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SENATE HANSARD 24 SEPTEMBER 2024 VOL 33 NO 79
PARLIAMENT OF ZIMBABWE
Tuesday, 24th September, 2024.
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
BILL RECEIVED FROM THE NATIONAL ASSEMBLY
THE HON. DEPUTY PRESIDENT OF SENATE: Good afternoon Hon. Senators. I wish to inform the Senate that I have received the Finance (2024) Bill [H.B. 8A, 2024] from the National Assembly.
SWITCHING OFF OF CELLPHONES
THE HON. DEPUTY PRESIDENT OF SENATE: I wish to remind Hon. Senators once again to put your phones on silent or better switch them off.
MOTION
BUSINESS OF THE HOUSE
THE DEPUTY MINISTER OF VETERANS OF THE LIBERATION STRUGGLE AFFAIRS (HON. SEN. H. MOYO): Thank you Mr. President, I move that Orders of the Day Numbers 1 and 2 be stood over until the rest of the Orders of the Day on today’s Order paper have been disposed of.
Motion put and agreed to.
MOTION
REPORT OF THE NATIONAL PROSECUTING AUTHORITY FOR THE YEAR 2023
Third Order read: Adjourned debate on motion on the Report of the National Prosecuting Authority for the year 2023.
Question again proposed.
THE DEPUTY MINISTER OF VETERANS OF THE LIBERATION STRUGGLE AFFAIRS (HON. SEN. H. MOYO): I move that the debate do now adjourn.
Motion put and agreed to.
Debate to resume: Wednesday, 25th September, 2024.
MOTION
CONGRATULATORY MESSAGE TO HIS EXCELLENCY THE PRESIDENT ON ASSUMPTION OF THE SADC
CHAIRMANSHIP
HON. SEN. MAVENYENGWA: Thank you Mr. President. I move the motion standing in my name that this House—
FULLY EMBRACING the great honour bestowed on His Excellency the President, as the Chairman of the SADC regional bloc on 17th August, 2024;
ENTHUSED by this momentous and historic achievement of our distinguished and visionary leader; and
COGNISANT that this meteoric rise of our President leaves indelible footprints embedded among those of other distinguished statesmen who have served not only their countries with distinction but the interest of their continent with dignity, conscientiousness, profound knowledge and abilities which are so vital in the developments of the SADC region;
NOW, THEREFORE, this House resolves that Parliament’s profound gratitude and congratulatory messages be conveyed to His Excellency the President.
HON. SEN. D. M NCUBE: I second.
HON. SEN. MAVENYENGWA: Thank you Mr. President of the Senate for awarding me this opportunity to rise and move this motion of congratulating His Excellency, the President of the Republic of Zimbabwe, Dr. E. D. Mnangagwa on his esteemed appointment as Chairperson of the Southern African Development Community (SADC). The significant role which was given to the President is a testament to President E. D. Mnangagwa’s unwavering commitment to regional integration, peace and development.
I want to congratulate the President for taking the Chairman’s post in SADC. Congratulations Cde President!
The Southern African Development Coordination Conference (SADC) was established on April 1, 1980 in Lusaka, Zambia with the aim of reducing economic dependency on apartheid South Africa and fostering economic cooperation among newly independent Southern African States. Its first Chairperson was President Sir Sereste Khama of Botswana.
The organisation originated from meetings of the front-line States Angola, Botswana, Mozambique, Tanzania and Zambia who recognised the need for regional collaboration to support economic diversification and political independent. Each member State played a vital role in SADC which was initially formed before the SADC we have now. Angola provided security and military support while Botswana offered political stability and later became the headquarters of SADC. Lesotho contributed to transportation and communication in infrastructure. Malawi focused on agriculture and food security while Mozambique developed port and transport infrastructure to create alternative trade routes. Zimbabwe known as the bread and butter of SADC played a central role in agriculture and food security as well as providing crucial railway infrastructure.
Mr. President Sir, in 1992, SADC transitioned into the Southern African Development Community, the present organ which we have in Southern Africa, expanding its focus to include political, economic and security cooperation with the goal of deeper regional integration. Zimbabwe’s significant contributions, particularly in agriculture and infrastructure were essential to the success of SADC and continue to be crucial to the current SADC mission. Today, SADC comprises 16 member States; Angola, Botswana, Comoros, DRC, Eswatini, Lesotho, Madagascar, Malawi, Mauritius, Mozambique, Namibia, Seychelles, South Africa, Tanzania, Zambia and Zimbabwe.
The organisation’s mission is to promote sustainable and equitable economic growth and socio-economic development through regional integration. Zimbabwe has a proud history within SADC, with former President Robert G. Mugabe serving as Chairperson twice. First from 1986 -1987 and later from 2014 – 2015. During his tenure, President Mugabe played a pivotal role in advocating for regional economic empowerment and political stability. His leadership left a lasting impact on the organisation setting a strong foundation for future leaders, including our current President, Dr. E.D. Mnangagwa.
Mr. President, the recent SADC Summit presided over by President Mnangagwa was not only a monumental occasion, but also set a new standard for regional cooperation. The summit witnessed unprecedented participation with an attendance rate higher than any other summit since the formation of SADC. This exceptional turnout reflects the confidence that the region’s leadership has in President E. D. Mnangagwa’s vision and ability to steer the organisation towards greater achievements.
The success of the summit was not only in its attendance, but also in the meticulous planning and hospitality extended to the delegations. Distinguished leaders and dignitaries were warmly received at the newly refurbished Robert Gabriel Mugabe International Airport where state of the art VVIP and VIP lounges provided them with a fitting welcome. These facilities which exemplify Zimbabwe’s commitment to excellence were a testament to the President’s vision of enhancing the nation’s infrastructure to meet global standards.
Furthermore, the summit’s venue, the magnificent and spacious world class Parliament Building added to the grandeur of the occasion. This architectural marvel, now a significant tourist attraction, stands as a symbol of Zimbabwe’s progress and ambition. It is thanks to President Dr. E. D. Mnangagwa’s initiative that this iconic building was constructed, offering a fitting backdrop for such a historic summit.
While we congratulate our President on his appointment as SADC Chairperson, it is also fitting to express our gratitude for the strides he is making to improve our beloved country under his leadership. We have witnessed significant progress in infrastructure development, particularly the construction and rehabilitation of our road network. These efforts are vital in enhancing connectivity within Zimbabwe and they enter SADC region facilitating trade and improving the lives of our citizens. The transformation of our roads is a clear indication of President Dr. E.D. Mnangagwa’s commitment, to build a better Zimbabwe, one that is resilient, prosperous and well-positioned for future growth.
Additionally, we must acknowledge the innovative developments at the Pomona dumping site which were showcased during the summit. This site has been transformed into a hub for recycling and energy production, demonstrating Zimbabwe’s commitment to sustainable development. The delegates were given first-hand look at how waste is being converted into valuable resources, contributing to both environmental preservation and energy security. Mr. President, this project is another testament to President Mnangagwa’s forward thinking leadership aligned with global trends in green energy and resource management. Hon. Senators, this is the first of its kind in Africa, the Pomona project.
Moreover, under President Mnangagwa’s leadership, Zimbabwe is proudly hosting the construction of the Museum of African Liberation. This museum will serve as a repository of the rich history and struggles of African nations in their quest for independence. It will be a centre of learning and reflection, preserving the legacy of the continent’s liberation movements for future generations. The museum, once completed, will not only be a symbol of African unity and resilience, but also a major attraction drawing scholars, historians and tourists from around the world. This initiative is spearheaded by the President and underscores his dedication to honouring our past while building a brighter future for Zimbabwe and Africa as a whole.
