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SENATE HANSARD 10 DECEMBER 2024 VOL 34 NO 16

PARLIAMENT OF ZIMBABWE

Tuesday, 10^th December, 2024

The Senate met at Half-past Two o’clock p.m.

PRAYERS

(THE HON. PRESIDENT OF SENATE in the Chair)

ANNOUNCEMENT BY THE HON. PRESIDENT OF SENATE

SWEARING IN OF A NEW MEMBER

THE HON. PRESIDENT OF SENATE: I have to inform the Senate that on Monday, the 25^th of November 2024, Parliament was notified by the Zimbabwe Electoral Commission (ZEC) in terms of Section 39 (7) of the Electoral Act, Chapter 213, that with effect from 15^th October, 2024, Midiah Kupfuma was duly appointed by the Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC) party as a Member of the Senate to fill the vacancy which occurred following the death of the late Hon. Senator Keresencia Chabuka.

Section 128 (1) of the Constitution of Zimbabwe provides that before a Member of Parliament takes his or her seat in Parliament, the Member must take the oath of a Member of Parliament in the form set out in the Third Schedule.

Section 128 (2) states that the oath must be taken before the Clerk of Parliament. I, therefore, call upon the Clerk of Parliament to administer the oath of a Member of Parliament.

NEW MEMBER SWORN

HON. SEN. MIDIAH KUPFUMA subscribed to the Oath of Loyalty as required by law and took her seat.

THE HON. PRESIDENT OF SENATE: Hon. Members, you do not welcome other Senators, what is wrong with you? – [HON. MEMBERS: Hear, hear.]-

MOTION

BUSINESS OF THE HOUSE

HON. SEN. MUZENDA: I move that Orders of the Day, Numbers 1 to 3 on today’s Order Paper, be stood over until the rest of the Orders of the Day have been disposed of.

*HON. SEN. GOTORA: I second.

Motion put and agreed to.

MOTION

PRESIDENTIAL SPEECH: DEBATE ON ADDRESS

Fourth Order read: Adjourned debate on motion in reply to the Presidential Speech.

Question again proposed.

HON. SEN. GOTORA: Madam President, I move that the debate do now adjourn.

HON. SEN. MUZENDA: I second.

Motion put and agreed to.

Debate to resume: Wednesday, 11^th December, 2024.

MOTION

RECOGNITION FOR UNPAID CARE AND DOMESTIC WORK

HON. SEN. TONGOGARA: Madam President, I move the motion standing in my name that this House:

COGNISANT that domestic and unpaid care work in Zimbabwe is an essential component in developmental matters;

DISTURBED that care givers and domestic workers are not satisfactorily recognised for their services;

CONCERNED that these dedicated people are sometimes not even remunerated for their sterling work despite the long working hours with no rest at all:

NOW, THEREFORE, this House implores— (a) Ministry of Public Service Labour and Social Welfare to formally recognise unpaid care and domestic work with a view to implore their remunerations; (b) implore the relevant Portfolio Committee of Parliament to conduct oversight on matters that relate to conditions of personnel in this category of employment with a view to ensure that they are not unduly prejudiced in their day today activities; (c) the Ministry of Finance Investment Promotion and Economic Development to provide adequate resources towards this sector.

HON. SEN. MAVENYENGWA: I second.

HON. SEN. TONGOGARA: Thank you Madam President for giving me the opportunity to present my motion on unpaid, care and domestic work in Zimbabwe. I rise today to move a motion on an issue of profound importance that has long been overlooked in our legislative framework, the recognition of unpaid care and domestic work. This work, predominantly carried out by women forms the backbone of our society and development of our economy, yet it remains invisible and undervalue. For the avoidance of doubt, it is vital to define unpaid care and domestic work.

This includes activities such as cooking, cleaning, caring for children, the elderly, the sick and the disabled. This work often invisible and undervalued, is crucial in sustaining households and communities alike. Yet there are not satisfactorily recognised and sometimes not even remunerated for their sterling work despite the long working hours with no rest at all.

Statistics on unpaid care and domestic work are staggering. Every day, more than 16 billion hours are devoted to unpaid domestic and care work around the world, according to International Labour Organisation. As global populations age, these figures are set to rise, with a disproportionate impact on women. Women in sub-Saharan Africa spend 3.5 times more time on unpaid care work daily than men that is 263 minutes versus 78 minutes. The Labour Force and Child Labour Survey (LFCLS) 2019 corroborates these findings in Zimbabwe. Women in Zimbabwe spend an average of 25.9 hours per week on unpaid work caring activities for children under five years and ill adults, compared to only 16.1 hours per week spent by men.

Women spend 12 hours per week preparing meals, almost twice what men spend, 5.4 hours per week on the same. Unpaid care and domestic work in Zimbabwe is more important given the population dynamics. With 41 per cent of the population under 15 years old and three percent aged 65 years or older, the number of dependents with high care needs in the country is substantial. About 9.5 per cent of the population also had at least one type of disability. In 2022, Zimbabwe’s population is transitioning as fertility rates have been dropping over time, from about 4.7 children/woman in 1991 to 3.5 children/woman in 2021.

Currently, the El Nino induced drought has left women overburdened with the bulk of unpaid care work, which includes fetching water from distant boreholes, often with long queues managing household chores and cooking with limited resources, caring for children and elderly relatives and maintaining the household’s livelihood including farming and animal care.

Madam President, the Hon. Senators in this Senate may genuinely ask; why is unpaid care and domestic work important? According to the International Labour Organisation (ILO), the value of unpaid care and domestic work accounts for as much as nine percent of global gross domestic product (GDP) (USD11 trillion), with women’s contribution at around 6.6. percent of GDP compared to men at 2.4 percent of GDP. In agreement with this observation, UN women notes that women’s unpaid work subsidizes the cost of care that sustains families, supports economies and often fills in for the lack of social services. Yet all this is rarely recognised as “work”. If this work were to be compensated, it would contribute significantly to our Gross Domestic Product (GDP). By not acknowledging this contribution, we are overlooking at substantial part of our economy and the efforts of those who perform these tasks tirelessly. Addressing unpaid care in domestic work is also a matter of gender inequality.

Furthermore, doing unpaid care and domestic work would also have long life negative consequences on women. By perpetuating gender inequality and economic disempowerment, unpaid care and domestic work affects women’s health, their education and employment opportunities while also increasing their vulnerability to violence. Unpaid care work limits participation in the workforce, especially for mothers. Around the world, 606 million women of working class cannot hold employment due to unpaid care work, while only 41 million men are inactive for the same reason. Women and girls disproportionately bear the burden of these responsibilities, which limits their opportunities for education, employment and participation in public life.

Madam President, aspiration 6 of Agenda 2063 calls for “an Africa, whose development is people-driven, relying on the potential of African people, especially its women and youth and caring for children”. To achieve these aspirations and goals on gender equality, especially to narrow the gender pay gap and expand economic inclusion for women, women must also achieve equality in unpaid work. It is pleasing to realise that Zimbabwe has the framework for the recognition, support and protection of unpaid care and domestic work under our constitutional framework. Section 56 of our Constitution enshrines the right to equality and non-discrimination. This provision compels us to ensure that the burden of unpaid care work is not disproportionately shouldered by women and girls alone.

It is imperative that we promote shared responsibilities within households, recognising that care giving and domestic duties are not solely women’s work. Additionally, Section 80 of our Constitution mandates the state to take measures to ensure that women have equal opportunities in political, economic and social spheres. This includes recognising and valuing unpaid care and domestic work, which predominantly falls on the shoulders of women. Furthermore, National Development Strategy 1 (NDS1) aligns with the global commitment under the Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) 5.4, which calls for recognising and valuing unpaid care and domestic work through public services, infrastructure and social protection policies.

Madam President, it is imperative that as a country we formally recognise unpaid care and domestic work and put relevant policies, laws and practices in place. According to UN Secretary General’s High Level Panel on Women Economic Empowerment, care is a universal right and an essential building block for economic growth and women’s economic empowerment. Governments including Zimbabwe are urged to ensure that core economic policies invest in affordable, quality and accessible care services (childcare, elderly care, disability care) for all, including the most marginalised groups. As you all know this is already taking place under NDS1 in Zimbabwe where there is extensive investment in basic infrastructure, water, electricity, health, education and safe transport.

Let me hasten to reiterate that paid work in the care sector must be decent work, with adequate wages, equal pay for work of equal value, decent working conditions, formalisation, social security coverage, occupational safety health regulations, self-care, professional training and freedom of association. Going forward, I therefore strongly urge the Ministry of Public Service Labour and Social Welfare to facilitate formal recognition of unpaid care and domestic work. This include mainstreaming equal responsibility for care between men and women throughout the education system, with the goal of changing social norms around care and promoting positive masculinities. It also can be promoted by redistributing care between women and men, through advertising campaigns, community-based behaviour change and support for flexible work employment policies to balance work and family commitments.

Firstly, I urge this august House through the oversight function to monitor the ongoing investment in public infrastructure and social services to ensure there is inclusion of disability considerations and gender equality to reduce the burden of unpaid work on women and girls. There is also need to involve the private sector, community and other stakeholders in monitoring and partnering with the government efforts to ensure no one is left behind. Secondly, our labour practice already provides maternity, paternity and parental leave. There is need to do more in terms of reducing and/or subsidise payments for childcare services and allowing more flexible and gender sensitive working arrangements.

