Report of the Committee on Government Assurances for the Fourth Session of the Twelfth National Assembly

Home , Chinsali (constituency), Kanyama (constituency), Kaputa (constituency), Kawambwa District, Milenge District, Mufumbwe (constituency)

REPORT

OF THE

COMMITTEE ON GOVERNMENT ASSURANCES

FOR THE

FOURTH SESSION OF THE TWELFTH NATIONAL ASSEMBLY

Printed by the National Assembly of Zambia

REPORT

OF THE

COMMITTEE ON GOVERNMENT ASSURANCES

FOR THE

FOURTH SESSION OF THE TWELFTH NATIONAL ASSEMBLY

Table of Content

1.0 MEMBERS OF THE COMMITTEE ...... 1 2.0 FUNCTIONS OF THE COMMITTEE ...... 1 3.0 PROCEDURE ADOPTED BY THE COMMITTEE ...... 1 4.0 MEETINGS OF THE COMMITTEE ...... 2 5.0 ARRANGEMENT OF THE REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE ...... 2 PART I - CONSIDERATION OF SUBMISSIONS ON NEW ASSURANCES ...... 2 MINISTRY OF HEALTH...... 2 01/19 Resumption on the Construction of Health Posts under the 650 Health Posts Project ... 2 03/19 Construction of Kaputa District Hospital ...... 3 05/19 Construction of Health Posts in Kaputa ...... 3 06/19 Nakanyaa Health Centre ...... 4 07/19 Chimbwi Mini Hospital Construction ...... 4 11/19 Katete District Hospital Construction ...... 5 12/19 Zamtan Health Centre Upgrading ...... 5 13/19 Upgrading of Health Centres in Chadiza Parliamentary Constituency ...... 6 20/19 Procurement of Mortuary Equipment for Mumpanshya Mission Hospital in Rufunsa District ...... 6 33/19 Theatre at Chimwemwe Mini Hospital ...... 7 39/19 Chiawa Mini Hospital ...... 8 40/19 Chama South Health Posts ...... 8 MINISTRY OF HIGHER EDUCATION ...... 9 04/19 Construction of University Colleges ...... 9 29/19 Milenge Trades Institute ...... 10 MINISTRY OF GENERAL EDUCATION ...... 10 10/19 Kafwimbi Primary School ...... 10 16/19 Frozen Staff Positions ...... 11 MINISTRY OF FINANCE ...... 12 21/19 Operationalisation of the Zambia Credit Guarantee Scheme ...... 12 MINISTRY OF LOCAL GOVERNMENT ...... 14 08/19 Livingstone Town Centre Market ...... 14 02/19 Upgrading of Mansa/Milambo Road ...... 14 MINISTRY OF FISHERIES AND LIVESTOCK ...... 15 09/19 Chadiza Dip Tanks ...... 15

MINISTRY OF ENERGY ...... 16 15/19 Electrification of Chief Kabamba’s Palace and Kabamba Secondary School ...... 16 19/19 Petroleum Prices and Foreign Exchange Rates ...... 17 22/19 National Electrification Project in Luangwa District ...... 18 24/19 Stalled Electrification of Matushi Ward, Mufumbwe District ...... 19 MINISTRY OF HOUSING AND INFRASTRUCTURE DEVELOPMENT ...... 21 02/19 Construction of Lwela Bridge in Milenge District ...... 21 30/19 Samfya/Mpanta/Kasoma Lunga Road Construction ...... 21 32/19 Tarring of Mung’anga/Mwenda/Kashiba Road ...... 22 MINISTRY OF LANDS AND NATURAL RESOURCES ...... 22 38/19 Installation of Border Markers ...... 22 MINISTRY OF JUSTICE ...... 24 37/19 Judgment for Public Service Retrenched Workers ...... 24 MINISTRY OF WATER DEVELOPMENT, SANITATION AND ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION ...... 25 18/19 Sinking of Boreholes in Feira Constituency ...... 25 27/19 Kafue Bulk Water Project ...... 26 PART II ...... 27 CONSIDERATION OF THE ACTION TAKEN REPORT ON THE REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE FOR THE THIRD SESSION OF THE TWELFTH NATIONAL ASSEMBLY ...... 27 MINISTRY OF HEALTH...... 27 10/18 Construction of Additional Hospitals and Health Centres in Kanyama ...... 27 12/18 Construction of a Hospital in Ngabwe District ...... 27 29/18 First Level Hospital Construction in Lukashya ...... 28 34/18 Construction of Health Posts in Mushindamo District ...... 28 42/18 Construction of a Clinic in Nashinga Area ...... 29 57/18 Construction of Chalokwa Health Post in Siavonga District ...... 30 02/14 – Hospital Fast – Track Emergency Departments...... 30 5/17 Chinsali General Hospital Construction ...... 36 MINISTRY OF HOUSING AND INFRASTRUCTURE DEVELOPMENT ...... 37 08/18 Construction of Bridges in Mkaika Constituency ...... 37 09/18 Tarring of Katunda Turn-Off/Lukulu/Watopa/Mumbeji Turn-Off and Manyinga/Mwinilunga Roads ...... 38 11/18 Rehabilitation of Local Courts in Chitambo Constituency ...... 38 13/18 Rehabilitation of Mpika/Kasama Road ...... 39

14/18 Construction of Sinda Day Secondary School ...... 40 17/18 Muoyo Road ...... 41 21/18 Mbesuma Bridge...... 41 23/18 Bridges in Mufumbwe District ...... 42 25/18 Secondary School in Chief Kucheka’s Chiefdom in Zambezi West ...... 43 27/18 Upgrade of Airport Road ...... 43 28/18 C400 Road Project in Ndola ...... 44 36/18 Construction of Bridges in Zambezi West ...... 45 41/18 Rehabilitation of Classroom Block at Mandubi Primary School ...... 45 11/15 - Construction of the Lusaka-Kapiri Mposhi Dual Carriageway ...... 47 20/15 - Rehabilitation of Gwembe/Chisekesi Road ...... 47 01/16 - Masangano/Fisenge Road ...... 48 13/16 - Construction of Masaiti District Administration Offices ...... 51 18/16 - Mapungu/Kalabo Feeder Road ...... 53 19/16 - North-Western Railway Concession ...... 53 33/16 - Road Signage between Chongwe and Luangwa Bridge ...... 54 43/17 Construction of Bridges in Chitambo Constituency’ ...... 55 44/17 Tarring of Mukobeko Maximum Correctional Facility/Ngabwe Road ...... 56 45/17 Implementation of Link Zambia 8,000 Kilometre Road Project ...... 57 37/17B Staff Houses for Agricultural Camps in Chitambo ...... 58 41/17 Lundazi/Chama Road ...... 58 31/17 Tarring of Muyombe/Isoka Road...... 59 15/16 C400 Road Project ...... 61 13/16 Upgrading of Mkushi Roads...... 62 18/16 Bridges in Lunte Constituency ...... 63 6/17 Construction of Mulambwa and Kaunga Bridges ...... 64 18/17 Upgrading of Kalubanshi/Milenge Road ...... 65 MINISTRY OF HOME AFFAIRS ...... 65 7/18 Chitambo Mission Police Post...... 65 37/18 Zambia Correctional Service Irrigation Project in Serenje ...... 66 01/18 Rehabilitation of Community Schools in Serenje Constituency ...... 67 4/18 Conversion of Community Schools to Government Schools in Chitambo Constituency ...... 68 19/18 Kaniki Primary School in Chifubu, Ndola ...... 68 26/18 Kasaba Day Secondary School ...... 69

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30/18 Teacher Transfers from Kaputa ...... 70 31/18 Computers for Gwembe Schools ...... 70 MINISTRY OF INFORMATION AND BROADCASTING SERVICES ...... 71 02/18 ZNBC Offices in Chinsali ...... 71 MINISTRY OF FINANCE ...... 72 05/16 Macro Economic Objectives, Policies and Strategies for 2017 ...... 72 44/18 Cage Fish Farming on Lakes Mweru, Kariba, Tanganyika and Kafue River and Nalolo District in Western Province ...... 74 45/18 Zambia Aquaculture Enterprise Development Project ...... 76 45/18 Zambia Aquaculture Enterprise Development Project ...... 79 47/18 Geological Mapping Programme ...... 84 48/18 Energy Regulation and Electricity Bill ...... 85 50/18 Dam Construction at Kafue Gorge Lower Project and Maamba Thermal Plant ...... 86 51/18 Implement the Renewable Energy Feed-in Tariff Regulatory Framework ...... 88 52/18 Expansion and Modernisation of the Kenneth Kaunda International Airport (KKIA) . 89 54/18 Decentralisation ...... 90 MINISTRY OF LABOUR AND SOCIAL SECURITY ...... 92 03/18 Payment of Terminal Benefits for Zimbabwe Iron and Steel Company (Zisco) Former Workers ...... 92 MINISTRY OF DEFENCE ...... 93 30/13 – Resuscitation of Mulungushi Textiles ...... 93 MINISTRY OF LOCAL GOVERNMENT ...... 94 16/18 Public Libraries in Ndola Central...... 94 40/18 Tarring of Township Roads in Mkushi District ...... 95 43/14 – Construction of infrastructure in Sikongo District ...... 95 44/14 – National Fire Service Training School ...... 97 22/16 - Upgrading of Township Roads in Western Province ...... 99 05/14 – Solwezi Township Roads ...... 100 13/14 – Construction of Chipili District Council Houses ...... 102 09/17 Feeder Road Rehabilitation in Lumezi Constituency ...... 102 28/17 Modern Bus Station and Three Market Shelters Construction in Katete ...... 103 20/16 Modern Market and Bus Station for Chama District ...... 103 SECRETARY TO THE TREASURY ...... 105 MINISTRY OF HIGHER EDUCATION ...... 105 34/13 – Construction of Chalimbana, Mukuba and Kwame Nkrumah Universities ...... 105 40/14 – Construction of King Lewanika University ...... 106

14/15 – Mumbwa Trades Training Institute ...... 107 11/17 Construction of FTJ Chiluba University ...... 108 MINISTRY OF GENERAL EDUCATION ...... 108 05/15 - Construction of Teachers’ Houses in Chasefu Constituency ...... 108 07/16 - Chasefu Boarding Secondary School ...... 109 12/16 - Manyama Basic School Desks ...... 110 31/16 - Ncheka Primary School in Malambo ...... 111 13/15 - Laboratories at Secondary Schools in Chasefu ...... 111 30/14 – Construction of Nakonde Secondary School ...... 112 03/13 – Ntatumbila and Shemu Basic Schools ...... 112 39/17 Mateyo Kakumbi Primary School in Chitambo ...... 113 21 /17 Mufumbwe Day Secondary School Laboratory ...... 113 26/17 Pondo Basic School...... 114 28/17 Deployment of Teachers to Nangoma Constituency ...... 115 17/17 Electrification of Chama South Schools ...... 115 MINISTRY OF WATER DEVELOPMENT, SANITATION AND ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION ...... 116 24/18 –Boreholes in Mushindamo District ...... 116 28/16 - Rural Water and Sanitation Project in Mitete District ...... 116 29/16 - Sinking of Boreholes in Lumezi ...... 117 12/17 Serenje Water Reticulation System ...... 117 33/17 Water Reticulation System for Chiengi District ...... 118 03/16 – Rehabilitation of Mambuluwe Dam ...... 119 17/16 Dams and Boreholes in Nyimba District ...... 119 14/13 – Construction of Dams in Mapatizya Constituency ...... 120 MINISTRY OF CHIEFS AND TRADITIONAL AFFAIRS ...... 121 38/14 – 1958 Chiefdom Boundaries Re-Designation ...... 121 24/13 – Construction of Palaces for Traditional Leaders in Serenje ...... 121 16/16 Chieftainess Kanyembo’s Palace ...... 122 05/17 Rehabilitation and Electrification of Palaces for Chiefs Shibwalya Kapila and Mukupa Kaoma...... 123 MINISTRY OF TOURISM AND ARTS ...... 124 08/12 – Restocking of Game Management Areas (GMAs) ...... 124 8/17 Connection of Luangwa District to the National Grid ...... 126 38/17 Rural Electrification Programme in Kasama ...... 127 4/17 Electrification of Chiefdoms in Mpika District...... 128

01/16 Construction of Dip Tanks in Nangoma ...... 129 02/16 Establishment of the Disaster Relief Trust Fund ...... 130 18/15 - Radio Reception in Rural Areas ...... 131 12/15 - Construction of North-Western Province Police Administration Block ...... 131 31/15 – Construction of Milenge Police Post ...... 132 14/16 - National Registration Office in Kalabo ...... 133 12/15 – Construction of Police Stations and Posts in Magoye Constituency ...... 133 16/15 – Construction of office block and housing units for Police in Rufunsa District ...... 135 MINISTRY OF JUSTICE ...... 135 27/14 – Kaputa Local Courts Staff Establishment ...... 135 09/13 – Local Courts at Nsumbu Business Centre ...... 136 MINISTRY OF TRANSPORT AND COMMUNICATIONS ...... 138 17/15 - Communication Towers in Kasempa ...... 138 MINISTRY OF ENERGY ...... 138 5/18 Zesco Office for Chitambo District ...... 138 15/15 – National Electricity Grid Connection in Rufunsa ...... 139 08/15 – Construction of Filling Station in Kalabo ...... 140 10/15 – Fuel Filling Station in Mporokoso ...... 141 07/15 - Construction of Electricity Power Plants ...... 141 29/14 – Electrification of Wards in Bwacha Constituency ...... 142 MINISTRY OF COMMERCE, TRADE AND INDUSTRY ...... 143 04/16 - Exports to Angola ...... 143 30/15 - Renovation of Department of National Parks and Wildlife (Formerly Zawa) Camp Houses in Lumezi ...... 145 MINISTRY OF DEFENCE ...... 146 11/15 – Connection of Luena Barracks to new Water System ...... 146 MINISTRY OF WORKS AND SUPPLY ...... 146 32/14 – Construction of Lunsemfwa River Bridge in Rufunsa Constituency ...... 146 42/14 – Construction of Immigration Department Offices at Nsumbu Border Post ...... 147 03/15 – Mbala-Kasaba Bay-Nsumbu Road ...... 148 MINISTRY OF LANDS AND NATURAL RESOURCES ...... 149 10/14 – Installation of the Zambia Integrated Land Management Information System (ZILMIS) ...... 149 17/14 – Investments in Irrigation, Agro-processing and Livestock Sectors ...... 150 GENERAL OBSERVATIONS ...... 151 APPENDIX I - List of National Assembly Officials ...... 153

REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE ON GOVERNMENT ASSURANCES FOR THE FOURTH SESSION OF THE TWELFTH NATIONAL ASSEMBLY

1.0 MEMBERS OF THE COMMITTEE

The Committee consisted of Mr E Kamondo, MP (Chairperson); Ms M P Langa, MP (Vice Chairperson); Mr W Banda, MP; Mr M Ndalamei, MP; Mr L Fungulwe, MP; Mr D Mulunda, MP; Mr S Miti, MP; Mr C D Miyanda, MP; Mr E Musonda, MP, and Mr L M Kaziya, MP.

The Honourable Mr Speaker National Assembly Parliament Buildings LUSAKA

Sir

The Committee has the honour to present its Report for the Fourth Session of the Twelfth National Assembly.

2.0 FUNCTIONS OF THE COMMITTEE

Under Standing Order No. 155(2) of the House, the Committee is mandated to scrutinise all assurances and undertakings made by Cabinet Ministers or the Vice President on the floor of the House with the objective of ensuring that the appropriate action is taken on the assurances. Further, the Committee is mandated to follow up on the implementation of the resolutions of the House on Private Members’ Motions and to comment on delays in implementation and adequacy of the action taken as well as exercise such other functions as may be assigned to it by the Speaker from time to time.

3.0 PROCEDURE ADOPTED BY THE COMMITTEE

The Committee examined all contributions made by the Executive as recorded in the Daily Parliamentary Debates and extracted statements which amounted to assurances for consideration. These were then referred to Government ministries concerned to find out the actions taken to implement the assurances. Upon receipt of submissions from Government ministries and departments on the assurances, the Committee invited the respective Permanent Secretaries and Chief Executive Officers of the concerned ministries and departments to appear before it and give updates on the implementation of the assurances falling under their respective portfolios.

4.0 MEETINGS OF THE COMMITTEE

The Committee held thirteen meetings during the period under review to consider both outstanding assurances as well as new assurances made on the floor of the House.

5.0 ARRANGEMENT OF THE REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE

The Committee’s Report is arranged in two Parts: Part I deals with consideration of submissions on various new assurances identified while Part II deals with assurances outstanding from the Action-Taken Report on the Committee’s Report for the Third Session of the Twelfth National Assembly.

PART I - CONSIDERATION OF SUBMISSIONS ON NEW ASSURANCES

MINISTRY OF HEALTH

01/19 Resumption on the Construction of Health Posts under the 650 Health Posts Project

On 18th September, 2018, the Minister of Health made the following assurance:

Mr Speaker, by way of giving a background, the contract for the construction of health posts covering the Northern Province, the Luapula Province, the Muchinga Province and the North-Western Province was terminated and works stalled two years ago. Mr Speaker, I am happy to report that the Government has completed the procurement process for the construction of the 201 health posts in the four provinces. Construction will resume between 30th September and 10th October 2018.

Sir, the contractor is Oversees Jaguar Limited and the contract was signed on 30th August, 2018 and will run for eighteen months.

Executive’s Response The Committee was informed that the works in the four provinces namely: Northern Province, Luapula Province, Muchinga Province and North-Western Province whose contract was terminated in December, 2015 due to recommendation by the Government of India had resumed. The works had stalled due to the process of having to acquire additional financing from the financier and thereafter procurement of a new contractor. The contract with Jaguar Overseas Limited was signed on 30th August, 2018 and approval to implement granted by Exim Bank (financier) in October, 2018.

Following completion of all administrative matters prerequisite to commencement of the contract, the contractor commenced work in all four provinces in December, 2018. A total of sixty-six health posts had been completed in all four provinces. It was envisaged that 2 the contractor would expedite the erection of the health posts since most of the prefabricated materials were in the country. All the remaining 135 health posts which were at different levels were expected to be completed by the end of 2020.

Committee’s Observations and Recommendations The Committee in noting the submission urges the Government to ensure that the remaining 135 health posts in the four provinces are completed by the end of 2020, since the prefabricated materials are in the country. The Committee resolves to await a progress report on the matter.

03/19 Construction of Kaputa District Hospital

On 19th September 2018, the Minister of Health made the following assurance:

Mr Speaker, the construction of the Kaputa District Hospital is included in the Medium- Term Framework for 2019-2021 and earmarked to commence in the first quarter of 2019. The bed capacity of such a hospital ranges between 120 and 200 beds. We are targeting 150 beds for Kaputa.

Executive’s Response The Committee was informed that the Government had noted the need to increase access to first level referral services in Kaputa District and had thus prioritised construction of mini hospitals in selected areas of Kaputa. This was aimed at reducing the distance that communities covered in order to reach first level referral services. Construction of the facilities was expected to commence within 2020. The delay in implementation was as a result of delays in the finalisation of administrative approvals to enable commencement of the project.

Committee’s Observations and Recommendations The Committee is concerned that nothing was being done to actualise the construction of Kaputa District Hospital and urges the Government to ensure that funds are secured to have the project implemented. The Committee resolves to await a comprehensive progress report on the construction of Kaputa District Hospital and the provision of the 150 beds targeted for Kaputa.

05/19 Construction of Health Posts in Kaputa

On 11th October 2018, the Minister of Health made the following assurance:

Mr Speaker, the construction of health posts in Kaputa District under the 650 Health Posts Project has commenced. The contractor has started mobilizing in the four provinces where the contract was initially terminated. Sir, the actual date for Kaputa is 30thOctober, 2018 and the project is expected to be completed within eighteen months. The two health posts will be constructed in Kaputa District and shall be situated in Kasepa and Chipili.