Mr. President, the people of Zimbabwe are also extremely pleased with the remarkable improvements made to our border posts, particularly the Beitbridge and Manica Border Posts. These posts have been reconstructed to meet the highest standards and they now stand as some of the best in the entire SADC region. The modernisation of these key entry points has significantly improved the efficiency of cross border trade and travel, reduced delays and enhancing the overall experience for both commercial and personal travelers. These developments are a clear reflection of President Mnangagwa’s commitment to position Zimbabwe as a leading gate away for trade and tourism in South Africa.
In addition to these achievements, the ongoing construction of the Manhize Iron and Steel Plant is set to be one of the largest industrial projects in Africa. This plant, which is projected to employ more than
10 000 workers once fully operational, has already provided jobs for more than 1 000 people at the moment.
It has one of the biggest electricity sub-stations in Zimbabwe transmitting 400 kilovolts. The Manhize Iron and Steel Plant is a cornerstone of Zimbabwe’s industrialisation agenda and its completion will not only boost the country’s economy but also contribute significantly to the broader SADC region’s industrial capacity. This ambitious project is yet another example of President, E.D. Mnangagwa’s commitment to driving economic growth and creating opportunities for the people of Zimbabwe.
Mr. President Sir, furthermore, it is essential to recognise the peaceful and credible conduct of the 2023 elections under President Mnangagwa’s leadership. Zimbabwe has become a beacon of peace as evidenced by the successful elections which were praised for their transparency and integrity.
The Zimbabwe Electoral Commission Chairperson, Justice Priscilla Chigumba herself acclaimed the peaceful nature of these elections during the Joint Induction for the Portfolio Committee of Justice, Legal and Parliamentary Affairs along with the Thematic Committee on Human Rights in Bulawayo. This commendation underscores the progress Zimbabwe has made in strengthening its democratic processes, further enhancing the nation’s stability and reputation within the region.
Mr. President, His Excellency, E.D Mnangagwa’s commitment to inclusivity and sustainable development is further demonstrated by the recent Cabinet Resolution on the 27th of August 2024, initiating the ambitious project to solarise all rural areas without electricity by 2030.
This project is not just a vision but a reality in ensuring that every household in rural Zimbabwe will have access to essential amenities including a refrigerator, lighting, borehole, and television through this solarisation project. For those familiar with the challenges faced by rural communities, this initiative is nothing short of transformative, it exemplifies the inclusivity nature championed by our Constitution as it brings the benefits of modern energy to even the most remote areas of our country bridging the gap between urban and rural life.
In addition, the President has initiated a commendable project that is set to revolutionalise rural communities across Zimbabwe, village business units under this initiative; is provided with a solar-powered borehole equipped with three 10 000-litre JoJo tanks to ensure a reliable water supply in the rural areas.
Alongside this, every village is given a nutrition garden with vegetable seeds to plant fostering food security and self-sufficiency. The project also includes the establishment of two fish ponds which are fenced and well-protected offering both nutritional and economic benefits to the rural population. This initiative is a shining example of the President’s commitment to uplifting rural communities, ensuring that they are not left behind in Zimbabwe’s journey towards prosperity in response to His Excellency’s 2030 vision hence his taking over of the Chairmanship of SADC.
Mr. President Sir, His Excellency, President E.D. Mnangagwa has consistently championed the mantra “Nyika inovakwa nevene vayo/Ilizwe lakhiwa ngabanikazi balo” meaning a country is built by its people. This philosophy underscores the importance of self-reliance and active participation by Zimbabweans in the nation’s development. It is a call to action for citizens to take ownership of their country’s progress much like the collaborative spirit that drives the Southern African Development Community (SADC).
Just as SADC was built on the collective efforts of its member States to achieve regional integration and development, President Dr. E.D. Mnangagwa’s mantra inspires Zimbabweans to work together to build a prosperous and resilient nation contributing to the greater good of the region as a whole.
As I conclude this motion, it is imperative to highlight Zimbabwe’s commitment to re-engagement on the global stage epitomised by the guiding principle that Zimbabwe is a friend to all and an enemy to none. The approach has seen Zimbabwe rebuild and strengthen relationships with nations across the world fostering an environment of mutual respect and co-operation. The Chairmanship of SADC presents a unique opportunity for Zimbabwe to further these efforts, positioning our country as a key player in regional diplomacy and development under President Dr. E.D. Mnangagwa’s leadership. This role will undoubtedly enhance Zimbabwe’s influence within SADC, opening up new avenues for economic growth, investment, and collaboration. It is an honour that will bring significant benefits to our nation solidifying Zimbabwe’s place as a respected and proactive member of the regional and global community.
Mr. President, under his Chairmanship, we are confident that SADC will continue to strengthen its role as a pillar of stability and growth in Southern Africa. His Excellency’s focus on economic development, infrastructure, and industrialisation aligns perfectly with SADC’s goals and we are optimistic that his leadership will bring about tangible benefits for all member States.
Let us, as this august House, extend our heartfelt congratulations to the President, Dr. E.D. Mnangagwa for this significant milestone. We stand ready to support his efforts to elevate SADC to new heights ensuring that the region continues to thrive in unity and prosperity. Once again, congratulations to His Excellency E. D. Mnangagwa, Chairman of SADC. Thank you.
HON. SEN NCUBE: Thank you Mr. President. I am honoured today to second the motion to celebrate His Excellency the President, Dr. E. D. Mnangagwa for assuming the Chairmanship of the Southern African Development Community (SADC). This significant event which took place on the 17th of August 2024, was a proud moment not just for Zimbabwe, but for the whole of the SADC Region. The appointment is a clear testimony Mr. President, of the great leadership respect that our President has among other leaders in the region.
This motion recognises the important contribution which he needs to foster within SADC, that is growth, stability and co-operation within the region. With him as a leader of SADC, we confidently say that SADC is in safe hands. This honour Mr. President, given to our President Cde E.D. Mnangagwa as Chairman of SADC, is a major achievement for Zimbabwe. It does not only show his strong leadership, but also the growing role Zimbabwe plays within the region.
Zimbabwe has been actively involved in regional infrastructure projects such as the development of the North-South Corridor, which aims to improve transportation links between SADC countries. This project facilitates trade and boosts economic growth. A notable example is the upgrading of the Beitbridge-Harare Road to SATC standards, ensuring a smoother connection between Zimbabwe and its neighbouring countries. Additionally, the construction of the Harare-Mvurwi-Guruve-Kanyemba Highway, including a new high-level bridge over the Zambezi River, which will significantly improve links between Zimbabwe, Zambia and Mozambique, further enhancing regional integration.
Under his leadership, Zimbabwe has supported key regional goals like economic growth, building infrastructure and promoting peace. His continued leadership in SADC shows his deep commitment to the success of both Zimbabwe and the entire Southern Africa. In this regard, President Mnangagwa will vigorously advocate for policies that promote free trade, coordinated macro-economic policies and collective infrastructure development across the SADC region.
These efforts are aimed at fostering deeper economic ties among member States, enhancing the free movement of goods and services and driving sustainable regional development. By prioritising infrastructure and trade integration, the President is laying the foundation for a more prosperous and interconnected Southern Africa. I have no doubt in my mind that His Excellency will deliver on these and many other initiatives.
President Mnangagwa’s rise to this position places him among other respected African leaders who have served their countries with distinction. We look up to him to lead with wisdom, dignity and a strong commitment. His skill in handling difficult regional issues has earned him the respect of both Zimbabweans and other leaders across Africa. His leadership is crucial in pushing forward SADC’s goals.
Zimbabwe has played an active role in diplomatic initiatives within the SADC, frequently positioning itself as a mediator in regional conflicts. President Mnangagwa is committed to focusing on key conflict areas, particularly in Mozambique and the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), where his leadership will aim to foster peace and stability through diplomatic efforts.