Thirdly, as Parliament, we have a role to urge the Ministry of Finance Investment Promotion and Development to provide resources towards increased investment in public services such as childcare, elderly care and health care to reduce the burden on unpaid caregivers. In the same vein, social protection measures should encompass pensions and health insurance, to unpaid caregivers. Fourthly, in the area of education, there is need for promoting awareness campaigns to challenge stereotypes and encourage the equitable sharing of care responsibilities between men and women.

Madam President, to conclude, other countries have put in place relevant legislation to protect care and domestic work. For instance, the Uruguay’s Care Act has changed the concept of “care”. Under this law, all children, persons with disabilities and elderly persons, have the right to get care. The State not only provides care services, but also guarantees their quality by providing training and regulations. By enacting a similar law in this country, we will intensify steps towards gender equality and social justice.

Madam President, it is time for government and this august House to facilitate concrete steps to recognise support and protect unpaid care and domestic work. By doing so, we will not only improve the lives of those who perform this essential work but also strengthen our economy and promote gender equality. Let us all work together to create a more just and equitable society for all, I submit.

*HON. SEN. MAVENYENGWA: Thank you Madam President for giving me this opportunity to add my voice on this motion which was brought to this august House by Hon. Senator Tongogara, which pertains to those who do unpaid labour, especially in rural areas. Indeed, Madam President, it is true that women especially those in rural areas do a lot of these jobs but they do not get paid. These are the people who are running homes because most men will be in urban areas where they work from to cater for their families. Women in rural areas will be doing different jobs like washing, cleaning and other responsibilities which are supposed to be done by men but women are doing all those jobs.

In most homes, women end up being affected by the difficult household chores because at the end of the day, they have to take care of their children, send them to school, feed them and take them to clinics when the children fall ill, but every month-end there is no payment that is given to women. I want to urge men at different workplaces to know that women are responsible for washing and ironing their clothes, doing all those household jobs. We need to remember as men when we get paid, to also share our salaries with our wives and we come back to a clean home and hot meal. It is important to support women so that they will be able to buy their clothes, have their hair neatly done and other things that women require.

When we go to the farm to till or cultivate the land, women come back from the fields, proceed to the well to fetch water and start preparing a meal for the family but when it is time to sell the produce, it is the men who benefit. Women are the ones who are tilling the land and doing unpaid labour. It is important that as men go to work, we have to remember our women, those who are left at home. Some might not be working or others might be going to work while the husband is at home playing their roles. It is also important for the women to remember their husbands who are not employed because they will also be playing a critical role in the family.

Even children should also remember their parents because a mother plays a big role until her children go to university. Children should remember that their parents do not get any salaries, so they should remember their parents who took care of them until they are grown - from conception throughout their childhood. As Government, it is important to consider that it might be difficult to pay all the women who do not go to work but they should be given income generating projects so that after doing their household chores, they can also partake in different projects which will sustain their families.

Government recently established new village business units which are meant to benefit communities, especially women who are found to be in rural areas. This initiative is meant to benefit those who are in unpaid labour. So village business units are there to enable and create a platform for the vulnerable and those who are in the rural areas. The unpaid workers who will be able to make a living through the wares that they would be selling in the village business units. Even the Women’s Bank should also benefit rural women so that whilst they are doing their household, they should be able to engage in other activities like poultry farming as an alternative revenue stream for them to earn a living. Government should consider that, so that our women would benefit from Government initiatives like the one that I just alluded to.

I also concur with what was raised by Hon. Senator Tongogara who said that; even through the Public Service and Social Welfare, Government should look at the different avenues that would benefit women in rural areas. This is a good initiative and I believe that some women are found to be doing household chores but without any income. Some are not married and some do not have children who are employed. They might be looking after grandchildren but without any source of income.

Government should look into such issues. Government has a database of the vulnerable who are being given money and other resources. NGOs are also playing a role in that regard. I want to say that unpaid work which is done by women is quite critical because most times these are chores that are done by people who are paid. This saves because instead of paying an employee, the women do these chores. The money which will be meant to pay the hired employee can now buy alternatives like livestock and other things.

Like what Hon. Senator Tongogara said, you would find that they would have done a lot of duties but without any payment in return. You would find that when we come to this august House, even here in Parliament, when we work for just a few hours, we expect to be paid but women work for their entire lives without any payment at all.

This motion is quite important and I support everything that was said by Hon. Senator Tongogara. I thank you Mr. President for this opportunity.

^*THE TEMPORARY PRESIDENT OF SENATE (HON. SEN. KAMBIZI): Thank you Hon. Senator Mavenyengwa.

HON. SEN. TONGOGARA: I move that the debate do now adjourn.

HON. SEN. MAVENYENGWA: I second.

Motion put and agreed to.

Debate to resume: Wednesday, 11^th December, 2024.

MOTION

REPORT OF THE 149^TH ASSEMBLY OF THE INTER-PARLIAMENTARY UNION (IPU) MEETINGS HELD IN GENEVA, SWITZERLAND

HON. SEN. MUZENDA: I move the motion standing in my name that this House takes note of the 149^th Assembly of the Inter-Parliamentary Union (IPU) and Related Meetings which was convened in the city of peace, Geneva, Switzerland from 12^th to 17^th October, 2024.

HON. SEN. GOTORA: I second.

HON. SEN. MUZENDA:

INTRODUCTION
- The 149^th Assembly of the Inter-Parliamentary Union (IPU) and Related Meetings was convened in the city of peace, Geneva, Switzerland from 12^th to 17^th October 2024, under the overarching theme: “HARNESSING SCIENCE, TECHNOLOGY AND INNOVATION FOR A MORE PEACEFUL AND SUSTAINABLE FUTURE.”
- The Assembly was attended by six hundred and sixteen (616) Parliamentarians from one hundred and twenty-nine (129) IPU Member Parliaments with 36.4% being women, a slight improvement from the 148^th IPU Assembly and Related Meetings which recorded 36% women delegates. The IPU promotes gender parity within the delegations of IPU Member Parliaments to Assemblies. Accordingly, visibility was given to delegations that composed of a minimum 40% and maximum 60% of each gender. Zimbabwe should be congratulated for promoting gender parity in its delegation with 44.4% women Parliamentarians in its delegation.
- The Parliament of Zimbabwe was ably represented by Hon. Advocate Jacob Francis Nzwidamilimo Mudenda, Speaker of Parliament and Hon. Mabel Memory Chinomona, President of the Senate. They were accompanied by the following Members of Parliament:
Chief Mtshane Lucas Khumalo, member of the IPU Standing Committee on Sustainable Development Goals;
Tsitsi Veronica Muzenda, member of the IPU Standing Committee on Democracy and Human Rights;
Sengezo Tshabangu, member of the IPU Standing Committee on Sustainable Development Goals;
Lusyomo Nyelele, member of the Forum of Young Parliamentarians and IPU Standing Committee on United Nations Affairs;
Maureen Kademaunga, member of the Forum of Young Parliamentarians and IPU Standing Committee on United Nations Affairs;
Jona Nyevera, member of the Forum of Young Parliamentarians and IPU Standing Committee on Peace and International Security; and
Tawanda Karikoga, member of the IPU Standing Committee on Democracy and Human Rights.

1.4 On the morning of 12^th October 2024, Speaker Mudenda and Hon. Chinomona, interfaced with Embassy officials led by Mr. Nesbert Samasuwo, Charge d’affaires at the Zimbabwean Embassy in Geneva. Mr. Samasuwo provided a comprehensive brief on the operations of the Mission in Switzerland, particularly the strides made in upscaling economic co-operation between Zimbabwe and Switzerland for the mutual benefit of the citizenry of the two sister Republics, which dovetails with His Excellency the President, Cde Dr. E.D. Mnangagwa’s policy thrust of striving towards an Upper Middle-class Economy by 2030.

Additionally, the Presiding Officers offered counsel with regards to identified challenges with a view of enhancing the work of the Embassy. In this context, the Presiding Officers assured the Embassy Officials of Parliament’s commitment to support initiatives that amplify the Second Republic’s development mantra anchored on economic diplomacy in addition to political diplomacy.

2.0 BILATERAL ENGAGEMENTS

2.1 In the spirit of engagement and re-engagement and in line with the Second Republic’s and the Presidential mantra that, “Zimbabwe is a friend to all and enemy to none”, the Hon. Speaker Mudenda interacted with the Iranian Parliamentary delegation led by His Excellency, Dr. Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf, Speaker of the Parliament of the Republic of Iran. The two Speakers engaged in candid discussions on a wide range of issues from the deteriorating political situation in the Middle East to exploring ways of enhancing co-operation between the Parliament of the Republic of Zimbabwe and the Parliament of the Republic of Iran within the framework of the existing Zimbabwe/Iran Friendship Association.

2.2 In the same spirit of re-engagement, Hon. Speaker Mudenda also held a meeting with Hon. Sergei Rachkov, the Chairman of the Standing Committee on International Affairs of the House of Representatives of the National Assembly of the Republic of Belarus who is also the Chairman of the Eurasia Geopolitical Group. This meeting underscored the cordial and fraternal relations that continue to be strengthened between the two sisterly Republics. However, the meeting acknowledged the noticeable gap in Parliamentary relations which was deemed detrimental to the furtherance of bilateral ties between the two countries. Accordingly, it was resolved that the Belarus Parliament would initiate the drafting of a Memorandum of Agreement for consideration by the Zimbabwean Parliament.

