in responses than others. – [HON. MEMBERS: Transport! Ministry of Transport and Infrastructural Development!] – I am going by my records. Do not educate me where I do not need it.
Then there are two questions from Minister of Youth Empowerment and Vocational Training, deferred from 13th November, 2024 to 12th February, 2025. One question, this one is not bad as well for Minister of Justice, Legal and Parliamentary Affairs, only deferred from 12th February 2025.
I had to do this analysis in order to demonstrate that we owe it to the public, we owe it to Parliament that these questions of national interest must be dealt with and give the opportunity for the Hon. Ministers again as I said, to shine on Government policy and indicate to the world that something is happening as far as the Executive is concerned. I hope and trust I will not be forced to analyse again such performance.
ORAL ANSWERS TO QUESTIONS WITHOUT NOTICE
HON. TSITSI ZHOU: Thank you Hon. Speaker. My question is directed to the Minister of Lands, Agriculture, Fisheries, Water and Rural Resettlement. What is the Government policy in regard to unpacking and addressing the questions being raised by farmers pertaining to the title deeds programme that was launched by His Excellency, Dr. Emmerson Dambudzo Mnangagwa?
The questions being raised are the amount that is charged per hectare for the title deeds and the timeframe for payments for the title deeds? I thank you Hon. Speaker.
THE MINISTER OF LANDS, AGRICULTURE, FISHERIES, WATER AND RURAL RESETTLEMENT (HON. DR. MASUKA): Thank you Mr. Speaker Sir. I thank the Hon. Member for the very pertinent question.
The policy on the land tenure has been clearly and eloquently enunciated by His Excellency, the President of the Republic. We will recall that in 2013, the Constitution said that we were going to give more secure tenure. The tenure that we had then had been an A1 permit, an offer letter and a 99-year lease. So, it had to be more secure than this.
In the President's wisdom and in aligning with the Constitution, he pronounced a title deed on 9th October, 2024. The message was communicated from the President's Office. Subsequent to that, a Land Tenure Technical Implementation Committee, headed by Mr. Kuda Tagwireyi was formed and comprises eminent Zimbabweans. They have done quite a lot of work and the President launched the Title Deeds Programme during the third week of December in 2024.
Subsequent to that, a communiqué was issued which looked at the 10 most frequently asked questions relating to land. That is available and I can redistribute that to Hon. Members. The specific question relates to an operational aspect which relates to the value of the formula used to calculate what a farmer is going to pay. The broad parameters Mr. Speaker Sir, are the agro-ecological zones which determine the potential of the farm. Therefore, agro-ecological Region One would be able to pay a higher amount per hectare compared to, for example, agro-ecological Region Five which would be extensive ranching.
Then the secondary attributes that this Committee has looked at are those that are to do with the specific potential of the locality of that particular farm within an agroecological zone - for example within Region 2, a farm can be on Kalahari side and within that same Region 2 although they have the same amount per hectare for the region, the specific locality is that this is on sandy soils and the other on red soils. So, the potential of those two farms would be different and they put another value.
They also look at tertiary attributes such as proximity to towns, roads, the existence of rivers, dams and other infrastructure that the farmer might have found. So, it becomes so unique to that particular property and we have urged the Technical Implementation Committee to avail this formula so that farmers are more aware of the cost of their particular farms. Once that has been computed there is a national discount as directed by the President that this cannot be for the true value. What I understand from the technical committee at this stage is that they have now engaged three commercial valuers to be able to verify this process to see whether indeed this discount that they are going to apply throughout is substantial.
The other aspect is that a discount is going to be given to civil servants depending on the length of service in Government, that discounts will be given to War Veterans and once that formula is out, I will be happy to share with this august House. Thank you.
HON. MADZIVANYIKA: Thank you Mr. Speaker Sir. I am sure this issue of land has created a lot of controversy. I want to go straight to my question. There is an outcry out there which relates to the issue of valuation of the land to say Zimbabwe is paying debt, the BIPPA and the 3.5billion to foreign farm owners with regard to the issue of compensation for the improvements made on the farms. The question then is, the value that our people of the land versus the compensation that this nation is paying to the former farmers is not consistent. Can the Minister shed more light on that issue because it is a source of worry for most Zimbabwe? Thank you.
HON. DR. MASUKA: I do not see where the confusion arises. The Constitution is very eloquent of 2013 which this House passed that clearly indicates that the State will compensate for land and improvements on BIPPA farms and on indigenous farms. The State agreed with a valuation consortium and entered into an agreement on the purpose of a valuation that was carried out and this is the basis for the payment and I do not know where the controversy is coming from.
HON. JAMES: Good afternoon. Hon. Minister, these title deeds that have been issued now, have they been issued from the original title deeds that you required during the fast-track reform programme?
HON. DR. MASUKA: Let us go back to the Land Reform Programme and what is captured in the Constitution that the land is vested in the State, in the President on behalf of the people of Zimbabwe. So, the Land Reform Programme was a process where the land was acquired from the former farm owners and vested in the State. So, it is State land, the agricultural land for which we are applying these title deeds programme. So, in terms of the law, the land belongs to the President and on behalf of the people of Zimbabwe and if we go to the Constitution, it says that the State may alienate the land for value and this is what the President is doing, alienating that land for value and the value I said, that the technical committee is in the process of giving us this formula.
So, it is this property which was acquired by the State, which property X now belongs to the State, the President and the title deed is therefore the President selling to this new beneficiary. A survey diagram is required in terms of the issuance of a title. That survey diagram is done on this property that belongs to the President. There is no direct relationship between the old and the new. What is going to happen therefore is that on this deed, there is no reference at all to anything that existed on this land. It is the President alienating piece X 1 to this beneficiary and as surveyed. Just to give an example of the 23 500 A2 farmers and 13 000 plots already have a survey diagram on them. These are the purposes for which now they will be transferred to these without reference to the old title.
So, this question I think ought to be clearer because there is an assumption by others and misplaced ones that whoever holds these old title deed in their drawer may link this to the new title deed. There is no relationship between these two.
HON. GANYIWA: Since the Government is already issuing the title deeds to the farm holders, does it mean that it has stopped issuing or parcel out the land to the new applicants especially looking at the historical background whereby if one applied for a farm, the Government used to withdraw certain number of hectarage from the farm holder and give to the new applicant. Does it mean that all those who had applied for the piece of land, their applications are not processed at the moment?
HON. DR. MASUKA: Mr. Speaker Sir, I thank the Hon. Member for the important question seeking clarification on whether there is continuing issuance of land. The President His Excellency Dr. E. D. Mnangagwa, on the 9th October when he issued the statement, he also indicated that there is a moratorium on the issuance of new permits irrespective of class. There is however an exception that there was work in progress. For example, if there had been withdrawal for a person before the 9th October when work was in progress, he allowed that to be concluded. Ordinarily in the day-to-day administration of land under the State, there are four categories that we look at. We look at multiple farm owners, abandoned plots, under-utilised plots and derelict plots. These become the subject of sub-division but that has been put on hold for those that are called work in progress.
*HON. MABURUTSE: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. My question is directed to the Minister of Lands, Agriculture, Fisheries, Water and Rural Resettlement. Mr. Speaker, we have an armyworm that has become a menace which is destroying any crop and this will lead to hunger, even if we have farmed very well. I want to ask the Minister what plans do they have concerning the farmers so that they can fight this armyworm and what plans are in place so that we avert the dangers of the armyworm in the future? Thank you.
*THE MINISTER OF LANDS, AGRICULTURE, FISHERIES, WATER AND RURAL RESETTLEMENT (HON. DR. MASUKA): Thank you Mr. Speaker and thank you to the Chairperson of our Committee for a very pertinent question which is looking at the challenge that has befallen us as a country.
These armyworms are in two different types. The first one, I think is the one which is called the African armyworm, spodoptera exempta. The African armyworm is brought into the country as insects or moths after being blown by the wind from countries like Tanzania and Mozambique. So, when we have our winds before the rains, they are carried by the winds and when the winds stop, that is when they get down. Those moths lay eggs then we have the larvae, the pupae then the moth. That is the life cycle of the African armyworm. So, when this worm comes out, there are lots of them, and they will move around destroying crops.
When we talk about climate change, we must know that this is also caused by climate change and the Government has put a new department of Migratory Pest Control which is alert to things like these. We can equate it to fire brigade in town. What we do is we give pesticides to farmers.
We distributed about 3 million, 200 litre bottles last year and we distributed about 4 000 spray knapsacks so that when the farmer notices these worms, that is the first point of call, then he alerts the Agritex officers then the Agritex officers, through their WhatsApp groups, go to provinces, then from provinces to command centres. Our command centres now have vehicles. They have motorised knapsacks and drones so that we can react quickly.
Last year, it only affected five provinces and nine districts. This year, all the 10 provinces including Bulawayo and Harare, we are seeing the armyworm. About 30 districts have been affected, which means there is an increase. I am given a daily report of what is happening in our country. What they are saying is that in Masvingo and Manicaland, they are a menace in those two provinces but we have sent out people to curb their spread. Now we know the direction of the worms. If we put signs of certain colours and they see them, as they are attracted to certain colours, they will come down, then we can study them. So, we can control them by using those colours. The African armyworm destroys everything where it lands, from grazing land to crops. It feeds on the crops, especially when the crops are still young.
We have a smaller version of this worm, which is called the fall armyworm. The fall armyworm is also known as spodoptera frugiperda. The fall armyworm was not common here in Africa but it started in 2016 at a farm in Matabeleland. I think it was brought by importing maize without following proper channels. When it was here, many people who grow sorghum, maize and so on started noticing holes on the leaves of their crops. You find that they eat the leaves, they just put holes on the leaves. The worm goes into the husks of the maize and it will eat the stalk. If we do not stop it there, it will affect the growth of the cob. What it means is that even if we get enough rains like this time, if we do not unite, we can end up having hunger. It starts with us farmers that if we see these worms in our fields, we whistleblow to Agritex officers. If we follow their instructions, we can win. What we can do from 2025/26 farming season, I am putting a Statutory Instrument that every maize seed and sorghum seed should be protected from these worms. That is what we are doing Mr. Speaker. Thank you.
HON. C. MOYO: Thank you Hon. Speaker Sir. It is sad that the death toll for the Masvingo/Beitbridge fatal accident has risen to 28. May their souls rest in peace? My question to the Hon. Minister of Transport and Infrastructural Development is; what is Government policy towards bus operators without valid passenger insurance policy, route permits and mandatory driver retests? Thank you.
THE MINISTER OF TRANSPORT AND INFRASTRUCTURAL DEVELOPMENT (HON. MHONA): Thank you Hon. Speaker Sir and let me also ride on what Hon. Moyo has said to those who have departed to say their souls rest in eternal peace. It is quite disheartening and after witnessing this very horrific accident which occurred and for the betterment of the august House, this accident happened less than 200 metres from the tollgate. So, any reasonable driver would start to disengage as we approach a tollgate and you wonder why this driver was speeding as he was approaching the tollgate.
We visited the scene of the accident which was a touching moment and even to the people of Zimbabwe. The sanctity and dignity of our people has decimated, where you find some people searching the dead bodies and helping themselves as well as even mobilising the collection eggs that were not broken for resale. After witnessing this accident, those eye witnesses were worried because they were watching from the tollgate.
I also want to thank Government for chipping in through the declaration by His Excellency, Dr. E. D. Mnangagwa as a State of Disaster whereby volunteers also had to chip in assisting those who were maimed and those who were injured. To respond to Hon. Moyo’s question, the Road Motor Transportation Act is very clear, [Chapter 13:15]. It articulates the charges that pertain to the drivers and operators. We have Commissioners in the Road Motor Transportation Act and I am happy that we have decentralised now. We are in almost every province.
If you do not comply, the minister is mandated to instruct the Commissioner to make sure that we cancel the operator’s licence or we deregister the operator. This is what we have done for now whilst we are engaging further investigations. So, because of the promulgation of this Road Motor Transportation Act, you find that we have got an arsenal to use and it also articulates issues to do with the licencing under the Vehicle Licencing Act where we are also saying in terms of drivers, they must not drive without retest.
You need to take a retest after every five years and this particular case, the driver, his retested expired in 2021. It is also saddening that we have our people manning roads and I speak from those superintending over roadblocks. I have engaged my counterparts, the Minister of Home Affairs to say the police and the VID, if you allow buses to pass through manned roadblocks and the bus is involved in an accident, you must be accountable. – [HON. MEMBERS: Hear, hear] -
So, we are not going to take it easy. His Excellency was very vivid on this case to say those must be taken to account. We are saying there is no way a bus must leave a rank without proper documentation. Going forward, you will see our VID and the police right from the stations making sure that there is proper documentation before a bus embarks on a journey. The exercise should be that you do not have passengers being dropped along the way because the bus is not compliant. You will see us making sure that we monitor our buses but above all, to the people of Zimbabwe, this calls for a holistic approach where we cannot make it ourselves. Police officers along the road especially Hon. Members, if you see someone speeding and also not adhering to the rules and regulations on our roads, please feel free to raise alarm and we will act accordingly. Thank you.
HON. MAKUMIRE: Thank you very much Hon. Speaker Sir. The Government of Zimbabwe, in 2023, promulgated a Statutory Instrument No. 118, which mandates all public service vehicles to have speed limiting devices. The supplementary question to the Hon. Minister is on the impediments of the enforcement of this provision because we realise that most of these accidents are from speeding drivers like he has explained that the bus was approaching the tollgate and it was speeding. What is stopping the implementation of this Statutory Instrument? Thank you.
