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SENATE HANSARD 17 SEPTEMBER 2024 VOL 33 NO 76
PARLIAMENT OF ZIMBABWE
Tuesday, 17th September, 2024.
The Senate met at Half-past Two o’clock p.m.
PRAYERS
(THE ACTING PRESIDENT OF SENATE in the Chair)
ANNOUNCEMENTS BY THE ACTING PRESIDENT OF SENATE
ANNUAL CHARITY GOLF TOURNAMENT
THE ACTING PRESIDENT OF SENATE (HON. SEN. KAMBIZI): I wish to inform the Senate that Parliament of Zimbabwe will host its Annual Charity Golf Tournament on Friday, 27th September, 2024 at the Zimbabwe Republic Police Golf Club. The proceeds for the event will be donated to Mazowe Old People’s Home. All Senators are urged to support the event by sponsoring teams or taking up the various sponsorship packages available. Those who are interested in participating in the event or taking up sponsorship packages should contact the Director, Public Relations, Mr. F. Makubaza on 0712524172 or Mr. Noble Nyathi on 0775331987. Let us all support this very noble cause.
MOTION
BUSINESS OF THE HOUSE
HON. SEN. MUZENDA: I move that Orders of the Day Numbers 1 to 3 be stood over until all Orders of the Day on today’s Order Paper have been disposed of.
HON. SEN. GOTORA: I second.
Motion put and agreed to.
MOTION
REPORT OF THE NATIONAL PROSECUTING AUTHORITY FOR THE YEAR 2023
Fourth Order read: Adjourned debate on motion on the Report of the National Prosecuting Authority for the Year 2023.
Question again proposed.
HON. SEN. PHULU: I rise to debate the motion that this House takes note of the report of the National Prosecuting Authority for the Year 2023. The report not only highlights the progress made and the challenges encountered by this vital institution, but one hopes that it also signifies an important turning point under a new leadership for the NPA.
First and foremost, allow me to extend my heartfelt congratulations to the Prosecutor General, the Hon. Justice Loice Matanga-Moyo on her appointment in October 2023. She is someone that I have worked with. I have appeared before her a number of times in her capacity as a judge. I have worked with her in her capacity as a Prosecutor. I would like to say that she is somebody who has the mettle, aptitude and rectitude to take up this position. We hope that she will imbue upon it with those qualities in order to change this institution more positively and to improve the public perception of the NPA.
This report is notably the first to be filed during her tenure and we hope that it forecasts her commitment to fostering accountability and justice within our legal framework. Her leadership comes at a time when the integrity and efficacy of legal processes are paramount to maintaining public trust in our institutions. The long-awaited appointment of the board for the NPA which is apparent from the report is indeed a welcome development. This is a critical step towards enhancing governance, oversight and overall effectiveness within the prosecuting authority.
A functioning body can provide the necessary strategic direction to ensure compliance with the legal and ethical standards and support the institution in addressing its multi-faceted challenges. I have seen the report and the members of the board that have been appointed. I could comment that the gender balance is to be applauded and even the quality of the board members that I have seen, is one that is to be applauded. I have noted that there is Hon. Justice Ndou, a very senior jurist, I have seen some academics, I have seen those who have worked in Government for a long time, I have seen those from the Law Development Commission, people like Rex Tshana and others.
The weakness in the report in the manner in which they have presented it, is that they do not tell us who those board members are. They just paste pictures there. You then have to do your research in order to find out who they are. A report should inform us of this information in brief, ex facie the document. However, we welcome the appointment of a board because it now means that the Prosecutor General has broad shoulders and deep legal experience to rely on in order to make important decisions regarding prosecution.
However, as we commend these steps forward, we must also address the pressing need for the NPA to be allocated substantial resources in the National Budget. Budget after budget, we do see different Government institutions being allocated votes. You might see ZEC being allocated its vote, you might see various Commissions being allocated votes and the JSC which is now a standalone institution, also being given its budget. However, the budget of the NPA has always been comparatively smaller than its counterpart the JSC, smaller than the Ministry of Home Affairs and others who work in the same arena. As a result, it has led to a number of challenges which lead to the perception that justice is not always done. An example is that the NPA is always housed in buildings that belong to the JSC. We would want to see budgets that allow them to get their own buildings, offices, phones and equipment so that a collaboration between a magistrate and a prosecutor is not always forced upon them by their circumstances.
There were times when it was common place to see a magistrate going on circuit giving a lift to the prosecutor to this remote area. They travel many kilometres together and what do they discuss as they travel in this one car? It gives the impression of collusion and may breed perceptions that justice is not always done. We want the NPA to always have its own resources and their officers to be capacitated to function independently off the JSC or any other organ that they work with.
The sacrifices expected of the NPA rely heavily on the JSC for its operational needs have raised serious concerns regarding its independence. In order for the NPA to function effectively and uphold its mandate without fear or favour, it requires its own infrastructure, resources and vehicles. The current over reliance on the JSC not only compromises the independence of the PG office, but also hampers its ability to respond swiftly to evolving legal challenges. When the functions of the NPA are intertwined with the administrative operations of the JSC, we risk diluting the prosecutorial authority that should be exercised without external interference. I strongly urge my fellow Members to consider the serous implications of under funding this institution as we take note of this report.