3.0 SADC GROUP AND AFRICA GEOPOLITICAL GROUP MEETINGS

3.1 In keeping with established tradition at the IPU Assemblies, the SADC Group and the Africa Geo-political Group meetings were convened on the 12^th October 2024 to caucus and reach consensus on issues under consideration during the 149^th Assembly of the IPU and Related Meetings.

3.2 The SADC Group meeting was chaired by the Rt. Hon. Speaker Mancienne, President of the SADC PF and Speaker of the Parliament of Seychelles. In his welcome address, Speaker Mancienne, expressed gratitude to participating Member Parliaments for their indefatigable commitment to Parliamentary diplomacy and co-operation as espoused by the core values of the IPU which behooves Parliaments to articulate and respond to the needs and aspirations of the people in order to achieve peace, democracy, human rights and sustainable development. Additionally, the President of the SADC PF called on Parliaments to embrace science, technology and innovation in order to derive benefits from the digital technologies for sustained economic development.

3.3 Thereafter, Rt Hon. Nelly Mutti, Speaker of the National Assembly of Zambia and SADC’s representative to the IPU Executive Committee, presented a comprehensive report on decisions of the IPU Executive Committee emanating from three (3) Meetings convened since the 148^th Assembly of the IPU and Related Meetings in March 2024.

3.4 Of special note regarding the status on the amendments of the IPU Statutes and Rules, the SADC Group resolved that there is need for a more coordinated approach in responding to the proposed amendments as well as the necessity to continue exploring areas for amendments to ensure that the revised Statutes and Rules enhance the IPU’s legal stature. In this regard, a focus Working Group comprising Speaker Mudenda as Chairperson and representatives from Seychelles and Eswatini was established to spearhead this initiative. Subsequently, the Working Group met on 13^th October 2024 and consolidated SADC’s position on the proposed amendments of Statutes and Rules of the IPU. Their submissions were duly submitted to the IPU Secretariat for consideration.

3.5 Additionally, Hon. Dr Tulia Ackson, President of the IPU addressed the meeting whereby she implored SADC Member countries to take an active and leading role in the process of amending the IPU Statutes and Rules to ensure that the global institution is indeed representative and serving the interest of all Geo-political Groups.

3.6 Ultimately, the SADC Group Chairperson expressed approbation to the illustrious Speaker Katjavivi, who has served SADC PF with distinction as an exemplary leader whose contributions were always thoughtful and well-balanced. Accordingly, on behalf of the SADC Group at the IPU, Speaker Mancienne presented a token of appreciation to Speaker Katjavivi.

3.7 The SADC Geo-political Group was then proceeded by the Africa Geo-political Group Meeting. During the deliberations, Hon. Speaker Mudenda echoed IPU President Ackson’s call to push for the establishment of a Committee within the IPU that would deal with issues affecting the African continent. The proposal was unanimously adopted by the Africa Geo-political Group. Regarding the vacancies to be filled, the Speaker of the Parliament of the Republic of South Africa was elected as the President of the Africa Geo-political Group for the period 2025 as proposed by Speaker Mudenda.

4.0 GOVERNING COUNCIL

4.1 The Governing Council took note of the activities report by the Rt. Hon. Dr Tulia Ackson, President of the IPU which focused on: -

Supporting conflict areas: President Ackson held a critical dialogue meeting with President Putin on the sidelines of the BRICS Meeting with a view of exploring ways to end the Russia-Ukraine war. She is expected to interface with President Zelensky before presenting a comprehensive report to the IPU.
Enhancing Middle East Diplomatic Engagement: The IPU President visited Egypt to promote peace in the Middle East as well as to discuss the progress on the piloting of the IPU regional office to service Africa and the Arab groups.
Enhancing Parliamentary Innovation: The IPU President attended the 40^th anniversary of China’s National People’s Congress affiliation with the IPU in Beijing.

4.2 Furthermore, the Governing Council considered and approved the interim Report presented by the Secretary General on activities undertaken in the last six months in line with the strategic objectives of the IPU as articulated in the IPU Strategy Plan (2022-2026). Some major highlights during the period under review include the following:

Four (4) regional seminars;
Nineteen (19) in person trainings by Member Parliaments experiencing chronic instability;
Thirty (30) national events;
Eight (8) publications on the various thematic areas of the IPU, three of which were launched during the 149^th IPU Assembly; and
Administering of the self-assessment tool on democracy and good governance to a number of Member Parliaments.

4.3 The Governing Council took note of the report on the Implementation of IPU Resolutions by Member Parliaments. Pursuant to the framework of the IPU Strategic Plan and Article 6 of the IPU Statutes, Member Parliaments are compelled to provide feedback on the implementation of IPU Resolutions and other initiatives. Additionally, Article 7 of the IPU Statutes places a duty on IPU Member Parliaments to submit responses to all IPU resolutions by their respective Parliaments and communicate them to their governments in order to stimulate implementation of those resolutions. During the period under review, a total of thirty- seven (37) Member Parliaments were selected to provide feedback while others participated on a voluntary basis. Only 81% duly complied with this statutory requirement. Zimbabwe is expected to present its Report in 2025.

4.4 With regards to the financial situation of the IPU, the Governing Council was satisfied that the financial position remains liquid and is in the blue. The major revenue streams for the organisation included Member Parliaments’ contributions and interests earned from investments accounts.

4.5 REQUEST FOR IPU MEMBERSHIP: The Governing Council approved the request for re-affiliation by the Parliament of Jamaica.

4.6 The Governing Council was apprised of the state of preparations for the Sixth World Conference of Speakers scheduled to take place from 29^th to 31^st July 2025 in Geneva, Switzerland. The Conference will be preceded by the Fifteenth Summit of Women Speakers which would take place on 28^th July 2025 in Bern, Switzerland.

5.0 THE GENERAL DEBATE

5.1 Following the special opening segment, Presiding Officers and Parliamentarians shared best Parliamentary practices and experiences as they reflected on the theme, “HARNESSING SCIENCE, TECHNOLOGY AND INNOVATION (STI) FOR A MORE PEACEFUL AND SUSTAINABLE FUTURE.”

5.2 Hon. Speaker Mudenda delivered a well-received address on the general theme of the Assembly in which he articulated on the gains and milestones Zimbabwe has made in harnessing the revolution of Artificial Intelligence (AI).

5.3 Speaker Mudenda’s departure point was the centrality of STI, wherein he emphasised the critical role of Science, Technology and Innovation (STI) in bridging the gap between developed and developing countries through the application of AI. He highlighted the necessity for Parliaments to integrate these fields, particularly through Artificial Intelligence (AI), stating that the theme “..is of profound and of enduring significance in addressing naked inequalities between developed and developing countries of the Global North and the Global South respectively. Accordingly, IPU Parliaments are enjoined to robustly deploy science, technology and innovation anchored on the application of Artificial Intelligence in its multifaceted architecture.”

5.4 Moving on to Zimbabwe’s initiatives to spur AI driven development under the leadership of His Excellency, Cde. Dr. E.D. Mnangagwa, Speaker Mudenda postulated that Zimbabwe has launched significant policies such as the Information Communication Technology Policy and the National Digital Technologies Strategy aimed at leveraging STI for sustainable development. The "EDUCATION 5.0" has transformed the educational curricula to foster industrial and innovation hubs at tertiary institutions across the country. To augment the foregoing, Speaker Mudenda spoke on the establishment of the Zimbabwe National Geospatial and Space Agency (ZINGSA) which focuses on enhancing precision agriculture and climate adaptation, ensuring national food sovereignty. Innovations in agriculture and renewable energy are also being prioritised by the Zimbabwean Government, he posited.

5.5 Cognisant of the risks associated with AI application, Speaker Mudenda cautioned against the hazards associated with the phenomenon of AI. To this end, Speaker Mudenda highlighted that, while recognising the potential of AI to drive development, he warned against possible misuse of AI in spreading misinformation, disinformation and pornography through use of deep fakes which can be used for character assassination. To that an extent, Speaker Mudenda advocated for responsible, ethical and sustainable deployment of STI as driven by AI.

5.6 Turning to embracing Committees of the Future, Speaker Mudenda underscored that the Parliament of Zimbabwe plans to create a Committee of the Future to catalyse the use of STI AI driven technologies over the next 50 years to maximiSe benefits for the nation.

5.7 With regards to global conflicts, Speaker Mudenda strongly urged the IPU President, Hon Tulia Ackson and the IPU Taskforce to continue with their peace efforts without fear or favour. Speaker Mudenda concluded his presentation by imploring for an end to hostilities in war torn regions, “I, therefore, plead for the immediate cessation of hostilities in Eastern Europe, the Middle East and some parts of Africa, especially in Sudan and the Eastern part of the Democratic Republic of Congo. Lessons from the devastating ravages of the World War 1 and 2 vividly must remind us that WAR CAN NEVER END WAR BUT DIALOGUE AROUND A ROUND TABLE CONFERENCE!”, he wound up.

6.0 FORUM OF WOMEN PARLIAMENTARIANS

6.1 In order to contribute to the work of the Assembly, women Parliamentarians examined, from a gender perspective, the draft resolution of the Standing Committee on Democracy and Human Rights entitled, “The impact of artificial intelligence on democracy, human rights and the rule of law”. The discussions highlighted how technologies, including AI can be used to accelerate gender equality when appropriately regulated and used responsibly. However, without an appropriate regulatory framework for combating discrimination, stereotyping and gender-based violence, AI can reproduce and amplify existing societal biases, risking further entrenchment of gender-based violence. To that an extent, participants recommended the implementation of laws that regulate the use of AI.

