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SENATE HANSARD 09 OCTOBER 2024 VOL 34 NO 03
PARLIAMENT OF ZIMBABWE
Wednesday, 9th October, 2024
The Senate met at Half–past Two o’clock p.m.
PRAYERS
(THE ACTING PRESIDENT OF SENATE in the Chair)
ANNOUNCEMENT BY THE ACTING PRESIDENT OF SENATE
2025 PRE-BUDGET SEMINAR
THE ACTING PRESIDENT OF SENATE (HON. SEN. KAMBIZI): I have to inform the Senate that the 2025 Pre-Budget Seminar will be held in Bulawayo from 5th to 10th November, 2024. All Senators are kindly requested to confirm their attendance and accommodation with the Public Relations Department officers who will be stationed in the Special Committee Room No. 1, Ground Floor, starting at 1430 hours until the adjournment of the Senate from Wednesday 9th October to Thursday 17th October, 2024. Accommodation for Members will be available at the following hotels; Bulawayo Holiday Inn, Rainbow Hotel, Crest Churchill. For more information, Senators can contact Mrs. C. K. Njovana on 0779674426, Ms. L. Chauke 0773706626 and Mrs. L. Zinoro 0712786393.
MOTION
PRESIDENTIAL SPEECH: DEBATE ON ADDRESS
First Order read: Adjourned debate on motion in reply to the Presidential Speech.
Question again proposed.
HON. SEN. MOHADI: Thank you Mr. President for giving me this opportunity just to add my voice on this motion which was moved by Hon. Senator Gotora, seconded by Hon. Senator Tsomondo. I rise to offer a considered response to His Excellency’s State of the Nation Address delivered on 2nd October 2024. This address laid before us, the challenges and triumphs that Zimbabwe faces at this critical juncture in its development. It is a blueprint of where we stand as a nation and what we must collectively endeavour to achieve. In the words of the eminent African Scholar Ali Mazrur, “the future of Africa will depend on the degree of peace and stability, not only the external world but in our inner worlds as well”. It is through this lens of peace and internal resilience that we must analyse and respond to the issues raised in His Excellency’s address.
The first and foremost issue I wish to address is the critical importance of peace and tranquility in our nation. His Excellency rightly underscored that peace is the cornerstone upon which any prosperous society is built. Today, Zimbabwe stands on the strength of this peace allowing us to forge ahead with our developmental ambition, yet peace is not a destination but a journey that requires our constant vigilance.
As leaders, we must recognise that the preservation of peace calls for the continuous nurturing of our democratic process and the creation of inclusive spaces for dialogue across all sectors of society.
Political ethnic and socio- economic diversity should serve as pillars of unity not division. Elements of global uncertainties, climate disruptions, economic shifts; our resolve must strengthen the social contract between the Government and its citizens. This can only be achieved by embedding a robust framework for conflict resolution, expanding civic education to emphasise peace building and ensuring that the dividends of peace are equitably distributed throughout all our communities. Special attention should be given to empowering our youth for they are the torch bearers of tomorrow’s Zimbabwe. Only by fostering peace, that is both inclusive and resilient, can we truly realise the vision articulated in His Excellency’s address.
Mr. President Sir, His Excellency has acknowledged the profound impact of the El-Nino induced drought which has constrained growth across all economic sectors, most notably agriculture where the Food Deficit Mitigation Programme has been pivotal in alleviating immediate hardships, ensuring that communities in both rural and urban areas receive necessary support. It is clear that more long-term resilience is needed to weather such recurring climate shocks.
The School Feeding Programme is a lifeline for our vulnerable learners, guaranteeing at least one nutritious meal per day for those hardest hit by the drought. This is commendable, but we must be forward thinking in strengthening food security beyond emergency measures. While the Cash-for-Cereals Programme and the establishment of Agro-shops by the Garin Marketing Board are valuable interventions, we must elevate our agricultural policies to meet challenges of changing climate head-on.