HON. MHONA: Thank you Hon. Speaker Sir. Let me also thank my brother Hon. Makumire for that very important question. Indeed, yes, the S. I. 118 of 2023 was promulgated and it is also saddening that our people especially drivers, have been tampering with these gadgets. In this particular case of Beitbridge, there was a speed monitoring device that was tampered with and we wonder, soon after the installation of these gadgets, drivers have gone a step further to see how they can circumvent this speed monitoring device, which therefore calls for punitive sanctions to be imposed on such errant drivers.
I want to concur with the Hon. Member that yes, this will actually try to mitigate but you wonder if you are driving along our roads, we have been engaging, so what we have done through the Ministry of Transport and Infrastructural Development, we are going to summon drivers and also operators. Others are also saying the gadgets are there but maybe it is prudent and I will liaise with my counterpart, the Minister of Industry so that from the source of manufacturing, we have these gadgets so that at the end of the day, we do not require bus operators to install gadgets thereafter. I am sure we are going to take a step further to make sure that the buses will come governed and you find that such buses that are governed from the source, we do not have these issues of tampering with the gadgets. Thank you.
*HON. TOGAREPI: Thank you Mr. Speaker Sir. My supplementary question is when incidences like these take place, we hear that a company’s licence had been confiscated. After a few weeks, we hear that the same company with a confiscated licence is back on the road. Can the Hon. Minister explain to us what will have happened for such a company to go back on the road when they do not have proper documentation and licence? What is Government policy on that?
*HON. MHONA: Thank you Hon. Speaker and thank Hon. Togarepi. He has raised a very pertinent question. It is true and it is saddening and shocking to the generality of Zimbabweans that you find people coming back. When we put our laws in place, at times we do not look at the future. If we go to our Road Motor Transportation Act, it says that all those that are getting on the roads, if they are careless on the roads, you will not be allowed to drive for six months. We should come back to this House with a law, stiffer penalties curbing careless driving. They were taking advantage of the gaps in our laws. Regarding the number of days a driver can come back, it was said that if they rectify their papers then they can come back on the roads.
*HON. P. MOYO: Thank you Mr. Speaker. We want to thank the Minister for his answers. My supplementary question is that for a person to get to Beitbridge, they pass through many roadblocks without anything happening. What does the law say for the people manning the roadblocks to ensure they follow the law? What is the Government doing about the bus that we are talking about? The accident happened in Beitbridge the driver was coming from Harare carrying people and passing through roadblocks. What does the law say because the only culprits are the driver and the owner, what about the people manning the roadblocks?
*HON. MHONA: Thank you Mr. Speaker and thank you Hon. Moyo. The question that she raised indeed falls on our lap as the Ministry. As I have said, as we are working with the Minister of Home Affairs, we say we have people manning roadblocks and looking at the papers of people if they have permits. Yes, we have VID and the police. Also, coming to this House as the department of law enforcement we are the ones who came up with the laws, we are here so that we have stiffer penalties so the Police or the VID Officers should be punished as well. If we bring those laws, we should also make sure that the laws are followed.
We also queried the bus was coming from here, firstly these buses are not supposed to travel at night and they pass through four provinces from Harare, Mashonaland East, Masvingo then Matabeleland South. So, from our discussions with the Minister of Home Affairs, our police and VID, we cautioned why they allowed the bus to pass through their roadblocks. If we see things like that; we have a listening President, so in that case, we can relieve them of their duties and allow the law to take its course first.
*HON. MAPIKI: Thank you Mr. Speaker. My question was supposed to go to the Ministry of Home Affairs and Cultural Heritage. In Zimbabwe, we are now skillful when it comes to crimes. There is a shortage of police posts because people are traveling 50km to a police station. Women are being abused and it is difficult for them to find transport money so they go and report. Are you not copying what the education and clinic departments are doing by putting around a radius of 5km. I think we should also have police posts in a radius of three to five kilometers.
*THE MINISTER OF TRANSPORT AND INFRASTRUCTURAL DEVELOPMENT (HON. MHONA): Thank you Hon. Speaker. Thank you Hon. Mapiki, it is very true. He has raised a very pertinent question. We see people walking for long distances but we have satellite posts. If we sit down with those provinces as Members of Parliament, I think we can come up with places where we can come up with these posts. I think they are there to help. If we have places like those, Police can come and put their post there where they can work in conjunction with the nearest police station. If we know such places, we will be very happy to assist. We have said that we have clinics and hospitals in such areas so I think the Police should also come closer to the people.
*HON. S. TSHUMA: Thank you Hon. Speaker. My supplementary question to the Minister is we are seeing these places where there is a need for police posts. When we engage police, they say that if you can construct places for them to work from and to live, then it would be okay. Is that what is supposed to happen that the residents in the rural areas should help in constructing places where police can work?
*HON. MHONA: Thank you Mr. Speaker and thank you Hon. Tshuma. The Government policy is that the Government should construct buildings but the country belongs to us also. The rate of crimes and the rate of how our resources are being plundered is alarming. When we put our heads together and build places where our police can work from, it would be commendable. It is voluntary. The Government does not encourage people to work but people and the Government can work together if we can come together and put up a structure it will be very welcome.
*HON. MUGWADI: Thank you Mr. Speaker. My supplementary question on this issue is that, is your Ministry aware that most crimes that were being committed like armed robberies in the urban areas, the robbers are now going into the rural areas because they know that the police will shoot to kill?
Is the Ministry aware that the robbers are now targeting the rural folks where they are involved in stock theft and then they raid people? The people in the rural areas are facing a lot of challenges concerning these armed robbers.
*THE MINISTER OF TRANSPORT OF TRANSPORT AND INFRASTRUCTURAL DEVELOPMENT (HON. MHONA): Thank you Mr. Speaker and thank you Hon. Mugwadi. He has asked and given a warning to help other people that there are a lot of these armed robberies in rural areas. So, I am just warning the people of Zimbabwe not to keep cash in their homes. I want to thank him that we work together with the police. We see that a lot of them are now going to the rural areas. That is why we are saying that we should have a police post closer to the people. I think the police should be visible in the rural areas so that if crimes are committed, people can find help there because no one can run away from the police.
HON. MUKOMBERI: Thank you Mr. Speaker Sir. My question is directed to the Minister of Primary and Secondary Education in respect to the Government policy in relation to the time lag for replacing a teacher after one has transferred from a certain school. In rural areas, they usually experience a longer time for replacing a teacher after one has transferred as compared to urban centres. So, the question is, do we have a specified time lag to say that this is maximum period before a teacher is replaced so that learners will continue with their learning without any disturbances? Thank you.
THE MINISTER OF TRANSPORT OF TRANSPORT AND
INFRASTRUCTURAL DEVELOPMENT (HON. MHONA):
Let me also thank my brother Hon. Mukomberi for that very important question. It is of paramount importance that whenever we fill our vacancies on a particular school, the Government policy is there to say up to four years. The teacher is supposed to reside on that particular station. Therefore, in the event that there is a gap, that gap must be filled immediately. I am sure that working closely with the provinces and recently, the Minister of Education has been talking about filling even using temporary teachers for that particular position to cover the gaps. I am sure that this might relate to a particular situation of a school known by the Hon. Member. I will be very happy if he can furnish further details so that I will also cascade to the Hon. Minister of Primary and Secondary Education. Thank you Hon. Speaker Sir.
THE HON. SPEAKER: I hope that the Hon. Member will
provide the details for a specific school where that has happened.
HON. MUKOMBERI: Thank you Mr. Speaker Sir. I will do exactly that.
HON. NYANDORO: Thank you Mr. Speaker Sir. My question
is directed to the Minister of Information, Publicity and Broadcasting Services. What is the Government policy regarding media coverage and publicity of regional and international events hosted by the country, particularly in terms of promoting the country’s interests and image globally?
THE MINISTER OF INFORMATION, PUBLICITY AND
BROADCASTING SERVICES (HON. DR. MUSWERE): Thank
you Mr. Speaker Sir. The Government policy in terms of international
coverage is very clear that we also support covering international news, international sports and so much content in terms of the licencing framework, which licencing framework has allowed us to be able to licence a number of institutions including now private players and community radio stations. So, we have a very clear policy that we will continue to also give Zimbabweans an opportunity to be able to be part of the global village in terms of information, in terms of entertainment and in terms of edutainment as well. Thank you.
HON. MANDIWANZIRA: Thank you very much Mr. Speaker. I also would like to add to the question to the Hon. Minister, especially where he mentioned the issue of the community radio stations. It does appear that they have been having difficulties to carry out their work to cover their communities largely because of funding and because by law, they are not allowed to take advertising. My question to the Minister is, to what extent has Government extended its hands to now directly fund community radio stations from Treasury?
HON. DR. MUSWERE: We did the Second Reading of the Broadcasting Services Act amendments yesterday. I am sure today will be in a position to finalise in terms of the responses from the Members of Parliament. Part of the amendments that this House is seized with also include the Broadcasting Service Act [Chapter 12:06] in order to allow for the creation for the media fund which will support community radio stations. So, these are part of the amendments that this House is currently seized with and I am hoping and praying that this sails through in terms of the proposal that we have to this House. Thank you Mr. Speaker Sir.
*HON. NHARI: Thank you Hon. Speaker. My question is directed to the Minister of Health and Child Care. In the past few weeks, the Ministry of Health and Child Care was vaccinating children against polio. My question is, what is Government policy concerning churches that do not allow their congregants to go to hospitals and be vaccinated?
*THE DEPUTY MINISTER OF HEALTH AND CHILD CARE (HON. KWIDINI): Thank you Mr. Speaker. It is very true. Religious beliefs pose challenges to the health workers and the country when children are supposed to be vaccinated against diseases. We are seized with the matter together with other Government departments so that we enforce children’s rights that they should get help when all the children are getting help despite their religious beliefs because when diseases befall us, they will fall on everyone.
So, we are busy crafting a law that if there are vaccinations taking place, every child should benefit despite their religious beliefs.
*HON. P. ZHOU: I want to thank the Minister for his answer but my supplementary question is that each year when children are being vaccinated, they refuse to have their children vaccinated. This means that diseases such as polio or measles will not be eradicated because their children will have the diseases within. Hon. Minister, do you know the number of children that have not been vaccinated. What do you do when they are affected by polio and measles? What plans do you have in place to ensure a decrease of those diseases in the children who will not have been vaccinated?
THE HON. SPEAKER: That question has good intentions but the moment you go into statistics, you will require the Ministry to have a written question so that they can do their research accordingly and be in a position to give you the statistics.
*HON. ZVAIPA: Thank you Mr. Speaker Sir. My supplementary question is, after Government has realised that there are churches that say people are treated by God while Government is saying there is some medication meant to cure diseases, has Government made an effort to visit those churches and educate them about vaccination?
THE DEPUTY MINISTER OF HEALTH AND CHILD CARE (HON. KWIDINI): Thank you Mr. Speaker Sir. I would like to thank the Hon. Member for the supplementary question. Indeed, there is so much change going on the world-over and there is a combination of approaches towards society. The leaders of churches, especially those that have been stopping people from getting medical treatment are now inviting our Ministry on the days they will be meeting to enable their children to be vaccinated. The problem still remains with a few new churches that might come up and are still to allow people to get vaccinated. Most of the churches that were well known for refusing vaccinations are now working with Government and are now registering under medical facilities for maternity. Some of them have not been doing that but I know that there might still be a few resisting change. Most of them are cooperating with Government and now allow their children to get vaccinated and go for treatment at hospitals.
*HON. P. ZHOU: Thank you Mr. Speaker Sir. My question is directed to the Minister of Local Government. I am repeating this question because there is power in repetition. Local Provincial Councils were elected in 2023 and to date, they have not started working. What are the plans with regards to those provincial councils?
THE MINISTER OF LOCAL GOVERNMENT AND PUBLIC WORKS (HON. GARWE): I would like to thank the Hon. Member who said she was repeating the question and I will repeat the answer because there is power in repetition. We are working on the laws with the assistance of stakeholders who are drafting the Bill. We expect that in March or April, we will be through.
THE HON. SPEAKER: Hon. Minister, Hon Zhou looks like she is unable to hear you. Could you please speak up?
HON. GARWE: Noted Hon. Speaker. Let me raise my voice. The Hon. Member asked a very good question on Government’s plans with regards to the provincial councils who were elected three years ago and are supposed to have started work. The current Provincial Councils were elected in August, 2023 during the elections where we were all elected. To answer the Hon. Member, we are working on the Provincial Council’s Bill as Local Government and all the interested stakeholders. We expect that in March, the Bill will have gone through the Cabinet Committee on Legislation then to Cabinet. We expect the Bill to have come to this august House by April and I expect to have the Bill done during the first half of this year.
HON. MUTSEYAMI: Thank you Mr. Speaker Sir. My supplementary question to the Hon. Minister is that this issue was raised sometime in 2024 and the Leader of the House then, who happens to be not present today, Hon. Ziyambi Ziyambi promised this House that the Bill was ready and the time he was talking about that was in August. Then he said it was ready and by December it will be done.
Now, it is on record in the Hansard and now the Hon. Minister responsible for the Ministry is putting to us that it will be ready by April. My question to the Hon. Minister is, what would happen in terms of the enumeration of the Provincial Council members and all those things that they were supposed to be entitled to as they were supposed to be serving for the period then when they were sworn in up to the time when the Bill became an Act. What is going to happen to that period?
THE MINISTER OF LOCAL GOVERNMENT AND PUBLIC WORKS (HON. GARWE): Thank you Mr. Speaker Sir.
Allow me also to thank the Hon. Member for the question. The preparation of regulations and the laws is not a once off affair. The Minister of Justice and my Ministry had hoped by December we would have finished.