6.2 Additionally, the Forum of Women Parliamentarians held a panel discussion on “Sustaining peace and providing justice to women and girls”. Discussions focused on legislative and policy measures to combat gender-based and sexual violence and other crimes committed against women and girls in situations of armed conflict. Parliamentarians expressed deep concern over the escalation of global wars, geopolitical tensions and violations of international humanitarian law. Accordingly, participants called for greater international co-operation and solidarity as well as a substantial increase in women’s participation and the inclusion of the experience of conflict victims in peace talks and reconstruction processes. This ultimately aims to achieve justice and dignity for victims by effectively enforcing international instruments and national laws, which are essential for lasting peace.

6.3 In her interventions, Hon. Chinomona, President of the Senate posited that Parliamentarians are uniquely positioned to lead the agenda for gender-sensitive AI development, regulation and governance. This includes advocating and adopting legislation that regulates AI systems from a gender perspective and ensuring transparency and accountability through mandatory discrimination risk and equality impact assessments of algorithmic systems. She further cited the Cyber and Data Protection Act [Chapter 12:07] which the Parliament of Zimbabwe passed into law in 2021 as a measure to arrest cybercrimes.

7.0 FORUM OF YOUNG PARLIAMENTARIANS

7.1 The 10^th Anniversary of the Forum of Young Parliamentarians set the tone for the meeting. Indeed, it was a time to reflect and take stock of the progress made by the Forum in empowering young Parliamentarians and raising awareness on youth participation in Parliament. To that an extent, Hon. B. Carden, President of the Board of the Forum of Young Parliamentarians, emphasised the need to redouble efforts to enhance youth participation at all levels of decision making.

7.2 Echoing the same sentiments, Rt. Hon. Tulia Ackson, IPU President commended the Forum for bringing the IPU and Parliaments closer to the young people and youth organisations.

7.3 Similarly, Mr. Martin Chungong called for continued efforts in removing barriers and further opening up Parliaments to young people, including through quotas and lowering the age of eligibility to run for office.

7.4 In the ensuing deliberations, the young Parliamentarians shared experiences and Parliamentary best practices as well as recent developments in promoting youth participation in their respective countries. Accordingly, it was resolved that there is need to pay greater attention to young women and youth with disabilities.

7.5 The Young Parliamentarians contributed to the theme of the General debate, “Harnessing science, technology and innovation (STI) for a more peaceful and sustainable Future” from a youth perspective. The young Parliamentarians stressed the importance of ensuring accessibility to STI for young people, especially by bridging the digital divide through investing in relevant infrastructure.

7.6 In contribution to the draft Resolution entitled, “The impact of artificial intelligence on democracy, human rights and the rule of law’, the young Parliamentarians called for the benefits of artificial intelligence (AI) to be harnessed while simultaneously mitigating the risks, including integrating mechanisms that could “future proof” legislation by anticipating future changes and protecting young people from misinformation.

8.0 STANDING COMMITTEE ON PEACE AND INTERNATIONAL SECURITY

8.1 The Standing Committee on Peace and International Security held a Panel Debate on, “The role of Parliamentarians in preventing conflicts over natural resources”. Participants acknowledged the growing trend of economic aspects in conflicts. Accordingly, participants stressed the need for fair distribution of scarce resources such as water and fertile land and valuable resources such as timber, diamonds, gold and oil which often times provide economic motivation to go to war. In this context, Parliaments were called upon to enact appropriate legislation that effectively advance peace and security globally.

8.2 Furthermore, the Standing Committee also held a Panel discussion on the “Role of Parliamentarians in nuclear security”. Participants encouraged all countries, including those who do not have radioactive nuclear weapons to focus on the safety of radioactive material. In this context, Parliaments can play a pivotal role through ratifying international agreements that establish the nuclear security architecture for radioactive material. Additionally, participants called for the facilitation of multilateral co-operation for the peaceful use of radioactive material.

8.3 Finally, the Standing Committee held an expert hearing on the theme, “The Role of Parliaments in advancing a two -State solution in Palestine”. The hearing was addressed by representatives from both Palestine and Israel as well as two experts who examined how the two State solution would possibly be structured. Participants were clear that Parliaments have a critical role to play in promoting sustainable peace in the Middle East anchored on ensuring good governance, security and the dignity of the people.

9.0 STANDING COMMITTEE ON SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT

9.1 The Standing Committee deliberated on the theme of the next resolution entitled. “Parliamentary strategies to mitigate the long-lasting impact of conflicts, including armed conflicts on sustainable development’. Participants acknowledged that conflicts do indeed hinder progress on the implementation of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). In the same vein, conflicts have the potential to reverse gains already made. Accordingly, Parliaments were urged to advocate for sustainable development strategies that positively impact conflict prevention mechanisms.

9.2 In preparation for the Parliamentary Meeting on the sidelines of COP29 scheduled for Baku, Azerbaijan on 16^th and 17^th November 2024, participants contributed to the proposed Outcome Document, reiterating the need for Parliaments to support legislation aimed at reducing greenhouse gas emissions, facilitating the transition from green to renewable energies and implementation of the Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs).

9.3 Additionally, the Standing Committee held a Panel Debate on the theme, “Towards a fair global financial system: The role of Parliaments in preventing corporate tax avoidance and achieving sustainable development”. With only five (5) years remaining to meet the 2030 Agenda and an estimated four (4) trillion United States dollars required, effective taxation is a key tool to finance SDGs. In this context, participants acknowledged that a well-functioning tax system can generate revenue for public services. Accordingly, Parliamentarians have a vital role to play in mobilising domestic resources in liaison with tax authorities and those citizens be educated on the importance of taxation compliances in order to bolster development.

10.0 STANDING COMMITTEE ON UNITED NATIONS AFFAIRS

10.1 The Standing Committee on the United Nations Affairs deliberated on various issues ranging from the complexities of the United Nations (UN) budget system, the role of the G20 in relation to the UN to the role of Parliaments in the UN Treaty making process. The following key elements were raised during the rich debate:

Parliament has a central role to play in overseeing the UN budget processes;
Parliaments should ensure that the assessed country contributions are paid in full and on time;
Furthermore, Parliaments play a role in the ratification and implementation of treaties. In this context, Parliamentarians can raise public awareness on ratified treaties;
The financial crisis at the UN needs to be addressed without delay. To that an extent, the UN should ensure that its budgeting process be transparent;
Parliamentarians still need a better understanding of the UN budget systems. Accordingly, the IPU will convene workshops to capacitate the Members. Additionally, Parliaments are encouraged to engage their Ministries of Foreign Affairs for briefings on the UN system.

11.0 OUTCOMES OF THE 149^TH ASSEMBLY OF THE IPU AND RELATED MEETINGS

11.1 Emergency Item: In line with Assembly Rule 11 of the IPU Statutes, the Assembly considered four (4) requests for inclusion as an Emergency Item on the Agenda of the 149^th Assembly of the IPU. The Assembly voted in favour of the request submitted by the delegations from France, United Kingdom, Germany, Netherlands and Canada entitled “Response by Parliamentarians to the urgent plea by the UN Secretary General to recommit Multilateralism for global peace, justice and sustainability”.

Accordingly, the Assembly adopted the Resolution on the Emergency Item, reaffirming unwavering support for multilateralism through the United Nations system and other global institutions. Against a backdrop of escalating conflicts around the world, devastating impacts of climate change, the risks of pandemics, among other challenges, the Resolution called for urgent collective response and co-operation at the international level in the spirit of multilateralism. Furthermore, the resolution called for “complete rejection of the indiscriminate targeting by armed forces of civilians, wherever they may be, particularly emergency personnel, health and education workers and public infrastructure”. The Emergency Item was reinforced by the IPU’s Committee to Promote Respect for International Humanitarian Law, which issued a plea for the international community to pressure the parties to conflict in Israel, Lebanon and Gaza to in order to avert a full-scale war in the Middle-East.

11.2 Furthermore, the resolution submitted by the Standing Committee on Democracy and Human Rights entitled “The impact of artificial intelligence on human democracy, human rights and the Rule of law” was also adopted by the Assembly. The Resolution addresses the profound implications of the application of artificial intelligence (AI) on democracy, human rights and the rule of law. Additionally, it identifies both the opportunities and challenges posed by rapid advancements in AI technology. Accordingly, the Resolution identified the following key demands:

Mitigating risks to democracy, human rights and the rule of law, with a particular focus on the disproportionate impact of AI on women and girls;
Legislating against deepfake intimate images and AI-generated content that fuels hate speech, incites violence and engenders character assassination;
Developing tools to verify the origin of online images and content, empowering users to discern authenticity;
Reviewing and updating existing legislation to close loopholes exposed by AI technological advances;

11.2.1 The resolution underscores the need for Parliaments to stay ahead of the curve in regulating AI application by striking a balance between innovation and the protection of fundamental rights and freedoms.