Executive’s Response The Committee was informed that the contractor had mobilised at Kasepa and Chipili for the construction of health posts in the two areas and that the construction of the slabs for the fabricated structures was underway. Work commenced in September, 2019 and was expected to be completed by June, 2020.

Committee’s Observations and Recommendations The Committee in noting the submission resolves to await a progress report on the matter.

06/19 Nakanyaa Health Centre

On 18th June, 2019 the Minister of Health made the following assurance: Mr Speaker, the Government has plans to upgrade Nakanyaa Health Centre in Nalikwanda Parliamentary Constituency into a mini-hospital and it intends to do this in the fourth quarter of 2019.

Executive’s Response The Committee was informed that the Government was still committed to upgrading Nakanyaa Health Centre in Nalikwanda Parliamentary Constituency into a mini-hospital due to its location. Implementation of plans to upgrade the health centre was not done in the fourth quarter of 2019 due to limited fiscal space. The Ministry of Health however, recently posted a clinical officer and midwife in order to enhance service delivery at the facility.

Committee’s Observations and Recommendations The Committee notes the submission and urges the Government to ensure that the upgrading of Nakanyaa Health Centre into a mini-hospital is actualised. In this regard, the Committee also wishes to find out the time frame for the completion of the upgrade project. The Committee resolves to await a progress report on the matter.

07/19 Chimbwi Mini Hospital Construction

On 18th June, 2019, the Minister of Health made the following assurance: Mr Speaker, the Ministry of Health plans to build a mini hospital in Chimbwi in Lupososhi Parliamentary Constituency commencing in the third quarter of 2019. The project will be undertaken by a contractor known as NMS Infrastructure Limited which is based in the United Kingdom (UK). The total construction period of one mini hospital is twenty weeks from the site handover date.

Executive’s Response The Committee was informed that the Government was still committed to constructing a mini hospital at Chimbwi in Lupososhi Parliamentary Constituency. The project would be

4 undertaken by NMS Infrastructure Limited as part of the project to construct 108 mini hospitals in Zambia. The construction of the facility was expected to commence in 2020.

Committee’s Observations and Recommendations The Committee is disappointed that there is no explanation for the change in the commencement date of the project from the third quarter of 2019 to 2020 and requests that an explanation be rendered in this regard. The Committee resolves to await a progress report on the matter.

11/19 Katete District Hospital Construction

On 20th June, 2019, the Minister of Health made the following assurance: Mr Speaker, the Government plans to build a hospital in Katete District in the fourth quarter of 2019. The mini hospital is of the 108 the Government is building. The time frame for the project is twenty weeks.

Executive’s Response The Committee was informed that the Government was still committed to constructing a mini-hospital in Katete District. The construction of a new mini hospital was earmarked for construction at the Boma area and was expected to be undertaken in 2020.

Committee’s Observations and Recommendations The Committee expresses concern that the Government could not commence the project as was promised on the floor of the House and no explanation was given in this regard. In view of the above, the Committee is requesting for an explanation as to why the project could not commence as was promised. The Committee resolves to await a progress report on the matter.

12/19 Zamtan Health Centre Upgrading

On 20th June, 2019, the Minister of Health made the following assurance:

Mr Speaker, Zamtan Health Centre is being upgraded to mini hospital status. The plan is to implement the Project in the third quarter of this year (2019).

Executive’s Response The Committee was informed that the Government was still committed to upgrading Zamtan Health Centre to a mini-hospital and had already installed an x-ray machine at the facility. Further, the Committee was informed that the implementation of the plan to upgrade Zamtan Health Centre into a mini-hospital was delayed due to limited fiscal space.

Committee’s Observations and Recommendations The Committee expresses concern over the failure by the Government to upgrade Zamtan Health Centre to a mini-hospital as was assured on the floor of the House and urges the Government to commit itself to a time frame in which the project is to be actualised. The Committee resolves to await a progress report on the matter.

13/19 Upgrading of Health Centres in Chadiza Parliamentary Constituency

On 21 June, 2019, the Minister of Health made the following assurance: Madam Speaker, bearing in mind the population catchment for Taferansoni, Nsadzu and John, the Government has plans to upgrade the level of service to mini hospital status. For now, they are operating at the zonal health centre status, we have plans to upgrade the infrastructure to upgrade the scope of service to that of mini hospital status in 2020.

Madam Speaker, as for Nyamphande, a mini hospital will be built there within the fourth quarter of 2019, the implementation of the project at Nyamphande, will be in the fourth quarter after the financing agreement is completed.

Executive’s Response The Committee was informed that the Government was still committed to have the infrastructure at the existing facilities at Taferansoni, Nsadzu and John upgraded. The Committee was also informed that the Government had constructed maternity blocks at Nsadzu and Taferansoni in order to improve the level of service at the two facilities. Further the Government had increased human resource at Nsadzu, through placement of a clinical officer and a data associate.

The Committee was further informed that the Government was still committed to constructing a mini-hospital in Nyamphande. To this effect, ground breaking for the construction of a mini-hospital at Nyamphande was done and implementation was expected to be undertaken in 2020.

Committee’s Observations and Recommendations The Committee in noting the submission urges the Government to ensure that the projects are implemented as promised and resolves to await a progress report on the matter.

20/19 Procurement of Mortuary Equipment for Mumpanshya Mission Hospital in Rufunsa District

On Tuesday, 12th February, 2019, the Minister of Health made the following assurance: Mr Speaker, the Ministry of Health is modernising all health facilities, including mission health facilities. The modernisation programme includes the procurement of modern medical equipment for both diagnostic and therapeutic purposes, and improvement of mortuary facilities. Mumphanshya Mission hospital is expected to benefit from this Government procurement initiative earmarked for the second quarter of 2019.

Executive’s Response The Committee was informed that the Government was still committed to having a mortuary unit at Mumpanshya Mission Hospital installed. Mupanshya was recently connected to the national grid as previously it was operating on generator power supply and thus making installation of a mortuary unit difficult. A mortuary unit was to be installed within 2020.

Committee’s Observations and Recommendations The Committee in noting the submission is displeased over the change in the installation date of the mortuary. To this effect, the Committee urges the Government to ensure that the mortuary unit is installed within 2020 as submitted and resolves to await a progress report on the matter.

33/19 Theatre at Chimwemwe Mini Hospital

On 13th February, 2019, the Minister of Health made the following assurance:

Mr Speaker, the theatre at Chimwemwe Mini Hospital shall be operational by the end of the first quarter of 2019. Currently, the Government is in the process of procuring equipment required to operationalise the theatre. Sir, the theatre was handed over by the contractor in September, 2017. The cause of the delay in operationalising it and the x-ray facility is the lack of appropriate theatre and x-ray equipment. Mr Speaker, the Ministry of Health has plans to procure and install a generator set at the theatre annex, as backup power for optimal operations of the theatre and the x-ray department.

Executive’s Response The Committee was informed that the Government was committed to operationalising the theatre at Chimwemwe Mini-Hospital. To this effect an Anaesthetic machine and Diathermy machine were installed at the facility. The Committee was further informed that the Government was in the process of procuring an operating theatre light and operating table to further operationalise the facility.

The Committee was also informed that procurement of x-ray equipment was underway through support from cooperating partners. However, procurement of a generator had delayed due to limited fiscal space.

Committee’s Observations and Recommendations The Committee in noting the progress made urges the Government to ensure that the operating theatre light and operating table were procured to facilitate the operationalisation of the theatre. Further, the Committee urges the Government to ensure that the x-ray equipment and the generator are procured. The Committee resolves to await a progress report on the matter.

39/19 Chiawa Mini Hospital

On 5th July, 2019, the Minister of Health made the following assurance:

Madam Speaker, the Government does have plans to construct a mini hospital in Chiawa area in Kafue Parliamentary Constituency, and these plans will be implemented within the fourth quarter of 2019.

Executive’s Response The Committee was informed that the Government was committed to constructing a mini hospital in Chiawa area in Kafue Parliamentary Constituency. Works were to be done as part of the 108 Health Centres and three district hospitals project and implementation was expected to be undertaken in 2020 as opposed to the earlier submission of fourth quarter 2019. The delay in implementation was as a result of finalisation of administrative approvals to enable commencement of the project.

Committee’s Observations and Recommendations The Committee in noting the submission urges the Government to ensure that the necessary approvals are obtained expeditiously to enable commencement of the project. The Committee resolves to await a progress report on the matter.

40/19 Chama South Health Posts

On 20th June, 2019, the Minister of Health made the following assurance:

Madam Speaker, the construction of health posts under the 650 Health Post Project in Chama South Parliamentary Constituency will begin in the fourth week of August 2019.

Executive’s Response The Committee was informed that the construction of health posts in Chama District under the project to construct 650 Health Posts under the India Line of Credit, commenced in August, 2019. The contractor had mobilised on all sites in Chama District, and had completed all the slabs. Two health posts in Chama South namely Pondo and Zebe had been completed and handed over. All the health posts were expected to be completed by the end of 2020.

Committee’s Observations and Recommendations The Committee in noting the progress made resolves to await a progress report on the completion of the remaining health posts.

MINISTRY OF HIGHER EDUCATION

04/19 Construction of University Colleges

On 19th September 2018, the Minister of Higher Education made the following assurance:

Mr Speaker, the Ministry has made notable progress on the construction of the three university colleges in Kabompo District, Nalolo District and Katete District. The tender processes have advanced with the evaluations to choose the consultant that will design the university colleges concluded in May, 2018. The report has been submitted to the funder for a “no objection” before the contracts for the designing can be awarded. Once the “no objection” is received, the Ministry will award the contract for designing of the works and will allocate a maximum period of three months to the consultant to complete the designs. Thereafter, the tender for the construction will be floated to choose the contractors that will construct the institutions. If the “no objection” is received within the month of September, construction is expected to commence in the first quarter of 2019.”

Executive’s Response The Committee was informed that the process to commence the construction of the three technical university colleges had progressed and as part of the conditions to obtain a “No Objection” from the financiers, the Ministry of Higher Education was required to undertake Environmental Impact Assessments (EIA) of the three locations. The Ministry, working with the Zambia Environmental Management Agency (ZEMA) undertook an EIA on the project sites and approval was granted by ZEMA on 26th December, 2019.

The Ministry, however, could not proceed with the implementation of these projects due to the fiscal consolidation initiatives that had been put in place by the Ministry of Finance. Through these initiatives, a number of externally financed projects were either deferred, scaled down or cancelled in an attempt to reduce pressure on the fiscus.

In this regard, the Kabompo University College of Science and Mathematics was deferred to a later date while the Nalolo University College of Science and Technology and the Katete University College of Arts and Commerce were cancelled on account of the fact that the financiers had requested for a re-evaluation of the projects due to lapse in time and change of location. The Committee was however, assured that the plan to construct the two cancelled university colleges would remain active until funds to finance them were found.

Committee’s Observations and Recommendations The Committee notes with concern the failure by the Government to implement the Kabompo University College of Science and Mathematics project and with the cancellation of the construction of the Nalolo University College of Science and Technology and the Katete University College of Arts and Commerce. The Committee strongly urges the

Government to source funding to ensure that the deferred and cancelled projects are undertaken. The Committee resolves to await a comprehensive progress report on the matter.

29/19 Milenge Trades Institute

On 11th December, 2018, the Minister of Higher Education made the following assurance:

Madam Speaker, the Ministry has been in negotiations with the contractor for Milenge Trades Institute on the revised contract sum. The negotiations were concluded the week beginning 8th October, 2018 and the contracts have since been submitted to the Ministry of Justice for clearance. As soon as the contracts are signed, the contractor will move on site and commence works. It is envisaged that the work will resume by January, 2019. Madam Speaker, the cost of completing the outstanding works stands at K31,863,322.90.

Executive’s Response The Committee was informed that the Ministry of Higher Education in liaison with the Ministry of Housing and Infrastructure Development had finalised the negotiations with the contractor. A new contract was signed with the contractor, Build Trust Construction Limited totalling K31,863,322.90 to be executed in twenty-four months. However, due to the non-availability of funds, the contractor had not commenced the works. The Committee was also informed that once funds were made available, the site would be handed over to the contractor.

Committee’s Observations and Recommendations The Committee in noting the submission urges the Government to secure funds to actualise the project given that the contract was already signed and continued delay would attract additional costs due to time lapse and change in material costs. The Committee resolves to await a progress report on the matter.

MINISTRY OF GENERAL EDUCATION

10/19 Kafwimbi Primary School

On 18th June, 2019, the Minister of General Education made the following assurance: Mr Speaker, the Government has plans to deploy additional teachers to Kafwimbi Primary School in Chifunabuli District, during the 2019 teacher recruitment exercise.

Executive’s Response The Committee was informed that the Ministry of General Education had written to the Treasury through the Public Service Management Division requesting for treasury authority to recruit teachers in 2020. It was further submitted that the Ministry had continued engaging the Treasury on the same and was still awaiting feedback, as there was no provision in the 2020 budget. The Committee was also informed that Kafwimbi Primary School had a total of four teachers, of which two were occupying positions at the school and the other two were occupying positions from other schools. The Committee heard that Kafwimbi Primary School had an establishment of nine funded positions; however, seven of the positions were occupied by officers serving at other stations in other districts namely: Samfya, Chembe, Kawambwa and Milenge in Luapula Province.

Committee’s Observations and Recommendations The Committee is disappointed that the teachers were not deployed to Kafwimbi Primary School in 2019 as undertaken by the Minister. The Committee further expresses concern that the 2020 budget does not provide for the recruitment of teachers despite having a serious shortfall of teachers in most schools and specifically Kafwimbi Primary School. Further, the Committee is saddened by the fact that of the nine teachers on the payroll on Kafwimbi Primary School only two are at the station. The Committee, therefore, strongly urges the Government to ensure that teachers are deployed to Kafwimbi Primary School as a matter of urgency and ensure that priority is given to applicants from Chifunabuli district to avoid massive transfers to other schools, in other districts. The Committee resolves to await a progress report on the matter.

16/19 Frozen Staff Positions

On 5th March, 2019, the Minister of General Education made the following assurance:

Mr Speaker, as at 31st September, 2018, the Ministry had frozen 6,631 positions. Mr Speaker, the main reason for the freezing of the positions was delays in the filling of vacant positions and lengthy processing points of human resource matters. With enhanced decentralisation, the Ministry hopes that there will be timely decision-making and reduced number of processing points. Mr Speaker, the impact of the freezing of the positions was: (a) the quality of education was compromised, as schools were manned by fewer teachers than provided for on the establishment; (b) some teachers became fatigued and demotivated; and (c) there is a high teacher-pupil ratio, which has a negative impact on both the learning and the teaching outcomes. Mr Speaker, in 2018, the Ministry was given Treasury authority to unfreeze 1,035 promotional positions, as the unfreezing of positions is dependent on the availability of funds. The Ministry will continue to consult and collaborate with the Ministry of Finance on the disbursement of funds for unfreezing positions.”

Executive’s Response The Committee was informed that in order to reduce the number of frozen positions, the Ministry had embarked on unfreezing promotional positions annually, identify officers to be promoted and recruit new entrants on the vacated positions. This was to be made possible through the use of the Net Recruitment Fund (NRF) and the subsequent granting of Treasury authority from the office of the Secretary to Treasury.

In the submission made to the Secretary to Treasury in 2020, the Ministry had proposed to unfreeze at least 1994 promotional positions. Treasury authority was still being awaited.

Committee’s Observations and Recommendations The Committee notes the submission and urges the Government to come up with a mechanism where replacement of teachers leaving on retirement or dismissal was done immediately so as to avoid positions being frozen due to time lapse. The Committee resolves to await a progress report on the matter.

MINISTRY OF FINANCE

21/19 Operationalisation of the Zambia Credit Guarantee Scheme

On 12th February 2019, the Minister of Finance made the following assurance: Mr Speaker, the Zambia Credit Guarantee Scheme was incorporated on 12th September 2017, following the recruitment of staff, including the Chief Executive Officer and the appointment of the board. Further, the policies, system, processes and procedures have now been put in place and it is expected that the scheme will start issuing guarantees by the end of the first half of 2019.

Executive’s Response

The Committee was informed that progress towards operationalisation of the scheme had been attained. However, issuance of guarantees had not yet commenced, mainly due non- compliance with the required minimum capital. For the scheme to be compliant with regulations for non-bank financial institution under the Banking and Financial Services Act No. 17 of 2017, Zambia Credit Guarantee Scheme was required to meet the minimum capital requirement of K5,000,000. The Ministry was, therefore, in the process of securing the funds required to meet the minimum capital requirements to enable Zambia Credit Guarantee Scheme commence issuance of partial guarantees. In the interim, the Zambia Credit Guarantee Scheme (ZCGS) Ltd and the Zambia Industrial Commercial Bank (ZICB) had not yet signed the Partial Credit Agreement. The Agreement was approved by the Attorney-General subject to amendments. The two parties were working on the proposed amendments after which the Agreement would be executed.

The Committee was further informed that the Government was committed to ensuring that Zambia Credit Guarantee Scheme began to issue guarantees once it secured the funds. This would improve access to credit by small and medium enterprises, the private sector and other cooperating partners to participate in the Scheme. It was Government’s desire that the Scheme would in future be driven by the private sector.

The Committee was further informed that the ZCGS management and board could not start operating due to limited fiscal space, leading to delays in the operationalisation of the Scheme.

The Committee was however informed that since 2017, the Government had committed a total of ZMW68.35 million towards the operationalisation of the company, of which ZMW56.35 million was allocated towards capital injection and ZMW12 million for operations. However, owing to fiscal challenges, only a total budget release of ZMW29.9 million as per table below were released , which releases so far had all gone towards operations. Year Amount Budgeted Capital Operations Amount Released (Million ZMW) Injection (Million (Million ZMW) (Million ZMW) ZMW) 2017 20.00 20.00 0.00 20.00 2018 20.00 20.00 0.00 2.00 2019 20.00 15.00 5.00 7.90 2020 8.35 1.35 7.00 0.00 Total 68.35 56.35 12.00 29.90

The Committee was further informed that the Government remained committed to ensuring that adequate and timely finances were made available to ZCGS for it to efficiently and effectively carry out its mandate of issuing guarantees.

Committee’s Observations and Recommendations The Committee observes with concern that since the establishment of the Zambia Credit Guarantee Scheme (ZCGS) Limited in 2017, the Scheme has not commenced issuance of the guarantees. This was unacceptable as further delays are undermining the intentions of the Government to empower small and medium enterprises (SMEs). It also results in wasteful expenditure as the Government has continued to release funds to the institution for wages and operations. The Committee further expresses concern over the failure by the Government to raise a K5,000,000 minimum capital requirement to operationalise the ZCGS when a total of K29.9 million has been spent on operations (salaries and other office expenses) when the Scheme itself is not operational. The Committee therefore, strongly urges the Government to secure the requisite funds or consider disbanding the Scheme with immediate effect so as to put an end to wasteful expenditure on wages and allowances for a non functional organisation. The Committee resolves to await a progress report on the matter.

MINISTRY OF LOCAL GOVERNMENT

08/19 Livingstone Town Centre Market On 18th June, 2019, the Minister of Local Government made the following assurance Mr Speaker, the market will be completed in November 2019. So far, K30.9 million has been spent on the project. Mr. Speaker, the estimated total cost of the project is K55,304,313.

Executive’s Response The Committee was informed that due to technicalities such as minor changes in the design and some unresolved engagements with the project financiers NAPSA, the Ministry did not meet its target to complete the project in November, 2019. Thus, the project was expected to be completed by December, 2020.

Committee’s Observations and Recommendations The Committee, in noting the submission, urges the Government to ensure that the market is completed by December, 2020 and provide a progress report on the matter.

02/19 Upgrading of Mansa/Milambo Road

On 4th October, 2018, the Minister of Local Government made the following assurance: Mr Speaker, the Government has plans to work on the Mansa/Milambo Road under the Improved Rural Connectivity Project supported by the World Bank. This project is being implemented under the Road Development Agency (RDA). Sir, the procurement process under Luapula Province is scheduled to commence in 2019 using the output and performance based road contract.