On a positive note, I would like to commend the recent purchase of vehicles and the ongoing renovations of office spaces. These developments signal a step towards modernising the NPA’s infrastructure and aligning it with the functional demands of contemporary legal landscape. Enhancement in operational capacity can improve the moral of employees, streamline cases processing and ultimately contribute to more efficient prosecuting authority.
Moreover, it is heartening to note that the NPA has reported a reduction in the criminal docket from last year. The decrease might be a bit marginal, but certainly it is significant that the graft is going down and we must continue to be able to prosecute our criminal dockets to finality evermore efficiently. This accomplishment not only reflects effective management, but also the commitment of the staff within the NPA to address backlogs that have plagued our judicial system for far too long. A streamlined docket signifies progress towards faster resolution of cases which is beneficial for victims seeking justice and for the accused seeking a fair and timely legal process.
Equally important is the principle of equal treatment of all citizens by the law. It is absolutely vital that the new Prosecutor General departs from the legacy of previous criticisms regarding the execution of the prosecutorial mandate in a biased manner, often perceived as influenced by political affiliations. We must reaffirm our belief in the rule of law, which must serve as a cornerstone of a functioning democracy. The NPA’s efforts must reflect impartiality and fairness ensuring that every citizen, regardless of their political stance, is treated equally under the law. This is a critical expectation of the public. This focus on equality before the law is not merely aspirational but it forms the bedrock of a just society. Nevertheless, the Prosecutor General must prioritise transparency and accountability in decision making to help restore public confidence in the prosecutorial system.
A commitment to non-discrimination will elevate the work of the NPA and enhance its reputation as an independent entity that seeks justice above all else.
In conclusion, the Report of the National Prosecuting Authority for the year 2023, we hope it signals a new chapter to this vital institution. I urge all Members of Parliament to lend their unwavering support to the initiatives and bolstering the independence of the NPA. By doing so, we will not only empower but we needed power Mr. President. We will not only empower this board to carry out its responsibilities and also fortify the rule of law in our nation. Together, let us commit ourselves to ensuring that the NPA has necessary resources and autonomy to serve the people of Zimbabwe effectively and impartially while upholding the principle of equal treatment for all citizens. Thank you Mr. President and I look forward to the contributions of other Members as we continue this important debate.
HON. SEN. MUZENDA: I move that the debate do now adjourn.
HON. SEN. GOTORA: I second.
Motion put and agreed to.
Debate to resume: Wednesday, 18th September, 2024.
MOTION
REPORT ON THE BENCHMARK VISIT BY THE PARLIAMENTARY CAUCUS ON ADVOCACY ON ANTI-CORRUPTION
Fifth Order read: Adjourned debate on motion on the benchmark visit Report by the Zimbabwe Women Parliamentary Caucus.
Question again proposed.
HON. SEN. CHITSAMBA: Thank you Mr. President for giving me this opportunity to comment over the report which has been moved by our Chairman, Hon. Senator Mbohwa. The following lessons were observed, which can significantly inform the ZWPC’s collective efforts to play a role in curbing corruption and enhancing women’s political representation and leadership in Zimbabwe as well as improving the operations of the Caucus.
The delegation noted that women dominate most decision-making positions in Government, which has considerably contributed to the reduction in corruption. Seychelles is a matriarchal society whereby women are wielding significant influence at home and in the public sphere. The delegation learnt that more than half of Seychelles households are headed by women. For example, from the discussions during the visits, the delegation established that close to 70% and 40% of women were at the management level in both the public and private sectors respectively.
That educational achievement is close to gender equality in Seychelles, with slightly more post-secondary schooling among women than men. It was observed that girls and women in Seychelles have equal access to education and in most cases, girls and women outperform boys and men in schools, universities and colleges. This innovative policy has been instrumental in dismantling the entrenched patriarchal structures that have historically marginalised girls and women in accessing education.
The delegation was deeply impressed by the independence of the Seychelles Anti-Corruption Commission to perform its mandate, particularly implementing the declaration of assets procedure by both the public and private sector players.
The establishment of a multi-partisan Women Caucus, for instance the SWPC and the ZWPC, has provided a crucial platform for women legislators to collaborate, share best practices and collectively advocate for their constituents needs. However, Seychelles and Zimbabwe are still lagging in terms of attaining 50/50 gender parity as Seychelles and Zimbabwe are still lagging in terms of attaining women representation in Parliament respectively.
While Zimbabwe has the women’s quota, Seychelles is yet to adopt a strategy to increase the number of women in its Parliament. For example, while the women’s quota has contributed to the increase in women’s representation in Parliament, this has not resulted in the attainment of a Parliament that is gender equity. For Seychelles, it was noted that discussions are underway to adopt the rotational principle or zebra formation at the constituency level, to allow both males and females equal chances of representing their constituencies. That the SEC has the right to register and deregister political parties.
It was recommended that in light of these invaluable lessons, the ZWPC would propose recommendations for consideration by Parliament.
In conclusion, the visit by the ZWPC delegation in Seychelles has underscored the immense value of cross-border collaboration and knowledge sharing among women in politics. It has undoubtedly served as a fountain of inspiration and mutual support as the ZWPC navigate the complex terrain to advocate for the increased participation of women leaders in fighting corruption and increasing the number of women in Parliament. I thank you.
HON. SEN. MBOHWA: I move that the debate do now adjourn.
HON. SEN. CHIEF NGUNGUMBANE: I second.
Motion put and agreed to.