11.3 In order to curtail the negative impacts of AI, the Governing Council adopted a new Charter on the Ethics of Science and Technology. The Charter underpins the critical role of scientific knowledge in Parliamentary decision making and the ethical considerations essential for regulating emerging digital technologies. The Charter highlights the major concerns as follows: -

Emphasising ethical responsibilities in scientific advancements;
Advocating for equitable global participation in the use of digital technologies and addressing gender and socio-economic inequalities arising from the skewed digital technological applications;
Outlining key principles for regulating science and technology ecosystem, including enacting laws promoting societal values, the preservation of research freedom, international co-operation and sustainability considerations.

11.3.1 Additionally, the Charter recommends that legislators maintain parliamentary structures for presenting evidence-based information, engaging with competent organisations on ethics, developing checklists for scrutinising legislation and consulting civil society.

11.4 Similarly, the Assembly adopted the IPU Geneva Declaration on Science and Technology which expresses Parliamentarians’ resolve to harness and regulate science, technology and innovation for the positive benefit of humanity. The Declaration extols the need to bridge the digital divide, protect human rights and foster international co-operation in STI governance. Through the Geneva Declaration on Science and Technology, Parliamentarians committed themselves to regulating STI through legislative, budgetary and oversight functions.

11.5 During the Assembly sitting, the coveted 2024 Cremer-Passy Prize was awarded to Dr. Haroun Kabadi, former President of the National Assembly of Chad (2011 to 2021) in recognition of his exceptional work in promoting peace and security. During his tenure as President of the National Assembly, Dr. Kabadi worked tirelessly to strengthen peace, security and socio-political stability in Chad, the Sahel region, Central Africa and internationally. Currently, Dr. Kabadi heads Chad’s National Transitional Council as the country returns to constitutional order following the President’s death in 2021.

11.5.2 The Cremer-Passy Prize is named after the founding fathers (Frederic Passy and Sir William Randal Cremer) of the Inter-Parliamentary Union established in 1889. The Prize is open to any sitting Parliamentarian who makes an outstanding contribution to the defense and promotion of the IPU’s strategic goals and objectives, as well as those Parliamentarians who contribute to a more united, peaceful, sustainable and equitable world.

11.6 On the publication front, the IPU launched the following publications which are useful resources for IPU Member Parliaments:

Human Security and Common Security to Build Peace;
World e-Parliament Report; and
10 Actions for Stronger National Climate Commitment.

11.6.1 Accordingly, IPU Parliaments are encouraged to make use of these source resources during the course of their Parliamentary processes.

11.7 Another landmark event during the Assembly, was the celebration of the IPU 10^thAnniversary of the Common Principles for support to Parliaments. Speaking on this occasion, the IPU President Rt. Hon. Dr. Tulia Ackson, gave the background to the adoption of the common principles which were crafted by the Working Group comprising representatives from the French National Assembly, the European Parliament, the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), the National Democratic Institute (NDI) and the IPU Secretariat to identify common principles and develop commentary on them. She further explained that the principles are intended to provide an inclusive and enabling framework for development partners by:

Reflecting on an effective, practical approach to supporting Parliaments;
Taking full account of the uniqueness of each Parliamentary institution, while recognising emerging international standards for all democratic Parliaments;
Emphasising inclusive Parliamentary ownership of its institutional development and change process.
Advancing a culture of partnership, trust and mutual respect.

11.7.1 The IPU President highlighted that the149^th IPU Member Parliaments had endorsed the Common Principles in order to achieve positive Parliamentary best practices.

12.0 RECOMMENDATIONS

12.1 The delegation once again calls on the Youth Caucus to spearhead the launch of “I SAY YES TO YOUTH IN PARLIAMENT CAMPAIGN,” which has been outstanding since the IPU 148^th session.

This movement has gained traction among IPU Member Parliaments where it has been successfully launched. Zimbabwe must be applauded for implementing the youth quota as well as the establishment of the Youth Caucus. This positive trajectory should ignite the launch of the “I SAY YES TO YOUTH IN PARLIAMENT CAMPAIGN”

12.2 The Portfolio Committee on Foreign Affairs and International Trade to spearhead engagements with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Trade on UN systems including the budget processes. Additionally, the Parliament of Zimbabwe may wish to engage the United Nations Development Programme Country Representative to conduct a half day workshop on the functions of the United Nations.

12.3 Climate change remains a topical issue of global concern given its devastating impact. Accordingly, the Parliament of Zimbabwe must support the Government through legislation and oversight mechanisms that reduce greenhouse emissions that stimulate the transition to green renewable energy, resilient water supply and sanitation among others. Parliament should also participate in international platforms that seek to address climate related issues through sharing experiences and best practices.

12.3.1 Furthermore, it is critical for the Members of Parliament and relevant support staff to be continuously capacitated in these areas. The IPU offers a unique opportunity of being both a critical resource and strategic partner. Parliament should, therefore, take advantage of the available resources at the IPU to capacitate its Members and Staff.

12.4 In line with the Second Republic’s and the Presidential mantra that, “Zimbabwe is a friend to all and enemy to none”, the Portfolio Committee on Foreign Affairs and International Trade should spearhead engagement with other legislatures within the framework of Friendship Associations to explore areas of co-operation through exchanges of experiences and Parliamentary best practices. The exchanges should be anchored on the principles of equality, trust and mutual benefit.

12.5 Parliament should expedite the creation of the Committee of the Future which will mainstream the enactment of appropriate legislation and policies for the creation, deployment and responsible use of AI.

12.6 In keeping with the Presidential mantra of “LEAVING NO ONE AND NO PLACE BEHIND”, Parliament should ensure that the most vulnerable, that is women, girls and the youth as well as those in the hinterlands have access to the STI. Appropriate legislation should be enacted to reduce digital inequalities.

2.7 The IPU announced its thematic area for 2025 as “GENDER EQUALITY”. Parliament welcomes the opportunity to discuss and share experiences and best Parliamentary practices on gender equality. Accordingly, Parliament is called upon to participate in events and activities around this theme, notably the first Women Parliamentarians Conference scheduled for Mexico in March 2024.

13.0 CONCLUSION

13.1 All the rich resolutions which call for Parliamentary action have been duly circulated to the Committees. Accordingly, the delegation once again encourages relevant Committees to implement, to the extent possible, the resolutions of the 149^th Assembly. Parliament is duty bound by the IPU Statutes and Rules to communicate follow up action to the IPU Secretariat. Accordingly, implementation of resolutions gives credence to Parliament of Zimbabwe’s participation in the IPU Assemblies and its Related Meetings.

13.2 The Delegation tenders its profound gratitude to the Government of Zimbabwe and to Parliament for affording it the opportunity to represent Zimbabwe at such high-profile statutory meetings of the Inter-Parliamentary Union.

HON. SEN. GOTORA: Thank you Mr. President. I think it is an honour for me to second this motion though I did not physically attend the IPU Conference, I actually attended virtually from my village. However, I will do a bit of justice on what took place in Switzerland. The IPU is divided into different Committees, the first and major Committee is the Committee on Peace and International Security. This Committee emphasised the need for legislators all over the world to come up with legislations that reduce conflict, particularly when you are looking at the use of natural resources like gas, oil, diamond et cetera, the natural resources we all know, including timber. Parliamentarians were urged to come up with laws that benefited the majority of citizens in different countries as well as in different regions.

Mr. President, the next thing that the IPU debated was the issue of nuclear security. Again, this Committee realised that all over the world, certain countries are coming up with dangerous nuclear weapons, which end up resulting in destabilising not just certain countries, but the whole world. Parliaments were also urged to look at those kinds of weapons so that they prevent proliferation of wars in different parts of the world. Then the same Committee looked at the role of Parliamentarians in advancing the two-states solution for Palestine and Israel. We all know what is happening in the Gaza in Palestine. The world looked at it, very fairly in the sense that they were urging Israel and Palestine to accept the need that they should co-exist.

There is no way we can avoid Palestine anymore and Israel is urged through the international mechanisms to make sure that the two state solution which is United Nations (UN) agreement is upheld by the two countries. The next committee was the standing committee on sustainable development. As we all know, we have different SDG`s - seventeen of them and the Parliamentarians were being urged to make sure that we make use of the UN system, to make sure that the SDG`s in different parts of the country are meant to benefit the general citizenry of different countries, are properly implemented in different countries for the benefit of both young women and the elderly, particularly looking at the situation of the education system in the world.

The next thing that the committee looked at, was the issue of towards a fair global financial system. The role of Parliaments in preventing a corporate tax avoidance and achieving sustainable development. A lot of companies all over the world, Zimbabwe included are avoiding paying tax. Systems had been put in place in different countries but you will find the big businesses, have a system or a way of avoiding paying corporate tax at the detriment of the financial system of their countries and Parliaments were being urged to closely look at how best corporate taxes can be shared broadly in business so that at the end of the day, the issue of corporate tax is properly spread for the benefit of everybody.

The next committee is the standing committee on United Nations Affairs. On this one you may allow me Mr. President, to read because I do not want to misquote the UN. The standing committee on the United Nation Affairs deliberated on the various issues ranging from complexities of the United Nation Budget System. The role of the G20 in relation to the UN, to the role of the Parliaments in the UN treaty making processes. The following key elements were raised during this very rich debate. The first one was Parliaments has a central role to play in overseeing the United Nation Budget process. Secondly, Parliaments should ensure that the accessed country contributions are paid in full and on time.