Executive’s Response The Committee was informed that due to budgetary constraints, the Ministry of Local Government would not undertake rehabilitation works on the Mansa /Milambo Road. However, the road would be considered in the 2021 – 2023 work-plan, subject to availability of funds. Further, the Committee was informed that due to long and tedious procedures and conditions by the World Bank, the Government had decided to use the Road Development Agency to construct feeder roads and rural roads so as to have full control of the projects.

Committee’s Observations and Recommendations The Committee in noting the submission resolves to await a progress report on the upgrading of the Mansa-Milambo Road.

MINISTRY OF FISHERIES AND LIVESTOCK

09/19 Chadiza Dip Tanks

On 18th June, 2019, the Minister of Fisheries and Livestock made the following assurance: Mr Speaker, the construction of a dip tank and a borehole in Kapilimpika in Chadiza District was awarded to Fadem Construction, Transport and Suppliers. So far, the contractor has completed drilling the borehole and construction of a dip tank is about 85 per cent complete. The remaining works of the walkways and the roof are scheduled for completion this year. The construction of a dip tank at Chaphuka in Chadiza District was awarded to Lukomi Enterprise Limited. The contractor has completed the construction of the tank, walkways and the roof. The project is about 95 per cent complete and is scheduled to be completed this year (2019).

Executive’s Response

Progress on Construction of the borehole and a Dip Tank at Kapilimpika The Committee was informed that the construction of a dip tank and a borehole at Kapilimpika in Chadiza District was awarded to Fadem Construction, Transport and Supplier on 5th February, 2015 at a contract sum of K150,000. So far, the contractor had completed the drilling of the borehole and construction of the dip tank; and the completed works were estimated at 85 per cent. The remaining works included the completion of the walk ways and the roof. Initially, construction of the dip tank and drilling of the borehole were scheduled to be completed on 2nd April, 2015 but the works were delayed due to non-payment against the second interim certificate.

In order to complete some of the outstanding works on dip tanks country-wide, the Ministry, in 2019, requested for a supplementary budget allocation and K15 million was approved by Parliament. However, the funds were not released by the Treasury, and no progress was made to complete the remaining works at Kapilimpika in Chadiza District.

Progress on Construction of the Dip Tank at Chaphuka The Committee was informed that the contract for the construction of a dip tank and borehole at Chaphuka in Chadiza District was awarded to Lukomi Enterprise Limited on 5th February, 2015, at a contract sum of K198,580.40. So far, the contractor had completed the construction of the dip tank, walkways and the roof; and the completed works were estimated at 95 per cent. The remaining works included reducing of the spaces on the side rails to block the cattle from escaping. Initially, works were scheduled to be completed by 2nd June, 2016, but could not be completed due to non-payment against the second interim certificate.

The Ministry requested for supplementary budget allocation and Parliament approved K15 million for completion of the outstanding works on dip tanks. However, the funds

15 were not released by the Treasury and therefore, no progress was made to complete the remaining works at Chaphuka in Chadiza District.

The Committee was further informed that for the dip tank and borehole at Kapilimpika a sum of K72,000.00 was paid, while at Chaphuka a sum of K47,000.00 was paid.

Committee’s Observations and Recommendations The Committee expresses concern that the Government has taken long to complete and operationalise the dip tanks, considering that both were already above 80 per cent complete. The Committee therefore, urges the Government to ensure that funds are urgently released for the projects to be completed. The Committee resolves to await a progress report on the matter.

MINISTRY OF ENERGY

15/19 Electrification of Chief Kabamba’s Palace and Kabamba Secondary School

On Wednesday, 13th February, 2019, the Minister of Energy made the following assurances:

Madam Speaker, the Government of the Republic of Zambia has plans to construct a mini- hydro plant at Chipota Falls in Serenje. This will be undertaken with support from China South to South Renewable Energy Technology Transfer project funded by the Danish Government, through the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP). The project’s estimated capacity is 200kW and will target 15, 000 people as beneficiaries in the area. Chief Kabamba’s Palace and Kabamba Secondary School will be beneficiaries. Madam Speaker, the construction is expected to commence in the second quarter of 2019 and is expected to be completed by the end of 2020. The total cost of the project is US$1,479,320.87.

Executive’s Response The Committee was informed that construction of the mini-hydro plant at Chipota Falls in Serenje did not commence in the second quarter of 2019 due to the following reasons:

i. some costs were not included in the project document and key among these was the cost for supervising the construction estimated at USD240,000.00, and cost of transmission lines to evacuate the power generated estimated at USD700,000.00; ii. the project experienced exchange rate losses due to a triangular remittance of project funds (Danish Kronor to Chinese Yuen then US Dollar); iii. the cost of construction of the mini hydro plant was estimated at USD800,000.00 in the project design document. However, when the feasibility study was done, the estimated cost of project construction went up to USD1.2 million. Furthermore, at the time of actual tendering, the lowest bid was at USD1.4 million;

iv. a contractor was engaged but did not mobilise, this led to the contract being terminated citing breach of contract; v. the Project urgently engaged the International Centre on Small Hydro Power to prepare the detailed designs, and discuss how best they could help in other construction works; and vi. KGRTC would own and operate the mini hydro plant on behalf of the Government and had so far committed to provide USD100,000.00 towards the construction and supervision of the project. To date USD60,000.00 had been paid to the project.

Despite the challenges highlighted, the following activities were implemented: i. feasibility studies were completed; ii. the Environmental Project Brief (EPB) was approved by the Zambia Environment Management Agency (ZEMA); iii. a Market Survey was conducted; iv. a Geotechnical Survey was conducted; and v. detailed designs for the mini hydro plant were conducted and the report was yet to be finalised.

The project was still engaged in resource mobilisation for the shortfall of finances to commence and finalise the construction of the mini hydro power plant. It was resolved that the construction of the mini hydro-power plant begins with the available US$60,000.00whilst waiting for additional funding.

Committee’s Observations and Recommendations The Committee in noting the submission urges the Government to ensure that funds are mobilised to actualise the project as the beneficiaries of the mini hydro plant and the nation at large are anxiously waiting for the project to be actualised. The Committee further urges the Government to ensure that all the necessary requirements are concluded expeditiously and all costs with regard the project captured. The Committee resolves to await a progress report on the matter.

19/19 Petroleum Prices and Foreign Exchange Rates

On 5th March, 2019, the Minister of Energy made the following assurances: Madam Speaker, the Government does not have a system of hedging against fluctuations in international oil prices and foreign exchange rates. Madam Speaker, the Government is in the process of establishing a model that can hedge the fluctuations. In this regard, it has held discussions with financial institutions and petroleum suppliers in the country regarding the operationalisation of the hedging model. It is anticipated that the model will be in effect in the third quarter of 2019.

Executive’s Response The Committee was informed that the operationalisation of the hedging model had not taken place because consultations with key stakeholders were on-going. The Ministry had 17 engaged the following key stakeholders to help in developing the hedging model: Ministry of Finance, Bank of Zambia and Commercial Banks. Further, the Ministry of Energy had engaged the Treasury for the approval of the roadmap for the operationalisation of the hedging model, but was advised that hedging against fluctuations of the foreign exchange rate would entail the Government determining the rate in the financial market which could have adverse effects on the foreign exchange rate. In this regard, the Government could only hedge against the fluctuations of the international oil prices. The Ministry had obtained more information on hedging options and the premium payable, more analysis was being done to ensure that the best hedging option was selected and approved by the Treasury.

Committee’s Observations and Recommendations The Committee in noting the submission resolves to await a progress report on the matter.

22/19 National Electrification Project in Luangwa District

On 12th February, 2019, the Minister of Energy made the following assurances: Mr Speaker, the implementation of the project in Luangwa stalled due to financial challenges. However, a financial clause that will resolve the challenges the project has faced was achieved in the first week of February 2019. Sir, the implementation of the project is expected to resume by the end of February 2019. Mr Speaker, the contractor for the sub-station component is Howell Energy System while the one for the transmission line is KEC International Limited. The cost of the project is US$40.1 million, which is broken down as follows: (a) US16.2 million for the sub-station component by Howell Energy Systems: and (b) US$ 23.9 million line component by KEC International Limited Mr Speaker, the project is estimated to be completed by November, 2019.

Executive’s Response The Committee was informed that the status of various project components as at February, 2020 were as follows: Lot 1 - Lines Component: Project Scope Progress stood at: i. 141km of 132kV line from Leopard Hill Substation to Mpanshya Substation in Rufunsa District was 100 per cent complete; works were completed in December, 2019, and the line energised. The 69km of 132kV line from Mpanshya Substation to Chitope Substation in Luangwa District was 98 per cent complete; ii. the 130km 33kV lines network with associated 33/0.4kV pole mounted transformers (PMTs) and low voltage lines, and 33/11kV Luangwa Substation was 95 per cent complete. Rufunsa District electrification works were completed in December, 2019 as part of the above scope of works, and public institutions in the district such as Mpanshya Mission Hospital were connected to the national power grid.

Lot 2 - Substations Component: Project Scope Performance stands as follows; i. Leopards Hill 132kV Substation extension works were 100 per cent complete; ii. the 132/33kv Substation at Mpanshya in Rufunsa District was 100 per cent complete. The above Substation was energised in December, 2019. iii. the 132/33kv Substation at Chitope in Luangwa District was 75 per cent complete; and iv. 33/11kv Substation in Luangwa District was 60 per cent complete.

The project in its entirety was scheduled to be completed by the end of the second quarter of 2020.

Committee’s Observations and Recommendations The Committee notes the progress made but urges the Government to ensure that the project is completed by the end of the second quarter of 2020 as submitted. The Committee resolves to await a progress report on the matter.

24/19 Stalled Electrification of Matushi Ward, Mufumbwe District

On 4th October, 2018, the Minister of Energy made the following assurances:

Mr Speaker, the Government, through the Zambia Electricity Supply Corporation (ZESCO), is currently implementing the project to electrify all the eleven districts in the North-Western Province, culminating in the successful implementation of a project called the North-Western Province Grid Extension, which has provided the backbone infrastructure for the connection of the entire province to the national grid. Mr Speaker, the electrification of Mufumbwe District is being implemented by ZESCO under the increased Access to Electricity Supply Project. The following institutions that include some areas in Matushi Ward are earmarked to be connected under the above mentioned project; Shukwe Primary School; Mulobe Primary School; Kawama Primary School; Kalambo Primary School; Kambuta Primary School; Lubilo Rural Health Centre; Kifuwe Primary School; Matushi Primary School; Kamisombo Primary School; and Wishimanga Primary School. Sir, the project’s scope of works include: (a) construction of 50Km of 33kV overhead line from Mufumbwe 132/33/11kV substation to Wishmanga Primary school; (b) construction of 9Km of 400KV overhead line within Mufumbwe; (c) installation of 15X100kVA 33/0.4kV pole mounted transformers; and (d) provision of 200 service connection to the above-mentioned Government institutions and the associated staff houses.

Mr Speaker, the construction contract was signed in October, 2017, and became effective in February, 2018. The planned project duration is eighteen months from the effective date of

the signing of the contract, hence the project is expected to be completed in the last quarter of 2019.

Executive’s Response The Committee was informed that ZESCO Limited was implementing a project to electrify Mufumbwe District under the increased access to electricity supply project. The said project had faced a number of challenges which led to changes in the completion date. The project suffered delays in procurement of wooden poles from Zimbabwe due to the political disturbances from time to time in that country. In addition, there were further delays due to heavy rainfall in the project areas which made some roads impassable. However, all the required materials were on site and the project was expected to be completed before the end of the second quarter of 2020.

The status of the project’s main scope components as at February, 2020 was as follows: (i) construction of 50km of 33kv overhead line from Mufumbwe 132/33/11kV substation to Wishimanga Primary school was 40 per cent complete. (ii) construction of 9km of 400V overhead line within Mufumbwe was 40 per cent complete. (iii) installation of 15 x 100kVA 33/0.4kV pole mounted transformers was 20 per cent complete and, (iv) provision of a total of 200 service connections to the above-mentioned Government institutions and the associated staff houses to be fully implemented once the backbone network was completed.

In addition, the electrification of the various Government institutions in Mufumbwe district wereas follows:

i. electrification of Mulobe Primary School, Shukwe and Kawama Primary School was at 90 per cent complete. Remaining works include connection of the transformer and service connections. ii. electrification of Kalambo Primary, Kambuta Primary School, Lubilo Rural Health Centre, Kifuwe Primary School, Matushi Primary School, Kamisombo Primary School and Wishimanga Primary School was at 30 per cent. The remaining works included erecting of poles, conductor stringing and installation of transformers.

Committee’s Observations and Recommendations The Committee in noting the progress made resolves to await a progress report on the matter.

MINISTRY OF HOUSING AND INFRASTRUCTURE DEVELOPMENT

02/19 Construction of Lwela Bridge in Milenge District

On 18th September 2018, the Minister of Housing and Infrastructure Development made the following assurance: Mr Speaker, the construction of the Lwela Bridge in Milenge District is expected to commence in November 2018, subject to an advance payment of K2,870,325.73 to the contractor. The contract was awarded to Messrs Tomorrow Investment Limited at a total contract sum of K28,703,257.30”.

Mr Speaker, the project has delayed because the advance payment required by the contractor to commence the works has not yet been paid. The estimated completion period for the project is twelve months after commencement. The contract was signed on 27th December, 2017. The scope of works includes, but not limited to the following: foundation works; reinforcement of concrete works in abutments and piers; installation of the pre-stressed beams; reinforcement of concrete deck; and approach embankment”.

Executive’s Response The Committee was informed that the commencement of civil works still awaited the advance payment to the contractor. The Committee was further informed that payment of the advance had continued to delay due to financial constraints.

Committee’s Observations and Recommendations The Committee observes with concern the failure by the Government to make an advance payment to the contractor to enable commencement of the construction of Lwela bridge considering that the contract was signed in 2017. In this regard, the Committee urges the Government to ensure that the advance payment is made without further delay so as to mitigate against additional costs due to time lapse and change in cost of materials. The Committee resolves to await a progress report on the matter.

30/19 Samfya/Mpanta/Kasoma Lunga Road Construction

On 13th October, 2018, the Minister of Housing and Infrastructure Developmentmade the following assurance: Sir, the construction of the Samfya -Katanshya-Mpanta (D449/D450) Road will only commence upon completion of the feasibility studies and detailed engineering designs, securing of funding for the project and procurement of a contractor to carry out the works. A consultant has been engaged to carry out the feasibility study in order to produce detailed engineering designs. The contract commenced on 19th April, 2018 and expected to be completed in February, 2019.

Executive’s Response The Committee was informed that the completion date for the feasibility studies and detailed engineering designs was revised to 13th March, 2020 owing to delayed payment for the preliminary design report submitted by the consultant. The procurement of a contractor for the civil works was expected to commence once the designs were completed and funds for the works secured.

Committee’s Observations and Recommendations The Committee in noting the submission expresses concern over the failure by the Government to pay for the preliminary design report submitted by the consultant and resolves to await a progress report on the matter.

32/19 Tarring of Mung’anga/Mwenda/Kashiba Road

On 13th February, 2019, the Minister of Housing and Infrastructure Developmentmade the following assurance on the floor of the House: Mr Speaker, the tarring of the Mung’anga-Mwenda-Kashiba Road was initially scheduled to commence in February, 2019. However, the contractor requested for an extension of the commencement date to November, 2019 and the Government is currently considering the request. Sir, the contractor is Messrs. Groupe European De Development (GED) Africa Zambia Limited. The total cost of the project is US$180 million. The construction period is thirty- six months. The project will be funded through a Public-Private Partnership (PPP) arrangement using the Build, Operate and Transfer (BOT) Model.

Executive’s Response The Committee was informed that the tarring of the road was scheduled to commence before the end of 2020 upon GED achieving financial closure for the project. It was expected that the concessionaire would attain financial closure before the end of August, 2020.

Committee’s Observations and Recommendations The Committee in noting the submission resolves to await a progress report on the matter.

MINISTRY OF LANDS AND NATURAL RESOURCES

38/19 Installation of Border Markers

On 26th February, 2019, the Minister of Lands and Natural Resources made the following assurance: Mr Speaker, the Government has plans to install border markers on its boundaries with the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) and with Angola. Sir, planning for the exercise will commence in the first quarter of 2019.

Sir, the works will commence in the second quarter of 2019. Mr Speaker, the border markers to be installed are 1.5m high concrete pyramid pillars and 50 cm concrete cubical pillars. Sir, the cost of marking the Zambia-DRC Boundary is US$4,049,609”.

Executive Response The Committee was informed that the Government had plans and was committed to installing border markers on its international boundaries with Angola and Democratic Republic Congo (DRC) respectively. The Zambia/Angola International boundary was estimated at 1,110 kilometers in length while the Zambia/DRC boundary was estimated at 2,139.97 kilometers.

The Committee was further informed that in an effort to secure funds for international boundaries, a Cabinet Memorandum was approved by Cabinet in 2018. The lead Ministry in the presentation of the Cabinet Memorandum was Ministry of Defence, supported by Ministry of Home Affairs and Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources. Using the said Cabinet Memorandum, the Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources had engaged the Ministry of Defence to request for funding from the Ministry of Finance. However, the funds had not yet been disbursed to the Ministry to date. The budgetary allocation for boundary demarcation for all international boundaries was estimated at a total of ZMW120,776,019.28. As a Ministry, it was impossible to commence the installation of border markers for the common borders with Angola as well as with Democratic Republic Congo due to budgetary constraints from the Surveyor General’s Office.

Efforts were however, being made to commence the re-affirmation exercise with the DRC in April, 2019 with the help of cooperating partners, at selected locations or trouble-spots of Sakanya and Kasumbalesa Border Spots as jointly agreed. Unfortunately, Democratic Republic of Congo was unable to mobilise due to instability in that country at the time. The Democratic Republic of Congo was however, waiting for Zambia to mobilise the required resources as it was ready.

With regard to Angola, a task force consisting of the government experts, led by the Police authorities, was formed and an invitation sent to Angola to arrange for an initial Joint Task Force meeting to commence the clearing of unexploded landmines and re-affirmation of the common border. The Committee was also informed that Angola had responded and that one of the officers travelled to Luanda to attend the 32nd Session of Angola Joint Permanent Commission on Defence and Security where it was resolved that the Joint Task Force should meet by end of March, 2020 at Mushiku/Luau to carry out part of reconnaissance survey.

The Committee was also informed that from the approved Cabinet Memorandum, Zambia was required to contribute a total of USD12,457,919.00 towards the physical demarcation of all international boundaries as well as security which was broken down below: 23

i. Zambia/Malawi: US$350,000; ii. Zambia/Tanzania: US$ 1,000,000; iii. Zambia/Democratic Republic of Congo: US$ 4,049,609; iv. Zambia/Angola: US$ 3,000,000; v. Zambia/Namibia: US$ 2,500,000; vi. Zambia/Botswana: US$400,000; vii. Zambia/Zimbabwe: US$708,310; viii. Zambia/Mozambique: US$450,000.

Further, the total amount as Zambia’s contribution was arrived at after various meetings with neighbouring countries. The funding of the programme was expected to be on a yearly basis. The Government, through the Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources, would endeavour to install border markers on its boundaries to enhance and improve national security by ensuring that all the international boundaries were clearly marked, subsequently promoting neighbourliness with the neighbouring countries. Further, the physical demarcation of the international boundaries would ensure the protection of communities living along the international boundaries.

The Committee heard that resources continued to be mobilised to ensure that Zambia continued to work with the remaining neighbours in the reaffirmation activities of the other un-marked boundaries. Once the country’s international boundaries were clearly demarcated, Zambia-Democratic Republic of Congo and Zambia-Angola international boundaries would make it easier to correctly place and relocate the Government’s capital infrastructure located along the boundary.