However, several issues were raised from stakeholders which necessitated our meeting again in December to polish up, which work we have already done and what is now outstanding…
THE HON. SPEAKER: Hon. Minister, kindly address the Chair, please.
HON. GARWE: Thank you, Mr. Speaker Sir. The process of preparing laws is not an event. My Ministry and the Minister of Justice, Legal and Parliamentary Affairs would have hoped to get this Bill passed through Cabinet by December 2024.
However, Mr. Speaker, several issues were raised by stakeholders which we had overlooked in the preparation of the Bill which we have now attended to and we are hoping before the end of March, we would have taken the Bill to the Cabinet Committee responsible for legal issues to then look at it and further take it to Cabinet. We are hoping by the end of this first quarter, we would have done that.
However, the Hon. Members’ question is talking about remuneration. Mr. Speaker, I will have to refer that question to Treasury because I am not responsible for any remuneration. Thank you.
HON. MUSHORIWA: Supplementary question!
THE HON. SPEAKER: Mr. Speaker. Does it really arise after that explanation?
HON. MUSHORIWA: It does, Mr. Speaker. Thank you Mr. Speaker. The Hon. Minister, in response to the supplementary by Hon. Mutseyami, I just wanted to bring to your attention that the Government Gazetted a Bill [HB. 5, 2021].
I just want to understand, Hon. Minister, are you reinventing the wheel or are you supposed to build on the lapsed Bill that was gazetted and tabled in this Parliament?
HON. GARWE: Mr. Speaker, we are not reinventing the wheel. We only raised issues that were raised by stakeholders, which are pertinent. The Minister of Justice, Legal and Parliamentary Affairs is the Chairman of the Cabinet Committee on Legislation. So, we must take the Bill back to stakeholders, which we have done and we are only waiting to take it back to Cabinet Committee on Legislation for onward presentation to Cabinet, Mr. Speaker and then to come here. Thank you.
+HON. GWABENI: Thank you Mr. Speaker. My question is directed to the Minister of Primary and Secondary Education. What is Government policy regarding the availability of reading books in schools without any fees required from parents year after year? Parents are saying books are costing exorbitantly more than the school fees. Thank you.
THE MINISTER OF TRANSPORT AND INFRASTRUCTURE DEVELOPMENT (HON. MHONA): Thank you Hon. Speaker. Let me also thank Hon. Gwabeni. Unfortunately, I joined the interpretation a bit late but I heard clearly what she was implying in terms of books now being expensive more than fees. What I did not get is whether these are textbooks or exercise books.
However, Hon. Speaker Sir, as you know that in terms of our policy, fees for rural schools or Government schools with regards are affordable, where there is engagement of all stakeholders to come up with desired fees for a particular school. You therefore find that in terms of the ICT policy that is being driven and my colleague here, where we are also going to use gadgets on our school. I am sure this will then alleviate some of the challenges posed by the Hon. Member, that if we now go online, at times it will be easier as well for parents, so that some of the material that we will be having, will be accessible freely on our gadgets.
I also want to concur to say yes, in the event of books, in some instances, given the number of subjects, they might be on a higher note but will continue engaging. Also liaising with the Hon. Minister of Primary and Secondary Education, so that as we then partake and look into the exercise of our base, we can go digital and mitigate some of these challenges bedevilling our parents. Thank you so much, Hon. Speaker Sir.
HON. KANGAUSARU: Thank you for affording me this opportunity to ask my question.
My question is directed to the Ministry of Justice, Legal and Parliamentary Affairs. In his 2024 State of the Nation Address, His Excellency the President, Dr. E. D. Mnangagwa, highlighted several critical Bills requiring urgent attention. However, delays in drafting these Bills persist due to a shortage of legal drafters in the Attorney General's Office. Notably, some Bills mentioned in the 2023 State of the Nation Address also remain undrafted.
What measures is the Ministry taking to address these challenges and expedite the legislative drafting process? So, I submit.
THE DEPUTY MINISTER OF JUSTICE, LEGAL AND PARLIAMENTARY AFFAIRS (HON. MAZUNGUNYE): Thank you Madam Speaker. I also want to take this opportunity to thank the Hon. Kangausaru for that question, which is very important. I also appreciate the fact that the core business of Parliament is making the laws and such Bills should be coming.
I also hasten to mention to this Hon. House that indeed, as the Ministry, we have been seized with challenges about drafters of Bills. That has been the challenge which has been there, which has affected the House for the time mentioned by the Hon. Member.
However, I wish to notify this House that the Minister of Justice, League and Parliamentary Affairs has currently done a lot to assist in that regard. The Ministry of Justice at the moment has outsourced five drafters from the private sector who are helping and are working under the guidance of the Attorney General and they are assisting in drafting the Bills. Currently, there are drafters who have been taken from various departments and they are undergoing training at the University of Zimbabwe for drafting wherein an MOU was signed between the Ministry and the University of Zimbabwe. So, the Ministry is doing all its best to ensure that Bills will come through to Parliament. So, I submit.
HON. KANGAUSARU: Given the shortage of legal drafters, which has led to prolonged delays in the drafting of critical Bills from both 2023 and 2024 State of the Nation Address, has the Ministry considered engaging additional drafters, seconding experts or implementing capacity building initiatives to expedite the registry drafting process?
HON. MAZUNGUNYE: I think that is exactly what I have just explained, that currently we have 15 drafters who have been engaged by the Ministry undergoing training with the University of Zimbabwe for eight-weeks. When they finish doing their training, we will see Bills coming through to Parliament.
HON. S. SAKUPWANYA: My supplementary question is to do with the timelines of the Bills. We have seen some of these Bills, like the Youth Bill in particular, it has been with the Attorney General’s Office for a number of years, even before we got into Parliament. Do they have a timeline to state when they resolve the problems to do with the drafters to say the outstanding Bills, we expect that by the end of this year they will be complete and brought to Parliament or otherwise?
HON. MAZUNGUNYE: I will just reiterate the point that we might not be having timelines with regards to when the Bills will have to come to Parliament because, as you are aware, Bills, when they are completed, are sent to the Ministries and they come to the Ministry, they are sent to Parliament. There are no timelines which we can mention at the moment. However, what we can assure the House is that the training which is being done by the drafters is going to take eight weeks. Right now, they are in their third week. So, after the eighth week, I can assure this House that when they come, they start drafting and we will see a positive change in that regard.
HON. MUTSEYAMI: My supplementary question to the Hon. Minister is with regards to these drafters who will be going for the eight-week training programme. What measures have you put in place so that you will retain these drafters for a long time because the major problem that has been experienced in the Ministry is the issue of salaries and as a result, most of these people seek greener pastures. So, what remedy have you put in place so that you will avoid this challenge? It has been recurring for years.
HON. MAZUNGUNYE: In that regard, I admit that it has been an issue and the real reason for the lack of drafters has been the issue of brain drain. I admit that fact. However, this is an issue which we also have had time to liaise with the Treasury so that something can be done with the drafters that we have. As I have mentioned earlier, the drafters which we have outsourced from the private sector, have a different agreement which they have entered with the Government and them. They are being paid by Treasury and that has also assisted in a long way. On that note, those who are undergoing training, they are also going to have a separate agreement with the Ministry which will liaise with Treasury so that we can be able to keep the drafters and avoid the brain drain again.
∞HON. NYELELE: I would like to ask the question in my mother language. My question is, what measures are the water authorities taking to ensure that water gets to all the RDCs because when there is no electricity, water does not get to hospitals? It is so bad that sometimes expectant mothers have to go to the river to fetch water and schools are also closed because of that.
THE MINISTER OF LOCAL GOVERNMENT AND PUBLIC WORKS (HON. GARWE): Madam Speaker Ma’am, the transmission is bad. May the Hon. Member repeat her question so that I will be able to pick or if there is anyone who is able to assist? I will appreciate.
*THE HON. SPEAKER: I will ask the Hon. Member to repeat the question but may you please put on the headphones so that you will be able to understand the question.
∞HON. NYELELE: My question is directed to the Minister of Agriculture, not the Hon. Minister you asked to respond to the question. What are the measures in place with regards to availing water when there is no electricity, water cannot be accessed in the RDCs? Even hospitals cannot operate well. Expectant mothers are asked to go and fetch water from the rivers and there are crocodiles. They are also long distances. Even schools have to be closed because of lack of water. What measures are you going to put in place so that we may operate smoothly?
THE MINISTER OF LANDS, AGRICULTURE, FISHERIES, WATER AND RURAL RESETTLEMENT (HON. DR. MASUKA): Madam Speaker Ma'am, I thank the Hon. Member for the question. The question relates to provision of water when there is no electricity in some hospitals, rural hospitals and rural district councils, the provision of water is a constitutional right and therefore the expectation is that the State will take all reasonable measures to ensure that there is adequate, safe and potable water.
The role of the Ministry of Lands, Agriculture, Fisheries and Water and Rural Development in this regard is that through the Zimbabwe National Water Authority, Government is the biggest provider of treated water to many rural centres. In fact, we have 435 water supply points throughout the country. The Hon. Member seems to have a very specific area that she is relating to. I would be willing to get the details so that we can investigate that so that where possible, we can work with the Zimbabwe Electric Supply Authority (ZESA) so that we can investigate the cause of these outages and see whether we can have some ring fencing.
May I hasten to add that ZESA and ZINWA have a Memorandum of Understanding to ring-fence water supply points and exempt them from load shedding? Consequently, during the month of January, the electricity supply to water stations was around 61%. So, we could try and investigate this specific one Madam Speaker Ma’am.
HON. MARIKANO: Thank you Madam Speaker. My question is directed to the Minister of Health and Child Care. Madam Speaker, what is the Government policy regarding the usage of non-medical equipment such as cardboard boxes in Government hospitals? I thank you. – [HON. MEMBERS: Hear, hear.] –
*THE DEPUTY MINISTER OF HEALTH AND CHILD CARE (HON. KWIDINI): Thank you Madam Speaker, Ma’am. Let me respond to the question by the Hon. Member on the use of cardboard boxes in hospitals and what it is all about. We should assist each other.
When a road accident occurs, it does not take place in a hospital. With regard to the Beitbridge accident where a lot of lives were lost and a lot of people were injured, when the road accident victims are injured and are ferried to hospital from the accident site, they are ferried by ambulances or helpers. There are people who have been trained in first aid, this is where such items are used because it will not be a hospital. When the injured are being driven to hospital and along the way, items that are readily available on the spot are used to alleviate the situation. So, the Hon. Member could be mixing up issues.
The Beitbridge hospital is too small to take care of all those people, especially the injured. So, at the hospital, there are other things that must be undertaken such as x-rays and investigations. Often times, the item that would have been used temporarily will be used until the person is attended to fully. I thank you.
*THE HON. DEPUTY SPEAKER: Thank you for the response, Hon. Deputy Minister.
*HON. MARIKANO: Thank you, Madam Speaker. I am now referring to the case that the Hon. Minister is referring to – [AN HON. MEMBER: Iwe uri kunyeba iwe! Gara pasi!] - It is happening in major Government hospitals, which is so embarrassing to the country - [AN HON. MEMBER: Gara pasi! Gara pasi!] - May you please protect me, Madam Speaker Ma’am?
THE HON. DEPUTY SPEAKER: May we please have order? Hon. Member, please ask your question. You first referred to a social media post that we all saw. We should not take this august House lightly. – [HON. MEMBERS: Inaudible interjections] – [HON. MUNEMO: On a point of order Madam Speaker!] –
THE HON. DEPUTY SPEAKER: What is your point of order?
*HON. MUNEMO: Thank you Madam Speaker. I just want to say that as Hon. Members, we need to show our constituents what we came for here. What the Hon. Member is talking about … - [AN HON. MEMBER: Gara pasi!] - is what she saw on social media? The Hon. Minister responded well to her question.
*THE HON. DEPUTY SPEAKER: Order, order! It is true, the Hon. Deputy Minister opened up our eyes and he responded very well.
HON. BONDA: Thank you Madam Speaker. Of late, we have seen the air rescue ambulances and helicopters that we received from Belarus. How prepared are they to come to rescue the people in such incidences where we get – [AN HON. MEMBER: That is a new question!] –
*THE HON. DEPUTY SPEAKER: You need to learn the procedures of this august House. How can you ask a supplementary question on top of another? You may proceed Honourable.
HON. BONDA: I am saying that we received some air rescue ambulances and the helicopters from Belarus. How prepared are they or proactive in such instances where we get accidents like that to be prompt and assist people with the medical first aid kits? I thank you.
* HON. KWIDINI: I would like to thank the Hon. Member for the question. I think that is a new question and not about the cardboard boxes. The air ambulances came from Russia. Right now we are rectifying some issues in the region.
In the past, they flew, as you saw, assisting victims from all over the country. We noticed that there are some other items that need to be worked on. There are a lot of things that must be rectified with regard to the air rescue ambulances. I thank you.
*HON. MADZIVANYIKA: My supplementary question is that is this where we are as a country when a person is injured, our nurses who attend to the scenes use card boxes as first aid.
*THE HON. DEPUTY SPEAKER: That question will not be responded to because it was already responded.
HON. TOBAIWA: My question is directed to the Minister of Mines. What is Government policy in ensuring that foreign mining companies practice environmentally sustainable mining in Zimbabwe?
HON. MHONA: Thank you Madam Speaker Ma’am. Let me also thank Hon. Tobaiwa for that very important question. Before any mining activity takes place, they need to comply with the environmental impact assessment dictates. I am sure this is what has to take place whether you are a national or a foreigner, you need to adhere and comply with that regulation. Thank you.