As you all know Parliamentarians, the United Nations is a member organisation just like the AU and our contributions to the UN are per our budgets. The size of your budget is the one that determines how much you will pay to the membership of the United Nations as membership fee. Furthermore, Parliaments play a role in the ratification and implementation of treaties. In this context, Parliamentarians can raise public awareness on ratified treaties. We all know that UN treaties or African Union (AU) treaties eventually come to Parliament for them to be ratified. If member countries accept the treaties and then domesticate those treaties to be part of the national laws.

The fourth one, the financial crisis at the UN needs to be addressed without delay. To that extend, UN should ensure that its budgeting process must be transparent. I think some of us know that the biggest chunk of UN funds comes from the USA, and it is encouraged that member countries, through their budget be properly accessed for them to fairly contribute to the UN system and this also does apply to the AU. Parliamentarians still need a better understanding of the UN budget system. Accordingly, the IPU will convene workshops to capacitate the members. Additionally, Parliaments are urged to encourage their Ministries of foreign affairs for briefings on UN systems.

The next committee is on outcomes of the 149 Assembly of the IPU and related meetings. The items debated were a response by Parliamentarians to the urgent plea by the UN Secretary General to recommit multilateralism for global peace justice and sustainability. This is a very important outcome of the IPU in that we need to realise that the world should not be a unipolar world but a multipolar system. The next thing was the impact of artificial intelligence on human democracy, human rights and the rule of law. The mover of the motion has ably looked at it in terms of exactly what was debated but I will need to mention two points.

The artificial intelligence is meant to mitigate risks to democracy, human rights and the rule of law with a particular focus on the disproportionate impact of Artificial Intelligence (AI) on women and girls. It is important to make sure that once artificial intelligence is used in all countries, women and girls should not be disadvantaged because they are part of the world. Women and girls were not allowed to go to school and therefore at the end of the day, they will not be able to understand AI. Therefore, it is encouraged that Parliamentarians do play their role so that women and girls do benefits.

Legislating against deep fact intimate images and AI generated contact that fuels hate speech. Artificial intelligence like the mover Hon. Senator Muzenda said, is advantageous in a lot of ways but at the same time it can be abused to the detriment of society, and this is what the committee looked at and decided that Parliamentarians should come up with systems or laws that do help to mitigate against creation of unnecessary conflict and violence in different parts of the country. Developing tools to verify the origin of online images and content empowering users to discern authenticity. Artificial intelligence can create that.

For example, let me look at the Catholic Church which I attend, the Bishop could be found playing golf, wearing shorts which he never does put on and people will say, suddenly the Bishop is now wearing shorts but it will just be the head and the rest of the body will not be his. That is the disadvantage of AI and all of us once in a while can be abused by AI where we will be looked at as if we did something, somewhere with someone when in an actual fact you were not there but AI can create an image whereby you will be said you were there when in actual fact you were not there. Parliaments are urged to come up with systems that prevent the abuse of AI.

The next one is the chapter of ethics of science and technology. The chapter underpins the critical role of scientific knowledge in Parliamentary decision making and the ethical considerations essential for regulating emerging digital technology. This is important, particularly in our area here. This is why we always complain that Ministers should come to the Senate so that we move together, so that when they create certain laws or Bills, they will be understanding what the Senate or the National Assembly, for that matter, will have debated.

Then the next item is the IPU Geneva Declaration on Science and Technology. As you know the IPU, like the mover talked about, member countries that attended were a hundred and something. So it is urged that when they declare something as members, those declarations should actually be considered in various parliaments so they do not remain just IPU in Geneva.

Moving on to the recommendations that came out of the IPU meeting:

The delegation once again called on the youth caucus to spearhead the launch of the ‘I Say Yes to Youth in Parliament’ campaign which has been outstanding since the IPU 148^thAssembly. Here, Zimbabwe was applauded for having done what it pledged to do in that particular meeting because we now have 10 youths in Parliament because of our quota system. The ‘I Say Yes to Youth’ is a movement that has gained traction among member countries where it has been successfully launched by countries like Zimbabwe and Zimbabwe must be applauded.
The Portfolio Committee on Foreign Affairs and International Trade to spearhead engagement with the Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Trade on UN systems, including the budget process. Additionally, the Parliament of Zimbabwe may wish to engage the United Nations Development Programme country representative to conduct a half-day workshop on the functions of the United Nations. This is very important because we all need to know what happens so that we do not become passengers in these conventions.
In line with the Second Republic's and the presidential mantra that Zimbabwe is a friend to all and an enemy to none, the Portfolio Committee on Foreign Affairs and International Trade should spearhead engagement with other legislatures within the framework of Friendship Association to explore areas of co-operation through exchanges of experiences and parliamentary best practice. The exchanges should be anchored on the principles of equality, trust and mutual benefit. Obviously, you cannot be a friend to your own enemy but you try as much as possible to be an enemy of none.

Parliament should expedite the creation of the Committee of the Future which will mainstream the enactment of appropriate legislation and policies for the creation, deployment and if possible the use of AI.

THE TEMPORARY PRESIDENT OF SENATE (HON. SEN. A. DUBE): Order! Hon. Sen. Gotora, your time is almost up.

HON. SEN. GOTORA: I am just finishing off, thank you. In conclusion, all the resolutions which call for Parliamentary action have been duly circulated to Committees. Accordingly, the delegation once again encourages relevant Committees to implement to the extent possible the resolutions of the 149^th Assembly.

Parliament is duty-bound by the IPU statutes and rules to communicate follow-up action to the IPU Secretariat. The delegation tenders its profound gratitude to the Government of Zimbabwe and to Parliament for affording it the opportunity to represent Zimbabwe at such high-profile statutory meetings of the Inter-Parliamentary Union. Thank you Madam President.

HON. SEN. MUZENDA: I move that the debate do now adjourn.

HON. SEN. GOTORA: I second Madam President.

Motion put and agreed to.

Debate to resume: Wednesday, 11^th December, 2024.

MOTION

CHILD MORTALITY RATE DUE TO MEASLES

Seventh Order read: Adjourned debate on motion on the immunisation of children against measles.

Question again proposed.

HON. SEN. MLILO: I move that the debate do now adjourn.

HON. SEN. C. NDLOVU: I second.

Motion put and agreed to.

Debate to resume: Wednesday, 11^th December, 2024.

MOTION

REPORT OF THE THEMATIC COMMITTEE ON HIV AND AIDS ON THE ART ROLL-OUT PROGRAMME AND IMPACT OF DRUG AND SUBSTANCE IN PREVENTION, TREATMENT, CURE AND SPREAD OF HIV AND AIDS.

Eighth Order read: Adjourned debate on motion on the report of the Thematic Committee on HIV and AIDS on the ART roll-out programme and the impact of drug and substance abuse in prevention, treatment, cure and spread of HIV and AIDS and sexually transmitted infections and cardiovascular diseases.

Question again proposed.

HON. SEN. MAVENYENGWA: Thank you Madam President, for affording me the opportunity to add my voice on the motion brought to this House by Senator Tongogara on HIV and AIDS.

Madam President, firstly I would want to thank the Committee on HIV and AIDS on the inquiry which they made around the country on issues to do with HIV and AIDS and how we can prevent and cure HIV and AIDS disease.

Madam President, death through HIV and AIDS causes a lot of suffering, especially to children who will be left behind by their parents because these children will be left in the hands of relatives and guardians who might not take good care of the children, thereby abusing and neglecting the children. During Senator Tongogara’s debate, I noted that most women, especially those in the rural areas were recorded in her report which she produced in this august House to be living with HIV and AIDS more than their male counterparts. This is also an indication that women go for testing more than men. Women are also tested during pregnancy while men do not go for testing, because men do not get pregnant. When women go to hospital, I think it is mandatory, I am not sure but I heard that it is now mandatory that when a woman visits a hospital or a health centre whilst pregnant, she should be tested for HIV and AIDS.

On that issue, I feel Government should set a law that when the pregnant woman is being tested for HIV and AIDS, her partner or husband should also accompany her and be tested together. This is so that if they are both found to be HIV positive, they can both take drugs. If they do not get tested together, the woman may take the ARVs whilst the man is not taking them and will spread the disease.

Madam President, HIV and AIDS has left a trail of suffering to the children as I have earlier on said, with some being born with the disease. The taking of dangerous drugs and substances by people lead to unprotected sexual intercourse or sexual relations which may result in HIV and AIDS infection. When one takes drugs, he or she is intoxicated such that he or she will not be able to reason or think properly, ending up having sex with anyone without taking any precautions.

This issue of drugs is really a menace, especially when we are talking about infection of people through HIV and AIDS. When one is drunk or is intoxicated, their mind or thinking will be impaired such that even if you are young, you can have a relationship with someone older than even your mother or someone who can be your grandmother. You cannot see that age difference because you would have taken drugs.

Madam President, infidelity also leads to one being infected with HIV and AIDS. People will have sexual relations without protection and also not knowing one’s status. This is because when you meet, you do not ask whether one does not have the HIV and AIDS or whether one has been tested or not but because you want to have that relationship, you just meet without telling each other your status.

Madam President, some are born with HIV and AIDS as mothers do not go to hospitals for proper delivery and HIV and AIDS testing, especially with some religious sects who do not want their women to go and deliver their babies at hospitals. They want to do it at home where there is no testing which will take place there. They will have children who are HIV and AIDS positive as they do not know how to treat pregnant mothers, yet when you go to hospitals, the nurses know how to handle such cases so that they deliver healthy babies.