Committee’s Observations and Recommendations

The Committee in noting the submission urges the Government to urgently mobilise funds for the Sakanya and Kasumbalesa border posts since Democratic Republic of Congo was ready and resolves to await a comprehensive progress report on the installation of boarder markers.

MINISTRY OF JUSTICE

37/19 Judgment for Public Service Retrenched Workers

On 15th February, 2019, the Minister of Justice made the following assurances:

Mr Speaker, the judgment was delivered on 23rd December, 2011, and the state started liquiditating debt instalments on 1st June, 2016. Sir, the state has, so far, paid out a total of K12,800.00. The outstanding balance for plaintiffs whose benefits have already been verified is K44, 677,909.

Sir, the total number of affected former employees in the matter was 1,925. Benefits for 1,162 retrenched staff have been verified while those for 404 retrenched staff are currently being computed with the aim to conclude the same by the end of the first quarter of 2019.

Mr., Speaker, 359 plaintiffs were ineligible for payment as they were either not civil service employees or had been paid under other court matters over similar claims. Sir, the outstanding balance will be paid as and when funds are available to liquidate the outstanding amounts verified.

Executive’s Response The Ministry of Justice submitted that: 1. it had so far paid out a total sum of K14,014,000.00 leaving a balance of K101, 733,863.76 as at 30th November, 2019;

2. the total number of affected former employees in the matter was 1,925. Benefits for 1,506 retrenched staff were verified, while sixty retrenched staff had wrong information on their files. 359 plaintiffs were found to be ineligible for payment as they were either not civil service employees or had been paid under other court matters over similar claims; and 3. the outstanding balance was to be paid as and when funds were made available to liquidate the debt owed.

Committee’s Observations and Recommendations The Committee notes that little progress has been made towards liquidation of this debt. The Committee is also very concerned that some of the retrenched staff have wrong information on their files and urges the Government to correct this anomaly without delay. The Committee further urges the Government to ensure that the release of funds to liquidate the K101,733,863.76 owed to the retrenched staff was consistent so as not to disadvantage the retrenchees. The Committee resolves to await a progress report on the matter.

MINISTRY OF WATER DEVELOPMENT, SANITATION AND ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION

18/19 Sinking of Boreholes in Feira Constituency

On 5th March, 2019, the Minister of Water Development, Sanitation and Environmental Protection made the following assurance:

Sir, the Government plans to sink boreholes equipped with hand pumps in Feira Constituency under the National Rural Water Supply and Sanitation Programme (NRWSSP). Sir, the number of boreholes to be sunk in the constituency in 2019 is twenty.

Executive’s Response The Committee was informed that the sinking of the twenty boreholes in Feira Parliamentary Constituency commenced on 30th October, 2019 with an initial ten boreholes being earmarked to be sunk within a period of two months. The initial ten boreholes were sunk and handed over to the beneficiary communities. The other ten boreholes would be sunk when funds were made available by the Treasury.

Committee’s Observations and Recommendations The Committee notes the progress made and urges the Government to secure funds to sink the last ten boreholes and resolves to await a progress report on the matter.

27/19 Kafue Bulk Water Project

On 11th December, 2018, the Minister of Mines and Minerals Development (on behalf of the Minister of Water Development, Sanitation and Environmental Protection) made the following assurance:

Madam Speaker, the progress on the Kafue Bulk Water Project is currently at 95 per cent. The project is expected to be completed in April, 2019. The Kafue Bulk Water Project has so far, created 906 jobs which have added a great beneficiation to the people of Kafue.

Executive’s Response The Committee was informed that construction works at the Kafue Bulk Water Supply Project had been completed. However, commissioning was delayed because the power supply to the site was not adequate to operationalise the new facilities. Consequently, the Government through the Ministry of Finance was in the process of mobilising resources for upgrading and construction of power supply facilities in Chilanga and lolanda in Kafue that would produce enough power to operationalise the new plant. The construction of these facilities would take at least four months to complete.

The Committee was further informed that US$1.8 million was needed for the construction and upgrading of the sub-stations and that the intentions were to buy a transformer for Iolanda and replace the one in Chilanga with that one from Iolanda.

Committee’s Observations and Recommendations The Committee in noting the progress made urges the Government to ensure that funds are secured to upgrade and construct sub-stations so that the Kafue Bulk Water Project is operationalised. The Committee resolves to await a progress report on the upgrade and construction of the sub-stations.

PART II

CONSIDERATION OF THE ACTION TAKEN REPORT ON THE REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE FOR THE THIRD SESSION OF THE TWELFTH NATIONAL ASSEMBLY

MINISTRY OF HEALTH

10/18 Construction of Additional Hospitals and Health Centres in Kanyama

On 19th October, 2017, the Minister of Health made the following assurance: Madam Speaker, the Government has planned for the construction of a second-level hospital in Kanyama Parliamentary Constituency and the upgrading of the current health facility there to a first-level hospital. Madam Speaker, we expect construction of the hospital, which is part of the L85 Project, to commence before the end of the year.

The Committee in the previous Session had noted thatthe upgrading of Kanyama Health Centre into a first level hospital which commenced in August, 2018, was expected to be completed by July, 2020 and resolved to await a progress report on the matter.

Executive’s Response In its update to the Committee, the Executive submitted that the upgrading of Kanyama Health Centre into a first level hospital had advanced and the construction works were expected to be completed within 2020.

Committee’s Observations and Recommendations The Committee, in noting the progress made, requests that a time frame be given for the completion of the works and resolves to await a progress report on the matter.

12/18 Construction of a Hospital in Ngabwe District

On 27th October, 2017, the Minister of Health made the following assurance: Mr Speaker, the Government has planned to commence construction of a district hospital in Ngabwe District in 2018. Further, the Government has taken note of the proposed areas of construction for health posts in Luamala; Chikonka; Chibakabaka; Kasu; and Kangwingwi. An assessment of the needy areas in the District is currently being done. The Government shall conclude after the assessment of the recommended areas.

Mr Speaker, the Government intends to construct 108 new health centres country-wide commencing in 2018. Should the proposed areas be found appropriate for prioritisation under the allocation for Ngabwe District, the Government shall proceed to construct health centres in the proposed areas.

The Committee, in the last Session had urged the Government to ensure that the project was actualised and the construction of Ngabwe mini hospital was prioritised once the construction of the 108 mini hospitals commenced.

Executive’s Response The Executive in its update to the Committee submitted that the construction of mini hospitals was a priority to Ngabwe as it was Government’s aim to attain universal access to health care. A total of three mini hospitals were earmarked for construction in the area.

Committee’s Observations and Recommendations The Committee notes the submission and is disappointed that no real progress has been made on this project. The Committee resolves to await a progress report on the construction of the three mini hospitals earmarked for construction in Ngabwe District.

29/18 First Level Hospital Construction in Lukashya

On 13th March, 2018, the Minister of Health made the following assurance: Mr Speaker, yes, the Government has plans to construct a first level hospital in Lukashya. This has been included in the Ministry of Health Capital Investment Plan. It will commence in 2018 as it is within the Ministry’s Operational Plan for 2018.

The Committee in the previous Session had urged the Government to ensure that the project was implemented as assured on the floor of the House.

Executive’s Response In its update, the Executive informed the Committee that it was constructing hospitals in all areas that do not have First Level Hospitals, including Lukashya. The Government planned to establish a hospital in the area once the thirty-six First Level Hospitals under construction were completed and the fiscal space allowed.

Committee’s Observations and Recommendations The Committee observes with concern that the construction of Lukashya First Level Hospital, which was initially planned to commence in 2018, had not commenced to date and that the Government appeared to have removed it from list of priority projects to be implemented despite the Minister having assured the House. The Committee therefore, strongly urges the Government to ensure that projects are implemented as promised on the floor of the House. The Committee resolves to await a progress report on the matter.

34/18 Construction of Health Posts in Mushindamo District

On 12th June, 2018, the Minister of Health made the following assurance:

Mr Speaker, the construction of the three health posts at Mushindamo District was planned for under the 650 health post construction programme under the Indian line of credit at Chishela, Luamfula and Chikola. Sir, the works at Chishela and Chikola are now complete. The construction works at Luamfula shall commence this year, 2018.

The Committee in the previous Session had urged the Government to ensure that the remaining health posts in Mushindamo District were constructed and completed within eighteen months.

Executive’s Response The Executive in its update informed the Committee that the Government was committed to completing the health posts in Mushindamo District and that the site had been handed over to the contractor. The works for completion of the remaining health posts under the 650 health posts project were expected to be completed by mid 2020.

Committee’s Observations and Recommendations The Committee in noting the submission urges the Government to ensure that health posts in Mushindamo District and the remaining health posts under the 650 health posts are completed by mid 2020 as submitted.

42/18 Construction of a Clinic in Nashinga Area On 4th July, 2018, the Minister of Health made the following assurance: Mr Speaker, the Ministry of Health is working with the Chinsali Municipal Council to construct a clinic in Nashinga area in Lubwa Ward in Chinsali Parliamentary Constituency. Sir, we expect to commence the construction works within 2018.

In the previous Session, the Committee had resolved to await a progress report on the actualisation of the project.

Executive’s Response The Executive in its update to the Committee submitted that the construction of a clinic in Nashinga area was being executed by Chinsali Municipal Council using Constituency Development Fund (CDF). The contractor was MPK Construction Company and the project commenced in March, 2019. In terms of progress, the Committee was informed that the clinic was at slab level and was initially supposed to be completed in June, 2019 but because of delays in transportation of burnt bricks to the site the project was behind schedule.

Committee’s Observations and Recommendations

The Committee in noting the submission urges the Government to ensure that construction of the clinic is expeditiously completed and resolves to await a progress report on the matter. 29

57/18 Construction of Chalokwa Health Post in Siavonga District

On 12th July, 2018, the Minister of Health made the following assurance: Mr Speaker, the health post at Chalokwa is being constructed by Megha Engineering Limited of India under the 650 Health Posts. The delay in completing the project was due to the suspension of works by the contractor in 2017 as a result of inadequate funding on the project. The Indian Government has however, approved refinancing of the project and the works are expected to resume by June, 2018.

The Committee in the previous Session was disappointed to find that materials which were sent to the area for construction of the health post four years ago had been destroyed due to poor storage and passage of time. The Committee therefore, strongly urged the Government to ensure that once building materials were taken to a construction site, funds to complete the works should be made available.

Executive’s Response The Executive in its update to the Committee submitted that the construction of Chalokwa health post in Siavonga District was being undertaken under the 650 Health Posts Project. The delay in completing the project was due to the suspension of the works by the contractor in 2017 as a result of inadequate funding of the project. The Indian Government had however, approved refinancing of the project. The contractor (Megha Engineering Limited) moved on site on 15th October, 2019 and the construction of the health post was expected to be completed in 2020.

Committee’s Observations and Recommendations The Committee notes the submission with concern, given that the project has taken too long to complete. The Committee urges the Government to expedite the works and submit a progress report on the matter.

02/14 – Hospital Fast – Track Emergency Departments

On Friday, 21st February, 2014, the Deputy Minister of Health assured the House that: “Mr Speaker, in line with the Government policy of improving health service delivery, the Government has already commenced the establishment of the emergency and trauma centres in all major health facilities.”

The Committee in the previous Session had urged the Government to ensure that construction works at Nyimba Hospital were completed and doctors deployed as assured.

Executive’s Response The Committee was informed that the Government was committed to the completion of works at Nyimba Hospital which was being constructed in a phased manner. The first

30 phase was completed and operational. The second phase consisting of maternity block, theatre, laundry and kitchen block, mortuary, Zesco sub-station house, incinerator and external works and four medium cost houses were 80 per cent complete. The contractor was given extension of time up to 31st December, 2019 to complete the construction. The Committee was further informed that two additional doctors were deployed to Nyimba bringing the total to four.

Committee’s Observations and Recommendations The Committee in noting the progress made at Nyimba Hospital urges the Government to ensure that the remaining construction works are expeditiously completed and resolves to await a comprehensive progress report on the construction of emergency and trauma centres in major health facilities.

26/15 - Renovation of Yuka Hospital

On 4th December, 2015, the Deputy Minister of Health made the following assurance: “Mr Speaker, the Government has plans to facilitate the renovation of Yuka Mission Hospital in Kalabo Parliamentary Constituency through a phased approach. To this effect, an amount of K200,000 has been allocated in the draft 2016 Infrastructure Operational Plan towards the rehabilitation of the hospital. Since the Government noted that the hospital is a faith-based mission facility, it intends to work with other donors to improve the state of the infrastructure at Yuka Mission Hospital.

Sir, the rehabilitation of the hospital will commence in 2016 and will be done in three phases with Phase I being completed in 2016. We will embark on Phases II and III in 2017.”

The Committee in the previous Session had noted the progress made on the construction of an X-ray Department at Yuka Mission Hospital and urged the Government to ensure that the project was completed.

Executive’s Response The Executive in its update to the Committee submitted that after the release of K200,000.00, a decision was made to construct a new X-ray Department. The construction of the X-ray Department was 80 per cent complete. The remaining works were anticipated to be completed within a period of four months should funds be available.

Committee’s Observations and Recommendations The Committee while appreciating the progress made on the construction of the X-ray Department, expresses concern at the failure by the Government to rehabilitate Yuka Hospital for over four years. The Committee therefore, urges the Government to ensure that the hospital is rehabilitated without further delay. The Committee resolves to await a progress report on the rehabilitation of Yuka Hospital.

24/16 - Update on Construction of 650 Health Posts Countrywide

On 19th April, 2016, the Minister of Health made the following assurance: “Mr Speaker, thank you very much for granting me this opportunity to update the House and nation at large on the construction of 650 health posts across the country. As the House will recall, these health posts are being constructed at a total cost of US$55.9 million of which US$50 million is the Indian Government concession loan to the Government of Zambia. The Government of Zambia will contribute the balance of US$5.9 million. The loan agreement was signed on 29th March, 2012.

Mr Speaker, this project involves the following: (i) construction of 650 pre-fabricated health post buildings, staff houses and ventilated latrines; (ii) provision of basic medical equipment to 650 health posts to be constructed; and (iii) provision of solar power, boreholes and hand pumps to the facilities.

Mr Speaker, for easy management of the contracts, the 650 health posts were split into three lots in order to minimise the risk that may result if all the health posts were awarded to one contractor. These contracts were signed on 3rd July, 2013. The lots were awarded as follows: (i) Lot 1, covering the construction of prefabricated structures, supply and installation of essential equipment for 208 health posts in the Central, Copperbelt and Eastern provinces, was awarded to Jaguar Overseas Limited at an amount of US$19,468,236; (ii) Lot 2, covering the provinces of the North-Western, Northern, Muchinga and Luapula, was awarded to Angelique International Limited at US$18,100,735; and (iii) Lot 3, covering construction of health posts in the Western, Southern and Lusaka provinces, was awarded to Megha Engineering and Infrastructure Limited at an amount of US$18,387,160.

Mr Speaker, the site handovers for this project were done in the first quarter of 2014, in all the provinces. The project was expected to be undertaken over a period of twenty-four months from April, 2014, to April, 2016. However, it has since suffered some major challenges that have warranted it to be extended by an additional six months. Sir, the major setback that the project suffered was the termination of the contract for Angelique International Limited, covering 270 health posts in the Northern, Luapula, North-Western and Muchinga provinces. The termination was done following recommendations by the Indian Government.

Mr Speaker, despite the above-mentioned challenge, progress has been as follows: (i) out of the 650 sites, contractors have been granted possession of 547 sites, representing coverage of 84 percent across the country; (ii) a total of 266 super structures have been completed countrywide, out of which 102 have been operationalised and are being used by the local communities. We expect an additional 100 health posts to be operational within the course of the month;

(iii) all medical equipment and construction materials have been shipped into the country to facilitate completion of the remaining health posts; and (iv) health posts that were under the Angelique International Limited component have been retendered and recommendations have been submitted to the Indian Government for its approval to proceed with the new contractor.

Sir, in view of the above-mentioned progress, completion of all health posts is now expected to be accomplished by October, 2016.”

The Committee in the previous Session had urged the Government to expeditiously complete the construction of the health posts in accordance with its set work plan.

Executive’s Response The Committee was informed that the Government had addressed the challenges that caused the delay in the execution of works for the construction of 650 health posts country wide. This was successfully done by re-engaging the Government of India to refinance the Project.

Following the approval of additional financing, the Government, through the Ministry of Health, had made the following progress towards ensuring completion of the 650 Health Posts under the project:

1. it engaged and facilitated the resumption of work by the two contractors, namely Megha Engineering International Limited and Jaguar Overseas Limited, who had contracts running in Eastern, Central, Copperbelt, Southern, Western and Lusaka Provinces respectively. Both Megha Engineering International Limited as well as Jaguar Overseas Limited, resumed work by January, 2019 on their respective contracts. 2. the Government further engaged Jaguar Overseas Limited in accordance with the loan provisions, to complete health posts in North Western, Luapula, Northern and Muchinga Provinces. The contract involved completion of 201 health posts to be completed within a period of eighteen months. The contractor was active in all four provinces.

The Committee was also informed that out of the total 650 health posts, an accumulative total of 342 health posts were completed. This was 53 per cent of completion rate thereby leaving a balance of 47 per cent. The Health Posts completed were broken down as follows: a) Copper belt Province – 44 out of a total of 88; b) Central Province – 46 out of a total of 52; c) Eastern Province – 53 out of a total of 68; d) Western Province – 60 out of a total of 64; e) Southern Province – 60 out of a total of 99; f) Lusaka Province – 31 out of a total of 32; 33

g) Northern – 10 out of a total of 69; h) Luapula Province – 17 out of a total of 64; i) Muchinga Province – 10 out of a total of 40; j) North Western Province – 11 out of a total of 74.

The Committee was informed that the expected completion period for the remaining 308 health posts was eighteen months from the date the contractor resumed work.

Committee’s Observations and Recommendations The Committee in noting the progress made urges the Government to ensure that works are completed within the eighteen months scheduled timeframe in all the provinces. The Committee resolves to await a progress report on the matter.

25/14 - Rural Health Centres with Solar Power in Mwinilunga Parliamentary Constituency

On 2nd October, 2014, the Deputy Minister of Community Development, Mother and Child Health made the following assurance:

“Mr Speaker, there are eighteen rural health centres with solar power in Mwinilunga Parliamentary Constituency. Sir, sixteen of the rural health centres have fully functional solar installations. Sir, Sakapoti Health Centre’s solar system will be fixed by November, 2014, while the system at Chiwoma Health Centre will be repaired by the end of 2014.

Sir, solar power will be procured for Kawiko Health Centre by the end of 2014 while Kanzinza and Ntambo Sachitolo Health Centres will be considered after the construction of new health facilities. Mr Speaker, Angelique Company has already been contracted to construct these facilities.”

The Committee in the previous Session had urged the Government to urgently ensure arrangements for the commencement of the project at Kawiko, Ntambo Sachitolo and Kanzinza with the Indian Government.

Executive’s Response The Committee was informed that the Government had obtained a “No Objection” and a new contract with Jaguar Overseas Limited was signed. The contractor had commenced works to complete construction of health posts in North-Western Province. All the three sites namely Kawiko, Ntambo Sachitolo and Kanzinza were handed over to the contractor. The works were expected to be completed within 2020 funds permitting.

Committee’s Observations and Recommendations The Committee in noting the progress made urges the Government to ensure that the projects are completed as submitted without further delay. The Committee resolves to

34 await a comprehensive progress report on the construction of Kawiko, Ntambo Sachitolo and Kanzinza health centres and the provision of solar systems to the health centres.

04/15 – Houses for Personnel in Sikongo District

On Wednesday, 25th February, 2015, the Deputy Minister of Community Development, Mother and Child Health made the following assurance:

“Mr Speaker, the Ministry of Health intends to construct staff houses for health personnel in Sikongo in 2015, under its Infrastructure Operational Plan.”