HON. TOBAIWA: We have just seen Chinese companies all over Zimbabwe causing massive degradation using leaching mining system and that destroys the environment. Could the Minister explain why Government is taking a blind eye to the distraction? I thank you.
HON. MHONA: The basic application of law is that there is no selective application of law, whether you are a national or a foreigner. In this particular case, I am sure the Hon. Member is seized with a particular case of this company that is violating what has been put in place in terms of the legislation. I will therefore kindly request the Hon. Member to furnish us with this particular mining company that is violating the law but let me hasten to say that we do not consider whether one is of a particular nationality in this particular case because as a country, we are a friend to all and enemy to none. We do not segregate on race or tribe but we just operate business as business. Thank you.
*HON. MUDUMI: Thank you Madam Speaker. On the same issue, those who are getting EIAs from the Government, where we come from they will be having EIAs documents and start mining on people’s fields without the consent of the farmers. What are Government’s plans to ensure that the farmer is informed on time that the miners are now taking over operations ahead of farming?
*HON. MHONA: I want to thank the Hon. Member. He referred to a problem that is facing a lot of people where we find arguments between farmers and miners. We are expecting that a Bill will be brought in this august House to address that issue whereby a farmer and a miner may work together. So, I expect that as we debate, those issues will be addressed but if there is anyone breaking the law, there is a police department that is responsible for addressing such disputes. I thank you.
HON. MUROMBEDZI: My supplementary question to the Hon. Minister is, is his Ministry, considering mandatory public reporting by mining companies on their environmental and social impact, how will this information be made accessible to the affected communities? I so submit.
HON. MHONA: Thank you Hon. Madam Speaker Ma’am and let me also thank Hon. Murombedzi for that very important question. Normally, as you partake in an Environmental Impact Assessment, there is a meeting of all stakeholders that takes place as to raise awareness and also to seek concurrence and any objections to that effect. So, I think that whenever there is an activity that is happening in your locality, you also need to make sure that all stakeholders are appraised on the particular development of that particular project so that when the project commences, there is no one who will then come thereafter to object. I do concur that yes, in some instances, others might miss that very important gathering of the stakeholders to deliberate on a particular project that might have a negative impact as it starts operating within their communities. I so submit.
HON. P. NDUDZO: My question is directed to the Minister of Primary and Secondary Education. What strategies are in place to support vulnerable populations including children with disabilities in completing the Primary and Secondary Education?
HON. MHONA: Yes, I do concur that it is upon us as citizens to make sure that people with disabilities are well catered for, whether they availed service at public institutions or in particular schools like she has raised. I want to assure the House that there is financial support - she was not very clear whether the support is financial or it has to do with some resources about easy access at a particular infrastructure. I want to say to the Hon. Member that if it is related to the less privilege in terms of capacity, there is also BEAM available to cater for that, whether someone has disability or not. Those less privileged will be catered for and in terms of amenities, whether they is infrastructure, the Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education is advocating for easy access to those with disabilities so that they also enjoy similar services as those who are able-bodied. Thank you.
HON. MASVISVI: Thank you, Madam Speaker. In light of the recent commemoration of the Youth Day under the theme ‘Empower Youth and Secure the Future’, my question therefore is, could the Minister of Youth Empowerment, Development and Vocational Training outline the specific action plans and initiatives the Ministry has implemented or intends to implement to empower young people and ensure their meaningful contribution to the nation's future developments?
THE DEPUTY MINISTER OF YOUTH EMPOWERMENT, DEVELOPMENT AND VOCATIONAL TRAINING (HON. MUPAMHANGA): Thank you Madam Speaker and I would also like to thank the Hon. Member for the question. It is true that we recently celebrated or commemorated the National Youth Day. As the Ministry of Youth Empowerment Development and Vocational Training, we have honed in on providing young people with skills training as well as the relaunch of the rebranded Youth Service in Zimbabwe. Additionally, on 21st February, 2025, His Excellency, the President, Dr. E. D. Mnangagwa launched the Digital Skills Programme. This is additionally onto skills that we have been giving in Vocational Training Centres.
We are of the belief that digital skills allow our young people to enter the market. The world is heading towards digital skills and we feel that young people must also acquire such skills to be competitive. In that vein, we are working closely together with the Office of the President and Cabinet who received this Digital Skills Programme through the Government of the United Arab Emirates as well as sister Ministries such as the Ministry of ICT, in order to achieve this goal. I thank you.
Questions Without Notice were interrupted by THE HON. DEPUTY SPEAKER in terms of Standing Order No. 68.
ORAL ANSWERS TO QUESTIONS WITH NOTICE
HON. MADZIVANYIKA: On a point of privilege Madam Speaker. Thank you very much Madam Speaker. In terms of Order 68, subsection 6, of our Standing Rules and Orders and I quote, ‘Notices of questions for oral answers must be given no later than 1.00 p.m. on Thursday for answers on the following Wednesday or on Monday for answers on the following Friday.
Madam Speaker, I think we have got a challenge with regards to the issue of questions. We send our questions according to the dictates of these Standing Rules and Orders but they take more time to come on the Order Paper. May you assist us in that regard? Thank you Madam Speaker.
THE HON. DEPUTY SPEAKER: Thank you Hon. Madzivanyika, you have raised a very valid point. I am sure the Clerk's desk has taken note of that.
LIST OF COMMUNITY SHARE OWNERSHIP TRUSTS IN HWANGE MINING AREA
- HON. BONDA asked the Minister of Industry and Commerce to inform the House whether there are any Community Share Ownership Trusts in Hwange mining area and if so, to provide the list of such trusts?
THE MINISTER OF INDUSTRY AND COMMERCE (HON. MANGALISO NDLOVU): Thank you, Madam Speaker. I want to start by giving a brief background on why community trusts were created and implemented.
Community trusts were established by the Government of Zimbabwe in line with the indigenisation and economic empowerment legislation and policy frameworks as part of the national strategy to achieve broad-based indigenisation of the economy and economic empowerment of previously disadvantaged indigenous majority. Community trusts acquire equity on behalf of their respective communities in companies which are called qualifying businesses involved in the commercial exploitation of natural resources in their areas and use the proceeds to fund socio-economic development projects aimed at uplifting the living standards of those communities.
Madam Speaker, the first trust was registered and launched in 2011 and commenced operations in 2012. By the end of 2013, 61 community trusts had been registered across all 60 rural district councils and one urban community. Out of the 61 registered CSOTs, only 26 were capacitated and operationalised, most of whom now are not operational.
The Hwange Community Trust was registered in 2012 and is among the 35 trusts that remain unfunded. In Matabeleland North Province we had two trusts, Umguza and Bubi that received funding. Madam Speaker, my Ministry is committed to revive these dormant community ownership trusts and ensuring their long-term sustainability through strategic enterprise development initiatives. Hwange, unfortunately, is among the trusts that have not yet received funding and therefore not operational. I thank you, Madam Speaker.
HON. BONDA: Supplementary question Madam Speaker? I think this is a pertinent answer that I got from the Minister but it is also very emotional to the people in Hwange considering the degradation that is happening, considering all the mines, the safaris and everything that is happening in the environment, in the socio-economic environment.
My question would then be, knowing that Hwange does not have those community social responsibilities, what is the Government doing to promptly empower the people of Hwange? As we know that at the moment, Hwange is one of the main mining areas that is producing coal, it is the main area that is producing lithium, it has got one of the biggest parks in the country and there is quite a lot of business that is happening there and yet the Government is quite sure and knows that there is nothing that is being deposited into the account, how is the Government going to do this to actually assist the people of Hwange because they are living in abject poverty? This is something that is known to the Government that there is nothing that is happening. When is the Government going to promptly make sure that some deposits are done in the account of Hwange CSOT? I thank you.
HON. M. NDLOVU: In my response, I highlighted that there was a Community Share Ownership Trust in Hwange District which was registered in 2012. As the programme turned out, there was more focus mainly on gold and platinum rich areas, which is where we saw community trust that got funding at the time. Government, in 2019, had a policy adjustment on indigenisation on the 51/49 requirement with two key minerals remaining, which is diamond and platinum which are the two minerals that still require significant local shareholding.
However, for the comfort of the Hon. Member, we will be engaging all the communities where there is intensive mining because our permit rule is that communities ought to benefit beyond the royalties that these companies are paying to the local authorities. It is important to note that there is already an established royalty fee that they pay to the Rural District Council, the Community Share Ownership Trusts were coming as a way of initiative mainly socio-economic projects for the communities in those areas.
I am equally passionate Hon. Member, about Hwange, given such an environment, I appreciate the degradation that is taking place and certainly this year, we will be engaging the mining companies in Hwange to make sure that we establish a file that will go towards empowering communities. I thank you.
STATISTICS ON NEONATAL AND MATERNAL DEATHS FROM 1 JANUARY 2024 TO DATE
- HON. MUROMBEDZI asked the Minister of Health and Child Care to provide statistics on neonatal and maternal deaths for the period from 1st January to date and a detailed breakdown of causes of these deaths’ province by province.
THE DEPUTY MINISTER OF HEALTH AND CHILD CARE (HON. DR. KWIDINI): Thank you Madam Speaker Ma’am. I would like to respond to Hon. Murombedzi’s question. It is unfortunate that January, 2025 or January, 2024, the question just came as January to date but nevertheless, the information that I have is for 2024. Maybe it is because of the delays. I will start by the maternal deaths for January 2025. The maternal deaths at January 2025 to date is currently set as 54. Moving back to 2024, I will start by Harare Province where we have maternal deaths of 19 and neonatal deaths of 111.
2025:
Province Maternal Deaths Neonatal Deaths
Harare 19 111
Bulawayo 4 50
Midlands Province 9 22
Mashonaland West 7 33
Masvingo 3 12
Mashonaland 2 14
Mashonaland Central 4 11
Manicaland 2 22
Matabeleland North 4 9
Matabeleland South 0 15
TOTAL 54 299
The leading cause of death was hypertensive disorders and its complications including renal failure. The other was post-partum hemorrhage post having an abortion, post normal delivery and also post caesarian section. Sexes was also a contributory factor. Some had underlying HIV and Diabetic Mellitus conditions. Other causes were a dilated cardiomyopathy. On neonatal deaths of 299, the leading cause was respiratory distress as a complication. Secondary was birth asplenium due to challenges with intercultural chair. I so submit on that question.
HON. MUROMBEDZI: Madam Speaker, given the alarming statistics that the Minister has just given us on the maternal deaths and particularly in the rural areas where access to healthcare facilities remain a challenge, what immediate measures is the Ministry of Health implementing to ensure that pregnant women receive timely and adequate maternal care including addressing the shortage of midwives as well as increasing access to emergency of obstetric services? I so submit.
HON. DR. KWIDINI: Thank you Madam Speaker Ma’am. I want to thank the Hon. Member for the additional question. It is very true that we are having challenges in rural areas, especially when one changes skills and also the road networks where our people should access medical attention quickly, especially the pregnant women. However, what we have done as the ministry now is, we are retraining because we know our trained midwives have migrated to what is called greener pastures, which gives us a burden as a ministry. So, we have reintroduced a massive retraining of midwives so that we can cater for those people in rural areas.
We are also upgrading what we call primary care nurses in rural areas to be able to be midwives so that they can also render the services like the ones which were being given by those departed midwives. We have gone far further to deploy what we call mobile small scanning machines so that our pregnant women can undergo scanning which is recommended at the initial stage where the pregnant woman is going to book for antenatal care so that we reduce those complications, especially on maternal and neonatal deaths.
We have seen the Ministry has procured more ambulances which are going to be deployed and which we have already deployed into district rural hospitals so that if any one of the clinics in those districts has raised an alarming especially on the complicated pregnant mothers, the ambulances are going for fury those people to the specialised area where there is a district hospital where the caesarian sections are being done on time. There is also health awareness campaigns and education which we are giving through our village health workers that all pregnant women or pregnant mothers are encouraged, the moment they realise that they are pregnant, they should immediately visit the nearest hospital or clinic so that they are booked and they are known they are pregnant so that that these early diagnosis of pregnancy complications are detected on time. I submit.
HON. TOGAREPI: Madam Speaker. Can the Minister help us make sure that these midwives are paid adequately by their employers so that they stay on the job? What we are hearing from these midwives is that when they are helping women give birth, they are doing the same work as other nurses. As a Ministry, what are you doing to help those midwives get salaries that they are happy with or better working conditions so that they help women on national service duty for the future generation?
* HON. DR. KWIDINI: I would like to thank Hon. Togarepi. Indeed as the Ministry of Health, we are not responsible for the remuneration of the staff. There is a board that is responsible for that and it is the employer. We will try to give them incentives so that they work happily such as non-monetary incentives, for example a midwife, when others share accommodation, we may give them non-shared accommodation so that they stay with their families because of the importance of their role.
Secondly, merely the title of midwifery means it is at another level. It is a specialised training for the general nurse. We are now working on the restructuring of the grades to ensure that those who specialise will get better remuneration. I am sure in the next two to three months, that will be completed. If you look at social media, you will realise that because of the shortage of midwives, sometimes they leave easily because they are overwhelmed. For us to return them, let us ensure that we give them a locum, which means after working hours, the midwife will be regarded as working on locum, which means it is an extra pay as extra duty after the normal hours. This will ensure that they will stay even in rural areas or where there is that need. This also is being addressed concerning all civil servants who work in rural areas, especially the health workers from donor funds. That will be an incentive to them including those working in urban areas, they can opt to work in rural areas. That will ensure that our health workers will appreciate working in rural areas. I thank you.