Debate to resume: Wednesday, 18th September, 2024.
MOTION
HUMAN-WILDLIFE CONFLICT
Sixth Order read: Adjourned debate on human-wildlife conflict.
Question again proposed.
HON. SEN. S. MOYO: Thank you, Mr. President. As I take my stand, wildlife–human conflict is a pressing issue that requires careful examination. It is no secret that we have more than 300 people killed by wild animals and 308 injured since 2019 to last year. The number has increased this year. There is economic impact on the local community. For example, my village Goba was recently affected by elephants passing through KoMbimba, Gala, Ntoli looking for water by Moza Dam Plumtree. They caused damage to irrigation crops and livestock; many rural areas were affected, which has caused even more food losses and financial hardships.
There continues to be threats to human safety where encounters with elephants and lions lead to injury and even deaths; affecting daily life traveling to schools or markets development meetings due to fear. The worst case being cultural displacement which affects traditional ways of life and undermines cultural identity. The relevant Ministers need to look into this matter to make sure Chiefs are involved, the active involvement of communities in wildlife management decisions can create programmes that will be more successful. Induna lamakhosi will make sure they alert their communities on the buffer zones and wildlife pathways, which can help separate human activities from critical wildlife habitats.
We need to ask difficult fundamental questions. What has changed because our forefathers lived in harmony with these wild animals, have we forgotten our culture and roots? The Government has to see to it that strategies that accommodate both agriculture needs and wildlife animals are given a budget and enough resources. We need to remember who we are as Zimbabwean people so that we minimise overlaps in zoning areas for agriculture housing and wildlife. On the other hand, communities can still benefit from the presence of these wild animals through tourism related incomes. This promotes the value in wildlife while providing economic incentives for local populations.
Furthermore, communities have to be given a stake to empower them as locals to manage these animals. This will make them protect the wild animals as they will be knowing their value. Maintaining these wild animals is important for balance because they support agriculture and the community by controlling pests and water cycles. In conclusion, the conflicts are real and important solutions that put community involvement first, education and strong practices can help bridge the gap between taking care of the animals and local needs, leading to a strong relationship between our people and the wild animals that we have been blessed with as the Zimbabwean nation. I thank you.
HON. SEN. KADUNGURE: Thank you Mr. President for giving me the opportunity to rise today and support the motion concerning the urgent and critical issue of human-wildlife conflict in Zimbabwe, moved by Hon. Senator Mohadi. This is a matter that has reached alarming proportions and poses significant threats to our rural communities, agricultural productivity and overall national stability. Human-wildlife conflict has escalated drastically, particularly for communities living adjacent to our national parks and wildlife reserves.
Reports indicated in the motion that nearly 400 lives have been lost over the past five years, with 68 fatalities recorded in 2022 alone. In the first quarter of 2023, 22 deaths and 43 injuries were reported, underscoring the immediate need for intervention. The primary drivers of this conflict include habitat loss and fragmentation, competition for resources and inadequate wildlife management practices. As human populations expand, wildlife habitats are increasingly encroached upon, leading to heightened interactions between humans and wildlife. This results in wildlife straying into agricultural lands, causing severe damage to crops and livestock.
The struggle for resources is further exacerbated during drought, which intensifies competition for water and food. Animals such as elephants and baboons frequently raid crops, leading to significant economic losses for farmers. Moreover, the current policies and management strategies for wildlife conservation are insufficient. Many communities lack the tools and knowledge to effectively mitigate conflicts. This situation not only threatens food security, but also places undue economic strain on vulnerable households, pushing them deeper into poverty.
In light of these challenges, I propose a comprehensive, multi-faceted approach to address human-wild-life conflict. First and foremost, we must empower local communities through community-based natural resource management initiatives. Involving residents in the management of natural resources can help preserve their interests whilst also conserving wildlife. Training programmes can educate farmers on conflict mitigation strategies such as constructing chilli fences to deter elephants or reinforcing livestock enclosures against predators.
Additionally, the implementation of early warning systems utilising technology is essential. By equipping communities with tools such GPS collars on key wildlife species, we can provide real-time data on wildlife movements, allowing for timely preventative measures. Strengthening policy frameworks that support wildlife conservation and offer compensation for losses incurred during conflicts is also crucial. Establishing a fund to support affected families can incentivise coexistence and foster community resilience.
Regional cooperation and collaboration with neighbouring countries are vital for managing transboundary wildlife movements. By fostering partnerships, we can enhance the effectiveness of our wildlife management strategies and reduce conflicts. Furthermore, we should leverage Zimbabwe’s rich biodiversity to boost eco-tourism. Promoting tourism practices can generate revenue that can be reinvested into community development and wildlife conservation initiatives.
Public awareness campaigns are also necessary to educate communities about the importance of wildlife conservation and the role they play in preserving our natural heritage. By promoting non-lethal deterrents and fostering a culture if co-existing, we can mitigate the impacts if human wildlife conflicts.
In conclusion. Madam President, human- wildlife conflict is not merely an environmental issue; it is a humanitarian crisis that affects the lives and livelihoods of our citizens. By implementing the recommendations outlined above, we can effectively mitigate conflicts and foster harmonious co-existing between humans and wildlife. I urge all Members of this Parliament to support this motion and commit to taking decisive action to address this critical issue. Together, we can create a safer and more sustainable future for both our people and our wildlife. I thank you Mr. President.