There is need for awareness campaigns, especially in the rural areas so that pregnant mothers go to hospitals for testing and baby delivery. Campaigns should also be carried out on dangers of drugs and substances abuse, especially on AIDS and HIV infection. I would like to thank the Government of Zimbabwe for introducing and ring-fencing of the HIV and AIDS tax which is collected from every employee in the country for the purchase of ARVs. If people fail to abstain from dangerous sexual relations and get infected with HIV and AIDS, they need to be treated, though prevention is better than cure. If you fail to prevent, it means you need to take the ARVs so that you remain healthy. You also need to be educated so that you do not continue spreading the disease to other people.

There should be adequate counselling to infected people so that both partners accept their status and take the antiretroviral drugs together. This means that when one partner is found to be HIV and AIDS infected, there is need for the other partner to also come and be tested. After the testing, they can have a counselling session so that they can both take the drugs and live longer.

People should be educated on taking drugs and relatives should also be conscientised to live with the infected persons. Nowadays, people know but before, people would not want to live with people with HIV and AIDS. Still, there is need for more education to relatives so that accept those who are infected and live with them in their homes.

Village health workers should be equipped so that they move around educating people on preventive measures on HIV and AIDS such as abstinence from unprotected sex, having too many partners, drug and substance abuse and many other ways whereby one can contract HIV and AIDS. The village health workers do not have motorbikes to move around villages educating people. Walking on foot will be difficult for them. I urge Government through the Ministry of Health and Child Care to ensure that the village health cares are equipped with the required resources for them to carry out their duties.

ARV drugs should also continue to be available in our health institutions. From the statistics which were given in this House by the Chairperson Hon. Senator Tongogara, it shows that more people are now contracting the HIV and AIDS again. Before, the statistics had gone down but people seem to be relaxing such that they are now having those relations without protection. There is need for Government to make sure that the money they collect from the people continue to buy these ARVS so that when one gets affected, he or she can approach the health centres and get these tablets. I also urge the Ministry of Health and Child Care to also carry out campaigns in rural areas because the Report of the Portfolio Committee was giving us very big numbers from the rural areas. It means most of the women there might lack the knowledge of going for testing or on how to use these ARVs. So, I think the issue of roll out is needed, especially in rural areas where technology is lacking. Most of the people there do not have information because they do not have the gadgets to find out what is happening in the world, especially on issues to do with HIV and AIDS. I thank you.

Hon. Senator Mohadi having stood to debate.

THE TEMPORARY PRESIDENT OF SENATE: Order Hon. Senator, I understand you debated the motion.

HON. SEN. MOHADI: I am not sure.

THE TEMPORARY PRESIDENT OF SENATE: Since you are not sure, I am told by the Clerks that you debated.

HON. SEN. MOHADI: Ok but I did not debate anything on this one.

THE TEMPORARY PRESIDENT OF SENATE: Can you sit down Hon. Senator Mohadi and switch off your mic?

HON. SEN. TONGOGARA: I move that the debate do now adjourn.

HON. SEN. MAVENYENGWA: I second.

Debate to resume: Wednesday, 11^th December, 2024.

MOTION

CONGRATULATORY MESSAGE TO PROSECUTOR-GENERAL FOR UPHOLDING THE DIGNITY OF THE GENERAL NOTICE 870 OF 2024

Ninth Order read: Adjourned debate on motion on the Transparency of the operations of the Prosecutor General’s office.

Question again proposed.

HON. SEN. M. NCUBE: Thank you Madam President. I would like to say a few words on this important motion which was tabled by Hon. Senator Adv. Phulu. The motion is a testament of the good work being done by the Second Republic in terms openness and transparency within the office of the Prosecutor General (PG). The motion appreciates the good work which the office of the Prosecutor General is currently undertaking. It is very important to actually recognise that the office of the PG is an important call in the justice delivery system. Principally it involves investigating and prosecuting crimes while safeguarding the welfare of both victims and defendants.

On the question of transparency which is currently being exhibited by the office of the PG, it is important to notice that all prosecutorial procedures, decisions and polices are now being openly publicised in order to attract and gain the confidence of the public. The question of access to information is also primary in terms of delivering transparency within the office of the PG. Those who are supposed to gain information and are supposed to use that information responsibly do not have any hustles anymore in accessing that information - that must be commended.

There is also a question of accountability in terms of internal and external auditors, not auditing money but auditing the way or procedures within the office of the PG, including in some cases independent reviews on whether justice delivered has been done without bias. That is a big plus in terms of the justice delivery system within the centralised role of the PG. There is also another important factor Madam President, that of fairness. I am not sure whether absolute fairness can be attained by mortals because it is a state of purity. We are supposed to aspire to be fair, particularly the office of the Prosecutor General. There is this question of equality before the law. It is entrenched within the justice delivery system and it is supposed to be an integral part of the procedures in prosecuting or in the investigation cases by the Prosecutor General.

Equality before the law is testament of fairness, without discrimination, without considering where you are coming from but looking at facts as they are and being judged accordingly without any bias. There is also the question of procedural fairness so that the public know when you come before the law or when you are being prosecuted, procedures are going to be strictly adhered to regardless of your status or who you are.

Finally, Madam President, the Office of the Prosecutor General is supposed to adhere to high ethical values so they are bound by codes of ethics which ensure that those who stray from them are shown the door. On that note Madam President, I align myself with the motion raised by Hon. Senator Adv. Phulu and hope that the Prosecutor General will continue in the path of delivering justice in a fair and transparent manner without fear or favour. I thank you.

HON. SEN. C. MUTSVANGWA: Thank you Madam President, I also want to add a few words on the motion which was submitted by Hon. Senator Adv. Phulu and in support of the sentiments which have just been expressed by Hon. Sen. D. M. Ncube concerning the work and the conduct of the very important office, Office of the Prosecutor General. Madam President, I speak with a heavy heart on this matter because only last week on Thursday, the Magistrate finally decided to do away with the warfare which has been going on against my first son, Neville, everyone is aware of the cases and also against generally myself and my wife who is also an Hon. Senator in this august Senate.

This has gone on since May this year, about him being accused of all sorts of things but nothing could be brought as a docket before the courts and he was going on a merry go round. From the Remand Court to the Magistrate Court, the High Court back to the Magistrate, the Magistrate to the Remand Court and back, you know a real circus. Clearly it is something that is against the constitutional provisions on the Bill of Rights of the Zimbabwe Constitution. So there is something which is amiss in the Prosecutor General’s Office. So it is important that this Senate has this motion but more important that the views that have been expressed about the rectitude which should be governing the Prosecutor General seem to be upheld, otherwise as they say if we let lawlessness breed, where will we run away when next time lawlessness visits yourself – [HON. MEMBERS: Hear, hear.] – On that note Madam President, I end my remarks.

HON. SEN. MLOTSHWA: Madam President, I move that the debate do now adjourn.

HON. SEN. MATIBIRI: I second.

Motion put and agreed to.

Debate to resume: 11^th December, 2024.

MOTION

PENALTIES TO DETER CRIMES RELATED TO SILTATION AND DEFORESTATION

Adjourned debate on motion on the rate of deforestation, veld fires and siltation of water bodies.

Question again proposed.

HON. SEN. GUMPO: Madam President, I move that the debate do now adjourn.

HON.SEN. MAVENYENGWA: I second.

Motion put and agreed to.

Debate to resume: Wednesday, 11^th December, 2024.

MOTION

REPORT OF THE THEMATIC COMMITTEE ON HUMAN RIGHTS ON THE RIGHTS OF THE ELDERLY

Adjourned debate on motion on the Report of the Thematic Committee on Human Rights on the Rights of the Elderly.

Question again proposed.

HON. SEN. MAVENYENGWA: Madam President, I move that the debate do now adjourn.

HON. SEN. MATIBIRI: I second.

Motion put and agreed to.

Debate to resume: Wednesday 11^th December, 2024.

MOTION

MINISTERIAL TASKFORCE TO CURB CASES OF CHILD ABUSE

Twelfth Order read: Adjourned debate on motion on children in conflict with the law due to drug abuse.

Question again proposed.

HON. SEN. MATIBIRI: Thank you Madam President for giving me this opportunity to debate this very important motion that was brought to this House by Hon. Senator Tsomondo and seconded by Hon. Gotora. Just to refresh this House, the motion did touch on the harrowing treatment of children, which is driving the same children to end up in conflict situations with the law when they resort to drugs. That this situation has become unattainable and the burden has become bigger for law enforcement agents to deal with, the creation of an Inter-Ministerial Task Force to deal with child abuse was proposed.

Madam President, I think when we talk about the issue of children in abusive situations, we are talking about something that is closer to the hearts of everybody here in that in one way or the other, we relate directly to children and children as is often being said are the future of any nation, Zimbabwe included. This call to protect our children so that they do not end up resorting to drugs is coming at a time when Zimbabwe has a Constitution which is very clear about the protection of the welfare of children, in particular Section 19 which specifically looks at the protection of children.

Further, Madam President, Zimbabwe is signatory to the United Nations Convention on the Rights of Children. We appended our signature there in 1990. Further to that, we are party to the African Charter on the Rights and Welfare of Children. These domestic regional and international pieces of legislation all enjoin Zimbabwe as a country and its people to do everything possible to protect children. However, we sit here in debate of this motion because there are certain loopholes in terms of this domestic regional and international instruments which were enacted to protect children. This is why I think his wisdom, the Hon. Member who brought this motion to this House, saw it fit that we lend our voices again up and above the pronouncements and provisions provided for by these instruments, that we should call for action to protect our children.