The Committee in the last Session was concerned with the pace at which the project was being financed and was optimistic that the K200,000.00 in the infrastructure operational plan towards the completion of the houses in Sikongo would be released.

Executive’s Response The Committee was informed that the Government was committed to the completion of houses in Sikongo District. As stated, K200,000 was provided for in the Ministry of Health Infrastructure Operational Plan for 2019. The project would resume as soon as funds were released for this purpose.

Committee’s Observations and Recommendations The Committee expresses concern that the K200,000 in the 2019 Ministry of Health Infrastructure Operational Plan has not been released for the project to be completed. The Committee urges the Government to ensure that funds are secured to complete the house which was at widow level before it is vandalised and avoid additional costs due to increase in the cost of materials. The Committee resolves to await a comprehensive progress report on the construction of houses for health personnel in Sikongo.

22/17 Hospital Construction in Mafinga

On 7th March, 2017 the Minister of Health made the following assurance:

“Mr Speaker, I would like to inform the House that the construction of Thendere Hospital, comprising of an outpatient department and administration block in Phase 1 commenced in September, 2016, and is due for completion in May, 2017. The contractor is now at ring beam level and is progressing well. The site for construction of Muyombe District Hospital was only identified in November, 2016 and the contractor is on schedule as he is due to complete the project in November, 2017.”

The Committee in the previous Session had noted the response with disappointment and urged the Government to ensure that the treasury was consistent in the release of funds.

Executive’s Response The Committee was informed that the Government was committed to completing Mafinga and Muyombe hospitals. In 2018, the Government settled all outstanding payments due to the contractors on both health facilities resulting in marked progress on the completion of the hospitals. The works at Mafinga Hospital (Phase 1) were 95 per cent complete. Settling of outstanding payments to ensure completion of the health facility was expected to be done once funds were released by the Treasury.

The Committee was further informed that following settlement of outstanding certificates in 2018, the contractor at Muyombe Hospital had completed works and was only awaiting the final inspection and handover.

Committee’s Observations and Recommendations The Committee in noting the progress made urges the Government to ensure that funds are secured without delay to settle outstanding payments at Mafinga Hospital to facilitate the completion of the health facility. The Committee resolves to await a progress report on the matter.

5/17 Chinsali General Hospital Construction

On 14th March, 2017, the Minister of Health made the following assurance: Mr Speaker, the construction of Chinsali General Hospital is expected to commence by April, 2017. This will be after the finalisation of the drawings by the Ministry of Housing and Infrastructure Development. The contractor engaged to construct the hospital is China National Complete Engineering Corporation of China.

The Committee in the previous Session had noted the progress made and urged the Government to ensure that the project was completed as scheduled.

Executive’s Response The Committee was informed that the construction works at Chinsali General Hospital were at 90 per cent and was expected to be completed by the end of second quarter of 2020.

Committee’s Observations and Recommendations

The Committee in noting the progress made resolves to await a progress report on the matter.

MINISTRY OF HOUSING AND INFRASTRUCTURE DEVELOPMENT

08/18 Construction of Bridges in Mkaika Constituency

On 4th October, 2017, the Minister of Housing and Infrastructure Development made the following assurance:

Mr Speaker, the construction of bridges at Mnyamanzi and Mtetezi crossing points in Mkaika Parliamentary Constituency will commence in the third quarter of 2018 upon procurement of the works by the contractor.

Sir, the repair works at the bridge at Chisale and Kalowe will be undertaken using the Force Account once funds are made available by the Road Development Agency (RDA). This will be undertaken after a comprehensive assessment of the works has been done.

Sir, the completion period for the bridges at Mnyamanzi, Chisale, Kalowe and Mtetezi crossing points in Mkaika Parliamentary Constituency is nine months from the date of commencement of the works.

The Committee in the previous Session had urged the Government to ensure that the construction of Mnyamanzi and Mtetezi bridges took off by the fourth quarter of 2019 and Chisale and Kalowe bridges rehabilitated.

Executive’s Response In its update to the Committee, the Executive submitted that Katete District Council had engaged a contractor to construct the Mtetezi bridge at a contract sum of K498,800 and works commenced on 4th May, 2019 with an initial completion date of 31st December, 2019. However, a request by the contractor to revise the completion date to March, 2020, was being considered. The request for extension was made as a result of inclement weather. Further, the Council had submitted a cost estimate for the required works on the Mnyamanzi crossing to the Disaster Management and Mitigation Unit for possible financing and release of funds which was still being awaited. In the long term, the Mnyamanzi crossing was included as one of the bridges under the Acrow Bridge Project package B.

Similarly, the Road Development Agency (RDA) undertook the assessment of the Chisale and Kalowe crossings in the third quarter of 2019 and the cost estimates for the required works in the sum of K566,218.63 and K1,275,718.18 respectively were submitted to the National Road Fund Agency for funding.

Committee’s Observations and Recommendations

The Committee in noting the submission urges the Government to ensure that works at Mtetezi bridge were completed and resolves to await a progress report on the construction of Mnyamanzi, Chisale and Kalowe crossings.

09/18 Tarring of Katunda Turn-Off/Lukulu/Watopa/Mumbeji Turn-Off and Manyinga/Mwinilunga Roads

On 11th October, 2017, the Minister of Housing and Infrastructure Development made the following assurance:

Madam Speaker, the Government has plans to upgrade to bituminous standards both the Katunda Turn-off/Lukulu/Watopa/Mumbeji Turn-off and Manyinga/Mwinilunga Roads under the Link Zambia 8,000 Kilometre Road Project. The roads have been included in the 2018 Road Sector Annual Work Plan (RSAWP) and the projects will be implemented using the Contractor Facilitated Initiative (CFI).

Madam Speaker, the Road Development Agency (RDA) has completed the engagement of the contractors, but implementation awaits the finalisation of the financing agreement by the Ministry of Finance.

The Committee in the previous Session was concerned that it had taken over a year for the Government to finalise the financing agreement and urged the Government to ensure that the financing agreement was finalised without further delay.

Executive’s Response The Executive in its update to the Committee submitted that the works on the Katunda Turn-off/Lukulu/Watopa/Mumbeji turn-off and Manyinga/Mwinilunga Roads under the Link Zambia 8000-kilometre Road Project had not yet commenced because the financing agreements had not yet been finalised. The delay was due to the Government’s decision to indefinitely postpone the contraction of pipeline debt as a measure to address fiscal and debt challenges for sustained macroeconomic stability.

Committee’s Observations and Recommendations The Committee in noting the submission urges the Government to ensure that assurances made on the floor of the House are prioritised, actualised and should not be treated like any other projects. The Committee resolves to await a progress report on the matter.

11/18 Rehabilitation of Local Courts in Chitambo Constituency On 20th October, 2017, the Minister of Housing and Infrastructure Development made the following assurance:

Madam Speaker, the Government is committed to rehabilitate Mpelembe and Muchinka Local Courts in Chitambo Parliamentary Constituency. The rehabilitation works will commence in 2018.

The Committee during the last Session had urged the Government to ensure that funds were released to facilitate the rehabilitation of the two local courts in Chitambo Constituency without undue delay.

Executive’s Response In its update, the Executive informed the Committee that the construction of the local courts in Chitambo Constituency would resume, subject to the availability of funds.

Committee’s Observations and Recommendations The Committee in noting the submission urges the Government to secure funds for the rehabilitation of local courts in Chitambo Constituency and resolves to await a progress report on the matter.

13/18 Rehabilitation of Mpika/Kasama Road

On 1st November, 2017, the Minister of Housing and Infrastructure Development made the following assurance:

Mr Speaker, for purpose of periodic maintenance, the Mpika/Kasama Road has been divided into two lots. The contract for Lot 1, which is 131 km long and starts from Mpika to Chambeshi Section, was awarded to Keren Motors while the contract for Lot 2, which is 86 km long and covers the stretch from Chambeshi to Kasama Section, was awarded to China Geo-Engineering Corporation.

Sir, the works on Lot 1 have stalled because the contractor had demonstrated a lack of seriousness and capacity to complete the project. The Ministry has since directed the Road Development Agency (RDA) to consider terminating the contract. On Lot 2, the works are ongoing, with the contractor currently working on the urban roads in Kasama, which are part of the scope of works and are expected to be completed in December, 2017. The completion date for Lot 1 was supposed to be 15th November, 2017, but it now has to be revised because of the stalled works. The completion date for Lot 2, which is making good progress, is 7th January, 2019. Sir, the estimated cost for the project is K647,103,068.

The Committee in the previous Session had urged the Government to expedite the rehabilitation works as further delay will lead to escalation of costs due to further deterioration of the road.

Executive’s Response The Executive in its update to the Committee submitted that contract works for the periodic maintenance of 217 km road from Mpika to Kasama were active and scheduled to be completed by January 7, 2021. However, works had stalled due to financial constraints.

Committee’s Observations and Recommendations The Committee in noting the submission reiterates the need for the Government to urgently source funds for rehabilitation works to avoid additional costs due to the increase in material costs and further declining state of the road. The Committee resolves to await a progress report on the matter.

14/18 Construction of Sinda Day Secondary School

On 16th November, 2017, the Minister of Housing and Infrastructure Development made the following assurance:

Mr Speaker, the construction of Sinda Day Secondary School was supposed to be completed in 2015. However, this has not been achieved because the Ministry has not been receiving funding as projected and the honouring of the Interim Payment Certificate by the Government of the Republic of Zambia (GRZ) who is the client.

So far, all the structures have been roofed and the contractor is working on completing the ten teachers’ houses which is likely to lead to the partial opening of Sinda Day Secondary School in January next year. That will see the enrolling grades eights and tens in January, 2018. With availability of funds, the school is expected to be completed and handed over to the Government by the end of 2018. Sir, what has caused the delay in the completion of the school is due to the financial constraints.

The Committee in the previous Session had urged the Government to ensure that the construction works were completed as was scheduled.

Executive’s Response The Government in its update to the Committee submitted that it was still committed to completing the school using a phased approach starting with 2 x 3 classroom blocks, five teachers’ houses, toilet block, water reticulation and sewer reticulation once the funds were available. It was estimated that works would be completed in June, 2020.

Committee’s Observations and Recommendations The Committee observes with concern the continued rescheduling of completion dates and the fact that nothing much is being done to ensure that the works at the school are actually completed. The Committee resolves to await a progress report on the matter.

17/18 Muoyo Road

On 21st February, 2018, the Minister of Housing and Infrastructure Development made the following assurance:

Mr Speaker, the construction of Muoyo Road in Nalolo Parliamentary Constituency has stalled owing to funding challenges. Sir, it is expected that works will resume within the second quarter of 2018.Mr Speaker, the total cost of the whole project, which includes Mongu/Limulunga, Muoya, Libonda and Lyambai roads, is estimated to be US$32,708,958. The project is expected to be completed within one year and six months after the date of commencement.

The Committee was in the previous Session, informed that the completion of the project had delayed due to erratic funding. Works were, however, expected to commence by end of first quarter of 2019, if funds were made available. The Committee noted the submission and had resolved to await a progress report on the matter.

Executive’s Response In its update to the Committee, the Government submitted that the contract for the works to construct Muoyo Road in Nalolo Parliamentary Constituency had expired owing to the delays resulting from erratic funding for the project. The procurement process to engage the same contractor to complete the works had been finalised. However, the commencement of works awaited the confirmation of funds by the Treasury.

Committee’s Observations and Recommendations The Committee expresses disappointment that the contract expired owing to delays resulting from erratic funding for the project and urges the Government to ensure that the project is actualised. The Committee further urges the Government to ensure that funds are urgently secured before the new contract expires and resolves to await a progress report on the matter.

21/18 Mbesuma Bridge

On 27th February, 2018, the Minister of Housing and Infrastructure Development made the following assurance:

Mr Speaker, I wish to inform the House that the construction of Mbesuma Bridge is scheduled to be completed in November, 2018. The contractor for the Bridge is Messrs China Railway Seventh Group Company Ltd. The contract sum is K84,185,816.99. Approximately, K6,313,936.27 has so far been paid to the contractor.

The Committee, in the previous Session had urged the Government to ensure that the project was adequately funded and completed. Further, the Government was urged to

41 increase the length of the approach road on the Isoka side of the bridge to make it functional during floods.

Executive’s Response The Executive, in its update to the Committee, submitted that works on the project were still ongoing and were scheduled to be completed by November, 2019 with overall physical progress estimated at 21 per cent. However, the progress on the project was negatively affected due to funding constraints.

Committee’s Observations and Recommendations The Committee notes the submission and urges the Government to improve funding on projects which have commenced, to avoid escalation of costs due to vandalism and increase in the cost of materials. The Committee resolves to await a progress report on the matter.

23/18 Bridges in Mufumbwe District

On 27th February, 2018, the Minister of Housing and Infrastructure Development made the following assurance:

Madam Speaker, the construction of Musowenji Bridge will commence in the first quarter of 2019, upon procurement of the works contractor. The bridge is covered under the ACROW Bridges Project. Designs are currently being prepared and are scheduled to be completed by the fourth quarter of 2018. The construction of Miluji (Chitwa) Bridge will commence in the first quarter of 2019, upon procurement of the works contractor. The bridge is covered under the ACROW Bridge Project. Designs are currently being prepared and are scheduled to be completed by 4th April, 2018. The cost of constructing the two bridges will be determined once the designs have been completed and the contractor has been found. The timeframe for the completion of the project will be nine months from the commencement date.

In the previous Session, the Committee had urged the Government to ensure that funds were urgently sourced for the construction of the bridges in Mufumbwe District.

Executive’s Response In its update to the Committee, the Government submitted that the procurement of a contractor to undertake the construction of the bridge would commence once funds for the project were secured. The components for all the bridges under the ACROW bridge programme had been procured and were in the country. The construction works for the installation of bridges would be financed through the Government. The cost of constructing the bridge was to be known once the procurement process of the contractor was completed.

Committee’s Observations and Recommendations The Committee, in noting the submission urges, the Government to ensure that funds are urgently sourced to procure the contractor to undertake the construction of ACROW Bridges considering that the components for all the bridges under the ACROW bridge programme are already in the country. The Committee resolves to await a progress report on the matter.

25/18 Secondary School in Chief Kucheka’s Chiefdom in Zambezi West

On 28th February, 2018, the Minister of Housing and Infrastructure Development made the following assurance:

Mr Speaker, the construction of Liyovu Boarding Secondary School in Chief Kucheka’s Chiefdom in Zambezi West Parliamentary Constituency stalled due to financial constraints. The progress of the project was also affected by seasonal flooding. However, the construction works resumed in November, 2017. The contractor for the project is Hua Jiang Investment Limited, and the total cost of the project is K48,709,354.05 and the time frame for the completion of the project is thirty-two months.

The Committee in the previous Session had urged the Government to ensure that funds were secured for the construction of Liyovu Boarding School, without further delay.

Executive’s Response The Committee was informed that the status quo at Liyovu Boarding Secondary School had not changed due to financial constraints. The works were expected to resume as soon as the funds were available.

Committee’s Observations and Recommendations The Committee in noting the submission expresses concern that the status quo at Liyovu Boarding Secondary School has remained the same for the past three years and urges the Government to desist from making assurances on the floor of the House, which have no financial backing. The Committee resolves to await a progress report of the matter.

27/18 Upgrade of Airport Road

On 6th March, 2018, the Minister of Housing and Infrastructure Development made the following assurance:

Madam Speaker, we will begin upgrading that road to a dual carriageway before the end of this year.

The Committee in the previous Session had urged the Government to speed up the financial cost negotiation process and ensure that the road was worked on without further delay.

Executive’s Response The Executive in its update to the Committee submitted that the construction of a dual carriageway from the airport traffic circle to the Kenneth Kaunda International Airport (KKIA) was included as part of the L400 Phase III project which commenced in January, 2019 and was scheduled to be completed in January, 2021.

Committee’s Observations and Recommendations The Committee in noting the submission resolves to await a progress report on the matter.

28/18 C400 Road Project in Ndola

On 13th March, 2018, the Minister of Housing and Infrastructure Development made the following assurance:

Madam Speaker, the construction of roads under the Copperbelt 400 km Road Project (C400) in Ndola District will commence as soon as the financial arrangements for the 15 per cent advance payment, which is the Government of the Republic of Zambia counterpart funding, is finalised. The financing arrangement is expected to be concluded soon. Works will commence by the end of this rainy season.

The Committee in the last Session had urged the Government to urgently source the funds to actualise the project.

Executive’s Response In its update to the Committee, the Executive submitted that the financing arrangements for the 15 per cent advance payment were finalised by the Ministry of Finance and the Government had fulfilled all the conditions precedent to the disbursement of funds. However, the commencement of the works awaited the disbursement of funds by the financier. The works on the urban roads being implemented in the Copperbelt Province were under the Zambia Township Road Project.

Committee’s Observations and Recommendations The Committee in noting the submission resolves to await a progress report on the construction of roads under the Copperbelt 400 km Road Project (C400) in Ndola District.

36/18 Construction of Bridges in Zambezi West

On 12th June, 2018, the Minister of Housing and Infrastructure made the following assurance:

Mr Speaker, the Government has a plan to construct bridges on Kashiji River, connecting Kanyeva to Chief Kucheka’s Palace and Liyovu Primary School, and connecting Muyembe to Chief Ndungu’s Palace. A bridge will also be constructed on Litapi River, connecting Kalengwa to Chief Chinyama’s Palace using Acrow Corporation of America.

Sir, the designs for the bridges have been completed, and the contract has been signed. The Government is awaiting the delivery of the bridge components before the construction of the bridges can commence by the fourth quarter of 2018.

The Committee in the previous Session had noted the submission with concern considering the time it had taken for the bridge components to be delivered.

Executive’s Response

The Executive in its update to the Committee submitted that the procurement of a contractor to undertake construction of the bridge would commence once the funds for the project were secured. The components for all the bridges under the ACROW bridge programme were procured and were in the country. The construction works for the installation of the bridges would be financed through the Government.

Committee’s Observations and Recommendations The Committee in noting the progress made, urges the Government to urgently source funds for the construction of the bridges to avoid loss of bridge components due to lapse in time. The Committee resolves to await a progress report on the matter.

41/18 Rehabilitation of Classroom Block at Mandubi Primary School

On 4th July, 2018, the Minister of Housing and Infrastructure Development made the following assurance on the floor of the House:

Mr Speaker, the rehabilitation of 1 x 2 classroom block whose roof was blown off at Mandubi Primary School will be completed within the course of this year, 2018 before the onset of the rains. The delay in commencing the project is due to the lack of funds. Currently, the Ministry of General Education is in discussions with the Ministry of Finance for the release of funds to repair the blown off roof at Mandubi Primary School.

The Committee in the previous Session had lamented that assurances made on the floor of the House were becoming academic as they were not being actualised and had strongly

45 urged the Government to ensure that assurances made on the floor of the House received priority attention in terms of funding.

Executive’s Response The rehabilitation of a 1 x 2 classroom block at Mundubi Primary School in Chifunabuli Parliamentary Constituency had not commenced due to lack of funding. Rehabilitation would commence once funds were made available.

Committee’s Observations and Recommendations The Committee in noting the submission expresses concern that it has taken the Government over two years to rehabilitate the blown off roof at Mundubi Primary School. This is unacceptable. The Committee therefore, urges the Government to ensure that assurances made on the floor on the House are prioritised and should not be taken as an academic exercise. Further, the Committee expresses concern over the well being of the pupils, considering that the roof was blown off over two years ago. The Committee resolves to await a progress report on the matter.

51/18 Construction of Infrastructure in Siavonga District

On 13th July, 2018, the Minister of Housing and Infrastructure Development made the following assurance:

Mr Speaker, the construction of the Police Station, staff houses for police officers, district administration office block, post office, civic centre, medium cost housing units and low cost housing units for civil servants is expected to be completed by December, 2018, subject to availability of funds.

In the previous Session, the Committee had urged the Government to ensure that the project was completed accordingly.