It is important to note that Zimbabwe hosts the Southern African Power Pool (SAPP) which coordinates the planning and operation of electricity power systems among member States to ensure reliable electricity supply. SAPP seeks the following: Energy co-operation and trade, electricity trading platform as well as grid reliability and security.
It is my fervent hope that His Excellency, as the Chairman of SADC, will ensure that SAPP works to harmonise energy policies across the region, ensuring that member States align their national policies with regional goals which can lead to more coordinated development of the energy sector.
Under President Mnangagwa’s leadership, Zimbabwe continues to be a strong pillar in supporting regional initiatives that enhance the quality of life for millions. Under the bold leadership of His Excellency, President Dr. E. D. Mnangagwa, Zimbabwe is set to become a key regional fuel hub. Zimbabwe has the largest underground fuel storage facilities in the region. The President has outlined plans to double pump fuel from Beira, Mozambique through a pipeline to Harare. This fuel will be stored in Harare and is easily accessible to neighbouring countries like Zambia, Botswana, the Northern DRC and Limpopo Province in South Africa.
To further facilitate regional distribution, additional pipelines will be built to connect Zambia and Botswana. These initiatives which are fairly advanced, demonstrate the far-sighted and bold leadership aimed at strengthening Zimbabwe’s role in regional economic growth and integration.
The clear, wise leadership and vision that President Mnangagwa will bring to SADC, as Chairman, will be a boon, not only for Zimbabwe but for the whole SADC region. He also aims to strengthen ties within the regional bloc, guided by the principle that ‘an injury to one is an injury to all’. His vision promotes unity, collective security and co-operation, ensuring that challenges faced by one-member State are addressed as a shared responsibility by the entire region.
Zimbabwe has often sought SADC support in opposing Western sanctions with the regional bloc expressing solidarity with Zimbabwe against perceived external interference in its internal affairs. As Chairman, His Excellency, President Mnangagwa now stands tall within SADC, continuing to champion the respect for sovereignty and the internal affairs of each member State while promoting regional unity. His leadership ensures that as the region grows stronger together, it remains steadfast in defending its collective independence and self-determination.
In conclusion, we must stand tall as Zimbabweans and seize this unique opportunity bestowed upon us as a nation, rcognising the significant role of our great leader. Together, we will continue to support His Excellency in making a remarkable impact in both the political and economic spheres of the SADC region. I also hasten to add that collectively, we congratulate His Excellency in assuming the Chairmanship of SADC bloc as a whole. Thank you, Mr. President.
HON. SEN. PHULU: Thank you Mr. President. I rise to respond to the motion regarding the President’s recent election as Chairperson of the SADC regional bloc. While we, as the opposition benches, extent our congratulations to the President on this significant achievement, we cannot ignore the pressing responsibilities that accompany this honour, a reality that must be faced with both courage and accountability. This moment, while deserving of celebration, illuminates a stark contrast between the lofty ideals of regional leadership and the harsh realities faced by the people of Zimbabwe. As we comment to the President, we are also burdened to remind him that he now stands at the forefront of tremendous expectations. The honour of leading the SADC comes with an obligation to address the failures that have plagued our nation for far too long.
Firstly, let’s discuss economic development - a concept that has been spoken of extensively, yet remains frustratingly elusive for the citizens of our beloved Zimbabwe. With a staggering percentage of our population now living in poverty, the President must take decisive action to revive our economy. It is time to move beyond empty promises and implement concrete policies that create jobs, support local businesses and foster genuine economic opportunities. Our citizens cannot continue to languish in deprivation while political leaders celebrate accolades. Words must transform into tangible outcomes.
Mr. President, infrastructural decay further exacerbates our economic woes. Our roads, hospitals and schools are a reflection of neglect rather than leadership. As the President takes up this esteemed regional position, we must be careful that others do not ask us—how can you lead a region when your own backyard is in disarray?
Let this be a wake-up call - we cannot lead effectively when our infrastructure crumbles beneath us. The time for grand plans that amount to little more than rhetoric is over. We hope that this time around, we demand real investment and a commitment to rebuild our nation’s infrastructure.
Moreover, the issue of social safety nets for the vulnerable cannot be understated. It is disheartening that so many of our children seek refuge in foreign lands, forced to become economic refugees in nations that Zimbabwe will now Chair. This opportunity can also become a damning indictment of leadership failures if the President does not grasp it with both hands. The President must prioritise the establishment of robust social safety programmes that guarantee the rights and welfare of our citizens, ensuring that every Zimbabwean has a stake in the nation’s future. Including most importantly our elderly as well.
Mr. President, the rule of law and respect for human rights stand as pillars of democracy, yet Zimbabwe's history tells a tale of deep-rooted violations and unaddressed grievances. As we consider the role of our leadership within the SADC, it is essential to recognise the complex historical context surrounding our political landscape, including unresolved issues related to past elections and a need for ongoing improvement in human rights practices. This moment presents a unique opportunity for our national leadership to embrace genuine reform and strengthen the democratic principles that are vital for effective regional guidance.
The expectations are high and it is important that our actions reflect our commitment to positive change as the world observes our country's journey forward. It will be irresponsible as the opposition for us not to forcefully put forward these arguments in the face of the arguments that we have presented to our colleagues. Movement forward requires forces pushing against each other. The forces are always pushing in one direction with no opposing forces. There will be no life, there will be nothing meaningful to come out of that debate.
Furthermore, as we strive for meaningful progress on the regional stage, it is crucial that we embrace international best practices. Building credibility for our nation requires addressing the injustices that persist within our borders. A strong commitment to transparency, accountability and respect for human rights will be essential for enhancing our standing on the international front. By doing so, we can ensure that our efforts are not only recognised, but also supported by the global community.
In closing, Mr. President, while we salute the President on this new role, let us be clear - the accolades must translate into action. We are more than a nation of rhetoric; we are a people yearning for a future that fosters opportunity and upholds dignity. We underline these issues. The President has a significant responsibility to address economic stagnation - we are having our budget, the Finance Bill is here now, here is the opportunity, let us see the budget addressing the economic stagnation, infrastructural decay, social inequities and human rights violations. The potential for a brighter future for Zimbabwe lies not in the title held, Mr. President, that we celebrate here today, but in the actions taken to elevate the lives of our people. We pray and hope that Mr. President is listening and is yearning to take us forward in the matter that I have just applied Mr. President. I thank you.
HON. SEN. MAVENYENGWA: Mr. President, I move that the debate do now adjourn.
HON. O. NCUBE: I second.
Motion put and agreed.
Debate to resume: Wednesday, 25th September, 2024.
MOTION
CHILD MORTALITY RATE DUE TO MEASLES
HON. SEN. MLILO: I move the motion standing in my name that this House;
CONCERNED at the rate of mortality among children due to measles;
ACKNOWLEDGING that measles is preventable through the
immunisation programme 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 programmes aimed at preventing such diseases;
NOW, THEREFORE, resolves that the Ministry of Health and Child Care:
(a) advocates for deterrent measures which criminalise the barring of children from immunisation programmes;
- implores the law enforcement agents to thoroughly
investigate and bring to book any parents and guardians who endanger lives of children by failing to get them immunised.
HON. SEN. C. NDHLOVU: I second.
HON. SEN. MLILO: The motion is on compulsory measles vaccination, monitoring and enforcement. Noting the obligations that the Government has in terms of national, regional and international conventions, all aimed to protecting the rights of children, in particular the right to good health and the right to life. Further noting the vulnerability of children which requires active parental and State support, and protection and that measles immunisation in Zimbabwe is compulsory to all children by an Act of law.
Mr. President, concerned that the children continue to die of measles in Zimbabwe because parents or guardians are not taking the initiative to get their children immunised because of either religious or cultural beliefs. Religious beliefs in particular where 35 children are suspected to have died of measles in Hurungwe after the parents or guardians failed to get them immunised from the deadly pandemic.