HON. DR. KHUPE: Thank you Madam Speaker. Our mantra is no woman must die while giving birth because when women are giving birth, they will be performing a nation duty. They are giving birth to Hon. Members who are sitting in this House. My question is, what is our current maternal mortality rate; the figure that we have is not the latest, it is about 363 per 100 000 live births which is still too high. I thank you.
HON. DR. KWIDINI: Thank you Madam Speaker. On that one, I would not want to give wrong information especially with figures because figures do not lie. As she mentioned the numbers, I would recommend maybe then, with your indulgence, she can put it in writing so that we can come up with the current status of information that Hon. Dr. Khupe requested so that we do not lie in the august House, especially with numbers and figures. Statistics need to be accurate. I thank you.
HON. MASHONGANYIKA: My supplementary is, I just want to thank the Minister for the good response. I want to hear about the side of neonatal sepsis. The main cause of neonatal sepsis is a lack of sterilisation in rural areas. They do not have proper machines. What is Government policy regarding the buying of proper sterilisation machines at the rural health centres?
HON. DR. KWIDINI: Thank you Madam Speaker. I also want to thank Hon. Mashonganyika for the additional question. Sometimes neonatal sepsis is not only caused by lack of equipment that is very useful or active to be used. There are several cases of neonatal sepsis that can cause these deaths, be those not admitted in the hospitals. They can be caused by our cultured women inserting some traditional medicines before giving birth especially when they are told by their elders to say when you insert such medicine it will ease the passage of giving birth. Those inserted traditional medicines can also predispose to neonatal sepsis.
Yes, sometimes especially delayed visits to the labour ward or delivery area, the pregnant woman is about 30km away from the institution where she is supposed to deliver; along the way, the delivery process can happen. Along the way, the pregnant women or the clients on the way can also contract the infection whilst going to a safer delivery place.
In the hospital yes, we admit that some of our equipment now we are rebranding. We are buying the modern ones so that we do not actually use them manually other than what we were doing at the beginning; some machines were operated manually, thereby leading to infections. Our medical staff use non-sterile gloves or surgical gloves.
All those things are to be looked into so that we work with modern systems, especially on delivery such that when our clients are delivering, we try by all means to zero factor in the issues of infection or introducing infections, especially to these newly born babies. Everything that is supposed to be used during the delivery process or even those who need incubators everything, they should have a proper total sterile procedure being followed at all costs. I thank you.
HON. KARIMATSENGA-NYAMUPINGA: On a point of order Madam Speaker!
THE DEPUTY SPEAKER: Point of order Hon. Nyamupinga.
HON. KARIMATSENGA-NYAMUPINGA: Madam Speaker we are privileged that this question was raised when you are sitting on the Chair because you understand the importance of reproductive health because you have gone through it. I am asking for your indulgence Madam Speaker, can you not allow at least to have supplementary questions raised on this issue. It is an issue of maternal health which means life and death or increasing population in this country. I was asking for your indulgence if you could allow these questions, l want to supplement maybe they will help us as we go to our constituencies and speak to the women there.
THE HON. DEPUTY SPEAKER: I hear you Hon. Nyamupinga. I will allow you to ask your question. Please go ahead and ask your question Hon. Nyamupinga.
HON. KARIMATSENGA-NYAMUPINGA: Thank you very much, Madam Speaker. My supplementary question is, what the Minister raised in his response that they are going to buy some ambulances. I want to find out from him on the ambulances that are going to be purchased, are we going to purchase ambulances that are specifically for maternal health that carry a woman who wants to deliver or the baby who might be delivered on the way? There are those special ambulances for women, not general ambulances.
HON. DR. KWIDINI: Thank you Madam Speaker. I would like to also thank Hon. Nyamupinga for the question. It is very true that as a country we need to move with time, especially on the situation she has raised practically the issue of delivery by mothers while on their way to the institution where delivery must be taking place. The challenge that we have is that most of those specialised ambulances in our country cannot function properly because of our roads. There is a lot of machinery needed in that ambulance but it is mostly electrical. So, these ambulances or motor vehicles are affected by dust. The moment they are affected by dust, in two weeks or three weeks’ time, they will not be functional. We have seen it costly to the Government every time we procure such ambulances.
What we are doing now in our institutions when we are sending these ambulances that we have procured, we are now sending them with experienced people. Sometimes when they need a doctor, the doctor is also sent. Some of them are still not yet employed after their qualification. So, that is the way we want to make sure that it happens and assists our clients. Also not forgetting what I have said earlier on, that is why we are doing the awareness campaigns to educate pregnant mothers such that the moment they realised that they are pregnant, they should be booked that they are pregnant.
Moreover, they are told their due dates by the nurses at the clinics. That is why we have also increased the number of mothers’ waiting shelters in our institutions so that a week earlier, our pregnant mothers are supposed to be at the hospital or at the clinic and will be waiting for their time. If the nurse or the health practitioner at the site notices that there is complication or the baby is on the breech presentation, pregnant mothers cannot deliver at a clinic. It means that pregnant woman should be referred to district hospital for further management where we prevent all these complications which will lead us to have this maternal deaths.
HON. KAPOIKILU: One of the causes of maternal death is difficult delivery. Sometimes women face challenges such as where you get the head of the child being bigger than the pelvis, where you get caught on an abnormal position in the uterus such as transverse line or the breech. Midwives cannot perform caesarean section. The question is, does the Government have any plans in training what we call clinical officers who are a bridge between the nurses and doctors and allow them to do caesarean section? Is there any plan of training the clinical officers in our country?
HON. DR. KWIDINI: Thank you so much Madam Speaker. As I said earlier on, that one clinical officer is somebody who is between a nurse and a doctor. As I said, we have more doctors than before. We are going to see more doctors being deployed to the district hospitals. As we speak right now, all our district hospitals are closer to our clinics which are the referrals. Our clinic is referred to the district hospital. We have got more doctors as of now.
Nevertheless, we want to employ and recruit more who can go and assist in the rural health centres which is in between clinics and district hospitals. By so doing, we want to reduce this gap of this complicated pregnancy. Even if there is a clinical officer at a rural centre, they cannot manage to deliver this complicated pregnancy which has been mentioned by the Hon. Member. Those pregnant women need referrals to the district hospitals or at large the provincial level. This is because some of them are diagnosed on scan as breech presentation babies. He said earlier on during the ante-natal care visits, that is when these problems are diagnosed such that these pregnant mothers are referred to specialised institutions where they are going to be assisted without taking time or wasting their time visiting the rural health centres where they will not get proper management. I thank you.
Hon. Murombedzi and Hon. Zemura having stood up to make their contributions.
*THE DEPUTY SPEAKER: Hon. Members, as we started, you heard that the Hon. Ministers are not coming to respond to the questions. Right now, we are left with 25 minutes. I realise that there are many Hon. Ministers waiting to give their responses in this august House. If we keep on adding, the 25 minutes will be finished and the Ministers will go back with their responses. We all have questions. Can you make it a question for next week?
HON. MUROMBEDZI: I just want clarity whether these figures are for January this year or the whole of last year.
*THE DEPUTY SPEAKER: Make it a question for next week. Let us proceed.
HON. MUROMBEDZI: What about my point of clarity Madam Speaker? I just want to hear if the figures he gave are for January this year or for the whole of last year. It is just a one-word answer.
*THE DEPUTY SPEAKER: You will ask when you see the Hon Minister.
EQUIPPING OF CHIREDZI GENERAL HOSPITAL WITH RADIOTHERAPY, X-RAY MACHINE AND BASIC MEDICINES
- HON. MAKUMIRE asked the Minister of Health and Child Care to inform the House what the Government is doing to ensure that Chiredzi General Hospital is equipped with a functional radiotherapy, X-ray machine and basic medicines.
THE DEPUTY MINISTER OF HEALTH AND CHILD CARE (HON. KWIDINI): Thank you Madam Speaker for the question from Hon. Makumire. The X-ray machine for Chiredzi was installed second week of January 2025 and the users were trained. Radiotherapy is specialised and cannot be decentralised to districts. According to our levels of care, this service will go to provincial level only. Other cancer screening machines such as colposcopy, leep, cryotherapy machines, liquid base cytology are the basic equipment that we have decentralised and more equipment required. I thank you.
EQUIPPING OF CHIREDZI GENERAL HOSPITAL WITH RADIOTHERAPY, X-RAY MACHINE AND BASIC MEDICINES
- MAKUMIRE asked the Minister of Health and Child Care to inform the House what Government is doing to ensure that Chiredzi General Hospital is equipped with a functional Radiotherapy X-ray machine and the basic medicines.
THE DEPUTY MINISTER OF HEALTH AND CHILD CARE (HON. KWIDINI): The X-ray machine for Chiredzi was installed in the second week of January 2025 and users were trained. Radio-therapy is specialised and cannot be decentralised to districts according to our levels of care. This service will go to provincial level only. Other cancer screening machines such as colposcopy, leep, cryotherapy, liquid base cytology are the basic equipment that we have decentralised and more equipment is required. I thank you.
HON. MAKUMIRE: Thank you Madam Speaker. I want to appreciate the response from the Hon. Minister. He mentioned that the training for the X-ray machine was done in the first week of January. When can we expect the patients in need of the service to be served?
HON. KWIDINI: Thank you Madam Speaker. I might not have the current information but I believe the moment the machine is installed and the users are trained to use the machine, definitely our patients will be able to visit the site so as to receive the service they require. I thank you.
RETENTION OF SKILLED MANPOWER IN GOVERNMENT DEPARTMENTS
- HON. ENG. MHANGWA asked the Minister of Public Service, Labour and Social Welfare to inform the House what measures are being taken to retain the skilled manpower in Government departments in particular the Ministry of Energy and Power Development.
THE MINISTER OF PUBLIC SERVICE, LABOUR AND SOCIAL WELFARE (HON. E. MOYO): The Government has a Skills, Attraction and Development Fund. One of the reasons for setting up this Fund is to pay retention allowance to members in critical manpower shortage areas. Engineers in the Public Service including those in the Ministry of Energy are benefitting from this Fund. The payment of retention allowances has assisted to stem the brain drain.
HON. ENG. MHANGWA: Supplementary question Madam Speaker. The basis of the question Hon. Minister was that retention by then had been promised but not yet paid. Please confirm if it has been paid in the last two months.
HON. E. MOYO: Thank you Madam Speaker. This response that I have seems to imply that this is already happening because it says that this Fund has assisted to stem the brain drain. If there is still some doubt, then I will have to check with the Public Service Commission because they are the ones who administer this Fund.
PAYMENT OF PENSION PACKAGES FOR CIVIL SERVANTS UPON RETIREMENT
- BONDA asked the Minister of Public Service, Labour and Social Welfare what measures have been put in place to ensure that long serving civil servants are given decent pension packages on retirement.
THE MINISTER OF PUBLIC SERVICE, LABOUR AND SOCIAL WELFARE (HON. E. MOYO): Prior to January 2024, retiring civil servants were being paid their lump sum in local currency only. After members started contributing their pension benefits in USD this was also extended to payment of lump sum benefits. This managed to significantly improve pension benefits which pensioners are receiving. Very important to mention that the pension payout is a combination of both ZiG and USD. In the long term, Government is planning to revamp the pension scheme. This is why Parliament is currently consulting the public on the State Service Pension Amendment Bill and I am aware that the Committee is out at the moment consulting the public. I thank you.
HON. ENG. MHANGWA: The Minister noted that there has been an adjustment to take care of those that have retired now. What about those who retired before the introduction of the USD payout?
HON. E. MOYO: Thank you Madam Speaker. This is a very dicey question because it has to do with looking at the budget going backwards but this is what has been done now to cure the problem. Currently, people are contributing both in ZiG and USD. So for those who contributed in both USD and ZiG, that has been considered in terms of pension payout in recognition of the currency contribution that was made. I know that in the period before some people lost value and I think it is a question we can refer to Treasury to assist. There is the 2007-2009 era where a lot of value was lost but that can only rest with the Ministry of Finance. I thank you.
PROGRESS ON STRUCTURED DIALOGUE PLATFORM ON ZIMBABWE’S DEBT MANAGEMENT
- HON. G. K. HLATYWAYO asked the Minister of Justice, Legal and Parliamentary Affairs on progress made on the Structured Dialogue Platform on Zimbabwe's debt management.
THE DEPUTY MINISTER OF JUSTICE, LEGAL AND PARLIAMENTARY AFFAIRS (HON. MAZUNGUNYE): Madam Speaker, let me thank Hon. Hlatywayo for asking a very pertinent question on progress made on the Structured Dialogue Platform on Zimbabwe State Management. The Structured Dialogue Platform was established in December 2022.
It is a dialogue platform where the Government of Zimbabwe negotiates with its creditors and development partners in resolving debt arrears and unblocking access to credit. Lenders therefore proposed or insisted that the Government embark on a process of reform in clearance of arrears and debt resolution. The process is being championed by AFDB President Dr. A. Adesina.
Sector working groups have been elected to spearhead arrear clearances and debt resolution processes with key strategic pillars guiding the process. These include economic growth and stability, reform, governance reform and land tenure reforms. The sector working groups have achieved several milestones in achieving these reforms.
Madam Speaker, on economic growth and stability, Government has been able to make progress in the following areas: -
(a) Transfer of the country's foreign currency liabilities from the Reserve Bank of Zimbabwe to the Treasurer, allowing the bank to concentrate on its core mandates;
(b) The exchange rate is now determined on the interbank market based on the willing buyer, willing seller foreign exchange system, eliminating multiple exchange rates;
(c) Introduction of the new structured currency, the Zimbabwe Gold backed by Gold, and foreign currency balances offering a stable and predictable monetary environment;
(d) Tight monetary policy through raising the bank policy rate and increasing statutory reserve requirements; and
(e) Fiscal deficit is being maintained at below 2% of the GDP by aligning expenditure outlays to available revenue resources.