HON. SEN. FANUEL: Thank you Mr. President for giving me this opportunity to speak. I would like to support the motion that was moved by Hon. Senator Mohadi about human-wildlife conflict.
According to my observation when we say conflict, you know mostly it is about the human beings who are always defeated by the animals. Animals have gone wild in Zimbabwe - mostly in my District. People are perishing day and night because like elephants, they are even getting into the streets, they have no time. Mostly they could attack people at night but these days they just get in during the day. Secondly, the animals I would say have no address, especially when they attack someone or when they enter into someone’s field. When you report to the council, they will tell you that the animals belong to the Parks so there is no proper address.
Also, the community has nowhere to report. What I have also noticed is the delay when someone is being attacked by a crocodile in a water source. So, the Parks were told and someone was being played around by the crocodile farm and Parks said there was no transport. We went to the Council and they said they did not have transport; that was not fair. So, the conflict also comes within these two offices. They are likely to be giving more power to the animals than the human beings, yet wildlife should stay where they are supposed to stay. It is resulting in most people being arrested because when you find a lying elephant and you are hungry; you have to slaughter that animal and sell the meat to get food which is not correct.
Women are the most affected by the wildlife because they are the ones who are practicing farming in the gardens. Elephants get into the gardens and destroy all the crops after all the effort, yet they want to pay school fees and buy everything necessary, especially food because of this drought.
Elephants pull the fence or the trees that we fence with. Compensation is not being done by councils which are monitoring the animals. My appeal is on when we say conflict – yes, they are being protected by these two offices, but the community is not gaining anything. Although they are saying there are some elephants, they come and just shoot in the air for just one or two days and come back. When they attack someone, that is when they just run around, which is not fair. That is why I am saying they are concentrating too much on animals. In Tonga we say banyama mbibesu meaning that animals are ours. That is just protecting the name without getting anything. No schools, building or teachers.
As women and human beings, we need protection from these animals. They must go where they are supposed to stay, especially when we talk of parks. They should go to their designated area where they should stay. I thank you.
+HON. SEN. NYATHI: Thank you Mr. President for the opportunity that has been given to me. I would want to thank Hon. Senator Mohadi for presenting this motion about wildlife. In reference to climate change, most of the wild animals, I realise that they migrate from where they used to stay and they now come closer to where human beings are living. For example, elephants – these are big animals that most of human beings are afraid of. Way back, you realise that they never used to come close to where human beings were, but because of drought, they end up coming to where human beings are living.
When human beings are moving around and they come across such animals, you realise that there is an attack that will then happen between the animal and the human being. Mr. President Sir, also it is a problem to those who are into farming as most of their farm products are being destroyed by such animals. Most people have alluded to use of chilli which is another way used to chase such wild animals away. We then realise that an elephant behaves like a human being. They have also alluded to having too many elephants roaming around and they wish that if only our Government could sell maybe to the neighbouring countries.
We also visited Hwange National Park and most people were saying that these animals are a problem to them. However, they love the wild animals and they do not want them being destroyed. I appreciate this motion and my plea is that if there is a family that has been attacked by such animals, we should compensate the family. If the breadwinner for example is the father of the family is attacked, in that family, there will be a gap left. Therefore, there is need to compensate such families. I thank you Mr. President.
HON. SEN. MOHADI: Thank you Mr. President. I move that the debate do now adjourn.
HON. SEN. FANUEL: I second Mr. President.
Motion put and agreed to.
Debate to resume: Wednesday, 18th September, 2024.
MOTION
REPORT ON THE 55TH PLENARY ASSEMBLY SESSION OF THE SADC-PARLIAMENTARY FORUM HOSTED BY THE PARLIAMENT OF ANGOLA IN LUANDA
Seventh Order read: Adjourned debate on motion on the Report of the 55th Plenary Assembly Session of the SADC-Parliamentary Forum hosted by the Parliament of Angola in Luanda.
Question again proposed.
HON. SEN. KUNAKA: Thank you Mr. President for this opportunity that you have given me to debate on the motion which was moved by Hon. Senator Mbohwa. From that motion, there is a task that was given to us as legislators and as representatives of people and voice of the people. There is a task put upon our shoulders in line with our legislative, oversight mandate. As legislatures, and representatives of the people, the voice of the voiceless, we remain the hope of the people where the majority look for a fairly and well diversified economy with a strong industrial base through investment of alternative sources of power.
Zimbabwe as a nation, having reentered in the international trade and by virtue of being a member of the SADC, therefore implies that we ought to first put our house in order first before the region by investing in this renewable energy. We need to firstly understand the effects of power from an economic perspective. I think as locals, we are just living testimonies to the power challenges and the need for alternative sources of power through investing in renewable energy. It is a welcome move of fighting the challenges of power that we are facing as a nation. Really, we need to invest in alternative sources of energy. As a region, we need to make use of available natural resources like biomass energy without environmental degradation and as representatives of people, renewable energy is a good alternative since we can have load shedding locally as compared to electricity. It must supplement the electoral power.
Hon. President, it is now dangerous to walk around 1900 hours in some areas as there are no streets lights due to the load shedding. This has also increased crime rates and people are continuing to lose their valuables to thieves who hide in these dark areas.