Mr. President, shocked that children can die in such large numbers of an epidemic that they should be protected from at law and there is no punishment to those that failed to take that particular child for immunisation, that is, parents or guardians.
Saddened by the realisation that those that lose their lives are vulnerable innocent victims that are subject to the decision of either the parent or guardian. Aware that the Government makes an effort to decentralise and raise awareness of such immunisation initiatives so that such initiatives can reach to the most remote and inaccessible areas.
I now, therefore call upon the House to condemn the death of more than 35 suspected Apostolic Faith children in Hurungwe and other parts of the country where it may be happening but not yet reported. I implore Government to intensify measles awareness and vaccination programmes, which special programmes targeting groups that are known to be hostile to such initiatives for either cultural or religious reasons.
Mr. President, I call upon the law enforcement agency to thoroughly investigate and bring to book any parents or guardian who may endanger the lives of their dependents by failing to get them immunised, in this case, the Hurungwe incident. I call upon the House to advocate for the imposition of stiffer penalties for offenders so as to protect the children and also to act as a deterrent to would-be offenders.
I move that the debate do now adjourn.
HON. SEN. C. NDHLOVU: I second.
Motion put and agreed to.
Debate to resume: Wednesday, 25th September, 2024.
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 6 be stood over until the rest of the Orders of the Day have been disposed of.
Motion put and agreed to.
MOTION
REPORT ON THE BENCHMARK VISIT BY THE ZIMBABWE PARLIAMENTARY CAUCUS ON ADVOCACY ON ANTI-CORRUPTION
Seventh Order read: Adjourned debate on motion on the benchmark visit Report by the Zimbabwe Women Parliamentary Caucus.
Question again proposed.
HON. SEN. PHULU: Today, Mr. President, I urge the House to reflect on the significant benchmark visit to Seychelles undertaken by a dedicated team of women parliamentarians led by our esteemed colleague, Hon. Senator Mbohwa. I stand here not only to commend the initiative but also to underscore vital lessons this report presents as we strive for gender balance and equality in Zimbabwean society. The report presents compelling insights from our brothers and sisters in Seychelles demonstrating the transformative power of strategic partnerships and proactive policies in promoting gender equality.
The collaboration of institutions such as the African Development Bank highlights the essential role that multi-stakeholder engagement plays in realising our constitutional mandate. As anchored in Section 17 of our Constitution, it is clear that the State has an imperative duty to promote full gender balance, ensuring that women actively participate on equal footing with men in every sector of society.
The recommendations arising from this visit resonate profoundly with our own challenges in Zimbabwe. The call for pragmatic steps to ensure that women are not just included but are empowered to lead. They urge us to implement effective legislative frameworks that guarantee at least equal representation of women in all decision-making bodies. Such measures are not just lofty ideals, there I go again, they are essential for advancing our democracy and achieving social justice.
Moreover, it is with great pride that I acknowledged progressive provisions of our own Constitution including the introduction of the zebra system at the women’s quotas. These innovations save as a legacy for future generations and reminders of the progress achieved under the leadership of the President of the First Republic and also the late President of the Movement for Democratic Change, our own leader, to whom we aspire and look towards Morgan Richard Tsvangirai.
We, as members of the Opposition, stand firm in our commitment to uphold and promote these constitutional provisions that advocate for gender balance. However, let us confront the harsh reality. We have been complacent since ratification of the 2013 Constitution. Now is the time for action. The report asserts lack in
gender balance to decline in corruption offers a tantalising promise. However, we must acknowledge that this claim in the report warrants further investigation. In other words, the report could have drawn the nexus between this decline in corruption that was recorded in Seychelles and this gender aspect.
However, it is critical to analyse the broader socio-economic context that shapes our political landscape. The Speaker of Seychelles, in his Parliament, raised pertinent concerns regarding this relationship between the decline of production and their work in promoting women. I urge Zimbabwe’s Women’s Parliamentary Caucus to commission comprehensive research to unpack this crucial nexus so that we see it for what it is. If validated, this insight could serve as a powerful motivator for our government to accelerate efforts to achieve gender parity.
Going forward, I implore all Parliamentarians, the Government of Zimbabwe and private stakeholders to wholeheartedly support the endeavours of Zimbabwe’s Women’s Parliamentary Caucus. Our collective efforts are imperative if we are to transform the ideals enshrined in our Constitution into tangible outcomes for women across Zimbabwe. We must create practical pathways for women to have access to resources, opportunities, and decision-making arena, and let there be a playing field for all.
In conclusion, let us not falter in our commitment to gender balance. The time of passive support is over and I speak to all the Senators here, both males and females. I particularly underline for the males as well. The time for passive support is over, we must take ownership of this agenda and ensure that it is at the forefront of our national discourse. By doing so, we will foster a society where gender equity is realised. Gender equality is also realised not just as a goal but as an unwavering norm.
I would like to congratulate Sen. Mbohwa and her team once again for such a fact-finding visit which has come back with results and certainly, I would say that this takes an applauding, a thundering load of this report. I thank you.
HON. SEN. MBOHWA: Thank you, Madam President. I do move that the debate do now adjourn.
HON SEN. GOTORA: I second.
Motion put and agreed to.
Debate to resume: Thursday, 25th September, 2024.
MOTION
HUMAN-WILDLIFE CONFLICT
Eighth Order read: Adjourned debate on motion on human-wildlife conflict.
Question again proposed.
HON. SEN. KABONDO: Thank you Madam President for giving me this opportunity to just add my thoughts to the motion. I would like to thank Hon. Sen. Mohadi for bringing this motion into this House. Wildlife and human conflicts are real and severely impact on the livelihoods of those living along the National Parks.
We have had reports of livestock predation by large carnivores, mainly lions and hyenas. The human species is also threatened by wildlife hence my worry about its extinction because Madam President, humans like animals are prone to extinction.
All these negative interactions make people retaliate and kill wild animals because livestock and crop production are the main sources of their livelihood. Local people end up poaching not because they do not want to conserve animals, but because they are sometimes responding to the negative effects they experience with wild animals.
Madam President, there is a need to address these challenges. Feasible conflict mitigation strategies need to be implemented to promote co-existence between people and wildlife because as long as we continue having negative interactions between people and wildlife, the involvement of local people and promoting conservation efforts will decline and we will lose wildlife.
Local people are the custodians of conversation and will always be. They need the support of the Government in mitigating conflicts because they do not have the financial means to implement these measures.
Climate change is real and it is also a driver of these conflicts. We experience shortages of surface water resources for wild animals and people, all because dams and rivers are drying up due to drought. Unreliable rainfall - we no longer have good pastures for both wildlife and rural communities, making wild life and domestic animals compete for these limited resources hence the conflict. We love our animals but it is difficult for us to share the little that we have with them.
HON. SEN. MOHADI: I move that the debate do now adjourn.
HON. TONGOGARA: I second.
Motion put and agreed to.
Debate to resume: Wednesday, 25th September, 2024.
MOTION
REPORT ON THE 55TH PLENARY ASSEMBLY SESSION OF THE SADC-PARLIAMENTARY FORUM HOSTED BY THE PARLIAMENT OF ANGOLA IN LUANDA
Ninth Order read: Adjourned debate on motion on the Report on the 55th Plenary Assembly Session of the SADC Parliamentary Forum hosted by the Parliament of Angola in Luanda.
Question again proposed.
HON. SEN. PHULU: I have a point of order Madam President.
THE TEMPORARY PRESIDENT OF SENATE (HON. SEN. DUBE): Point of order Hon. Advocate.
HON. SEN. PHULU: To say that whilst this report was tabled, it has not been distributed. We do not have it. We request that it be made available on whatever platform. I saw that there is a new WhatsApp platform for sharing these things. That is a request. We cannot debate it now because we cannot find it anywhere.