I propose that we build on the success of the village business units and the Presidential Borehole Drilling Programme by expanding access to climate smart technologies, such as drip irrigation systems, solar powered water pumps, and drought-resistant crop varieties. These technologies will not only enhance food and nutrition security at the household level, but will also ensure that our agriculture sector becomes more resilient and productive, even in the face of severe droughts, furthermore, empowering local farmers with knowledge and tools to adopt these innovations is crucial.
While His Excellency has reassured that no Zimbabwean will go without food, we must go beyond relief efforts and focus on building a sustainable agricultural ecosystem, one that does not merely survive droughts but thrives despite them. This is how we safeguard a nation’s future, reduce dependency on imports and create lasting food security for generations to come.
As I reflect on the impressive achievement of our winter wheat harvest of 600 000 tones which I whole heartedly commend alongside His Excellency, I am reminded that this remarkable figure not only exemplifies our potential to reduce dependency on imports particularly concerning stable crops, but also signifies a pivotal starting point in our agricultural journey.
Mr. President, moving forward, we must refine our agricultural policies to further incentivise productivity. This necessitates ensuring that our farmers have unfettered access to robust markets, affordable inputs and adequate post-harvest infrastructure. Moreover, strategic investment in agro-processing industries is imperative. By doing so, we can drive greater value from our agricultural output, thereby creating employment opportunities and driving economic growth. Let us embrace innovation by incorporating digital technologies and precision farming techniques which will amplify yields and stabilise supply chains, even in non-harvest season.
Mr. President, now, as we turn our attention to the mining sector, it becomes evident that this domain also goes a long way in giving significant promises for our national economy. His Excellency’s insights eliminate the critical role that mining plays in our development. Zimbabwe is endowed with vast mineral wealth, an invaluable resource that if harnessed wisely, has the potential to propel our nation forward, yet we must remain vigilant against the perils of over-exploitation. We cannot allow precious resources to degrade our environment or displace our communities.
Thus, the key to sustainable growth within the mining sector lies in the enhanced transparency and accountability. It is paramount that we establish clear frameworks for resource governance and adhere strictly to the Extractive Industries Transparency Initiative (EITI) standards. Furthermore, we must priorities local beneficiation - processing our minerals right here at home. This will not only generate employment but also boost revenue for our citizens, ensuring that our natural wealth translates into tangible benefits for all Zimbabweans.
As we embark on the crucial dialogue surrounding road accidents, a pervasive issue that plagues our nation, it is imperative that we confront the grave consequences these tragedies impose, both in the loss of precious lives and the economic burdens they inflict. His Excellency the President, in his insightful address, astutely recognised the escalating crisis. However, it is our collective responsibility to implement more robust and transformative measures to address this pressing challenge.
Shifting our focus to the crucial topic of land availability, we must re-affirm that land serves as the bedrock of our national identity and a cornerstone of our economic strategy. His Excellency has re-affirmed the Government’s unwavering commitment to ensuring equitable access to land. Yet, access alone is insufficient, it must be paired with essential resources such as water, financing and agricultural inputs to truly empower our citizens.
Mr. President, as I conclude, allow me to quote Nelson Mandela, a revered African Leader who once said, “it always seems impossible until it is done.” This powerful statement speaks to the often-daunting nature of challenges and the transformative power of perseverance and determination. At its core, the quote emphasises that many significant accomplishments may appear unachievable at the outset, evoking feelings of doubt or resignation. However, history demonstrates that with sustained effort, collaboration, and innovation, even the most formidable obstacles can be overcome.
Mr. President, the context of my remarks, the quote serves as a rallying call for Senators and citizens alike. It reinforces the idea that while Zimbabwe faces substantial hurdles such as economic challenges and social disparities, these issues can be addressed and resolved through commitment and proactive engagement. The acknowledgement that the journey may be arduous underscores the importance of resilience and unity in the face of adversity. By embodying the spirit of this quote, we advocate for a collective effort to turn ambitious goals into reality, ultimately fostering hope for a prosperous and sustainable future for all Zimbabweans. With these words Mr. President, I thank you, siyabonga.