Executive’s Response In its update to the Committee, the Executive submitted that the construction of a police station and its associated staff houses, district administration office block, post office, civic centre, medium cost housing units and low-cost housing units for civil servants were expected to be completed by December, 2018. However, these projects were not completed as intended due to inadequate funding. The Ministry’s plans were to complete the police station and its associated housing units whose structures have been roofed and focus on projects that were 80 per cent complete and above.

Committee’s Observations and Recommendations The Committee, in noting the submission, urges the Government to ensure that the police station and its associated housing units whose structures are roofed are completed without further delay. The Committee resolves to await a comprehensive report on the construction of infrastructure in Siavonga District. 46

11/15 - Construction of the Lusaka-Kapiri Mposhi Dual Carriageway

On 24th September, 2015, the Minister of Justice and Acting Leader of Government Business in the House made an assurance on the floor of the House on behalf of the Minister of Transport, Works, Supply and Communications as follows:

Mr Speaker, it is envisaged that the proposed construction of the Lusaka/Kapiri Mposhi Dual Carriageway will commence in the second quarter of 2016, under a public-private partnership (PPP) financing model.

The Committee in the previous Session had urged the Government to expedite the signing of the financing agreement so that construction works could commence.

Executive’s Response The Executive in its update to the Committee submitted that the project to construct the Lusaka-Kapiri Mposhi Dual Carriageway was superseded by the Lusaka-Ndola Dual Carriageway Project which was expected to take 48 months to construct at a cost of US$1,245,775,986.98. The contractor on this project commenced mobilisation and had set up two camps, one at Katuba in Lusaka and the other at Baluba in Ndola. The commencement of works by the contractor awaited the finalisation of the financing agreement between the Ministry of Finance and the financier.

Committee’s Observations and Recommendations The Committee observes with concern the failure by the Government to have the project actualised for over five years and resolves to await a progress report on the Lusaka-Kapiri Mposhi - Ndola Dual Carriageway.

20/15 - Rehabilitation of Gwembe/Chisekesi Road

On 22nd October, 2015, the Deputy Minister of Works and Supply made the following assurance: Mr Speaker, feasibility studies of this nature take about nine months to be completed and the contract was signed in September, 2015. So, the road construction will commence before the end of 2016.

The Committee in the previous Session had expressed concern over the time it had taken the Government to implement the project and urged the Government to urgently secure funds and execute the project without further delay. The Committee had resolved to await a progress report on the matter.

Executive’s Response The Committee was informed that the feasibility and detailed design of the Gwembe- Chisekesi Road were completed in 2016. The procurement of the civil works contractor still awaited availability of funds for the project.

Committee’s Observations and Recommendations The Committee expresses concern that it has taken the Government over five years to implement the project and resolves to await a progress report on the matter.

01/16 - Masangano/Fisenge Road

On 4th May, 2015, the Deputy Minister of Works and Supply made the following assurance:

Mr Speaker, the Masangano/Fisenge Road Project on the Copperbelt Province is at the procurement stage and its works are expected to commence in the third quarter of 2016. The project will be executed using the public-private partnership (PPP) model. The delay in the rehabilitation of the road is attributed to the limited resource envelop due to competing needs.

The Committee in the previous Session had urged the Government to expeditiously finalise and sign the financing agreement, so that works on the project could commence.

Executive’s Response The Committee was informed that the Masangano-Fisenge road project on the Copperbelt Province was part of the Lusaka-Ndola dual carriageway project which was scheduled to commence upon finalisation of the financing arrangements for the project.

Committee’s Observations and Recommendations The Committee in noting the submission urges the Government to expeditiously finalise the financing arrangements for the project to commence and resolves to await a progress report on the matter.

02/16 - Kalabo/Kalongola Road

On 9th March, 2015, the Deputy Minister of Works and Supply made the following assurance:

Mr Speaker, the construction of the Kalabo/Kalongola to Sitoti Road is scheduled to commence in the second quarter of 2016. The contract has been awarded to China State Construction Engineering Corporation Limited for a sum of K1,695,918,648.60 for the duration of forty-eight months. Sir, the Government, through the Road Development Agency (RDA), has plans to construct the above-mentioned crossing points under the same

contract. Mr Speaker, the works on the crossing points will be implemented under the same contract and are scheduled to commence in 2016.

The Committee in the previous Session had expressed concern over the inordinate delay in finalising the financing agreement for the project and urged the Government to speed up this matter so that the project could commence without further delay.

Executive’s Response The Executive in its update to the Committee submitted that the Kalabo to Kalongola to Sitoti road was an important project for the Government of the Republic of Zambia. The commencement of upgrading of the road to bituminous standard awaited finalisation of the financing arrangements. Not much progress was made in finalising the financing arrangements as the Government had postponed the contraction of all new and pipeline debt.

Committee’s Observations and Recommendations The Committee, in noting the submission, urges the Government to consider excluding assurances made on the floor of the House from the 80 per cent threshold in order to implement projects as promised. The Committee resolves to await a progress report on the matter.

06/16 - Construction of Civil Servants’ Houses in Mitete

On 10th March, 2016, the Deputy Minister of Works and Supply made the following assurance: Mr Speaker, the Government is constructing forty-two houses and other buildings in Mitete District. The categories of the housing units are broken down as follows: two High-cost, twelve Medium-cost and twenty eight low-cost.

Sir, the construction of twenty low-cost houses will be completed by the end of October, 2016, while the construction of ten medium-cost houses will be completed by the end of May, 2016, and the construction of two high-cost houses was supposed to have been completed by the end of February, 2016, but is likely to be delayed due to non-performance by the contractor. The contract for the construction of a police station and ten houses for police officers, comprising two medium-cost and eight low-cost houses, has just been awarded and construction, which will commence as soon as possible, will be completed by the end of 2016.

Mr Speaker, the contractor for the construction of the twenty low-cost houses is KAPS Hardware Limited while the one for the ten medium-cost houses is Muco Trading Limited. The two high-cost houses are being constructed by Kampe Contractors Limited. Sir, the time frame for the construction of the twenty low-cost houses and associated works is twenty months, starting from February, 2015, and ending in October, 2016, while that

for the construction of ten medium-cost houses and associated external works is twelve months, starting from April, 2015, to May 2016.

The Committee in the previous Session was pleased to note the progress made and urged the Government to ensure that funds were secured to complete the remaining works. The Committee had resolved to await a progress report on the matter.

Executive’s Response The Committee was informed that the Government was still committed to completing all the forty-two houses for the civil servants in Mitete District. The delay to complete the houses in time was due to financial constraints.

The progress achieved to date on the various houses was as follows:

(a) Construction of Twenty Low-cost Houses The Committee was informed that the construction of the twenty low cost houses was being done by Kaps Hardware. All the houses had been roofed and plastered. The contractor was done with fitting of doors and window frames and installing of ceiling, electrical and plumbing works were near completion. The works were above 84 per cent complete and the contractor was paid all interim payment certificates and had applied for consideration for payment of works done amounting to K450,000 that was under processing. The delay to achieve reasonable progress was attributed to delay in paying the contractor timely.

The projected completion date was 30th December 2019 subject to availability of funds.

(b) Construction of Ten Medium-cost Houses The Committee was informed that construction of the ten medium cost houses was being done by Muco Trading. All the ten houses were roofed and five of the ten houses had been plastered, doors and window frames were installed while electrical and plumbing works had commenced. The works were at 75 per cent complete and the contractor was owed an outstanding amount of K300,000 in interim payment certificates. The projected completion date for the ten medium cost houses was 30th December, 2019 subject to availability of funds.

(c) Construction of Police Station, Two Medium and Eight Low Cost Houses The construction of the Police Station and the houses was being done by Simuliya Contractors. Works on the Police Station were at substructure level, while on the low cost houses the progress was as follows:

➢ Roofed – 1 unit, ➢ Gable level - 1 unit, ➢ ring beam level - 2units, ➢ slab level – 4 units, and 50

➢ two medium cost houses were at substructure level.

The works were still at 30 per cent complete. The lack of progress on this project was attributed to delay to pay the contractor’s outstanding interim payment certificates. The contractor was still owed an outstanding amount of K1,583,314.30. However, the payments were not made because of the Government’s decision to prioritise payments to projects that had reached 80 per cent and above before considering projects below that level of physical progress.

(d) Construction of Civic Centre and Two High Cost Houses Construction of the civic centre and two high cost houses was being done by Kaps Hardware. The contract was initially awarded to Kampe Investment but was terminated due to site abandonment and poor performance.

The contract was later awarded to Kaps Hardware in 2017. The new contractor mobilised on site. However, works had stalled due to financial constraints. The contractor was owed K1,791,537.33 in interim payment certificates and advance payment. The amount was expected to be settled in line with the Government‘s directive of prioritising payments to projects that had reached 80 per cent complete and above.

Committee’s Observations and Recommendations The Committee in noting the submission urges the Government to ensure that funds are secured to complete the projects without further delay, as continued delay would result into additional costs due to vandalism and increase in cost of materials. The Committee resolves to await a progress report on the matter.

13/16 - Construction of Masaiti District Administration Offices

On 15th April, 2016, the Deputy Minister of Works and Supply made the following assurance: Mr Speaker, the construction of the District Administration Offices in Masaiti shall commence now that land has been allocated for the proposed new district administrative centre. Survey drawings for the old Masaiti Boma area have been completed, but the provincial administration decided to relocate the new district to an area near the Kapiri Mposhi/Ndola Highway.

Sir, the contractor shall be identified after tender evaluation. The contract sum shall be known after the selection of the successful bidder. As regards the time frame, this project should be done within ten to twelve months.

The Committee in the previous Session was concerned that the project had taken the Government over two years to commence, which was unacceptable. The Committee strongly urged the Government to prioritise assurances made on the floor of the House when it comes to funding. 51

Executive’s Response The Executive in its update submitted that it was committed to ensuring that the District Administration offices in Masaiti District were constructed. The procurement process for the contractor was completed. However, award was deferred to a later date due to financial constraints and the Government’s decision to prioritise completion of running projects before new projects were started.

Committee’s Observations and Recommendations The Committee expresses concern over the Government’s failure to procure a contractor due to financial constraints, when the assurance to undertake the project was made on the floor of the House with a timeframe to complete within ten and twelve months. The Committee therefore, urges the Government to desist from making assurances when availability of funds was not assured and resolves to await a progress report on the matter.

17/16 - Post Office in Mitete

On 16th February, 2016, the Deputy Minister of Transport and Communication made the following assurance:

Mr Speaker, the construction of the post office and associated external works in Mitete will be completed by the end of March, 2017 and the contractor undertaking the construction of the post office is Eldermain Business Solutions.

Mr Speaker, the completion period for the construction of the post office is nineteen months, running from October, 2015, to the end of March, 2017. The contractor has since drilled a borehole and the foundation has been excavated.

The Committee in the previous Session had urged the Government to expedite the procurement process so that construction works could commence.

Executive’s Response The Committee was informed that the construction of the post office and associated external works in Mitete was initially awarded to Eldermain Business Solutions in 2015. The contract was however terminated due to poor performance. Procurement of the new contractor was completed and a new contractor by the name of Milestone was awarded the contract at a sum of K6,700,696.46 and contract period of twelve months.

The contractor was expected to commence works after being paid advance as per contract provision. The delay to pay the advance was due to financial constraints being experienced.

Committee’s Observations and Recommendations The Committee in noting the submission urges the Government to ensure that funds are expeditiously secured for the construction of the Post Office in Mitete to avoid additional costs to the contract sum due to time lapse. Further, the Committee urges the Government not to sign contracts if funds are not available to avoid additional costs due to standing charges. The Committee resolves to await a progress report on the matter.

18/16 - Mapungu/Kalabo Feeder Road

On 16th February, 2016, the Minister of Works and Supply made the following assurance: Mr Speaker, the rehabilitation of the Mapungu/Kalabo Feeder Road is expected to resume in the second quarter of 2016 under the Zambia National Service (ZNS) Primary Feeder Roads Rehabilitation Programme.

The Committee in previous Session had expressed concern at the inordinate delay in rehabilitating the road and urged the Government to urgently secure funds to rehabilitate the Mapungu to Kalabo Feeder Road without any further delay to avoid further deterioration of the road.

Executive’s Response The Committee was informed that Mapungu to Kalabo Feeder Road was one of the roads which had been planned for execution under the former Rural Roads Units (RRU). However, the project could not commence at the time owing to non-availability of funds for the project. Following the handing over of all activities formally under RRU to ZNS, the road was expected to be executed by ZNS once funds were made available.

Committee’s Observations and Recommendations The Committee, in noting the submission, expresses concern over the failure by the Government to secure funds for the rehabilitation of the Mapungu to Kalabo Feeder Road and urges the Government to expeditiously source funds to rehabilitate the road without any further delay. The Committee resolves to await a progress report on the matter.

19/16 - North-Western Railway Concession

On 17th February, 2016, the Deputy Minister of Transport and Communication made the following assurance:

Mr Speaker, the Government has not yet signed the North-Western Railway Concession. However, the Ministries of Finance, and Transport and Communication have generated a Cabinet Memorandum, which will be circulated by the first week of March, 2016, for comments before submission to Cabinet after it is cleared. The Cabinet Memorandum will then be presented before Parliament in the form of a Bill in the next Session of Parliament in April, 2016.Mr Speaker, the concession contract for the construction of the railway line will be signed in July, 2016, and construction of the railway line will begin in 2017.

The Committee in the previous Session had urged the Government to take steps to ensure that the remaining works were implemented within the project time.

Executive’s Response The Committee was informed that the Shareholders’ Agreement was yet to be signed as the North West Rail Company was still reviewing the documents with its prospective partners. Funds for the project were still being sourced.

Committee’s Observations and Recommendations The Committee in noting the submission resolves to await a progress report on the signing of the Shareholder’s Agreement and the sourcing of funds.

32/16 – Rehabilitation of the Tateyoyo Gate/Katunda Road Turn-Off

On 24th February, 2016, the Deputy Minister of Works and Supply made the following assurance:

Mr Speaker, it is envisaged that the works on the Tateyoyo Gate to Katunda/Lukulu Junction will commence in the second quarter of 2016.

The Committee in the previous Session had expressed concern over the time it had taken for the project to be implemented and strongly urged the Government to ensure that funds for the rehabilitation of Tateyoyo Gate-Katunda-Lukulu Junction Road were urgently secured.

Executive’s Response The Government in its update to the Committee submitted that the project for rehabilitation of Tateyoyo Gate-Katunda-Lukulu Junction Road was awarded and signed in July, 2016. However, works had not yet commenced because the Government had not secured funds for the project owing to the cancellation of contracting new debts of all the pipeline projects.

Committee’s Observations and Recommendations The Committee is greatly concerned over the Government’s failure to implement this assurance despite the contract having been signed as far back as 2016. The Committee strongly urges the Government to secure funds for the project to be implemented without further delay and resolves to await a progress report on the matter.

33/16 - Road Signage between Chongwe and Luangwa Bridge

On 29th April, 2016, the Deputy Minister of Works and Supply made the following assurance:

Sir, there are plans to put up road signs on this stretch in the second quarter of 2016 through the routine maintenance contracts on the same stretch.

The Committee in the last Session had urged the Government to urgently finalise the financing agreement and consider the road to avert loss of life through accidents.

Executive’s Response The Executive in its update indicated that the financing agreement had not yet been finalised owing to cancellation of new debt contraction of all pipeline projects.

Committee’s Observations and Recommendations The Committee in noting the submission expresses concern that assurances made on the floor of the House are not given priority when it comes to implementation and in this regard urges the Government to ensure that such projects are prioritised in terms of funding. The Committee resolves to await a progress report on the matter.

43/17 Construction of Bridges in Chitambo Constituency’

On 30th June, 2017, the Minister of Housing and Infrastructure Development made the following assurances:

Madam Speaker, the Road Development Agency (RDA) has targeted to construct a bridge across the Loumbwa River in Chitambo Parliamentary Constituency under the Acrow Bridge Programme. Preparation for detailed designs has reached an advanced stage, and is expected to be completed by the end of the third quarter of 2017. The construction of the bridge is expected to commence in 2018 upon procurement of a contractor. Only one bridge across the Loumbwa River is earmarked for construction in 2017. Other bridges in the Constituency may be considered in the 2018 Road Sector Annual Work Plan when funds permit.

The Committee in the last Session had urged the Government to ensure that works commenced by the second quarter of 2019 after the procurement process of a contract was finalised.

Executive’s Response In its update to the Committee, the Executive submitted that the procurement of a contractor to undertake the construction of the Acrow Bridges in Central Province which covers Chitambo Parliamentary Constituency would commence once funds for the project were secured. The components for all the bridges under the ACROW Bridge Programme were procured and were already in the country. The Committee was further informed that the construction works for the installation of the bridges would be financed by the Government. The cost of constructing the bridge would be known once the procurement of the contractor was completed.

The detailed designs for the Acrow Bridges in Central Province which covered Chitambo Parliamentary Constituency were completed and works were expected to commence by the second quarter of 2019 after the procurement process of a contractor was finalised.

Committee’s Observations and Recommendations The Committee notes the submission with concern over the Government’s tendency of making assurances on the floor of the House when it is aware that funds are not available. The Committee strongly urges the Government to consider making assurances on projects where funding is certain. The Committee resolves to await a progress report on the matter.

44/17 Tarring of Mukobeko Maximum Correctional Facility/Ngabwe Road

On 5th July, 2017, the Minister of Housing and Infrastructure Development made the following assurance:

Madam Speaker, the tarring of the road might be considered in the 2018 Road Sector Annual Work Plan (RSAWP), funds permitting. However, the Road Development Agency (RDA) has varied the scope of the contract for the periodic maintenance of the T2 Road from Kabwe to Chibombo to include spot improvement of the Kabwe/Ngabwe Road and facilitation of the continuous flow of traffic on the road. Consultancy for the preparation of the detailed design of the bridge across the Kafue River at Ngabwe is currently in progress and the design will be completed by the fourth quarter of 2017. The construction of the bridge is expected to commence in 2018, upon completion of the designs and procurement of a contractor.

The Committee in the previous Session had urged the Government to ensure that the project was implemented as assured.

Executive’s Response The Executive in its update to the Committee indicated that the upgrading to bituminous standard of the Mukobeko Maximum Correctional Facility/Ngabwe Road was not included in the 2019 Road Sector Annual Work Plan (RSAWP) owing to budgetary constraints.

The Road Development Agency (RDA) carried out an assessment of the required works on culverts and a budget in the sum of K2.7 million was submitted to NRFA for implementation under Force Account. The commencement of the works on culverts awaited release of funds by NRFA.

The preparation of the detailed designs for the Ngabwe Bridge across the Kafue River on the other hand, was finalised and the consultant had submitted the final design report. The construction works were being considered for inclusion in the 2020 Road Sector Annual Work Plan subject to availability of funds. 56

Committee’s Observations and Recommendations The Committee in noting the submission expresses disappointment that this assurance was made without having secured funding for it. The Committee reiterates that this now common practice by the Executive is unacceptable and must come to an end. Be that as it may, the Committee resolves to await a progress report on the matter.

45/17 Implementation of Link Zambia 8,000 Kilometre Road Project

On Wednesday 5th July, 2017, the Minister of Housing and Infrastructure Development made an assurance:

Madam Speaker, the implementation of the Link Zambia 8,000 Kilometres Road Project is behind schedule because the target was to complete all the 8,000 km by 2020. The project time frame was ten years. The major challenge to the implementation of the project has been budgetary limitations. However, the Government is exploring various options for financing the project, such as the contractor-facilitated initiative (CFI), public-private partnerships (PPPs) and engineering, procurement, construction plus finance (EPC+F).

Madam, on the construction of the Mtetezi/Msoro Road also known as the Katete/Msoro/Chipata Road, we have received proposals from two contractors who have expressed interest to work on the project road under a CFI, and we have submitted them to the Ministry of Finance for consideration. The Ministry has also started preparing for the possibility of procuring the works under the Government financing in the next financial year in the event of it not being given the authority to do some works under a CFI. In that regard, the Ministry has started preparing the designs and hopes to complete them by December, 2017. If authority to procure the works under a CFI is granted, we should be able to conclude the project by the end of 2017.