THE TEMPORARY PRESIDENT OF SENATE: Okay Hon. Sen. Mbohwa. Ensure the distribution of this report so that they can see and know what to debate.
HON. SEN. MBOHWA: Okay Madam President. I move that the debate do now adjourn.
HON. SEN. SHIRI: I second.
Motion put and agreed to.
Debate to resume: Wednesday, 25th September, 2024.
ANNOUNCEMENT BY THE TEMPORARY PRESIDENT OF SENATE
BILL RECEIVED FROM THE NATIONAL ASSEMBLY
THE TEMPORARY PRESIDENT OF SENATE: I have received the Private Voluntary Organisations Amendment Bill [H. B. 2A, 2024] from the National Assembly.
MOTION
IMPROVEMENT ON SERVICE DELIVERY BY LOCAL AUTHORITIES
Tenth Order read: Adjourned debate on motion on challenges bedelving local authorities in the provision of services.
Question again proposed.
HON. SEN. GOTORA: Thank you. I stand to add a few words to this motion Madam President. I believe I am a good debater but not a good reader. This morning when I sat in my office, I just thought I needed to put something down so that I do not miss anything which reflects or affects service delivery. Service delivery Madam President, is a shared responsibility between Central Government and Local Government.
THE TEMPORARY PRESIDENT OF SENATE: Order Hon. Sen. Gotora! I understand you debated this motion on the 19th of September.
HON. SEN. GOTORA: No, I did not.
THE TEMPORARY PRESIDENT OF SENATE: So, they have to verify before you contribute to the motion. Any further debate.
HON. MAVENYENGWA: I want to wind up the debate Madam President. Can I go ahead?
HON. SEN. GOTORA: Point of order Madam President.
THE TEMPORARY PRESIDENT OF SENATE: Point of order.
HON. SEN. GOTORA: It cannot be wound up before I air my views because I certainly did not debate this motion.
THE TEMPORARY PRESIDENT OF SENATE: They said they will verify so I cannot give you…
HON. SEN. GOTORA: If it is wound up when will I debate it? I did not debate it.
THE TEMPORARY PRESIDENT OF SENATE: Hon. Gotora, you can proceed.
HON. SEN. GOTORA: Thank you Madam President. I had felt bad if this opportunity passed before I aired my small views on the issue of service delivery. Like I was saying, service delivery is shared between Local Government and Central Government. The powers that dictate who does what are clearly established in the following Acts: The Regional Town and Council Planning Act, [Cap. 29:12], the Urban Councils Act [Cap. 29:15], the Rural District Councils Act [Cap. 29:13], the Communal Lands Act [Cap. 20:04] and the Traditional Leaders Act [Cap. 29:17]. These powers of service delivery Madam President, are explicit in these Acts and also powers of the Minister responsible for Local Government are clear.
In some cases, these Acts use the word, shall or the phrase, the Minister shall. Once the word ‘shall’, is used, it becomes peremptory. Therefore, if the Minister intervenes or gets involved in what local authorities are doing, it is because of this phrase, ‘the Minister shall’. This means it is peremptory. There are over 40 Clauses in the Urban Councils Act as well as in the RDC Act, which use this phrase, ‘the Minister shall’. In some cases, however, the Acts use the word ‘may’. This is therefore, negotiable.
In the year 2000, we attempted to have Local Government constitutionalised with the help of the Judge Hlatshwayo and the late Cyril Ndebele but because of misguided MDC oppositional politics, the Constitution that had contained some beneficial clauses for local authorities was short down in a referendum. So, Local Government remained a department in the Ministry of Local Government, which therefore, means a department is a department. The Minister will always intervene…
HON. SEN. ZVIDZAI: Point of order.
THE TEMPORARY PRESIDENT OF SENATE: What is your point of order Hon. Senator?
HON. SEN. ZVIDZAI: I have got a point of order Madam President. Do not get angry with me.
THE TEMPORARY PRESIDENT OF SENATE: I am not angry. That is the way I speak.
*HON. SEN. ZVIDZAI: Thank you. My point of order is related to the judgmental statement that ‘misguided MDC’. I think that is unfair.
THE TEMPORARY PRESIDENT OF SENATE: Okay Hon. Senator Zvidzai. You can proceed Hon. Senator.
HON. SEN. GOTORA: Thank you Madam President. The Hon. Member who has just spoken, knows where the two of us came from. I think my point is clear, it was misguided because even the MDC itself, later on, regretted having shot down an important Constitution which had term limits. That is why the MDC had to go to Kariba to come up with what they called the Kariba Draft. So, I am very clear in this regard.
In 2000, another opportunity finally came and we constitutionalised Local Government in Chapters 9, 14 and 17 of the 2013 Constitution. Chapter 14 became the mainstay of decentralisation as well as giving powers to the ordinary people. Again, the MDC-T was demanding unnecessary positions which were aimed at federalisation of Zimbabwe. This is why in the whole world, Chapter 14 and I repeat in the whole world, Chapter 14 is the only chapter in any Constitution in the world which has a special preamble. It was because of these demands where people wanted to federate the country. This is why Chapter 14 has a special preamble.
Powers like the Mayors of Harare and Bulawayo to be automatic chairmen of the two Metropolitan Provinces, even though those powers were totally undemocratic because you just do not impose a leader on an elected organisation of Government. Some of the Chapter 14 powers were then spread to Chapters 9 and 17. We are stuck there because this very Parliament has not passed the laws as required by the demands of Chapter 9 and Chapter 17 to implement powers of these two very important Chapters. This then brings me to the subject matter under discussion, that is service delivery by local authorities.
As the motion was presented by Hon. Mavenyengwa, I want to thank you Hon. Mavenyengwa. I also want to thank all those who spoke before me because really, they did a good job in discussing this motion. I agree but however disagree with some of the sentiments proffered by my colleagues in this House. Things like Government failing, Ministry taking powers of local authorities, these are some of the words which were said in this House. Some people were saying Government failed, some people were saying ministries are taking powers of local authorities, which is not true because it is in the law. If the Minister exercises his prerogative as prescribed in law, you cannot say he or she is taking because he is just exercising the powers as given by law and this is exactly what we are stuck in. Laws say the Minister ‘shall’, what do you expect the Minister to do if it says the Minister ‘shall’?
Madam President, phrases like abusing the word ‘autonomy’ to mean independence are very unfortunate because autonomy does not mean you are independent. Autonomy means you exercise powers as given by someone somewhere and you are allowed to exercise those powers. The current Acts are very clear on powers of the Ministers. I personally have been lobbying to come up with a single new Local Authorities Act which will remove some of the shall clauses in the current Act but my colleagues have not played ball on this move. A draft Local Authorities Act was put together by local governance experts at MSU but again, under the influence of the MDC, now CCC - [HON. MEMBERS: Inaudible interjection.]-
THE TEMPORARY DEPUTY PRESIDENT OF SENATE: Hon. Members, can you allow him to put his contributions as you did. Can you proceed?
HON. SEN. GOTORA: I will continue. My problem Madam President is, I am coming from where some of my colleagues in this House have not come from and I am exercising exactly what I experienced. I experienced what I am saying. - [HON. MEMBERS: Inaudible interjections.]-
THE TEMPORARAY PRESIDENT OF SENATE: Order Hon. Members. I am the Chairperson. Let him contribute his motion please as you did. You can proceed.