Madam Speaker, there has been progress by the sector working groups, the Group on Governance, and since April 2024, there have been various achievements including the drafting of five bills, namely the Anti-Corruption Bill, Public Interest Disclosure Bill, Witness Protection Bill, and Zimbabwe Anti-Corruption Act Amendment Bill.
In June 2024, there was engagement with civil society organisations in addressing concerns regarding the PVO Bill, which the Bill is now before the Senate.
Also, the Abolition of Death Penalty Bill, which is undergoing parliamentary approval, is a milestone in improving the human rights environment in Zimbabwe.
Madam Speaker, there has also been an ongoing programme which aims at decentralising the justice delivery system. Countrywide building of courts in Manicaland, Mashonaland West, Masvingo, and Bulawayo has seen improvement in the service and justice delivery across Zimbabwe.
Also, the decentralisation of the Zimbabwe Human Rights Commission to five provinces, including Manicaland, Mashonaland West, Masvingo, and Bulawayo has enhanced access to services of the Commission.
Furthermore, the Government has made progress with regards to land tenure reforms. These reforms also form part of the National Development Strategy. Thematic working groups on image building, engagement, re-engagement processes of the country. There have been efforts by the Zimbabwe Land Commission to give security of tenure in the land reform programmes. This is in line with Section 292 of the Constitution of Zimbabwe.
Furthermore, landowners who benefited from the land reform programme with 99-year lease offer letters and permits, which will make them bankable, registrable, and transferable. This is in line with NDS1's objectives of providing security of tenure for agricultural land to increase productivity and investment in agriculture.
Madam Speaker, regarding compensation of former farm owners, a remarkable 444 applications under the Global Compensation Deed have been approved for payment by the Compensation Committee. The Government has allocated USD35 million in the 2024 budget for the compensation of the former farm owners. The balance will be paid via bond issuances.
A total of 92 farms under the Resolution of Bilateral Investment Protection and Promotion Agreements, BIPPA, have been approved for payment. The BIPPA farmers will be compensated for land and improvements on the farms. Madam Speaker, going forward, the roadmap for the areas, clearance and debt resolution process shall include the following:
Continuation with the implementation of reforms under the pillars of the three sector working groups; continuing with structured dialogue platform meetings, both at high and technical level, as a platform for building trust, feedback, and reporting of progress on the implementation of the reforms; resolution of BIPPAs through the multi-year payment plan; engaging a bilateral creditor champion to assist with the resource mobilisation of bridging finance to clear areas to the World Bank, AFDB, EIB, and others; request for debt relief and restructuring, thus working together with the financial and legal advisors - Options are the G20 Common Framework or similar mechanism; and arrears clearance, debt relief, and restructuring from Paris Club creditors, non-Paris Club creditors, multilateral regional development banks, and also other creditors.
In conclusion, Madam Speaker, the country's commitment to resolving its debt burden represents an opportunity for a brighter and more stable economic future. This will in turn boost its credit worthiness and improve access to international capital markets for mass development. If the process is properly managed, Madam Speaker, the Government's vision of becoming an upper-middle income economy by 2030 will be realised. I thank you, Madam Speaker. Thank you.
Questions With Notice were interrupted by the TEMPORARY SPEAKER in terms of Standing Order Number 68.
HON. MUSHORIWA: I move that the time be extended by a further 15 minutes.
HON. MADZIVANYIKA: I second.
Motion put and agreed to.
HON. G. K. HLATYWAWO: I just want to find out, Hon. Minister, you have noted on the economic front, you know the presence of the Anti-Corruption Commission as one of the key achievements. I just wanted to refer you to the Corruption Transparency Index which was recently released, which states that Zimbabwe was ranked 158 out of 180. This has been the worst since 2015. The mark was actually 21 out of 100. So, would you say that this is progress? Also, on the issue of exchange rates that you made reference to, you are saying that we have one exchange rate but that is not true. We still have the parallel market and we have also been consulting stakeholders. They have been telling us that they would rather have a market-driven exchange rate as opposed to the, you know, controlled exchange rate that we have. So, would you say that that is progress?
On your political reforms, I would also want to hear you in terms of, you know, your briefing in terms of electoral reforms and also issues around press freedom. Recently, we have seen, you know, journalists being arrested on account of...
THE TEMPORARY SPEAKER (HON. MAUNGANIDZE): Order, Hon. Hlatywayo! You are only allowed to ask one question.
HON. G. K. HLATYWAYO: So, media reforms, can you update us in terms of press freedom?
HON. MAZUNGUNYE: Thank you Madam Speaker and I also want to thank the Hon. Member for the supplementary question. Indeed, as you have alluded to, there are statistics which have been circulating and as the Ministry and also as the sector working groups, we are visiting the issue. We are going to deliberate as the sector working groups to find out how the figures or the statistics came about.
However, what I had mentioned in this august House is the progress that we have made as the sector working groups in issues to do with corruption as to the Bills that I have alluded to. I think that would be my response in that regard if there is any further need to clarify on the statistics that may be dealt with and we may respond as we will check the statistics.
Hon. Mushoriwa having stood up to ask a supplementary question.
THE TEMPORARY SPEAKER: There are no more supplementary questions. The time for questions without notice has expired. That was the last question. I am not taking any more supplementary questions.
HON. MUSHORIWA: On a point of order, Madam Speaker.
THE TEMPORARY SPEAKER: Can you please take your seat so that we proceed?
HON. MUSHORIWA: But you made a ruling, Madam Speaker…
THE TEMPORARY SPEAKER: And I made it clear that I am only taking one question.
WRITTEN SUBMISSIONS TO QUESTIONS WITH NOTICE
CAPACITATION OF ST. PETERS HOSPITAL IN CHIPINGE SOUTH
- HON. C. HLATYWAYO asked Minister of Health and Child Care to explain to the House what plans Government will embark on to capacitate St Peters Hospital in Chipinge South which provides services to a population of about 100 000 in terms of the following-
- filling of vacant posts for Registered General Nurses (RGNs);
- nurse aides;
- general hands;
- power supplies;
- accommodation; and
- construction of an administration block and offices among other service. [Deferred from 16th October 2024]
THE MINISTER IF HEALTH AND CHILD CARE (HON. DR. MOMBESHORA): Registered General Nurses (RGNs), St Peters hospital has an established of 35 RGNs and 28 are in post, seven posts are vacant. Of these 20 are RGNs and 8 are Midwives. The Health Service Commission deploys RGNs the nurse training schools as and when vacant positions arise.
Government plans are in place to double the health workforce by increasing the current training outputs of RGNs from the current 800 to 1200 per year according to the Health Workforce (HWF) Strategy (2023-2030).
Nurse Aides; St Peters hospital has an establishment of 11 Nurse Aides and all the posts are filled. Government plans are in place to ensure that health workers are retained to achieve 80% UHC by 2030 from the current 55% UHC HWF Strategy (2023-2030). To achieve this Government has put in place retention measures such as the Junior Service Housing Loan facility which benefits all health workers below the deputy director grade. Government has also introduced the duty-free car vehicle importation scheme to benefit all the grades in the health service.
General hands; St Peters hospital has an establishment of 12 General hand and all the posts are filled. Government plans are in place to increase the numbers of general hands by creating two (2) additional posts for ambulance drivers. Staff bids were done and submitted to Treasury, awaiting for response.
Power supplies; 40kw generator currently covers the whole hospital, laboratory and isolation ward. St Peters hospital is on the waiting list for facilities to undergo solarisation under the assessment which was done by Global Fund. Government plans are in place as the Ministry is currently working with the relevant authorities to ensure a reliable power supply to the hospital or connecting the hospital to the national grid.
Accommodation the Ministry of Health and Child Care is working with the church authorities at St Peters hospital to construct additional staff housing and to renovate the existing ones. Construction of an admiration block and offices among other services. The Ministry of Health and Child Care is prioritising the construction of new administration blocks, offices and a new theater to improve the hospital’s administrative capacity. The Ministry will ensure that the hospital has the necessary equipment, supplies and staff to deliver quality health services to the population of Chipinge South.
CONSTRUCTION OF A CLINIC IN CROWBROUGH
- HON. HAMAUSWA asked the Minister of Health and Childcare to inform the House the plans that have been put in place to support the residents of Crowbrough phases 1 to 4 in the construction of a clinic in view of the fact that there is public clinic in the area at all despite the presence of more than 20 000 residents in the vicinity.
THE MINISTER IF HEALTH AND CHILD CARE (HON. DR. MOMBESHORA): Provision of Health Services within the urban communities at the clinic is currently being implemented through urban local authorities. As such, Ministry of Health and Child Care is working with the Harare City Council to ensure that this project is expedited.
STATUS OF ZIMBABWE’S PARTICIPATION AND PRODUCTION OF ANNUAL DEMOGRAPHIC HEALTH SURVEYS
- HON. BAJILA asked the Minister of Health and Child Care to inform the House on the status of Zimbabwe’s participation and production of annual demographic health surveys since 2015. [Deferred from 30th October, 2024].
THE MINISTER OF HEALTH AND CHILD CARE (HON. DR. MOMBESHORA): Zimbabwe Demographic Health Survey (ZDHS) is not an annual report. It introduced a schedule for production every five years.
Yes, the last edition was in 2015-2016. The report is produced by ZimStat. Ministry of Health and Child Care provides workforce/enumerators when conducting the survey. Currently, ZIMSTAT is in the process of producing the ZDHS report for 2024. So far in 2024 December, they disseminated the Key Indicator Report (KIR). In January 2025, they conducted a report writing meeting, a step towards production of the final report.
UPSURGE OF HIV/AIDS CASES IN LUVEVE AND EMAKHANDENI
- HON BAJILA asked the Minister of Health and Child Care to inform the House on the latest upsurge of HIV/AIDS cases in Luveve and Emakhandeni areas in Bulawayo and to explain the mitigatory measures the Ministry is taking to deal with this situation.
THE MINISTER IF HEALTH AND CHILD CARE (HON. DR. MOMBESHORA): We are not aware that there is an upsurge of HIV/AIDS cases in Luveve and Emakhadheni, compared to the rest of Bulawayo. The whole of Bulawayo Metropolitan Province recorded just over 1000 new HIV positive cases in 2024. It is important to note that the highest number of new infections is recorded among the 15-29 years age group. Therefore, districts like Emakhandeni and Luveve which have higher proportion of young persons, would report more new HIV cases.
We provide the following interventions to fight HIV:
- Promote abstinence among youths and delaying sex until marriage.
- Being faithful to one faithful partner.
- Correct and consistent use of condoms
- Encourage PrEP. PEP. ART
- Early diagnosis and treatment of STIs
- Free HIV testing and counselling, free ART, Free and frank discussions about reproductive health and rights and fighting stigma
- Get smart, get circumcised
PAYMENT OF BEAM FEES FOR SCHOOLS IN CHIPINGE SOUTH CONSTITUENCY
- HON. C. HLATYWAYO asked the Minister of Public Service, Labour and Social Welfare to inform the House when the Ministry is going to pay BEAM fees for pupils in the following schools in Ward 26 of Chipinge South Constituency, Matikwa, Munepasi, Takwirira Primary Schools and Chinyamukwakwa and Katanga Secondary Schools
THE MINISTER OF PUBLIC SERVICE, LABOUR AND SOCIAL WELFARE (HON. E. MOYO): Mr. Speaker, I rise in response to the inquiry by Hon. Hlatywayo pertaining to the BEAM payment status of the following schools, Matikwa, Munepasi, Takwirira primary schools and Chinyamukwakwa and Katanga secondary schools. Our records are indicating that Matikwa and Munepasi primary schools have not yet submitted their claims for 2023 and efforts are being made to follow up with the two schools with the uncaptured data so that the data is captured. As for Takwirira primary school and Chinyamukwakwa and Katanga secondary schools, the data has already been captured and now awaits payment once the disbursement of funds is done by Treasury.
PAYMENT OF FORMER ARDA EMPLOYEES
- 11. C. HLATYAWAYO asked the Minister of Public Service, Labour and Social Welfare to inform the House on whether
- there are any plans in place to pay 460 former ARDA employees who were retrenched in 2009 in Chisumbanje, Chipinge South, Middle Sabi, Mutema and Musikavanhu areas.
- To inform the House on whether there are any plans in place for the provision of food aid to civil servants in Chipinge South under the existing drought relief program in view of the fact that they cannot afford to buy mealie-meal using their paltry salaries.
- To inform the House on when the Ministry is going to make BEAM payments to schools in Chipinge South since the last payments were made three years ago
THE MINISTER OF PUBLIC SERVICE, LABOUR AND SOCIAL WELFARE (HON. E. MOYO): Madam Speaker, according to our records, we do not have any retrenchment dispute involving ARDA Estates. There is no case of non-payment of retrenchment packages involving ARDA Estates and the said 460 former employees registered with the Ministry of Public Service, Labour and Social Welfare. Mr. Speaker, let me take this opportunity to encourage such individuals who were retrenched during the said period or any other period and did not get their retrenchment packages, if they are there they can approach our offices for assistance.
- b) Speaker Sir, I respectfully advise the House that civil servants are not eligible for the food assistance programme as they can afford to purchase mealie-meal in the open markets. Markets are functional and prices are stable to the extent that civil servants can afford to buy mealie meal just like any other employed persons.