Madam, the time frame for completing the Mtetezi to Msoro Road will only be determined once the designs have been completed and the contract works signed.

The Committee in the previous Session had urged the Government to ensure that the outstanding payment certificates were settled for the final design report to be submitted.

Executive’s Response The Committee was informed that the Link Zambia 8,000 Kilometers Programme was still behind schedule owing to budgetary constraints. The Government was exploring various options for financing the programme, such as the Contractor-Facilitated Initiative (CFI), Public-Private Partnerships (PPPs) and Engineering, Procurement, Construction plus Finance (EPC+F) to ease the pressure on the Treasury.

The designs for the Katete to Msoro to Chipata Road were completed and submission by the consultant of the final design report awaited clearance of outstanding payment

57 certificates to the consultant. It was worth noting that the Ministry of Housing and Infrastructure Development (MHID) through the Road Development Agency (RDA) had received expressions of interest from various contractors to execute the Katete to Msoro to Chipata Road using the Contractor-Facilitated Initiative (CFI). The road was included in the 2019 RSAWP as one of the roads to be executed using the CFI mode of financing. However, not much progress was made as the Ministry of Finance had indefinitely postponed contraction of all pipeline debt.

Committee’s Observations and Recommendations The Committee in noting the submission expresses concern over the failure by the Government to clear the outstanding payment certificates for the final design report to be submitted. The Committee hence, urges the Government to ensure that funds are secured to pay the outstanding payment certificates without further delay. The Committee resolves to await a progress report on the matter.

37/17B Staff Houses for Agricultural Camps in Chitambo

On Friday 16th June, 2017, the Minister of Housing and Infrastructure Development made the following assurance:

Mr Speaker, the construction of agricultural camp houses in various parts of the country will be considered for inclusion in the 2018 budget. Priority will be given to newly-created districts such as Chitambo. The Committee in the previous Session had urged the Government to ensure that new districts were prioritised.

Executive’s Response The Committee was informed that the Government was committed to the construction of agricultural camp houses in Chitambo District. However, commencement of construction of these houses had been delayed due to financial constraints and in line with the Government decision to complete running projects before embarking on new projects.

Committee’s Observations and Recommendations The Committee in noting the submission urges the Government to ensure that funds to construct houses in newly created districts are secured before giving assurances on the floor of the House and resolves to await a progress report on the matter.

41/17 Lundazi/Chama Road

On 28th June, 2017, the Minister of Housing and Infrastructure Development made the following assurance on the floor of the House: Mr Speaker, the tarring of the Lundazi/Chama Road was divided into five lots for ease of implementation as follows:

Lot Activities

1. a 65 km surface was substantially completed; 2. the progress is at 10 per cent and the contractor is on site awaiting to continue works when funds are made available; and 3. the works are on-going and the progress is currently at 8 per cent. It is anticipated that the contractor will complete a 10 km stretch of the road by the end of the fourth quarter of 2017.

The Committee in the previous Session had expressed concern over lack of progress on the construction of the Lundazi/Chama road due to budgetary constraints and urged the Government to prioritise assurances made on the floor of the House.

Executive’s Response The Committee was informed that the construction of the Lundazi to Chama road was at different levels of development. However, works had stalled owing to financial constraints. The Government would resume construction of this economic road immediately funds were made available.

Committee’s Observations and Recommendations The Committee expresses concern that works on this economic road has stalled due to budgetary constraints and urges the Government to ensure that funds are sourced to complete the remaining works. The Committee further urges the Government to source funding for this project so that it can be completed without delay and resolves to await a progress report on the matter.

31/17 Tarring of Muyombe/Isoka Road

On 23rd March, 2017, the Minister of Housing and Infrastructure Development made the following assurance:

Mr Speaker, the Isoka/Muyombe Road Project was divided into five lots for ease of implementation. The works on Lot 1 are substantially complete while those on Lot 2 are currently ongoing, although the progress has been minimal due to financial limitations. The contracts for Lots 3, 4 and 5 have been signed and the initial completion dates are 9th June, 2017, 3rd March, 2018, and 26th July, 2017. These dates may be reviewed if the contractors request for extensions.

The Committee in the previous Session had urged the Government to ensure that assurances made on the floor of the House were prioritised.

Executive’s Response The Committee was informed that the Isoka/Muyombe Road project was divided into five lots for ease of implementation. Works on lot 1 from Isoka (T2/D790 junction) to km 65

(Mwenewisi) had been substantially completed while works on the remaining lots had stalled due to budgetary constraints.

Committee’s Observations and Recommendations The Committee in noting the submission expresses concern that it has taken the Government over two years to actualise the project. The Committee urges the Government to ensure that funds are secured to complete the project. The Committee resolves to await a progress report on the matter.

32/17 Mbesuma/Kafwimbi Road

On 23rd March, 2017, the Minister of Housing and Infrastructure Development made the following assurance:

Sir, the Government has plans to upgrade to bituminous standard the road from Mbesuma in Chinsali District to Kafwimbi in Isoka District and to construct a bridge across Chambeshi River to connect Mbesuma to Kafwimbi in Isoka District. Sir, the Ministry intends to commence the construction of the Mbesuma Bridge in 2017, funds permitting, and we have requested Treasury authority from the Hon. Minister of Finance because we have already engaged a contractor.

The Committee in the previous Session had urged the Government to ensure that where contracts had been awarded priority should be given to avoid escalation in costs due to time lapse.

Executive’s response The Committee was informed that the Mbesuma to Isoka Road was one of the roads that was included in the 2019 Road Sector Annual Work Plan for execution using the Contractor Facilitated Initiative (CFI) Mode of Financing. RDA had received expressions of interest from some contractors. However, not much progress was made as the Ministry of Finance had indefinitely postponed contraction of all pipeline debt.

The works on the Mbesuma Bridge were still ongoing and were scheduled to be completed by November, 2019 with overall physical progress estimated at 28 per cent. However, the initial completion date was extended to November, 2020 due to erratic funding for the project.

Committee’s Observations and Recommendations The Committee notes the submission with concern and urges the Government to prioritise assurances made on the floor of the House, especially those that have been outstanding for over three years. The Committee resolves to await a progress report on the matter.

15/16 C400 Road Project

On 23rd November, 2016, the Minister of Housing and Infrastructure Development made the following assurance:

Mr Speaker, it is expected that the works on the C400 Project on the Copperbelt will commence by April, 2017, upon the conclusion of the financing arrangement. The delay in the commencement of the project is because the Government and the contractor are still in the process of finalising the financing arrangement for the project. They are expected to conclude in the first quarter of 2017 and works will commence in April of the same year.

The Committee in the previous Session had strongly urged the Government to ensure that works were completed within the stated time.

Executive’s Response The Committee was informed that the financing arrangements for the 15 per cent advance payment were finalised by the Ministry of Finance and the Government had fulfilled all the conditions precedent to the disbursement of funds. However, the commencement of the works awaited the disbursement of funds by the financier. The works on the urban roads on the Copperbelt Province were being implemented under the Zambia Township Road.

Committee’s Observations and Recommendations The Committee in noting the submission resolves to await a progress report on the matter.

42/17 Infrastructure Development in Ngabwe

On 29th June, 2017, the Minister of Housing and Infrastructure Development made the following assurance:

Mr Speaker, I wish to inform the House that all the staff houses have been roofed and plastered. All things being equal, the construction of the houses is expected to be completed by the fourth quarter of 2017.

Sir, the contract for the construction of the post office was recently terminated. The contractor has since challenged the termination and the matter is being looked into by the Ministry. Funds permitting, the construction of the post office is expected to be completed by the end of 2017.

Mr Speaker, the contract for the construction of the civic centre was terminated and the process of engaging another contractor to finish the works is underway. Funds permitting, the project is expected to be completed by December, 2017.

Sir, the contract for the construction of Ngabwe District Administration has been recommended for termination due to poor performance by the contractor. The completion date will be known after the engagement of a new contractor. The construction of the police station and ten associated houses are at an advanced stage and is expected to be completed by December, 2017.

The Committee in the previous Session had urged the Government to honour the outstanding interim payment certificates (IPCs) without further delay so that the remaining works could be completed.

Executive’s Response The Committee was informed that the Government was committed to paying all the outstanding arrears for all Interim Payment Certificates to enable contractors’ complete works in newly created districts, and priority was given to projects that were 80 per cent and above complete.

For Ngabwe, contractors were paid all their outstanding arrears and as of 31st December, 2018, the Government did not owe contractors any money. These included contractors engaged to:

(i) construct twenty low cost houses and associated external works. Works were at 90 per cent; (ii) construct the police station, two medium cost houses, eight low cost houses and associated external works. Works were at 65 per cent; (iii) construction of ten medium cost houses and associated external works. Works were at 65 per cent; and (iv) construction of a post office and associated external works. Works were at 35 per cent.

Committee’s Observations and Recommendations The Committee, in noting the progress made, urges the Government to ensure that disbursement of funds is consistent to enable the contractors complete the remaining works without further delay. The Committee resolves to await a progress report on the matter.

13/16 Upgrading of Mkushi Roads

On 17th November, 2016, the Minister of Housing and Infrastructure Development made the following assurance:

Sir, the Masansa/Luano/Kabwe/Ndola Road is part of the project to upgrade the Kabwe/Kapiri/Mkushi Road (D200/D207/D214) and including the Mpula/Masansa roads in the Central Province to bituminous standard. The detailed designs for the projects were completed in September, 2016, at a cost of K6.2 million. The Government intends to use the 62

contractor facilitated initiative (CFI) mode in financing this project. In this mode, the contractor mobilises funds for the project. Sir, it is envisaged that the works on this project will commence upon the finalisation of the procurement of the contractor and the financing arrangements in the third quarter of 2017.

The Committee in the previous Session had urged the Government to ensure that the financing agreement between the financier and the Ministry of Finance was urgently finalised, as further delay would result in an increase in the contract sum.

Executive’s Response The Committee was informed that the project to upgrade the Kabwe/Kapiri/Mkushi (D200/D207/D214) and the Mpula/Masansa Roads in Central Province to bituminous standard was awarded to Messrs CMC di Ravenna at a contract sum of K3,611,679,457.09 with a completion period of thirty-six months. Commencement of works awaited finalisation of the financing agreement between the financier and the Ministry of Finance.

Committee’s Observations and Recommendations The Committee, in noting the submission, urges the Government to ensure that the finalisation of the financing agreement is expedited so as to commence the upgrading of the Mkushi roads. Further, the Committee urges the Government to ensure that once works commence, they are completed within the scheduled timeframe. The Committee resolves to await a progress report on the matter.

18/16 Bridges in Lunte Constituency

On 7th December, 2016, the Minister of Housing and Infrastructure Development made the following assurance:

Mr Speaker, it is expected that the works on the Lukulu Bridge will be carried out at the end of the 2016/2017 rainy season. The Road Development Agency (RDA) has already undertaken a conditions survey on the crossing point and has since submitted the cost requirement to the National Road Fund Agency (NRFA) for possible funding. The crossing point is expected to be worked on after the rainy season. Sir, it is expected that the works on the Luangwa Bridge will be undertaken at the end of the 2016/2017 rainy season. The RDA has already undertaken a condition survey of the crossing point and has since submitted the cost estimate to the NRFA for possible funding so that the works can commence after the rainy season.

The Committee in the previous Session had urged the Government to ensure that funds were released by the National Road Fund Agency so as to commence works at Lukulu and Luangwa bridges respectively.

Executive’s Response The Committee was informed that further to the initial assessment which was undertaken on the Lukulu Crossing point and the submission of the cost estimate to NRFA, the Road Development Agency undertook a fresh assessment in view of the passage of time since the first cost estimation which had resulted into the change in the required scope of works. The fresh cost estimate was to be submitted to NRFA in August, 2019 and commencement of the works was to be upon release of funds.

Committee’s Observations and Recommendations The Committee, in noting the submission, urges the Government to expeditiously actualise the project to avoid additional costs due to lapse of time and subsequent change in the required scope of work. The Committee resolves to await a progress report on the matter.

6/17 Construction of Mulambwa and Kaunga Bridges

On 21st February, 2017, the Minister of Housing and Infrastructure Development made the following assurance:

Mr Speaker, the works on the Mulambwa and Kaunga bridges are scheduled to be undertaken as a variation order under the project for the upgrading to bituminous standard of 91 km of the D145 Road from the Great East Road at Luangwa Bridge to Luangwa (Feira) in Lusaka Province. The works will be undertaken during the course of 2017 by Messrs China Geo Engineering Corporation.

The Committee in the previous Session had urged the Government to ensure that funds were sourced to work on the bridges before lives were lost.

Executive’s Response The Committee was informed that Mulumbwa and Kaunga bridge works were scheduled to be undertaken as a variation order under the project for the upgrading to bituminous standard of 91 km of the D145 Road from the Great East Road at Luangwa Bridge to Luangwa (Feira) in Lusaka Province. The variation order amounting to ZMW138,125, 208.65 also included upgrading of 10Km of Feira Township Roads. The commencement of works on the bridges awaited the release of project funds.

Committee’s Observations and Recommendations The Committee, in noting the submission, expresses concern that there has been no progress made and urges the Government to ensure that assurances are implemented within the promised timeframe and taken seriously. The Committee resolves to await a progress report on the matter

18/17 Upgrading of Kalubanshi/Milenge Road

On 2nd March, 2017, the Minister of Housing and Infrastructure Development made the following assurance on the floor of the House:

Mr Speaker, the Kalubanshi Road in Bangweulu Constituency is part of the Kasanka/Milenge Road, which is on the Road Sector Annual Work Plan for 2017. We floated the tender under unsolicited proposal for execution by contractor-facilitated initiative (CFI) model. We have since received the proposal and are currently reviewing it.

The Committee in the last Session in noting the submission had resolved to await a progress report on the matter.

Executive’s Response The Government in its update to the Committee submitted that the Kasanka/Milenge Road was one of the projects that was included in the 2019 RSAWP for execution using the Contractor Facilitated Initiative (CFI) model of financing. The Ministry of Housing and Infrastructure Development through the Road Development Agency (RDA) received proposals from various contractors for the execution of the said road project and had submitted them to Ministry of Finance for clearance. The works on the project would commence once the procurement process of a contractor was finalised and the financial closure reached. However, not much progress was made as the Ministry of Finance had indefinitely postponed contraction of all pipeline debt.

Committee’s Observations and Recommendations The Committee, in noting the submission, resolves to await a progress report on the matter.

MINISTRY OF HOME AFFAIRS

7/18 Chitambo Mission Police Post

On 28th September, 2017, the Minister of Home Affairs made the following assurance: Mr Speaker, we are, indeed aware of the logistical challenges that the police is having in Chitambo. ….. As regards the construction of holding cells, we have a slight challenge. As the Honourable Member is aware, Chitambo Mission Police Post is sitting on land that belongs to Chitambo Mission Hospital. Therefore, we would like the Honourable Member to work with us to see if we can find an alternative where we can then place a Police Post with all the necessary facilities. However, that might not be done this year due to unavailability of funds.

Sir, administrative arrangements are being made by the Regional Command to have additional officers sent to Chitambo Mission Police Post in response to the status of district. As I stated earlier, ……. in 2017, our focus will be on planning for the construction of the new Police

Station for the new district and housing units for our officers who will be deployed to Chitambo District.

The Committee in the previous Session had urged the Government to ensure that the construction of the police post in Chitambo was actualised.

Executive’s Response In its update to the Committee, the Executive submitted that Chitambo being a new district, the Government had prioritised the construction of a police station and not a police post. The construction of Chitambo Police Station would commence under phase II of the infrastructure development projects under the Ministry of Home Affairs. The Ministry of Home Affairs was implementing phase I of the infrastructure development projects which were expected to be completed in the year 2020 and thereafter, phase II would commence. A piece of land on which a new police station and the housing units will be constructed had already been acquired.

Committee’s Observations and Recommendations The Committee, in noting the submission, resolves to await a progress report on the matter.

37/18 Zambia Correctional Service Irrigation Project in Serenje

On 12th June, 2018, the Minister of Home Affairs made the following assurance: Sir, I wish to inform the House that the irrigation project under the Zambia Correctional Service in Serenje District will be completed in the first quarter of 2019. The total cost of the project is K25,721,048.80. This includes land, the cost of clearing and leveling of the farm. The Committee in the previous Session had urged the Government to ensure that clearance of the Nansanga Irrigation Project site was completed as scheduled and that crop production commenced in June, 2019 as assured.

Executive’s Response The Executive in its update informed the Committee that the Ministry of Home Affairs, through the Zambia Correctional Service, commenced land clearing at Nansanga Correctional farm and so far, over 120 hectares of land had been cleared. Following the progress made on land clearing, all the nine centre pivots were installed covering a total area of seventy-eight hectares. All the irrigation pipe network were installed as well as the main pump station and was awaiting ZESCO to connect power. Further, the water reservoir was completed as well as the main pipeline connecting the dam to the reservoir, which system would be tested once electricity supply was connected. The status of the project in terms of progress made and the remaining works were as follows:

✓ Land clearing – ongoing with 120 hectares cleared so far ✓ Installation of irrigation centre pivots – completed ✓ Installation of irrigation pipes – completed 66

✓ Trenching and laying of infield distribution pipes – completed ✓ Construction of water impounding structures – completed ✓ Water reticulation and plumbing works – completed awaiting testing after ZESCO Limited connects power. ✓ Excavation and compaction of embankment – completed with capacity of 36,000m3 or 36 million litres.

The completion of land clearing exercise would be intensified once the remaining counterpart funds amounting to K9,305,020.60 were released.

Committee’s Observations and Recommendations The Committee notes the progress made and urges the Government to ensure that the remaining works and counterpart funds are released for the project to be fully actualised. The Committee resolves to await a progress report on the matter. MINISTRY OF GENERAL EDUCATION

01/18 Rehabilitation of Community Schools in Serenje Constituency

On 19th September 2017, the Minister of General Education made the following assurance:

Mr Speaker, the Government has plans to rehabilitate Ntenge and Kabala Community schools in Serenje Parliamentary Constituency. We appreciate that the two schools are in a deplorable state, but the House may wish to note that the Ministry of General Education has been supporting community schools in various ways such as providing grants, teachers and learning materials. Therefore, as and when funds are available, the two community schools will be considered for rehabilitation in 2018. Therefore, the Ministry has plans to rehabilitate the two schools.

The Committee in the previous Session had strongly urged the Government to ensure that the two community schools in Serenje were rehabilitated without further delay.

Executive’s Response In its update the Executive informed the Committee that the status quo had remained the same as the Ministry had not been funded due to limited fiscal space.

Committee’s Observations and Recommendations The Committee observes with disappointment that even after the Executive acknowledged the deplorable state of the two community schools in Serenje, it could not source funds to ensure that the schools are rehabilitated.The Committee therefore, reiterates its earlier view that the two community schools in Serenje which are in a deplorable state are rehabilitated without further delay. The Committee resolves to await a progress report on the matter.

4/18 Conversion of Community Schools to Government Schools in Chitambo Constituency

On 22nd September, 2017, the Minister of General Education made the following assurance: Mr Speaker, I wish to inform the House that Lunsambwa, Mpempa, Mangala, Musangashi, Chititima, Kalungu and Kaoma Primary schools in Chitambo Parliamentary Constituency are among the 1,700 schools which are expected to be gazetted in 2017. This issue will be taken care of before the end of the year.

The Committee in the last Session had strongly urged the Government to ensure that the gazetted schools were urgently allocated with staff establishments and resolved to await a progress report on the conversion of Community Schools to Government Schools in Chitambo Constituency.

Executive’s Response The Executive in its update to the Committee submitted that the Ministry had allocated staff establishments to 1,015 schools countrywide since the year 2017. The Ministry would allocate more staff establishments when funds were made available.