HON. SEN. NGWENA: Thank you very much Mr. President for allowing me to debate the SONA motion which was moved by Hon. Senator Gotora. I would like to congratulate the President, E. D. Mnangagwa for the position of the SADC Chairmanship that he has been mandated to.
Let me thank the President for such a long encouraging speech characterised as SONA. Notably, there is indeed some great strides towards nation building by the Government though not enough. Never take part or adopt party policies to Executive as Government agendas for it is the same party policies that led to a certain demise of some critical State institutions in the past that are now battling for their survival.
Mr. President, we appreciate the fact that the President wants everyone involved and to be part of the growth. As the President said, he does not want to leave anyone behind, it is regrettably visible that in the mining sector, only a group that belongs to a certain party are beneficiaries of small-scale mining. Inasmuch as we applaud your efforts, the Government must play a positive role and be involved in the de-polarisation of the sector such that every citizen must benefit.
Mr. President, as for agriculture sector, we appreciate the effort and work of ARDA but it is also the duty of the Government to strictly monitor and curb corruption that may arise through and with such funded State projects. What measures have you put in place, in an event, that led it there? On the unity and peace of the nation and its people, we applaud you and the Government efforts but recently, the urban areas have become unsafe to live, buy or trade in business through rogue elements of electronic robbers, cash heists robbers. Therefore, we appeal to the Government to restore local security through its responsible forces.
Mr. President, coming to the infrastructure development, we have witnessed how capable this Government can be to development, its commitment like we recently did when we hosted the SADC Summit. This must not only be when we are having neighbours as visitors, but this should be the norm of a Government. However, we still have a lot of unfinished similar projects that are taking too long to complete, thereby promoting corruption by local authorities and some State enterprises. Therefore, we appeal for your immediate intervention to speed up these developments.
We would like to thank the Government for the call it made to declare the state of disaster to hunger. In those areas affected, the Government has sourced out donations that have saved lives, we appreciate that. It is now left with the Government to warn its party members not to monopolise the food aid distribution such that every household benefits.
On the ZiG introduction, yes, it has put some little stability to economic flow. There is a wave of parallel markets that effortlessly weakens the economy. It is the duty of the Government to see purposes or need of using multiple currency such that those parallel markets are weakened and those involved must be punished. We still see the Government efforts in trying to stabilise the economy. I thank you.
HON. SEN CHIEF CHIKWAKA: Thank you Mr. President for allowing me to add a few words on the motion raised by Hon. Senator Gotora and his seconder. It is an honour that I stand before this honourable House of Parliament to congratulate His Excellency, the President of the Republic of Zimbabwe, Cde. E. D. Mnangagwa on his recent appointment as the SADC Chairman. It is against this background that we celebrate the ascending to SADC chairmanship by a tried and tested leader with a high sense of integrity, self-awareness, courage, respect, compassion and resilience. A leader with a vision, showing gratitude and collaborating effectively with the SADC region and beyond. The advent of his leadership in Zimbabwe has ushered in a new vision for our nation to become a prosperous and empowered upper middle-income society. He has brought in National Development Strategy (NDS1), which clearly outlines the national priorities to be undertaken in developing our country without leaving anyone and any place behind. His Excellency, the President’s mantra, nyika inovakwa nevene vayo, igonamatigwa nevene vayo has taken the country by storm in helping us realise our worthiness. He made us develop a sense of ownership towards developing our motherland. To date, the Republic of Zimbabwe has achieved major milestones that continue to improve the life of ordinary Zimbabweans while leaving no one and no place behind. Undoubtedly, these milestones will propel our country to an upper middle-income economy status by 2030.