- c) On outstanding BEAM fees payments, our records show that the Ministry has cleared all BEAM fees arrears for 2022. For 2023, part payment was made. The Ministry is working on paying USD requests made for 2023 and for this year. Speaker Sir, let me take this opportunity to highlight to the House that payments are done as and when Treasury releases resources for the BEAM programme.
EMPLOYMENT OF GENERAL WORKERS IN GOVERNMENT
- S. SITHOLE asked the Minister of Public Service, Labour and Social Welfare to inform the House what plans the Ministry has put in place regarding employment of General Workers in Government Institutions.
THE MINISTER OF PUBLIC SERVICE, LABOUR AND SOCIAL WELFARE (HON. E. MOYO): The response to this question will focus on members employed through the Public Service Commission (all line ministries except the Ministry of Health and Child Care) and will not focus on general workers employed by other government institutions. The employment of general workers (general hands, office orderlies, technical hands, dip attendants, watchmen) in the Public Service is guided by the Principal Procedures which guide the appointment of members. These are detailed as follows:
- Appointments shall be made by the Public Service Commission subject to availability of funded vacant posts and Treasury concurrence.
- The Public Service Commission maintains a database where candidates interested in joining the Public Service Commission are required to register for employment.
- All candidates to be appointed into the Public Service are selected from a list of candidates provided by the Public Service Commission; when recruiting Dip Attendants, Herdsmen (Tsetse Control Division), Ward Development Coordinators, and Community Development Coordinators, the responsible Ministry advertises posts locally.
- All appointments shall have regard to the merit principle, ability, objectivity, fairness, inclusion of men and women, and persons with disabilities;
- The minimum entry qualification into the Public Service shall be 5 O’ Levels at grade C or better.
- Candidates to be considered for the filling of a post shall be required to be conversant in any officially recognised languages of Zimbabwe.
- Candidates shall be interviewed by District Recruitment Committees/Provincial Recruitment Committees or Recruitment Committees at Head Office.
- Successful candidates shall be appointed subject to passing security vetting and medical examinations.
DEADLINES FOR PAYMENT OF DROUGHT RELIEF FOOD TRANSPORTERS IN CHIPINGE DISTRICT
- HON. C. HLATYWAYO asked the Minister of Public Service, Labour and Social Welfare to update the House on the deadlines for payment and payment methods for the transporters contracted to ferry drought relief food for the period May to July and August to October 2024 in Chipinge District Grain Marketing Board respectively.
THE MINISTER OF PUBLIC SERVICE, LABOUR AND SOCIAL WELFARE (HON. E. MOYO): Thank you Hon. Member for your question. Mr. Speaker Sir, allow me to inform the House that the Ministry of Public Service, Labour and Social Welfare has submitted all payment arrears to the Ministry of Finance and Investment Promotion to mobilise the required financial resources. This week, the Ministry received 40 million and was disbursed to all districts and payments to transporters have started. The Ministry engaged Treasury and has been promised another 40 million for payments of transporters. Mr. Speaker Sir, once these resources have been availed, payments will be effected immediately and this applies to all transporters nationwide.
MOTION
BUSINESS OF THE HOUSE
HON. TOGAREPI: I move that Orders of the Day, Numbers 1 to 34 on today’s Order Paper be stood over until Order of the Day Number 35 has been disposed of.
HON. NYANDORO: I second.
Motion put and agreed to.
SECOND READING
BROADCASTING SERVICES AMENDMENT BILL [H. B. 10, 2024]
Thirty-fifth Order read: Adjourned debate on motion on the Second Reading of the Broadcasting Services Amendment Bill [H.B. 10 of 2024].
Question again proposed.
HON. MUSHORIWA: I want to thank the Hon. Minister for bringing the Broadcasting Services Amendment Bill to this august House. Broadcasting as part of the broader communication to the public is of concern, it is a key issue. We are aware that as a country, we are one of the few countries that is lagging behind in terms of the number of broadcasters, if you compare with our sister countries even within the region.
My first comment is that the Hon. Minister in coming up with this Bill, he wants to take power that was vested within Parliament in respect of the appointments of board directors of the Broadcasting Services Board. The proper procedure is what is existing, where Parliament, through its Standing Orders has to do public interviews and everybody will actually follow through to see those interviews. What the Hon. Minister now wants us to do, the Hon. Minister wants to take that power away from Parliament so that the power now becomes his and the President's. As Parliament, we cannot move one step forward like we did when we did the current Broadcasting Service Act and then allow the Minister to take us two steps backwards. I think it will not be proper, Madam Speaker.
The second issue that I have a challenge with in respect to this Bill relates Madam Speaker, to the issue of Community broadcasting licences that are being given. One of the things that the Hon. Minister proposes and says in this Bill is that Community broadcasting licences have got a caveat. The caveat being that they are not allowed to discuss political matters. Madam Speaker, I think we cannot allow the passing of a Bill with such a provision. If you then come and say that a community broadcaster cannot discuss politics, even within that community, I think it does not make sense.
Fundamentally Madam Speaker, if you look at the definitions, there is no definition of what constitutes a political matter. I think we need clarification and a proper definition. Otherwise, Madam Speaker, it is my view that we should allow freedom of expression to happen even at community level. You do not want the community broadcasters to have a problem if members of the community complain that the council is not attending to the road. The road now has got a lot of potholes because what defines what political matters are is too broad to be allowed to just exist in a piece of legislation without a proper definition of what it is that the Hon. Minister wants to cure by bringing such a provision within the broadcasting service.
Then Madam Speaker, I am also not so happy in respect to the issue of broadcasting licences. Madam Speaker, we do not have a problem in ensuring that the public broadcaster gets licences and people should pay for licences. I think it goes across, whether you go to South Africa or the United Kingdom, BBC and SABC. Madam Speaker, it is the proposal which the Hon. Minister is bringing, which I think needs to be panel-beaten.
You want to tell us, Madam Speaker, through this Bill, that before you pay your ZINARA licence, you need to make sure that you show them that you have paid the ZBC licence. I do not think that is the proper thing to do Madam Speaker. ZINARA being an authority for registration of vehicles, surely you cannot then allow a caveat to say that you cannot licence a vehicle until such a person has shown you a ZBC licence. The confusion in this Bill, Madam Speaker, it then says, if a person then says, my car does not have a radio, then ZINARA will now be allowed to issue a licence. The question Madam Speaker, is that you do not want to create ambiguous provisions within the law.
What it would tend to then do Madam Speaker, is that even someone with a radio or you could actually remove the radio from the car. I am not sure whether the Hon. Minister would want ZINARA to then conduct vehicle inspections, which I think is not prudent.
Then Madam Speaker, I believe that the Hon. Minister needs to think deeper, especially as we prepare to come to the Committee Stages of this Bill. We need to say to ourselves, how best can we collect licences for the public broadcaster? We need to think beyond the normal or the system that we have used. Furthermore, we need to be saying, how do we fund ZBC? How do we fund ZTV? The funding model should also correspond with what is actually happening. The content of ZBC, whether it is radio or television, Madam Speaker, it also needs to reflect public sentiment that people are actually raising.
Then there is an issue Madam Speaker, which I will need an explanation from the Hon. Minister. The Hon. Minister is now proposing to increase foreign shareholding to around 40%. I am also sure Madam Speaker, whether such a provision is fundamental, I actually believe that we need a situation where we have got a broadcasting service in Zimbabwe which is robust and well capitalised, rather than a situation where you licence Mushoriwa, give him a television licence, collect capital to make sure that you bring quality services to the public. I think, it would be an exercise in futility.
One of the things that you need to understand Madam Speaker, is that if you look at the number of DSTV subscribers, for instance, they are quite a huge chunk. Yet, we have more than three or so broadcasting services that were licenced. We need to look at the quality of the content that is coming from those broadcasting services. If you restrict it to 40% to foreign, it does not work.
Madam Speaker, the Hon. Minister also needs to be aware. In this era of digital and social media, you will then come to a situation where the majority of the people do not listen to the various broadcasting stations that are there but rely on content creation by social people.
Then the other aspect which I thought I also need clarification from the Hon. Minister; currently, on satellite stations like DSTV, ZBC is allowed as a public broadcaster to be there and if you do not pay your DSTV subscription in time, you are assured that ZBC will continue to be beaming. I note that in this Bill, the Hon. Minister now proposes to have about three. I am not so sure what it is that he wants to achieve by increasing the number to three, bearing in mind that we have only one public broadcaster. Unless it is a way of saying that you need to make sure that ZBC and any other two broadcasters should be included for free within those satellite broadcasting services. I think we need to make sure that this is clear.
Madam Speaker, let me conclude by saying that there are certain things that this Bill needs to do. This Bill talks about ZINARA but when you look even in the definition of a dealer, ZINARA is not included. I am thinking that the Hon. Minister will need to do more in terms of when we come to the next stage of this Bill, in making sure that we try by all means to relook at the drafting aspect of this Bill so that it achieves the desired purpose.
Madam Speaker, I conclude by saying, as Parliament, we should never allow a situation where we go back to the positives that we have actually achieved. The Standing Committee, our Parliamentary Committee should be allowed to continue to conduct interviews for prospective board members who want to serve on this broadcasting board, rather than to have a situation where things are done clandestinely. I thank you Madam Speaker.
HON. SHIRIYEDENGA: Thank you Madam Speaker Ma’am. I would like to add my voice to this debate and also thank the Hon. Minister for producing this Bill and also giving us the opportunity to debate.
I believe this Bill is long overdue. I also believe that it presents us with an opportunity to reform our broadcasting regulatory framework to ensure that we have diversity, pluralism and also the enjoyment of basic media freedom. So, this is a good opportunity for us. I also note that the Bill has equally both progressive and retrogressive clauses, which I believe could actually aid our broadcasting services and also at the same time impede progress and all the developments that we have achieved as a country. Firstly, I would like to talk about the board appointments. I would like to concur with my colleagues on the fact that currently as the Act stands, we as Parliamentarians are given an opportunity to actually interview and make recommendations as to the rightful candidates that occupy the office as board members.
Unfortunately, this Bill has become retrogressive in the sense that it is taking away powers from Parliament in terms of appointing board members. Now, the appointments are done by the President in consultation with the Minister. I believe it is very retrogressive and transgresses the provision of the African Charter on Broadcasting which clearly states that all broadcast and telecommunication regulation should be protected against political and economic interference. The Minister needs to look closely with regards to that. One of the things I have noted with the current board, precisely relates to the mandate, it is the fact that the board seems to be quite on other pertinent issues that relate to its mandate.
I say so particularly looking at what the Constitution says in Section 155 which obliges the State to take all appropriate measures to provide contestants in an election with fair and equal access to electronic and print media both private and public. We have seen cases where media coverage particularly public broadcasters, being skewed towards one political party which is partisan and a transgression of what the Constitution detects. The board has kept quiet on that one. So, I believe that we need to actually extend the mandate of the board to look into other issues which regulate, not just its operation but even elections as well.
Then on the issue of radio licencing, I think my colleagues have spoken broadly with regards to that. What it simply means is that you will end up with a situation whereby ZBC will be penalising us for using phones with radio receivers. This is where we are headed to and clearly there is no linkage with regards to radio licencing and motor vehicle licencing. What it means literally is that this Bill prioritises entertainment as opposed to safety. So, I think let us take into account the concerns of the people of Zimbabwe particularly which came out during Public Hearings as well.
In addition, we look at the fact that ZBC and other public broadcaster have the opportunity to generate revenue through advertisement, public and live broadcast but that is not happening. When penalising motorists, we are literally creating a cry baby mentality on the part of our State media. I say so because they have the potential to generate revenue and you are also looking at the content. I can safely say that for example on the 27th January 2025, ZBC, during its prime-time news, actually took almost two minutes broadcasting donkeys about how stubborn they are on the road.
Surely, that is not content that generates money. Really, we need content which motivates motorists to pay their licences. If you look at this provision, we have people that have many vehicles, what it really means is that we are now advocating for multi-taxation on those people that have many vehicles because now you have been compelled to pay radio licences for – let us say one has four cars, now one person will be made to pay for four cars. Some are pool cars and you realise that in some instances, some people will just drive one car for maybe two weeks or in a week, you only sit in that car for two hours, then you are made to pay radio licence. So, I believe the Minister should look into that as well.
On that issue, there is a provision which I think is the 8th schedule in the draft Bill which speaks to the waiver for motorists. For those motorists that do not have radio receivers but then you look at the administrative aspect of it, does it mean that whenever one has to licence his or her vehicle, he has to go back to ZINARA or to ZBC for his vehicle to be inspected? That is a cumbersome process and I think the Minister should look into that.
It also opens the door for corruption. Some people out there will start to lie and say they do not have a radio receiver and they get those exemptions whilst they do have a radio receiver. That should be looked into.
Lastly, I would like to talk about the community broadcasting licencing. On that score, there are several good provisions, particularly if you look at the broadcasting fund, to actually aid community radio stations. You look at even provisions around local content and the provisions around the involvement of communities in terms of determining the licences which is a good move. However, I would like to concur with Hon. Mushoriwa as well that the current Act does restrict community radio stations from speaking to issues around political matters. The thing is how do you define it? What is a political matter when you are looking at local issues for example, around service delivery, if you do not have a voter, if your bins are not being collected, there is a political aspect to it. So, I think the definition of political matter should be actually reviewed and if need be, it should be confined to partisan politics – [HON. MEMBER: Hear, hear.] -
HON. KANGAUSARU: Thank you for affording me this opportunity to give my views on this Broadcasting Service Amendment Bill which is currently under consideration in this House and which has sparked intense debate among us. The Bill seeks to amend the Broadcasting Service Act [Chapter 12:06] and align with the Constitution and the Public Entity Corporative Governance Act.