Mr. President, from an economic perspective, the failure to invest in renewable energy has adverse effects on the economy both as the nation and the region at large. Inasmuch as we want to achieve the macroeconomic stability, then we should have alternative sources of power. Industry production has dropped due to the unavailability of power to run the production machinery. Therefore, the issue of power and renewable energy remains a necessity for industry production and economic growth.
Manufacturing remains central to economic growth because of its ability to generate the much-needed GDP for revenue accumulation. Even the depreciation of the Zimbabwe dollar, is a result of an economy that is not producing due to power challenges. We are now faced with consuming economy. Capacity utilisation has drastically fallen since only few companies are operating. Employment has become another challenge created by the failure to invest in alternative sources of renewable energy. Some companies have downsized their workers while some are even closing their companies. The closure of companies have grossly affected the nation and the skills levels have deteriorated since locals are leaving the country for greener pastures and distant lands and cannot be adequately replaced since the training infrastructure is also facing its decline. We have ended up today creating problems, there is a serious dilution of skills as technicians are sometimes graded as engineers just to fill the void created by the emigrating locals.
Investing in renewable energy therefore becomes the way to go since industries will operate without power challenges which will help achieve the macroeconomic stability, both regionally and nationally. It is good that this renewable energy will come as a supplementary to the electoral power that we have. I therefore, appeal to the Government and the region at large for the recapitalisation of real sectors of the economy through investment in renewal energy and also that we will be able to stand the increased foreign competition on the domestic markets as a region and as a nation. As a region we can adopt to have market policies but the adoption is not coupled with power investment, we may not be able to achieve the economic efficiency needed to stand the international competition. My prayer, therefore is that the main sectors of the economy must be prioritised by renewable energy investment from our natural resources without compromising the environmental sustainability. This must be done through the length of a Pan Africanism with a common agenda to create the Africa that we want.
As representatives of the people, I think the task is upon our shoulders and the task is for us to deliver to the nation and to the region. I thank you Mr. President – [HON. SENATORS: Hear, hear.] –
HON. SEN. MBOHWA: I move that the debate do now adjourn.
HON. SEN. CHIEF MKWANANZI: I second.
Motion put and agreed to.
Debate to resume: Wednesday, 18th September, 2024.
MOTION
IMPROVEMENT ON SERVICE DELIVERY BY LOCAL AUTHORITIES
Eighth Order read: Adjourned debate on motion on Improvement on Service Delivery by Local Authorities.
Question again proposed.
HON. SEN. BVUMO: Let me start by thanking you Mr. President Sir, for allowing me to add my voice to
this very important motion. I also found it in order to appreciate and thank Hon. Senator Mavenyengwa for bringing such an important motion.
The state of urban councils’ service delivery systems in Zimbabwe is a pressing concern that affects the daily lives of millions of citizens. Despite being responsible for providing essential services such as water, sanitation, waste management and infrastructure maintenance, urban councils have consistently failed to deliver. One major challenge facing urban councils is inadequate funding. Years of economic stability, coupled with limited revenue collection, have left councils with insufficient resources to invest in service delivery. This has resulted in crumbling infrastructure, frequent water outages and uncollected waste. The issue of frequent water outages however stands out above the rest in most local authorities due to a number of issues. Firstly, the issue of climate change has affected the water that is harvested into dams which are our major water sources in local authorities.
Secondly, the issue of population growth in urban councils, demand outweighs supply of water. This is mainly due to non-expansion of water plants in most urban areas to meet demand. Then there is also the dilapidated and outdated water reticulation infrastructure. In most towns, clean treated water is lost due to obsolete pipes.
Another significant issue is mismanagement and corruption. Urban councils have been plagued by allegations of corruption, nepotism and cronyism, which have eroded public trust and hindered effective service delivery. The office of the Auditor General (OAG) has, in the past, flagged a number of urban councils for mismanagement of finances and other ills. The OAG lamented the non-compliance of local authorities in submitting their books for auditing. In 2023, the OAG reported that out of the 98 local authorities in Zimbabwe, only 12 submitted their books for auditing. Of those submitted, only two had clean sheets.
Furthermore, urban councils lack the capacity and expertise to effectively manage service delivery. Outdated technologies, inadequate training and insufficient staffing have hindered councils’ ability to respond to growing urban populations and increasing service demands. Additionally, central government interference has compromised urban councils’ autonomy thereby making it difficult for them to make decisions and respond to local needs. All progressive resolutions seek the Minister of Local Government’s approval and this is one of the major reasons why most urban authorities are facing challenges. The red tape and bureaucracy that exists in approval of various requests by local authorities takes months or years to get approved, thereby prejudicing local authorities of efficient service delivery. This is further compounded by the cumbersome Procurement Regulatory Authority of Zimbabwe (PRAZ) approval system for local authorities. It takes most local authorities months to get approval for procurement of resources and equipment that is vital to efficient service delivery.
Mr. President Sir, to address these challenges, urban councils must prioritise transparency, accountability and community engagement. They must also invest in capacity building, technology, and infrastructure development. Central government should devolve more power and resources to urban councils to enable them to respond effectively to local needs. There is also need to look into the PRAZ system and harmonise the system so that it becomes efficient and compatible with the micro-environment effects prevailing in Zimbabwe.
Regarding clean water, the Government through ZINWA, should assist by identifying sustainable water sources for exploitation by towns and cities. Also, to establish an inter-ministerial task force to tackle the building of new high capacity water treatment and reticulation plants in the 10 provincial cities in the short to medium term, then to the other towns.