Madam President, what is most disturbing is that children are resorting to the use of drugs when they find themselves in abusive situations – [HON. MEMBERS: Hear, hear.] – This is adding a burden to our law enforcement agents. I want to challenge this House when it relates to the issue of drugs. The abuse of drugs in Zimbabwe let us accept it, here and there children are children. Sometimes they find themselves in conflict with certain provisions that we want them to grow up in them and then they view that as abusive and run away. Children do that but our worry is when they then resort to drug abuse. The assumption being, if we take away drugs from within our communities, they have nowhere to run to or if they go there their situation will not be made worse.

I want to specifically focus on the issue of drugs Madam President. The drugs that are common in this country 10 to 20 years ago were not there. These are new drugs which do not originate from our country. They come through the borders and is it not true that somewhere while we are trying to deal with this situation, there are some people somewhere seated and profiteering on the plight of our children? – [HON. MEMBERS: Hear, hear.] – Why are we failing to curb the influx of drugs in this country? Drugs which are coming through our borders, I speak to substances like broncleer, substances like these intoxicating beer, now called tumbwa, crystal meth and mutoriro, are we saying our law enforcement agencies have failed to plug those loopholes so that our children do not have access to these dangerous drugs?

Is it not true that somewhere, some powerful people are profiteering from this disaster? – [HON. MEMBERS. Hear, hear.] – If as Senate we do not confront this ad reality, the future of our children is going to be seriously impended. There is no way we can talk about creating an upper middle-class income society by 2030 when we are leaving our children behind. Not only leaving them but leaving our children drunk behind. I think it is time we have to be very serious about eliminating this culture of drugs. If we are serious about the future of this country, we are creating a generation of zombies Madam President, through our failure to deal with the influx of drugs in this country. Yes, I am for the creation of an Inter-Ministerial Task Force to deal with this but further than that, I want us to be honest with ourselves. Why are we failing to deal with the influx of drugs in this country? Certain powerful people have been named in the movement of drugs in this country. Some have been arrested and left to go and only to continue doing the same things – [HON. MEMBERS: Hear, hear.] High consignments of drugs come and pass through our borders into this country. Do not tell me that we are failing to detect those things. Is there a will to protect our children, to protect our Constitution especially what it says about our children to live up to the requirements of the regional and international conventions that are all enacted and that we all put our signature to say we are going to stand up for the rights of our children. With these questions Madam President, I so submit. Thank you.

HON. SEN. GOTORA: I move that the debate do now adjourn.

HON. SEN. MAVENYENGWA: I second.

Motion put and agreed to.

Debate to resume: Wednesday, 11^th December, 2024.

MOTION

ENHANCEMENT OF URGENT REFORMS AIMED AT ENSURING EQUITABLE DISTRIBUTION OF RESOURCES

Thirteenth Order read: Adjourned debate on motion on the marginalisation of women in the mining sector.

Question again proposed.

HON. SEN. S. MOYO: Thank you Madam President for giving me this opportunity to debate the motion given by Hon. Mlotshwa. I believe there are potential approaches to empower women in Zimbabwe in the mining sector. We can start by increasing representation of women in decision making roles. We can look at our fellow SADC members, namely Namibia, Mali, Malawi and Nigeria. I take Nigeria as an example.

The President has made an Eight Point Agenda which is about gender equality, job creation and uplifting girls in the mining sector to become women of independence by educating them. In the countries that I mentioned above, they believe women play a critical role in the precious stones, semi-stones to polishing and marketing. They believe there are still parts in the value chain where women can take part. Education collaboration and emancipation are important for progress.

We need to improve women leadership, opportunities from capacity requirements for critical minerals to maintaining social licence should be a priority. As a country, we need to make sure our women are part of initiatives like the Women in Mining in Africa (WIM). We should create an environment where women can work with Government, civil society organisations in the communities, international partners, to foster the mining industry in Zimbabwe to be responsible and inclusive.

Other countries like South Sudan, South Africa and Namibia have direct intervention in mining communities by implementing educational initiatives to provide children with quality education. They have a movement against child labour in mines. They attack the unequal pay and cultural roadblocks in their communities which have kept women from sharing in the country’s mineral wealth. They tackle issues like how women face complex financing procedures and how financial institutions are biased to women to limit them from achieving strong production output at the scale at which they conduct their activities.

Lastly, our country has a big problem in the mining sector since the men themselves do not benefit from the minerals in their different regions due to investors who do not support the locals by using their own labour, refusing the ZiG currency. They bring their own products, make no developments and damage the roads in the process. It is really embarrassing. How can we protect and empower our women when foreign investors do as they please? For example, the Chinese mining at Hwange Colliery bring their own machines, trucks filled with equipment such as transmissions, cylinders, pumps, spare engines and others.

They do not rent our equipment so that the locals benefit. They bring their own water, food products and food labour. They do not employ our women, let alone our men. I know Zimbabwe is open for business but there is no business being done that benefits the citizens of Zimbabwe. It is all just looting business. We see all this happening and what pains us is that there is no strict law against looters. I call upon the relevant Ministers and my question to the Ministers of Home Affairs, Mines and Labour is; how are these so-called investors getting permits while the unemployment rate increases? There is no development being done in the areas they mine. Those that are employed are being taken advantage of and not being paid.

A lot of our citizens are being abused, for example, there are a lot of mines like Hwange where our people are not given positions. When you enter Hwange Colliery, the Head of Security is a Chinese, the Head of Stores is a Chinese and Manager of the Engineering Department is a Chinese. I think we need to look at that and come with a very good law that our people can benefit from and most women should also be in charge. For example, when a security is a Chinese, how do they communicate with those local people?

The last thing is that our people, the locals are not benefitting as they do not repair their machines but bring new things from China. Our companies as locals are not benefitting, so we are calling the Minister of Mines to make sure that our people benefit, including the women.

HON. SEN. C. MUTSVANGWA: Thank you for giving me an opportunity. I rise to in response to the remarks which have just being made by the Hon. Member. Madam President …

HON. SEN. ZVIDZAI: On a point of order. I think the Hon. Member must debate. He must not try to argue with somebody who has submitted his own ideas.

THE TEMPORARY PRESIDENT OF SENATE: I think you understand what they are saying. You can put your submissions, just debate.

HON. SEN. C. MUTSVANGWA: It is debate and I thought that is what we are engaged in. Is there any problem with that?

THE TEMPORARY PRESIDENT OF SENATE: Make your own contributions Hon. Senator.

HON. SEN. C. MUTSVANGWA: I am debating. I have for quite some time been promotive of investments into Zimbabwe. Investment comes from any country which has got excess capital, which it can use to exploit opportunities in host countries where it may go. Investment has no colour or nationality, it is just money from any particular country. So, it would be amiss should this House be seen to be redlining investments from certain countries because of the nationality from which it is coming from. If we do that, we really fall into the danger of being a racist Parliament and that would be most unfortunate.

Furthermore, it is common cause today that China is the biggest manufacturer of any type of equipment or gadget including almost all the phones which the Hon. Members of Parliament are carrying.

Zimbabwe is not a manufacturer of that equipment. We are not in the league of the manufacturers of that equipment. It would not be possible to run any mine in Zimbabwe on the basis of equipment which is local because we simply do not have the capability to manufacture that equipment. That capability may now come because we now have a steel plant at Manhize and most of this equipment and yellow metal is steel.

I do not see anything amiss if a company imports equipment from China because that is where we are also importing the equipment which we are using even if we are a Zimbabwean company.

I want to go further that all companies in Zimbabwe operate under the company law of Zimbabwe. They do not operate under the law of their countries. So, these are Zimbabwean companies. If the British came in 1890, they had companies and they had become Zimbabweans, why do we not call them British companies today? Why do we want to call a particular racial company from another country?

On that note, I would like the debate to be edified so that we excuse ourselves from being accused of being a racist Parliament. I thank you.

HON. SEN. MLOTSHWA: I move that the debate do now adjourn.

HON. S. MOYO: I second.

Motion put and agreed.

Debate to resume: Wednesday, 11^th December, 2024.

MOTION

PROTECTION OF GENDER RIGHTS AND PENALTIES TO OFFENDERS FLOUTING GENDER LAWS

Fourteenth Order read: Adjourned debate on motion on the protection of gender rights.

Question again proposed.

HON. SEN. MLOTSHWA: I move that the debate do now adjourn.

HON. SEN. ZVIDZAI: I second.

Motion put and agreed to.

Debate to resume: Wednesday, 11^th December, 2024.

MOTION

EQUIPPING OF TRADITIONAL LEADERS TO ENSURE COMMUNITIES PRACTICE, PRESERVE AND RESPECT CULTURAL PRACTICES

Fifteenth Order read: Adjourned debate on motion on the erosion of our cultural and traditional values by western influence.

Question again proposed.

HON. SEN. MLOTSHWA: I move that the debate do now adjourn.

HON. R. N. NDLOVU: I second.

Motion put and agreed to.

Debate to resume: Wednesday, 11^th December, 2024.

On the motion of HON. SEN. MUZENDA, seconded by HON. SEN. GOTORA, the Senate adjourned at Fourteen Minutes to Five o’clock p.m.

SENATE HANSARD 10 DECEMBER 2024 VOL 34 NO 16

SENATE HANSARD 10 DECEMBER 2024 VOL 34 NO 16

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