HON. SEN. GOTORA: Thank you. As Chairman of UCLG in Southern Africa, I have not heard of any country that has two Acts governing local government in one country. Zimbabwe is stuck with bad opposition politics, colonial politics which were discriminatory hence two separate laws. The Acts referred to above have clear mandates taken from Central Government to deliver both social, economic, industrial and other services. Where do local authorities get finances from? It is also clear since local authorities have powers and sources from which to get money for service delivery. Urban local authorities have 54 powers. Rural local authorities have 65 powers, but how many are they using or enforcing for them to be able to give the requisite services as per their mandate? Out of the 32 urban local authorities, none of them had a master plan for the last 15 years as demanded by law. None of them had a land bank hence the proliferation of land barons because local authorities did not have land banks, land barons just did what they wanted to do.
Madam President, none of them had estate accounts, none of the 32. It is all contained in this official report. This is an authentic report done by professional consultants. None of them again had ring-fenced the water account. The water account is supposed to be ring-fenced just like the estate account. What are these two accounts for? The estate account is responsible for making sure that we have the right roads without potholes. We have the right drainage systems in urban local authorities without clogging. The water account is responsible for only providing water services to residents in a given area. The water account was never meant to give allowances, salaries and other perks to local authorities.
HON. MUZODA: Point of order Madam President.
THE TEMPORARY PRESIDENT OF SENATE: What is your point of order Hon. Wunganayi?
*HON. SEN. MUZODA: Are you going to allow other people who debated this motion to debate it again as he has done?
THE TEMPORARY PRESIDENT OF SENATE: How can you ask me a question Hon. Wunganayi when you know that? Can you continue Honourable? They say he did not debate. Please Hon. Gotora, can you sit down? I am told that he did not debate. There are two motions which are similar.
HON. SEN. MUZODA: Madam President, I debated two motions in here. The first one is the Human-Wild life Conflict. The second one …
THE TEMPORARY PRESIDENT OF SENATE: Hon. Wunganayi, can you please leave it to the Chair and the Clerks? The Clerks have told me that he did debate. There are two motions which are similar. So that is what I am saying. Can you proceed?
HON. SEN. MUZODA: Madam President, when I was writing this morning, I knew it was going to raise eye brows and that is …
HON. SEN. SIBANDA: But how can you do this to me Madam President? You cannot just embarrass me like that. I stood up and said point of order.
THE TEMPORARY PRESIDENT OF SENATE: I did not embarrass you. I thought you were saying what you were saying when you were seated. So, if it is a point of order, can you raise it?
HON. SEN. SIBANDA: May the Hon. Senator kindly debate not to attack. We are in an honourable House. We have to treat each other in a civil manner. Thank you Madam President.
HON. SEN. GOTORA: Thank you maSibanda for correcting me.
HON. SEN. PHULU: My point is that the Hon. Member cannot call her maSibanda but call her Hon. Member.
THE TEMPORARY PRESIDENT OF SENATE: Hon. Advocate, can you take your seat. There is no maSibanda, there is Honourable.
HON. SEN. GOTORA: My apology Madam President.
THE TEMPORARY PRESIDENT OF SENATE: It is alright now, let him finish. It is Hon. Sibanda not maSibanda.
HON. SEN. GOTORA: Hon. Sibanda, thank you for correcting me. None of the 32 urban local authorities had what is called a masterplan, hence His Excellency the President, Dr. E.D. Mnangagwa had to order local authorities to come up with masterplans by the 30th June. Alas, the same urban local authorities, some of them did not provide the masterplan by the date as dictated by His Excellency, the President.
Zimbabwe is the most decentralised governmental institution in the world and I repeat, in the world. We are not using the decentralised powers and structures as given by the law. We start from Central Government then we go to local authorities, the wards, what we call WADCOs and then NEDCOs, the neighbourhood committees in urban local authorities, but none of the urban local authorities have gone into their neighbourhoods to ask for what they require and why they are not paying the dues that are due to the local authority. Hence, the local authorities do not have money because there is no connectivity between those in town houses and the neighbourhood which they govern. As a result, they do not have the money to do what they are supposed to be doing, but to look up to Government to give them money.
Local authorities have never been given money by Central Government except for specific projects, not for things that are day to day activities by local authorities. I personally was Chairman of AWULA and Africa envied our decentralised local government system …
HON. SEN. NDEBELE: On a point of order. His three minutes are up.
THE TEMPORARY PRESIDENT OF SENATE: I rely with the Parliament Clerks and they have not yet told me that his time is up.
HON. SEN. GOTORA: Let me wind up. …
HON. SEN. MAVENYENGWA: Madam President, can I move that he be given an extra ten minutes because he was being disturbed by the people who were standing up on points of order? Let us give him a chance to finish his debate.
HON. SEN. NDEBELE: On a point of order …
THE TEMPORARY PRESIDENT OF SENATE: What is it? Your points of order are now too much. Can you allow him to finish?
HON. SEN. NDEBELE: Last week you did not allow the extension to minutes, so we follow what you say Madam President.
HON. SEN. GOTORA: Let me conclude. Local authorities have a legislative responsibility to give people water, right roads, schools, clinics and all the necessary enjoyable services. However, because they are not in correct connection with the rate payers and business community where the money is supposed to be coming from, they are failing to raise the money that is supposed to be used for service delivery. The people have been complaining about lack of money. Go to Mbare today, Mayor Mafume has done a wonderful job without getting a cent from Government. In the last two months, he has done a wonderful job because he has connected – [HON. MEMBERS: Hear, hear.] – Wambenge uchiti ndirege kutaura wakuombera. …
THE TEMPORARY PRESIDENT OF SENATE: Order Hon. Senator, I said can you conclude – [AN HON. MEMBER: Let us give him another five minutes.] – [HON. SEN. PHULU: I move that he be given another five minutes – [Laughter] –
HON. SEN. GOTORA: They now want me to have another 10 minutes. The only reason why that has happened is because Mayor Mafume has become politically
savvy if we understand what it means. That is why he is now able to do what he is doing. I pray and hope all the local authorities, the Mayors, the Clerks, and the town Treasurer become politically-savvy. I thank you.
HON. SEN. CHAPFUDZA: Thank you, Madam President. My voice today was not in a good condition, so I thought maybe I would debate tomorrow or any other day but because the motion is being wound up today, I thought it necessary that I also put my voice to this motion which is so contentious.
I would like to start my debate based on, for example, when starting the sitting of the House we start with a prayer. In the prayer, there are some of the things which are indicated that whenever we are conducting business in this House, we should understand that we are doing it before the Lord and we are representing the people of Zimbabwe, not debating looking along party lines or the hatred that might originate from us because of certain events that would have happened in the past.
So, I would like to thank Hon. Sen. Mavenyengwa. He is a learned person who, when he writes a motion, should not just debate the surface of the motion, but should look into detail.
When you look into the motion, Hon. Mavenyengwa is telling us what he observed but if you read into his motion he says, ‘Therefore, I employ this House’ meaning to say some of the things that we might be debating here, it is not the intention of the crafter of this motion because when the crafter of this motion starts his motion, he talks about the issues that are bedeviling the local authorities, which means that he is seeing that there is a devil in the local authorities.
When he is moving around, he sees that service delivery is not being delivered. Nothing is happening. Then he is in a sorrowful state but if you look into his motion, before going much further, he jumps and goes on to say, “commending the sterling efforts of the President” It is not just a statement that has been dropped there, but it has been put there for a reason because we are saying this motion has been drafted by a person who is learned. We are not going to take anything for granted. Why is it that he is starting to write his motion–? [HON. MEMBERS: Inaudible interjections] – I am not accusing anyone. I am debating. I am just saying whenever a motion is written, we are going to check into detail on what is in the motion. What I am talking about is in the motion. Otherwise if you say I should not talk about the details, just go through the motion, I am not bringing in new issues here, but I am just talking about that he is dropping the issue of the rehabilitation of the roads which is not just a statement. It has got a purpose for its dropping in this motion.