In conclusion, the state of urban councils’ service delivery systems in Zimbabwe is dire, but with concerted effort and reform, it can be improved. By addressing funding, mismanagement, capacity and autonomy challenges, urban councils can deliver quality services and enhance the lives of Zimbabwe’s urban citizens. However, there are positive administrations that have previously led and are currently leading with positive projects. For instance, we have the Geo Pomona Waste Management site that is doing marvelous work in disposing waste in a sustainable and environmentally friendly way. The plant has future plans to build a power plant that will be powered by solid waste. This plant is a beacon of sustainable and environmentally friendly waste management in the SADC region as witnessed during the SADC Summit held a few days ago.
Other positive developments have been noted in the previous years. We have the late Solomon Tawengwa, former Mayor of Harare who led the City of Harare with developmental programmes that included upgrading of the water system in Mabvuku, Warren Park, et cetera. He led the rehabilitation of Harare gardens and expanded clinics and community halls. He enforced programmes that benefitted the ordinary people, including the street kids. We also have the former Mayor, Engineer Elias Mudzuri, who left a legacy of improved infrastructure, democratic governance through promotion of accountability and transparency in local government and lastly, Public Service. Currently, we have Jacob Mafume, the incumbent Mayor of Harare who has led infrastructure development and upgrading. He has done excellent work on the renovation of Rufaro Stadium into a world class stadium after years of neglect. We have David Coltart in Bulawayo who has come up with a brilliant solution to the water challenges that face the City of Bulawayo. He plans to exploit the water aquifer that sits beneath the city through deep drilling.
We also welcome the move by Government to capacitate political deployees with a patriotism ideology which seeks to put the country’s development first ahead of political divisions. Hence, I call on Government to come up with a non-political institution that serves Zimbabweans rather than a political party. Once again Mr. President Sir, I want to thank you for allowing me to debate on this report and motion. I thank you.
+HON. SEN. NDEBELE: Thank you Mr. President. I am happy to support the motion that was brought by Hon. Senator Mavenyengwa, which talks about local governance, especially in urban areas and other areas which are being supervised by the Ministry of Local Government. As we talk about Local Government, I want to thank Harare Province for successfully hosting the SADC Summit. The President of this country was given the chairmanship of SADC in this magnificent building. I am not sure if during the preparation of the SADC Summit, there was a way of removing all the unscrupulous officers who were working. However, you will realise that during the Summit, all the things were being done properly but now we are going back to the old ways where we used to see so many corrupt activities. It is my wish that we could uphold all the things we used to do and not engage in corrupt activities.
Most Local Government institutions, especially in rural areas are not doing well. Most people are looking forward to having rural electrification but there is slow progress in that regard. There are so many rural areas that are lagging behind in terms of transport provision and healthcare and it is very difficult to live there. Looking at the issues to do with dams, you will realise that you cannot get amenities to do with fisheries or schools. It is really a challenge. There is nothing that is being done in those schools. You will realise that even accommodation for teachers is a big challenge. There are Councillors who are elected to serve in those areas, but there is nothing that they are doing. They are not able to go and speak on behalf of people that they are representing.
We have a listening President who takes our issues seriously. If you talk of drought, farming and provision of water, he does not want to leave anyone behind. He is indeed a listening President. Those who are in Local Government leadership are not able to work properly. Councillors are not able to distribute the Presidential inputs properly. They choose who to give and who not to give. If you look as social welfare issues, they choose whom they want to benefit from social protection programmes while other people are suffering.
So much deforestation is happening under our watch. If you go to clinics, patients are asked to pay a USD1 in order to get treatment and you do not get any medication after being treated. I know that councils are given an opportunity to drill boreholes, but they do not do so in central places, rather they do so close to their homesteads. All this is an indication that council is failing. All that they concentrate on is imitating urban areas, but they still fail to copy what the urban areas are doing.
Yes, these people are chosen by different people from the community, but there is need to have at least a standard way of saying, Councillors who are chosen to represent people in rural areas, what is it that they are expected to do because there are a lot of people in rural areas as compared to urban areas? Hon. Senator Mavenyengwa brought a good motion and my prayer is that this motion should not only be centred on rural areas, but should also touch on urban areas. Let us look at things that are affecting the rural areas. Our elderly people are failing to access the Presidential inputs because of the specific religion that they are aligned to.
It is my prayer that all the officers who have something to do with Local Government issues emulate our President, the Chairperson of SADC who is a listening President. He said he will not leave anyone behind, but now in rural areas we select who to assist based on their religion. The Ministry of Local Government should work together with people. Let us take into consideration that there is drought which has been caused by climate change. I thank you.
*HON. SEN. HUNGWE: Thank you Mr. President Sir and I want to congratulate His Excellency, the President for taking over the Chairmanship of SADC. As Zimbabweans, we are all chairmen; that is what the President said because chairmanship is national. I want to add a few words to the motion that was moved by Hon. Senator Mavenyengwa, which is quite a pertinent motion. When we went for elections, you would remember that we had harmonised elections. We voted for the President, Members of Parliament and councillors, which means that all these people play different roles in their different responsibilities.
This is critical because it is good for the people of Zimbabwe. I want to talk about urban councils which are failing to perform. We need to be honest with each other. His Excellency, the President Dr. E. D. Mnangagwa oversees everything that is happening and he is doing his job. There is the Ministry of Local Government which has a Minister responsible for local authorities, from RDC level to urban councils. That is why they were separated because we have a lot of people who are in the rural areas.