To note just a few milestone achievements by the Second Republic, these include construction of dams that are supporting our agriculture, roads, airports, water pipelines, border posts, major mining operations and other critical infrastructural projects. Upon taking office, His Excellency, the President introduced a responsible budget that cut unnecessary expenditures and scaled down the indigenisation law, making it only applicable to diamond and platinum mining. This Government secured approximately USD2 billion in investment commitments from major global companies. We also applaud His Excellency for revamping agricultural development in Zimbabwe towards making Zimbabwe food sustainable. Hakuna mwana wevhu achafa nenzara. To date, Zimbabwe is moving towards wheat exports after meeting our local demand. I have only noted a few of the many achievements his leadership brought to the table.
I cannot conclude without mentioning his milestone achievement through his efforts to leave no one and no place behind. His Government has recognised the important role of traditional leaders by providing vehicles to enable them to carry out their duties without difficulty. He has gone further to assist the chiefs with the Zunde ra Mambo, Isiphala Senkosi Programme so that chiefs assist their vulnerable society with food. In Shona, “izvi zvinoda kutendwa. Ndosaka Nyadenga vakatendera kuti chiitiko ichi chiitwe ivo Murambwi vari vapenyu muzuva redu. Chokwadi tinoda kuzvitenda”. Like Chief Chikwaka’s mantra, “haubvunze kuti mwana arikugezwa mudish mwanai, unongotarira woga wobva wangoti inga mumvana arikukura uyu. Izvi zvinodudzira chiitiko ichi chaitika muzuva redu nhasi. His Excellency, the President vabata SADC semutungamiri wayo.
As he took up the SADC Chairmanship, we are confident that his leadership will oversee the highest level of the governance structure in SADC. We believe his wise counsel will provide policy direction and control the functions of SADC. As he assumed the rotational chairmanship of SADC at the 44th SADC Summit, we believe the region will remain committed to peace and security while fostering regional integration and sustainable economic development for member States. We believe his leadership as SADC Chairman will soon benefit all SADC member States by achieving World Class status through beneficiation of natural resources and value addition. We also see a SADC that is free from poverty under his leadership, through offering long-term sustainable environmental solutions and innovation hubs that encourage maximum utilisation of resources.
Our waste energy project will undoubtedly be a source of inspiration to SADC member States currently grappling with problems of waste disposal. As he promised a raft of measures to ensure sustainable development in the regional economic community, we believe his innovative strategies will accelerate the realisation of the region’s collective development. As he calls on the world to respect the UN resolutions to end war in Palestine and Ukraine, we believe his voice will be heard for peace to prevail across the world.
His emphasis on a robust education system will be key in empowering the youths and developing the whole SADC region. The echo by other SADC leaders, pledging their commitment to working collaboratively towards the integration and enhancement of the SADC community, will be a milestone achievement to tackle issues such as poverty alleviation, gender equality, access to healthcare and uplifting of the socio-economic conditions of their people.
As he steps into the shoes of the position to oversee the SADC region as the Chairman with such humility, grace and kindness to others, I appreciate how he shared his success with his team and his love for regional development is one of the reasons why his leadership will succeed showing positive results. This amazing accomplishment is just one step on his journey. His ability to relentlessly search for solutions to problems and find innovative ways to improve the world is the key to this success and many to come. He is absolutely the best fit for the position of SADC Chairman. I wish our President a better SADC under his leadership. Congratulations Shumba Murambwi. Makorokoto Zimbabwe, amhlophe, tinovimba nehutungamiriri hwenyu muchitsigirwa nemadzimambo enyu kuvaka nyika pamwe nevana vedu ma Hon. Members of this country. I thank you.
THE ACTING PRESIDENT OF THE SENATE: Thank you very much Hon. Senator Chief Chikwaka. I have a very soft reminder to Hon. Senators and this reminder will benefit everyone here. This motion is requesting that a respectful address be presented to the President of Zimbabwe. Therefore, any criticism will not be taken in good light and I felt I should warn Hon. Senators so that I do not rule an Hon. Member out of order. The motion is very clear that a respectful address be presented to the President of Zimbabwe. It is just a reminder. Thank you.