He talks of indelible footprints as a lasting impact or unforgivable event. We know what happened in the local authorities, some of the Hon. Senators talked of the cancellation of debts which happened. It is an indelible footprint which was put in the local authorities. If you move in the motion there is a word that reads ‘cognisant’, he is saying that when I am writing this motion, I am not just writing what is happening, of the neglect that has been happening in the local authorities understanding the historic events that led to the failure of local authorities.
Also saddened by the lack of willpower by the local authorities to execute their mandate, then he said, ‘Therefore I employ this House to call upon the Ministry of Local Government and Public Works’. So, he is saying what is happening in the local authorities; he is now employing us that call upon the Ministry of Local Government and Public Works. So, he is saying what is happening is not an issue to do with the local authorities, but he is saying the head, which is the Ministry, is not doing its work. Then he is employing us all here that we should call that Ministry and address these issues which are affecting the local authorities in service delivery which includes water reticulation, to reaffirm the support for devolution of services and functions to Local Government.
What is to re-affirm? He is saying there was just a talk, but there was no action in terms of devolution. So, he is employing us saying you Ministry of Local Government, we are reaffirming the things that you introduced on that issue of devolution for it to function. So, it is just clear in what he is talking about here that you should call upon the Ministry of Local Government and Public Works to re-affirm. Let it just not be in talk, but let it be in action that devolution should be seen.
So, I would like to thank the Hon. Senators who debated and also to take note that when we are debating, we are not doing it for ourselves but for the general public. So, we should not see party lines, but unity because service delivery is for us all, if it is not delivered, we all suffer. Therefore, we should unite in this movement and call upon this Ministry which has been indicated here to employ it, let it work out that local authorities perform for the betterment of us. We need water, electricity and good roads. Let us not be divided by a thing that should unite us. I thank you.
*HON. SEN. MAVENYENGWA: Thank you Madam President. I would like to wind up this motion because this Parliamentary Session is coming to an end. I would like to thank all the Hon. Members who contributed to this debate. It is now clear that in the local authorities, there is need for things to be corrected so that people can get clean water, roads be repaired and garbage be collected, all the services that are required for people in urban areas to live happily.
I am glad that this debate showed that everyone showed that in the local authorities, nothing is moving well and there is need for work to be done. Just like here, in Harare, there is no clean water. One of the contributing factors is corruption in the local authorities, especially in the councillors that are elected without much knowledge. I am glad that this House showed that they understand that if we rectify that our people will stay well where they stay.
I am glad about Senator Chapfudza’s debate. He said, when we debate here, let us put in mind the electorate instead of debating on party lines because the local authorities, the councillors, if they are not performing, there is need for them to be told, to be called out and correct that. Madam President, I hereby request that this motion be adopted by this House, after putting together all the debates that have been made.
Motion that:
COMMENDING the sterling efforts by His Excellency the President, Dr. E. D. Mnangagwa in the construction and rehabilitation of our country’s roads which are critical for service delivery and development;
DISTURBED by persistent challenges bedeviling service delivery in local authorities which are adversely affecting the quality of life for the people;
COGNISANT that years of neglect and mismanagement by the local authorities have left indelible footprints in urban centres;
ALSO SADDENED by the lack of will by local authorities to execute their mandate;
NOW, THEREFORE, implores this House—
- to call upon the Ministry of Local Government and Public Works through its local authorities to improve service delivery which includes water reticulation system, waste management, healthcare system, which meets the needs and expectations of urban dwellers;
- to reaffirm its support for the devolution of services and functions of Local Government as enshrined in the Constitution, recognising the potential for improved service delivery; and
- to urge all relevant stakeholders, including central and local government authorities, to work collaboratively towards achieving significant improvements in service delivery, thereby enhancing the well-being of all Zimbabwean citizens, put and agreed to.
MOTION
SHORTAGES OF WATER IN CITIES AND OTHER TOWNS
Eleventh Order read: Adjourned debate on motion on the perennial water shortages in the cities of Harare and Bulawayo.
Question again proposed.
HON. SEN NCUBE: Thank you Madam President. I would like to add a few words on this important motion which was raised by Hon. Ritta Ndhlovu. It is a common cause, it is known and it has been reiterated many times over that there is a serious situation, a dire need in terms of water, particularly metropolitan cities of Harare and Bulawayo but the causes – [HON. MEMBERS: Inaudible interjections.] –
THE TEMPORARY PRESIDENT OF SENATE: Order Hon. Phulu.
HON. SEN. PHULU: I am sorry Madam President.
HON. SEN NCUBE: The causes of the dire situation are a little bit different Madam President. The situation in Bulawayo or in Matabeleland is weather induced. Year after year, the rainfall is below normal and the dams there hardly get any meaningful inflow. I will go into details later but let me start with the Harare Metropolitan. Harare Metropolitan is saved mostly by two big dams, Lake Chivero, and Lake Manyame. There is a small water treatment works by Prince Edward or Harava Dam. The big one is Morton Jaffray at the shores of Manyame River.
In May this year 2024, which was at the tail end of the rainy season, the big lakes, Chivero and Manyame were all over 80% full in terms of capacity. Morton Jaffray which is the main stay in terms of the water treatment in Harare is supposed to produce over 700mgl a day. It is only producing right now around 200mgl, on average 300mgl, not because there is lack of water but because of systems problem within Lake Manyame within Morton Jaffray.
System problems, technical problems, not a resource problem but technical problems within Morton Jaffray, intervention is required there. There is also a problem of costs in terms of infrastructure. Infrastructure which has deteriorated over the years is the same as Bulawayo also. So, leakages are prevalent. What is called non-revenue water or unaccounted for water should be around 20%; 17% that is the global average but, in our case, not only for the two big cities but also in other towns. Our average is now above 40%.
What we are treating, the bulk of it, we are losing in terms of leakage. Renewal of infrastructure should actually be prioritised. This is what the new dispensation has done. When you pump water from Morton Jaffray, you get to a place called Warren Control, those who live in Harare might know. Warren Control is the one which is responsible for delivering water all over the city. At one time, three to four years ago, Warren Control had only two pumps working out of 14. The whole water supply and distribution for City of Harare was about to collapse. We brought in to assist and 14 of those pumps all of them were rehabilitated.
Now Warren control can deliver. Right now, as we speak, it can deliver over 2 000 mgl to the city but it does not have a supply because Morton Jaffray is only bringing in 200 to 300 mgl. Can you see the problem? It is a system’s problem which needs to be sorted out. Who is going to sort it out?
While Morton Jaffray and a bit of Prince Edward, Prince Edward can only treat about 80 mgl a day, even if you combine that, because of the general expansion of the city, Caledonia, Harare South, all over the place. Harare as we speak, needs about over 1 200 mgl and what we are treating is only 300 mgl. The bulk of that, we are losing in terms of leakages. That is how serious the problem is. I am not going to blame anybody but I am just giving you the situation as it is.
I will move on. Obviously, there is Kunzvi Dam which has actually been accelerated by the Second Republic so that it can actually cover the North Eastern Suburbs of Mabvuku, Caledonia, Sally Mugabe Heights and a bit of Greystone Park when it is completed.
Let me move to Bulawayo. It is supplied by five dams, Inyankuni, Mtshabezi, Insiza, the two Ncemas – the upper and the lower and Umzingwane. So, there is another small dam – Khami Dam which is highly polluted. That one, they will not touch because there is resistance from the city. It does not matter whether you promise to polish it but by May this year, at the end of the rain season, only Mtshabezi was above 60%. Inyankuni was around 20%, Insiza was around 40%, the two Ncemas – the upper one was around maybe also 20% and the lower one was even lower. Umzingwane was around 4% and that time going into June, I think Umzingwane was decommissioned, no water. Not because the criterion which is a major treatment works for the city does not have capacity, it has got plenty capacity but does not have enough supply coming in. It has been rehabilitated; it can actually do over 100 megalitres – 120 – 150 megalitres a day but it does not have enough supply coming in.