We go to urban areas where there are also many people and councils there are not doing their job well. There is budget in urban areas and the council has a budget which speaks about what should be done and what should be achieved. I do not see the reason why things are not moving because there is a budget in urban councils, just like the Central Government, which plays its own role.
The Second Republic did a good job by allocating a responsible Minister of State for different provinces and allocated devolution funds so that every province has a fund. The roads that were rehabilitated are not supposed to be the responsibility of Central Government,
but for local authorities. Local authorities are supposed to be responsible for council roads. The roads that we use in cities fall under the local authority. The water that we consume falls under the local authority. Electricity that we use, falls under the local authority. So, all these things are allocated to different responsible authorities.
The previous speaker said that there is a lot of corruption in local authorities. The money that is supposed to be used for service delivery is channelled to workshops. These are critical issues which we need to interrogate especially in Bulawayo and Harare. I live in Harare and this is where you find a lot of corruption. The corruption is embedded in the urban councils. So, we are saying that we need to make sure that our councillors are under the local authority. Urban councils should perform their duties with due diligence.
The rates that are paid by rate payers should be accounted for. There should be auditing of finances in urban councils. The Department of City Park collects millions and millions of dollars. When you park your vehicle, you are expected to pay US$2. When you look at the sewerage system, where people live in high-density areas, there are a lot of sewer blockages polluting the environment.
Everyone should do his or her job in urban councils so that those who give us these responsibilities will be happy. Harare is very dirty. The other day I went through Town House. I said that at one point I used to work for the council. Town House is the centre of attraction and this is the central place where visitors are received. When I was working for council, it was very clean and the people who were working for the council then used to make sure that it was presentable. Now, when you go to the council office, you will be surprised. They are just employing a lot of managers. It is top heavy and there is no service delivery that is happening.
So, we need to engage our local authorities so that they restore the former glory of the City of Harare which was the Sunshine City in 1999. This was the last time when they did that when there was the late Alderman Tony Gara. This is the situation that was there when there was the late Solomon Tawengwa and Tizirai Gwata but now, it is quite embarrassing because when you look at the situation, it is not palatable at all. I just stood up to say people voted for us giving us different responsibilities and different jobs. The City of Harare, City of Bulawayo and other cities have budgets for service delivery.
We last used tap water at my house in 1999. This is the last time I did that. Our grandchildren do not know how to bath under a shower. Our children would play and use the shower. Now when you ask children, they do not know what a shower is. We want to thank His Excellency, he is doing his best. That is why he introduced the Presidential Borehole Scheme having seen the situation where people were dying because of lack of clean water. A lot of diseases are affecting people because of lack of water. In Glen Norah, Glenview and other high-density suburbs, we have such challenges. His Excellency looked at the population, looked into the issue and realised that local authorities are failing. They have that responsibility; they are supposed to be providing clean water through Lake Chivero. Go to Lake Chivero, you will be surprised, the water is smelling bad. The council is there, it is supposed to be providing clean water but it is quite sad, it is bad. Those who are getting water from the lake are few. The rest of the people of Harare do not have access to water.
For us who have farms, sometimes we bring water from the farms so that our children can have safe clean water. As a councillor, you were given a job, you must do your job with due diligence. As a councillor who represents people, a councillor is key because their responsibility for the day to day welfare of people is - do I have water? Is the road that I am using in good condition? Now, we were talking about street lights but you will discover that in most suburbs, there is no lighting; it is dark. You cannot move around suburbs after 7 p.m., but Zimbabwe is a very peaceful country, you can travel even with money in your bag or pocket. Zimbabwe is a peaceful country because of its leadership and that is why we have peace in Zimbabwe. With these few words, I want to say everyone should play their role. We are Senators, we must play our roles but we also want to talk about our councillors. They should work hard. I thank you.
+HON. SEN. MLILO: Thank you Mr. President Sir. The motion under discussion which pertains to councils, the most important thing is that we need to look at the root cause. In Ndebele, there is this an adage which says that you must not target the branches but look at the roots. The root cause of why our councils are not performing, we need to identify that. When we identify the root cause, then we will find the solution.
At one point during a certain year, there was cancellation of debts owed to our councils and it was towards elections. My request is, I want to implore politicians who normally want to motivate people through the cancellation of debts - I was a councillor when council debts were written off and as I am speaking, when people are told to go and pay their rates, they would say they are waiting for the Government to cancel the debts. For service delivery to happen and for jobs to be done properly in councils, for clean water to be provided and for roads to be in good shape, then people should pay their rates. If people do not pay rates, you remember that when people did not pay the rates, when the debts were written off, some were even adamant when they were approached, saying that they could not pay their debts because they were waiting for Government to do that. That is why I referred the House to the root cause because if we just look at the issue without looking at the root cause, we might not solve the problem.
We need to identify the root cause for us to understand because if you root out the problem, then you would not see the problem coming back again. It is important to identify why our councils are underperforming. If we do that, then you would find that everything would go well. We will be able to solve problems as leaders so that our councils can perform as expected. Our sewerage system will function properly, our roads would be in good condition and clean water will flow. That is why I stood up here because I am seeing that people are not identifying the root cause, they are just looking at the issue from the surface. I thank you.