HON. SEN. MATIBIRI: Thank you Mr. President for allowing me an opportunity to debate the State of the Nation Address as presented by the President, a motion which was moved by Hon. Senator Gotora, seconded by Hon. Senator Tsomondo. I want to add my voice and congratulate the President of Zimbabwe on his assumption of the Chairmanship of SADC, which assumption happened at this beautiful place here in Harare. One hopes that our assumption of the SADC Chairmanship is going to be beneficial to the people of Zimbabwe and also impact on regional and international integration.
Allow me Hon. President, to make reference to the President’s prefix in his State of the Nation Address, where he highlighted his commitment to enhance the welfare of our people in Zimbabwe by fostering unity, stability and development as contained in his philosophy of not leaving anyone behind.
I want us to further take note of the impact of the El Nino induced drought as highlighted by the President as having threatened to affect our smooth march towards food security and the interventions that the Government of Zimbabwe has put in place to protect our vulnerable population from the impact of this El Nino induced drought. I want to add my voice to the need to make sure that these interventions to protect our people are inclusive in that they take note of the need to protect the vulnerable people of our communities, namely children, people living with disabilities and child headed families.
So, as has been highlighted already, there is need to make sure that no one starves in consequence to the impact of this El Nino induced drought. The State of the Nation Address, as given by the President, also took notice of the role played by our farmers in making sure that Zimbabwe is food sufficient. Given the right support, our farmers can certainly restore Zimbabwe to its former glory as the bread basket of Southern Africa.
To that end, while I take note of the interventions being implemented and as contained in the State of the Nation Address by the President, it would be of great use if, apart from creating new water sources especially in rural areas, efforts are also made to make sure that the existing water sources are managed properly. Over the years, due to various farming methods, some of which have not been well controlled, our natural water sources have silted up. This has resulted in a situation where the less rains that we receive in consequence to climate change, quickly evaporates.
There is need for Government to intervene and make sure that those existing natural water sources are desilted. Empowering the District Development Fund through our chiefs would certainly reclaim some of those water bodies and make them available to our farmers who I know will certainly play a significant role in making Zimbabwe a bread basket once again. It would be a joyous story if our assumption of the SADC Chairmanship would be accompanied by our slow march towards reclaiming our place as the breadbasket of SADC.
I also took note of the President’s address that he acknowledged the role that education plays in transforming our country. I quote from his speech, “the pace of our modernisation and transformation and industrialisation of our nation depends on the type of education that will expose our young population”. The role of education in transforming nations has been acknowledged in various writings and various researches. Allow me to use this example Mr. President and I am sure all Members here are familiar with the Berlin Conference of 1885.
While making a contribution in the Thematic Committee that was dealing with the issue of education, how the people who gathered at Berlin wanted to craft the education that was going to be brought to Africa. One of the contributors said, “we must be sincere about the way that we educate the Africans”. His education should be such that he remains a hewer of wood and a drawer of water.
As the President acknowledges the role of education, we must sincerely introspect and ask ourselves if our education is not continuing to produce hewers of wood and drawers of water. By that, they were referring to hewers of wood and drawers of water for the white men. The President has taken note in his address, of the contributory role of education to the transformation of our society, that it is significant and must be applauded. We need to go further and begin to interrogate and ask ourselves and evaluate the entire education system if it is responding to the economic needs of this great nation.
I take note of the various interventions that were outlined towards the transformation of our education sector in the introduction of the ZIMSEC School Council Bill and various interventions that were contained in his speech. We must equally begin to think about the welfare of our teachers and their training. So, continuously training our teachers on modern methods is the key to making sure that our education is responding to the socio-economic needs of our nation. I thank you Mr. President.
THE ACTING PRESIDENT OF SENATE: Thank you very much Hon. Senator Matibiri. Considering that this is your Maiden Speech, you have raised your bar very well.
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: Thursday 10th October, 2024.
On the motion of THE DEPUTY MINISTER OF VETERANS OF THE LIBERATION STRUGGLE AFFAIRS (HON. SEN. H. MOYO), the Senate adjourned at Twenty-One Minutes past Three o’clock p.m.