I am going to deal with three key provisions of the Bill. The mandatory radio licence. The Bill proposes that motorists must purchase a radio licence from the ZBC before obtaining a licence or insurance. The second issue is local content quota, the Bill mandates a broadcaster to air at least 75% local content. A move aimed at promoting local talent and culture. The third one is the shift from control to regulations. The Bill seeks to transform the role of the Broadcasting Authority of Zimbabwe from controlling to regulating and managing broadcasting service bands. I am in favour of the Bill, Madam Speaker but before I speak in favour of the Bill, I would like to speak a little bit about those that are arguing against the Bill. They are saying there is an additional financial burden that is being given to motorists. They are concerned about the financial burden of purchasing a radio licence which they may be unable to purchase or to afford and they are saying also that there is a lack of accountability.
Critics argue that the ZBC has failed to demonstrate accountability and transparency in its operations, making it unjustifiable to compel motorists to fund it. They are also talking about the restricting media freedom. Some argue that the Bill's provision may restrict media freedom and diversity as well as stifling competition in the broadcasting sector but Madam Speaker, I am in favour of this Bill, that this Bill will generate revenue. The mandatory radio licencing is expected to generate significant revenue for the ZBC, estimated at USD73.6 million per year and also in favour of this Bill is that we promote local content, thereby encouraging our local talents.
The local content quota is seen as a positive move to promote local talent, culture and economic growth. It also aligns with the international best practices. The shift from control to regulation is in line with the international best practices in broadcasting regulations.
Madam Speaker, the Broadcasting Services Amendment Bill has sparked debate among stakeholders in Zimbabwe. While the Bill has positive provisions such as promoting local content, like I alluded to earlier and aligning with international best practises, it also raises concerns. Like the critics have said, it is giving additional financial burden, there is lack of accountability and restricting media freedom. Therefore, as the Bill proceeds through this House, it is essential, Madam Speaker, to carefully consider the concerns and ensure that the final product promotes a vibrant, diverse and independent broadcasting sector in Zimbabwe.
My recommendation, therefore, Madam Speaker is that before we consider this, there must be stakeholder engagement. The Government should engage with stakeholders, including motorists, broadcasters and civil society organisations to address concerns and gather feedback on the Bill.
Secondly, on transparency and accountability, the ZBC should demonstrate transparency and accountability in its operation, including clear financial reporting and programming schedules. Thirdly, Government should establish a clear regulatory framework that promotes media freedom, diversity and competition in the broadcasting sector.
By carefully considering these recommendations Madam Speaker and addressing concerns raised by stakeholders, the Broadcasting Services Amendment Bill can be refined to promote a vibrant and independent broadcasting sector in Zimbabwe. So, I submit, Madam Speaker.
THE MINISTER OF INFORMATION, PUBLICITY AND BROADCASTING SERVICES (HON. DR. MUSWERE): Thank you Madam Speaker. First and foremost, I would like to thank the Committee for a lot of good work during the consultations that they managed to achieve in terms of the report that is before us. I also want to thank all the Members of Parliament for the contributions that seek to enrich and to strengthen the growth and robustness of the media industry through broadcasting services.
I will respond to all the issues that have been raised with respect to the Broadcasting Services Amendment Bill. I will move first in terms of the response to the recommendations from the Portfolio Committee on Media Broadcasting Services report focussing primarily on the Broadcasting Services Amendment Bill [H. B.10, 2024].
Madam Speaker, as I have already indicated, the Committee did a great job. I will commence with the introduction in terms of the Parliamentary Portfolio Committee which captured the constitutional obligations that are before us as a people, the background and at the same time, the methodology that was utilised. It reflects that the supremacy of the people is still key in terms of legislative processes as we work towards ensuring that we leave no one and no place behind.
In terms of the recommendations that community radio stations be exempted from public hearings by virtue of their broadcasting being apolitical and dealing with community issues, this is addressed in the amendment under Clause 7 (6) which exempts community radio broadcasting services, applicants to attend a public inquiry conducted by the authority for the purposes of determining his/her or its suitability to be licenced.
I will move to the second issue that allows up to 40% in terms of foreign ownership in broadcasting licences, which has a lot of impact in terms of local media control. We have taken note of this and as I have already indicated, that there will not be any changes to the particular section. It will remain as it is to the effect that no person other than a citizen of Zimbabwe shall be a director of a licensee.
This relates to the territorial integrity and sovereignty of a nation in that media sovereignty is key. What we broadcast reflects who we are. The media sector is a very sensitive security issue which can create a lot of instability in any nation. So, by virtue of that, they will not be any amendments to this particular section.
I will move to the third item that there be a provision to limit the number of licences that one can get to ensure diverse ownership and to ensure more citizens benefit from the freedom to establish broadcasting entities as provided in terms of Section 61 of the Constitution. We are obliged in terms of the Constitution of Zimbabwe in terms of Section 61 and Section 62 of the Constitution. Section 61 of the Constitution relates to freedom of expression and also reflects to the freedom of the media. We have taken this on board as it is already part of a constitutional obligation that we must abide to.
I will move to item 4, that there be a provision in the Bill to cater for convergence in broadcasting, that is to the merging of different types of mass media such as traditional media, print media broadcasting media, new media and the internet as well as portable and highly interactive technologies through digital media. We have taken note of the recommendation. This is done through Clause 17, by amending Section 46 to add to the regulatory powers of the Broadcasting Authority of Zimbabwe such that technological convergence and migration may be dealt with by way of regulation. This makes it easier to keep up with the rapid technological changes since effecting changes to regulation is faster.
I will highlight the current circumstances in the media industry relating to a decrease in terms of daily circulation, in terms of the physical print media in terms of the newspaper that has gone down drastically from a minimum of 100 000 daily circulation in terms of newspapers to a maximum currently for the whole sector of around
10 000 in terms of circulation. We are in the 4th industrial revolution and there is need to ensure that there is convergence. We have long reached the point of convergence between media and ICT and this is a fact. I have already indicated that this is being well taken care of through the amendments that we have put in place in terms of the Broadcasting Services Amendments.
I will move to item 5, that the board composition of BAZ be reduced from 12 to seven members, thereby ensuring that there is gender balance and it complies with the law. The Public Entities and Corporate Governance Act is very clear in terms of gender balance. I want to assure the Hon. Members that the board will be composed in terms of the gender parameters that have been set in terms of the laws of our country.
At the same time, one of the key issues is why do we propose to reduce the number from 12 to seven? Let us look at the practicalities in terms of the organisational capacity. The total number of employees under the Broadcasting Authority of Zimbabwe, temporary workers and permanent employees, the total is not beyond 40. In the majority of cases usually, the employees are less than 30. So, why should we have a board of directors of 12 people superintending over a total employee composition of not more than 40 people.
The board composition and the board size should reflect to the practice and to the reality in terms of organisational management. It should reflect in terms of the unit of command and it should reflect in terms of the span of control. It should reflect in terms of organisational efficiency and it should also reflect in terms of the constitutional obligations that are before us. We have the African Charter and Zimbabwe is one of the key participants and is also a signatory to a number of international statutes and international agreements. As a Ministry, we propose that the board composition be reduced to seven, but at the same time we take care of the parliamentary oversight role and we can have at least two of the members coming from Parliament.
I will move to item 6, that there be the introduction of new broadcasting services classes. This was addressed in the amendment through Clause 5, in that we will now have the following classes: public, commercial, community, subscription management, open narrow casting, satellite uplinks, data casting, web casting and also internet-based broadcasting.
I will move to item 7, that in terms of local content, Public Broadcasters with multiple channels should air or dedicate to viewing of local sports content. The recommendation by the Portfolio Committee is welcome as I have indicated that they have done a brilliant job. This is the effect of Clause 21, amendment of the sixth schedule to ensure that at list 50% local and regional sports content resides within the broadcasting parameters of Zimbabwe.
Sports are universal and we need to support the growth of local sports and regional sports as Zimbabwe also partakes in other regional and international sporting activities. There is an opportunity for us as a people to also support the growth of the sports sector as an industry.
I want to move Madam Speaker to respond to the Hon. Members after the second reading. I want to move to questions by the other Hon. Members who have also greatly contributed to the enrichment of this Bill. Whether the amendments in terms of the Broadcasting Services Act enhance freedom of expression? Yes, the amendments will comply with Section 61 and Section 62 of the Constitution and the purpose of the Broadcasting Services Act [Chapter 12:06] is the creation and regulation of the Broadcasting Authority of Zimbabwe. The protection and management of the broadcasting spectrum. These are all meant to ensure that we enhance the freedom of expression and also as guaranteed in terms of the supreme law of the land the Constitution under Section 61 of the Constitution.
The amendment seeks to ensure that there is media diversity, media plurality and also the robustness of the media industry. The appointment of BAZ board members in the amendment does not reflect this. I have already dealt with this matter Madam Speaker, in terms of the African Charter in that the size of the organisation should reflect the size in terms of the board of directors who have the fiduciary responsibility to be in charge of the organisation otherwise we will end up having an institution with more board members than the actual employees that work for the regulatory authority. This is a regulator that is in charge of the broadcasting sector. I have already dealt with this particular matter.
Foreign investment should not be allowed, I have already dealt with this matter. In terms of public service obligations of transmitting up to three channels. ZBC in the past used to have one channel so every subscription broadcasting service licence and subscription management licence was required to transmit the one channel. I am more than euphoric Madam Speaker, to highlight to the House that we are finalising the expansion in terms of the Constitution in that work is currently underway at Montrose Studios where we are expanding in terms of radio service but at the same time, work has already started in terms of expanding other two new channels in terms of the Zimbabwe Broadcasting Corporation.
What we seek to achieve Madam Speaker, is to ensure that we have in this first year, ten new radio studios that reflect on the constitutionally recognised languages in Zimbabwe based at Montrose Studios and we have an additional six in terms of the Constitution which makes it sixteen in terms of the recognition of our languages. The six will be based in Harare and there is an expansion effort to ensure that we achieve two new television stations.
I want to reflect on the next comment that is on community broadcasting licences that there is no clarity on how far they can venture into politics. Madam Speaker, Community radio stations are clearly defined in terms of the Broadcasting Services Act and also in terms of the Statutory Instrument that supports the establishment of community radio stations.
The importance of community radio stations is that they mainly focus on heritage-based broadcasting which seeks to ensure that we also maintain, retain and protect our national languages. Discussions around road development and other such issues can be discussed at community radio stations. The issue that Hon. Members are worried about is dealt with in terms of the Broadcasting Services Act. I think it could be Section 20 of the Act in terms of politics. Section 20 of the Broadcasting Services Act is very clear that no political party or organisation shall hold or have control of any broadcasting licence or signal career licence. We do not want to politicise these community radio stations. There is a clear mandate to deal with community issues within a particular jurisdiction. These are not platforms for political activities. Community issues can be dealt with at that level.
The construction of schools, bridges and roads is taking place in terms of agriculture, the climate-proof agriculture, and Pfumvudza/ Intwasa these are community issues. Our traditional issues are the customary issues that take place within that particular community but mainly the major issue is to ensure that there is heritage-based broadcasting to support our local languages.
The mandatory licencing being introduced is one of the issues that have been raised. It is very unfair as it mandates everyone to pay for radio licences even for those without the radio. Madam Speaker, the amendment does not mandate everyone to pay including those without the radio. A person who does not have a radio receiver is exempted from paying. A varied exemption certificate is issued by ZBC if the vehicle is to be insured or in terms of the licencing framework is not equipped with a radio licence. The proposal is very clear that those who do not own do not receive the electromagnetic signals will not be obliged to pay.
I will move to the recommendations by Hon. Hamauswa on a comprehensive approach to mandatory licencing. A comprehensive approach is work in progress and will work together with Hon. Members of Parliament as we seek to ensure that we build a robust media industry where citizens pay for the services that they enjoy.
I will move to some of the issues which I have already addressed in terms of the size of BAZ, I have already dealt with this particular matter. Also, to elaborate further on the role and responsibility of the Zimbabwe Broadcasting Corporation its scope and obligation is different from community radio stations and commercial televisions. The role and responsibility also include coverage in terms of parliamentary debates, parliamentary proceedings and many other national events. The public broadcaster’s national obligation covers national issues. Commercial television stations are not obliged to cover parliamentary proceedings. Their scope and focus are very commercial.
Madam Speaker, we now have fourteen registered community radio stations which are all fully functional and part of the proposals in terms of these amendments also seek to expand in terms of the responsibility for broadcasting fund to cater for the shortcomings in of the operational capability within the community radio stations. The fund will also take care of other operational expenses and costs so that we can have a robust and sustainable community radio station network that seeks to ensure that we leave no one and no place behind.
Madam Speaker, there is no financial burden, the issue is about a service. The issue is about compliance. The issue is about ensuring that we grow the media industry. I have already addressed that this Bill seeks to ensure that we have diversity and pluralism and also it is very progressive and that it will add in terms of the convergence that we have in our country.
On the issue about the Minister wanting to take all the powers from Parliament, I am sure that I have addressed that matter in that two of the members will still come from Parliament. I hope that I have addressed all the pertinent issues related to the amendments that we seek. Thank you Madam Speaker.
I move that the Bill be now read a second time.
Motion put and agreed to.
Bill read a second time.
Committee Stage: Thursday, 27th February, 2025.
On the motion of HON. KAMBUZUMA, seconded by HON. C. MOYO, the House adjourned at Seventeen Minutes Past Six o’clock p.m.