HON. SEN. MAVENYENGWA: I move that the debate do now adjourn.
HON. SEN. TONGOGARA: I second.
Motion put and agreed to.
Debate to resume: Wednesday, 18th September, 2024.
MOTION
SHORTAGES OF WATER IN CITIES AND OTHER TOWNS
Ninth Order read: Adjourned debate on motion on the perennial water shortages in the cities of Harare and Bulawayo.
Question again proposed.
HON. SEN. RICHARD NDLOVU: Thank you Mr. President for the opportunity that you have given to me to add my voice to the motion that was moved by Hon. Sen. Ritta Ndlovu. This is a touching motion. Mr. President, life without water is miserable; water is life. Of course, rainfall is very scarce these years but we should have had a provision before, which is the construction of dams. Particularly in Bulawayo, where I stay, be it during the day, night even morning, you see people queuing everyday for water. People are leading a torrid life due to the scarcity of water.
Most dams that were constructed for Bulawayo, have silted, they do not have water. So, there is a problem. I want to make an appeal to the Ministry concerned, if they could de-silt those dams so that they can hold water. Possibly, the survival of the people of Bulawayo is the Gwayi-Shangani Water Project. The Gwayi-Shangani water, the idea was mooted as far back as 1912 but because of the shortage of water and the population that was very small, the project was shelved.
The Second Republic led by His Excellency the President Dr. E. D. Mnangagwa, embarked on the construction of the dam but it has taken too long. We want to appeal to the listening President to put more effort so that the people of Bulawayo and Matabeleland can get water, not only human beings but even the animals have no water. That is why they are roaming all over the country in search of water. They will end up killing people because they think that in the houses, there is water.
Mr. President Sir, the Gwayi-Shangani Dam, if completed is going to change the lives of the people in the region particularly, Matabeleland North. Expectations were high and they are still high, that if that dam is constructed, there will be a green belt stretching from Binga up to Bulawayo. There will be no talk of hunger when that dam is constructed. When rains fall, it will be a green belt all over. Bulawayo will change its life. There will be a change of those dams that are supplying Bulawayo now, from Matabeleland South to Matabeleland North.
It is vital Mr. President, that the construction of the dam is expedited as quickly as possible, so that people can live a normal life. There is a Limpopo special corridor, which when this dam is constructed, will stretch up to Limpopo and even across. They also have a problem of water shortage. We are waiting for that dam. Mr. President of the Senate, this House has been debating about water for quite a long time, so Government has to look into it so that water is provided for the people.
Everyone is looking up to the Government to provide water. I would not have done service if I did mention where I come from. I come from Matabeleland South, Bulilima in particular. We have two big rivers that is Tegwani and Nata Rivers with some very good potential water points. The dams were sited and the relevant documentation was submitted to the Ministries concerned for more than 20 years. If those dams were constructed, the situation would have changed.
I want to appeal to the Minister of Lands, Agriculture, Water and Fisheries to look at all the dam sites in all the provinces and try to construct the dams for the well-being of the people in those areas. We have a serious shortage of water yet the water runs up to Maitengwe. The Botswana people have put up a salt factory tapping from where our water ends. We buy salt from Botswana in the Kalahari Desert, where the Nata River and the Tegwani River ends. It just ends in the desert. Please, we are appealing for Government to come up and rescue the situation in those regions. With these few words, Mr. President, I thank you for the chance that you have given me to air my own views also on the subject matter raised by Hon. Rita Ndhlovu. I thank you.
HON. SEN. RITA NDLOVU: I move that the debate do now adjourn.
HON. SEN. S. MOYO: I second.
Motion put and agreed to.
Debate to resume: Wednesday, 18th September, 2024.
MOTION
REPORT OF THE ZIMBABWE WOMEN PARLIAMENTARY CAUCUS (ZWPC) ON THE 68TH SESSION OF THE COMMISSION ON THE STATUS OF WOMEN (CSW68)
Tenth Order Read: Adjourned debate on motion on the Report of Zimbabwe Women Parliamentary Caucus (ZWPC) on the 68th Session of the Commission on the Status of Women.
Question again proposed.
HON. SEN. MBOHWA: I move that the debate do now adjourn.
HON. SEN. CHIEF NGUNGUMBANE: I second.
Motion put and agreed to.
Debate to resume: Wednesday, 18th September, 2024.
MOTION
REHABILITATION OF ALL OPEN MINES BY ARTISANAL MINERS
Eleventh Order read: Adjourned debate on motion on the need for artisanal miners to rehabilitate open mines.
Question again proposed.
HON. SEN. S. MOYO: I move that the debate do now adjourn.
HON. SEN. NGWENA: I second
Motion put and agreed to.
Debate to resume: Wednesday, 18th September, 2024.
MOTION
ESTABLISHMENT OF HYDROCEPHALUS DEVICES IN GOVERNMENT AND PRIVATE PHARMACIES
Twelfth Order read: Adjourned debate on motion on the treatment of hydrocephalus in hospitals.
Question again proposed.
HON. SEN. ZVIDZAI: I move that the debate do now adjourn.
HON. SEN. CHITSAMBA: I second
Motion put and agreed to.
Debate to resume: Wednesday, 18th September, 2024.
On the motion of HON. SEN. GOTORA, seconded by HON. SEN. TONGOGARA the Senate adjourned at Twenty-Three Minutes past Four o’clock p.m.