So, there is need to accelerate the completion of Gwai–Shangani and the pipeline thereto which will bring in more water into the city. It is the El Nino which has seriously affected Bulawayo, the water shedding is quite serious at the moment. Of course, they are actually encouraging and looking at another new dam, Glass Block Dam, I do not know on which river it is, I think it is also on the Mzingwane River. I do not know if it has got enough catchment but what is required is to bring in water from Gwai-Shangani. We are in the right trajectory in that regard but we have got to accelerate it. That is Government intervention.
Yes, there is the aquifer – they are only doing about 10 to 12 megalitres a day. The equipment there sometimes is vandalised, transformers, disrupting the water coming in. Let me say this; for us to actually prevail in terms of these dire situations, Government has got to come in. We cannot push that to the local authority on its own.
As Hon. Senator Gotora said, Government is overally in charge but it also needs the active support and complimentary role of the local authority. Where the local authority then decides that it is opportune time to weaponise the situation, for political ends, then the situation will actually remain dire.
As an example, before I conclude Madam President, we were involved with water supply situation for City of Gweru with Hon. Zvidzai here when he was the mayor, way back. He looked at it from a professional point of view and together, we sorted out the booster pump station. As soon as he got elevated to come to Parliament, the councillors who were brought there decided to say ‘we will not work with anybody from ZANU PF’ and the situation deteriorated even further. You know it Hon. Zvidzai, the situation got worse because of that. So, it is important for all arms of Government, whether central or local or whatever level, to work together as one and the only beneficiaries will be the people. The only beneficiaries will be all of us. I thank you Madam President.
+HON. SEN. RITTA NDLOVU: Thank you Madam President. I would want to take this opportunity to thank all the Hon. Senators who have participated in this important debate. I would want to wind up this debate that is very important to our living because water is life and water is very important.
I also want to request that when we bring such motions, let us not consider the colors of our political party cards but let us be reminded that we want to bring development to our nation. Some motions will be trying to get our livelihoods regardless of our parties. We also expect Hon. Ministers to come and listen to our debates so that they can listen to these motions and respond to our motions. We are requesting that in the following Session, the Hon. Ministers should come and listen to our motions and listen to our debates and they should respond to these motions.
I would want to thank the Hon. Senators who have contributed to this motion regardless of where you are coming from, where you stay and what political party you belong to. With these few words, I request for the adoption of the motion, motion that;
ACKNOWLEDGING with appreciation that water is life and is indeed a precious commodity which human kind cannot do without;
DISMAYED THAT Bulawayo and Harare cities have suffered perennial water shortages due to dilapidated and unserviceable infrastructure owing to increase populations in the cities:
NOW, THEREFORE, urgently calls upon local authorities through the Ministry of Local Government and Public Works to— (a) address the shortages of water as a matter of urgency in order to avert a health crisis in cities arising from lack of water; and (b) overhaul and revamp the water reticulation system in the cities of Harare and Bulawayo and other towns in the country.
Motion put and agreed to.
MOTION
REPORT OF THE ZIMBABWE WOMEN PARLIAMENTARY CAUCUS (ZWPC) ON THE 68TH SESSION OF THE COMMISSION ON THE STATUS OF WOMEN (CSW68)
Twelfth Order read: Adjourned debate on motion on the Report of the Zimbabwe Women Parliamentary Caucus (ZWPC) on the 68th Session of the Commission on the Status of Women (CSW68)
Question again proposed.
HON. SEN. SHIRI: Thank you Madam President for affording me this opportunity to support the motion before this august House on the CSW68 Report. I commend the Zimbabwe Government for sending a delegation to New York so that the voices of women and girls in Zimbabwe are heard. The future is women. The report has key action points, which include, among others, the urgent need for the ZWPC to up-scale its advocacy for the Gender Equality Bill and Sexual Harassment Bill so that it is tabled in Parliament. Madam President, the much talked about sexual harassment Bill would go a long way in curbing Sexual and Gender-Based Violence (SGBV) in Zimbabwe.
My intervention will focus on SGBV against women with disabilities in Zimbabwe. This topic is a pressing issue that intersects with broader socio-economic, cultural and systemic challenges. Addressing this issue requires a fuller appreciation and understanding of the specific needs of women and youths with disabilities in Zimbabwe. The report made reference to the urgent need to create safe spaces for women and girls as measures to curbing Sexual and Gender-Based Violence (SGBV). The provision of safe spaces for victims of SGBV must remain central for the Government.
Allow me Madam President, to quote, Ortileva 2020 in an article entitled, ‘Women with disabilities: the forgotten peace builders’. Globally literacy for people with disabilities is 3% and for women in particular is 1%. There is need for us as Members of Parliament to address these challenges with a multisectoral approach in promoting equity and creating a more inclusive and supportive environment for everyone.
In Zimbabwe, traditional beliefs and cultural norms often perpetuate gender inequality and discrimination against women, especially those with disability. Let me reiterate that women with disabilities experience additional layers of stigma and marginalisation, which can hinder their access to safe spaces in Zimbabwe. This has been exacerbated by the limited public understanding of the rights of women with disabilities, leading to a lack of recognition of the specific vulnerabilities faced by these women. This can result in inadequate support systems and ineffective response mechanisms for women with disabilities.
In addition, there are also services and resources not available for survivors of Gender-Based Violence, particularly for those with disabilities like access to information, accessible formats and the issue of universal designs in the health services. This includes a lack of accessible shelters, tailored to the needs of women and girls with disabilities.
The women with disabilities can also contribute meaningfully if given the opportunity. Women with disabilities also face barriers to reporting incidents of violence, mainly due to physical and systemic barriers. Fear of stigma, lack of trust in authorities and inadequate support can deter them from seeking help.
I continue to urge the Government to create an enabling environment, accessible buildings across the country and raise awareness among our case management handlers such as the police and the courts, to be sensitive to the needs of the persons with disability including women with disabilities, especially the women suffering SGBV. Conducting community education and raising awareness campaigns that address SGBV and the specific challenges face by women with disabilities would go a long way in creating safe spaces for them. It is also imperative to continue to train healthcare workers, providers, law enforcement and social workers to respond sensitively and appropriately to the needs of women with disabilities.
I fully support the importance of safe spaces for victims of SGBV in Zimbabwe. However, these shelters must be accessible and support services, specifically for women with disabilities who are victims of violence and must be enhanced. Let me also recommend that the Government also empower women with disabilities through skills training and education programmes that enhance their independence and ability to advocate for themselves and enhance respect and dignity. As long as these women are living in abject poverty, they continue to suffer in silence. Therefore, it is also critical to foster the creation of support network and peer groups for women with disabilities to share experiences and resources.
Curbing Sexual and Gender-Based Violence against women with disabilities necessitates a collaborative inclusive approach that advocate for systemic change while providing direct support to those affected. The Sexual Harassment Bill would be very important for us the women as it will protect us from the SGBV. It is crucial to ensure that their voices are included in the decision-making processes and that they have access to the resources and support they need to live free from violence.
MOTION
ESTABLISHMENT OF HYDROCEPHALUS DEVICES IN GOVERNMENT AND PRIVATE PHARMACIES
Thirteenth Order read: Adjourned debate on motion on the treatment of hydrocephalus in hospitals.
Question again proposed.
HON. N. SIBANDA: The motion is about the treatment of hydrocephalus, the Spina Bifida. I move that the motion do now adjourn.
HON. SEN. MUZENDA: I second.
Motion put and agreed to.
Debate to resume: Wednesday, 25th September, 2024.
On the motion of HON. SEN. MUZENDA seconded by HON. SEN. GOTORA, the Senate adjourned at Eight Minutes to Five o’clock p.m.