Committee’s Observations and Recommendations The Committee urges the Government to ensure that the mentioned community schools in Chitambo are converted to Government Schools as promised and resolves to await a progress report on the matter.

19/18 Kaniki Primary School in Chifubu, Ndola

On 23rd February, 2018, the Minister of General Education made the following assurance: Mr Speaker, the Ministry has upgraded Kaniki Primary School to a secondary school in Chifubu Parliamentary Constituency. The Ministry will work with the Provincial Education Office (PEO), the Parents and the Teachers’ Association (PTA) to construct additional classroom blocks at Kaniki Primary School.

Mr Speaker, the Government will consider deploying more teachers at the school in 2018 once Treasury Authority to undertake new recruitment of teachers is granted by the Ministry of Finance.

The Committee in the previous Session had resolved to await a progress report on the matter.

Executive’s Response The Ministry wishes to indicate that the PTA was able to do the following:

i. dug the foundation trenches, 68

ii. molded 10,000 burnt bricks, iii. purchased 25 tonnes of quarry dust, iv. purchased 25 tonnes of crushed stones, v. purchased 1800 8" blocks, vi. Area Councillor provided 25 tonnes of building sand.

Further, the PTA in collaboration with the District Education Board Secretary (DEBS) technical staff were working to ensure that the resources needed for the construction to commence were made available.

Committee’s Observations and Recommendations The Committee in noting the progress made urges the Government to ensure that the project is completed and teachers deployed to the school as was assured on the floor of the House. The Committee resolves to await a progress report on the upgrading of Kaniki Primary School to a secondary school.

26/18 Kasaba Day Secondary School

On 6th March, 2018, the Minister of General Education made the following assurance:

Madam Speaker, yes, the Government plans to transform Kasaba Day Secondary School in Chifunabuli Parliamentary Constituency into a boarding school due to its ideal location and distance from feeder schools. Madam Speaker, the provision of boarding facilities at the school will only be done once the Government mobilizes funds for the construction of the required infrastructure. For now, the Government is concentrating on completing on-going projects, which includes the school in question. Madam Speaker, the Ministry will deploy an accounts assistant and a typist at the school once the province receives officers under this cadre of staff.

The Committee was in the previous Session had resolved to await a progress report on the transformation of Kasaba Day Secondary School to a boarding school.

Executive’s Response The Executive in its update informed the Committee that the status quo had remained the same as the Ministry was not funded due to limited fiscal space.

Committee’s Observations and Recommendations The Committee expresses sadness on the fact that the Government does not seem to take assurances made on the floor of the House with the seriousness they deserve. The Committee resolves to await a progress report on the matter.

30/18 Teacher Transfers from Kaputa

On 13th March, 2018, the Minister of General Education made the following assurance: Mr Speaker, forty-one in 2016 and thirty-nine in 2017 teachers were transferred, which gives us a total of eighty teachers. Sir, all the eighty teachers transferred in 2016 and 2017 are still on the payroll for Kaputa District. Mr Speaker, the Ministry deployed twenty-six teachers during the 2017 recruitment programme and during the 2018 recruitment exercise, it will consider deploying more teachers to Kaputa.

The Committee in the previous Session had urged the Government to put measures in place to address the teacher deficit problem in Kaputa.

Executive’s Response The Committee was informed that the Ministry was working with all Provincial Education Officers and District Education Board Secretaries to ensure that regional transfers were done on swopping basis.

Committee’s Observations and Recommendations The Committee, in noting the submission, resolves to await a progress report on the deployment of more teachers to Kaputa District.

31/18 Computers for Gwembe Schools

On 13th March, 2018, the Minister of General Education made the following assurance: Mr Speaker, since the introduction of the teaching of Information and Communication Technology (ICT) in the education system, the Government has in a phased approach been supplying computers to schools, especially in the primary sub-sector. It desires to ensure that all the children have access to computers. However, in the face of limited resources, the rollout has been phased. For 2018 budget, the Ministry plans to procure computers that will be supplied to twenty-four schools in each province. Gwembe District will be one of the beneficiaries of these computers.

The Committee in the previous Session had urged the Government to ensure that learners in rural areas were not disadvantaged by providing them with the necessities for their learning. The Committee had urged the Ministry to come up with a concrete plan to supply computers to all needy schools in Gwembe District and provide a comprehensive report.

Executive’s Response In its update to the Committee, the Executive submitted that the Ministry of General Education had made some tremendous efforts in the supply and distribution of computers to most Government schools for teaching and learning purposes since 2013 when the first ICT lessons were conducted based on revised curriculum. In 2016, the Government distributed 4,000 computer to schools. In 2017, a further 3,000 computers were distributed 70 to schools. ZICTA also working with the Ministry distributed 4,342 computers to school under Phase 1 and 2 for connecting learning institutions in Zambia project.

Committee’s Observations and Recommendations The Committee, in noting the submission, expresses concern that no computers were given to schools in Gwembe and urges that this be done as a matter of urgency. The Committee resolves to await a comprehensive report on the distribution of computers to schools in Gwembe District.

MINISTRY OF INFORMATION AND BROADCASTING SERVICES

02/18 ZNBC Offices in Chinsali On 19th September, 2017, the Minister of Information and Broadcasting made the following assurance:

Mr Speaker, the Ministry has a plan to build a provincial broadcasting station in Chinsali District. This project is part of the implementation of phases two and three of the Digital Migration Project. The provincial broadcasting stations will be utilised by the Zambia National Broadcasting Corporation (ZNBC) as local offices as well.

Mr Speaker, the implementation of the plan has already started. At the moment, the contractor has started building the transmission house and tower. The works on the main provincial broadcasting station in Chinsali will commence once the contractor has completed the construction of the transmission house on or before 15th October, 2017. The commencement of the construction works in Chinsali, Mongu, Mansa, Chipata, Kabwe and Kasama will, therefore, start before the end of October, 2017. The Committee in the previous Session had urged the Government to ensure that funds were sourced for the two lagging provincial studios in Choma and Solwezi. The Committee resolved to await a progress report on the construction of ZNBC Offices in Chinsali and the funding of the two lagging studios.

Executive’s Response

Choma and Solwezi Provincial Broadcasting Studios The Committee was informed that the construction of the Provincial Studios in all the provinces was aimed at promoting, first, digital broadcasting and, second, local content for a well-informed citizenry. This initiative was first launched in Solwezi and Choma before digital migration project at a total contract sum of K11,912,736 for Choma and K11,016,684.43 for Solwezi. The funding for the construction of the two provincial stations was the remittances from the Treasury (Ministry of Finance). However, due to tight fiscal space the Government was experiencing, the two projects had stalled. Works at the two sites could not proceed because the contractors (Astor for Solwezi and Golden Horse for Choma) demobilised due to lack of funds.

After the Government sourced for a loan from Export and Import Bank of China, it was decided that the remaining six studios could be constructed under the Digital Migration Project. However, as it stands, although the two studios were outside the loan agreement, the equipment for the two studios was under the digital migration loan. The Government is pursuing other means including the possibility of utilising TV Levy for the construction of Solwezi and Choma. This option is ideal because it is provided for in the IBA Act to include the utilisation of TV Levy capital for public broadcasting purposes . Status of implementation on Chinsali and other Provincial Broadcasting Studios The Committee further heard that the implementation of the six provincial broadcasting studios including Chinsali were progressing well and were at an advanced stage, so far all the studios have been roofed and interior works have since commenced, the studios were envisaged to be completed by February, 2020.

Committee’s Observations and Recommendations The Committee in noting the progress made on the six provincial broadcasting studios urges the Government to ensure that the remaining works are completed by February, 2020 as submitted and that funds for the construction of the two studios which have been lagging behind are sourced without further delay. The Committee resolves to await a progress report on the matter.

MINISTRY OF FINANCE 05/16 Macro Economic Objectives, Policies and Strategies for 2017

On 11th November, 2016, the Minister of Finance through his budget address made the following assurance:

Mr Speaker, since 2015, the Government has piloted Output Based Budgeting in the Ministries of General and Higher Education. This system has recently been evaluated and useful lessons learnt, especially relating to the necessary pre-conditions that need to be in place before a further roll-out is made in 2018. In particular, starting January, 2017, my Ministry will strictly enforce commitment controls so that Ministries, Provinces and Spending Agencies adhere to approved budgets. Only then will this House be able to hold ministries accountable for delivering the outputs that they have budgeted for.

The Committee in the previous Session had urged the Government to roll out the Output Based Budgeting (OBB) system to all Ministries, Provinces and other Spending Agencies (MPSA’s) without further delay.

Executive’s Response The Committee was informed that seven institutions, namely Ministry of General Education, Ministry of Higher Education, Ministry of Energy, Ministry of Lands and

Natural Resources, Ministry of Community Development and Social Services, Ministry of Sports, Youth and Child Development and the Disaster Management Mitigation Unit were on the Output Based Budgeting (OBB) system. Additionally, in April 2019 the Ministry of Finance undertook a second training to prepare twenty three more MPSAs’ for rolling out in the 2020 Budget. However, due to the time constraint and the development of the OBB software which required more time as requested by the developers, it was not feasible to roll out OBB to all MPSAs in the 2020 Budget. In this regard, in the 2020 Budget the Treasury would endeavour to roll-out the OBB to all twenty-three MPSAs that were trained in April, 2019.

Committee’s Observations and Recommendations The Committee, in noting the progress made, urges the Government to ensure that the Output Based Budgeting (OBB) system is rolled out to the twenty-three MPSAs for which training was undertaken in April, 2019 and resolves to await a progress report on the matter.

06/16 Macro Economic Objectives, Policies and Strategies for 2017 On 11th November, 2016, the Minister of Finance through his budget address made the following assurance:

Sir, most of the land in Zambia is not on title as only about 200,000 parcels of land are on title. In order to redress this, the Government will in 2017, commission a pilot programme in Lusaka. This programme will commence the process of titling of all land in the province. This exercise is aimed at the following:

(a) giving citizens titled assets for credit extension; (b) enhancing collection of land rates to finance Government activities; (c) establishing an integrated and sustainable land registry on the status of land and its use; (d) protecting vulnerable groups such as women; and (e) resolving challenges among parties involved in disputes.

The Committee in the previous Session had urged the Government to put in place measures that would address the limitations in the laws and regulations governing land administration to facilitate the speedy issuance of certificates of title.

Executive’s Response The Committee was informed that the observations and recommendations made were noted. However, the Ministry’s position on the matter was that submissions of the agenda Cabinet Memoranda seeking approval in principle had been uploaded on the electronic cabinet platform. The following were the Cabinet Memoranda already in circulation for all line Ministries to comment:

i. Lands (Amendment) Bill 2019; 73

ii. Land Survey (Amendment) Bill 2019; iii. Lands and Deeds Registry (Amendment) Bill 2019; and iv. Lands Tribunal (Amendment) Bill 2019.

The Committee was also informed that the above memoranda once approved, would lead to the amendment of relevant legislation, and this would address the limitations that the Ministry faced in governing land management and administration.

Further, the Committee was informed that once the Land Policy was in place, all lacunas in the implementation of land management and its administration would be addressed. The Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources in this regard held a meeting with the full House of Chiefs on 11th July, 2019, where the Ministry’s report on the recommendations raised by the Chiefs during the indaba of 28th and 29th May, 2019 were presented to the full House of Chiefs. It was the Ministry’s hope that the validation of the National Land Policy would be held by end of 3rd quarter 2019.

Committee’s Observations and Recommendations The Committee, in noting the submission, urges the Government to ensure that the Land Policy is put in place so that all the lacunae in the implementation of land management and its administration are addressed. The Committee resolves to await a progress report on the titling process of all land in Lusaka Province.

44/18 Cage Fish Farming on Lakes Mweru, Kariba, Tanganyika and Kafue River and Nalolo District in Western Province

On 29th September, 2017, the Minister of Finance via his budget address made the following assurance:

Mr Speaker, with regard to fisheries, in 2018, the Government will promote cage fish farming on lakes Mweru, Kariba, Tanganyika and Bangweulu and Kafue River at Kasaka and in the water bodies in the Western Province. This is in an effort to improve productivity and production to attain self-reliance.

The Committee in the previous Session had urged the Government to ensure that the identified beneficiaries were trained and fish cages delivered and installed in the shortest possible time and ensure that fish cages were procured for the remaining areas where the Strategic Environmental Assessment (SEA) was yet to be done.

Executive’s Response In its update to the Committee, the Executive submitted that for the 170 cages and 280 fish pens, the Government had mobilised the necessary resources under the APMEP Project and was in the process of installing the aquaculture facilities at the designated sites. The

Committee was also informed that the installation programme had started with Sinazongwe. Apart from the facilities being installed, the beneficiaries would be provided with boats equipped with outboard engines and life jackets.

Furthermore, the Committee was informed that the Government was still mobilising resources to deliver and install twenty-four cages to Lake Bangweulu, twenty-four to Lake Mweru in Luapula Province, forty-nine in Nalolo and three in Kasaka Fisheries Training Institute. The Committee was also informed that the delivery of the cages would be accompanied with training in fish cage management and supply of accessories such as boats, life jackets and outboard engines, which had also been procured.

The table below shows the type and numbers of the aquaculture facilities that are being installed at each site

1.0 Lake Kariba Sinazongwe District CLUSTER NAME MEMBERSHIP PENS CAGES TOTAL UNITS Siansowa 86 0 60 146 Siatwinda 34 30 0 64 Simuzila 40 0 20 60 Chiyabi 60 40 0 100 DOF-Sinazongwe PPP-DOF 10 6 16 DOF Siatwinda PPP-DOF 6 0 6 DOF Chiyabi PPP-DOF 6 0 6 DISTRICT TOTALS 220 92 86 398 2.0 Chipepo on Lake Kariba Gwembe District CLUSTER NAME MEMBERSHIP Pens Cages TOTAL UNITS Chipepo Harbour 58 33 40 131 Namanzuma 36 0 30 66 Kayuni 38 41 8 87 DOF Fingerling Production PPP-DOF 10 6 16 Chipepo DISTRICT TOTALS 132 84 84 300 3.0 Lake Lusiwasi - Serenje District Nalubi Bemba 16 20 0 36 Makalata 14 14 0 28 Obedi Miselo 10 10 0 20 Nsomalulwa Kafukanya 10 10 0 20 Nansala 22 22 0 44 Dam site-Mailo 14 16 0 30 DOF Fingerling Production PPP-DOF 18 0 18 DISTRICT TOTALS 86 110 0 196 GRAND TOTALS 438 286 170 894 75

The Executive also informed the Committee that the Strategic Environmental Assessment (SEA) was conducted and the project was in the process of procuring the cages, fish feed and other accessories related to cage fish farming. The cages procured under the project would be used for demonstration by the Department of Fisheries in collaboration with the Fisheries Management Committee with the view of promoting sustainable aquaculture on Lake Tanganyika.

Committee’s Observations and Recommendations The Committee, in noting the progress made, urges the Government to ensure that resources are urgently mobilised to facilitate the delivery and installation of twenty-four cages to Lake Bangweulu, twenty-four to Lake Mweru in Luapula Province, forty-nine in Nalolo and three at Kasaka Fisheries Training Institute. The Committee resolves to await a comprehensive progress report on the matter.

45/18 Zambia Aquaculture Enterprise Development Project

On 29th September, 2017, the Minister of Finance via his budget address made the following assurance on the floor of the House:

Mr Speaker, in 2018, the Government will continue with the implementation of the US$50 million Zambia Aquaculture Enterprise Development Project, which is aimed, among other outcomes, at building institutional capacity for fish, fingerling and feed production. Further, it will provide support to the private sector in developing the aquaculture value chain, including in the establishment of fish feed plants, hatcheries, and freezing and processing facilities. Further, the Government is also undertaking a comprehensive livestock and aquaculture census, which will be completed in 2018. The results of the census will guide the formulation of policies to facilitate growth and development.

The Committee in the previous Session had urged the Government to conduct a comprehensive livestock and aquaculture census to guide the formulation of policies to facilitate growth and development as assured on the floor of the House. Further the Committee had urged the Government to ensure that the Zambia Aquaculture Enterprise Development Project was actualised. The Committee had resolved to await a comprehensive progress report on the aquaculture census and the Zambia Aquaculture Enterprise Development Project.

Executive’s Response In its update to the Committee, the Executive submitted that the Ministry of Fisheries and Livestock working in collaboration with the Central Statistics Office conducted the Livestock and Aquaculture Large Sample Census in 2017 and 2018. Further, the Committee was informed that the Zambia Aquaculture Development was launched by the Republican President in November, 2017.

Livestock and Aquaculture Census

The Committee was informed that the Government, through the Ministry of Fisheries and Livestock, working in collaboration with the Central Statistics Office conducted the Livestock and Aquaculture Large Sample census in 2017. The sample for the census was drawn from 2,000 Census Enumeration Areas (CEA) out of 26,000 CEA across the ten provinces. The data collection was conducted in 2017 and the data analysis was finalised in 2019.

Further, the Committee was informed that the Government launched the official results of the 2017 and 2018 Census jointly with Central Statistical Office (CSO) in June, 2019. The Minister of Fisheries and Livestock then announced the results of the census on the floor of the House through a Ministerial Statement on 31st July, 2019. The census results would be used as baseline data for statistics of livestock and aquaculture and would guide the formulation of livestock and aquaculture policies in the country.

Zambia Aquaculture Enterprise Development Project (ZAEDP)

The Committee was informed that the Government, through the Ministry of Fisheries and Livestock, was implementing the ZAEDP country-wide and below was the progress report of implementation for each component of the project as of August, 2019:

1. Support to Aquaculture Entrepreneurs

1.1 Out-grower Development Scheme

Under the Out-grower Development Scheme, the Committee was informed as follows: • the project was at the financial proposal evaluation for the consultancy to come up with the best model that could be applied in the Zambian context. Furthermore, the consultancy would review necessary existing legal framework governing the out-grower schemes in Zambia.

• the project was expected to give tailor made training and attach farmers to commercial entities such that by the end of their training they were fully equipped and able to take up aquaculture as a way of livelihood. At least 1,000 Zambians by the end of the project were expected to be incubated. However, this was not achievable due low budget allocations to the activity. The Committee was also informed that in collaboration with the private and public institutions, the project had managed to incubate 335 of which 76.5 per cent were youths and 40 per cent women. In 2018, there was an achievement rate of 104.5 per cent while in 2019 it was at 42 per cent.

1.2 Enhancement of aquaculture input supply

Under the Enhancement of aquaculture input supply, the Committee was informed as follows:

• a consultant to come up with institutional and infrastructure designs for various infrastructure (hatcheries, mini feed plants, freezing facilities, roads, nurseries and training facilities) in the five aquaculture parks, namely Chipepo, Kasempa, Rufunsa, Mungwi and Samfya was engaged. The other infrastructure would be the aquatic animal health and fish (food) safety laboratory in Kafue. The drawings were expected to be completed in September, 2019; • the contractors took possession of the sites in readiness for the rehabilitation of the four aquaculture research stations, namely: Chipata, Fiyongoli in Mansa, Misamfu in Kasama and the National Aquaculture Research and Development Centre in Kitwe;

• the project procured and distributed 140 motorcycles and twenty-three motor vehicles to support aquaculture extension services. Training of the extension officers on maintenance of the same motorcycles was conducted too; and • the project had already engaged Zambia Bureau of Standards (ZABS) on the certification of the hatcheries and development of fish feed standards. A total of eighty-five Zambians were trained in hatchery and fish and fishery products certification with the facilitation made by ZABS

1.3 Aquaculture Entrepreneurs Empowerment Programme

Under the Aquaculture Entrepreneurs Empowerment Programme, the Committee was informed as follows:

• it was expected that 2,924 Micro, Small and Medium Aquaculture Entrepreneurs would access the loans; • the project was working with Citizens Economic Empowerment Commission (CEEC) in the administration of the US$23.7 million aquaculture risk sharing fund. A total of eighteen projects valued at US$2,282,273.36 had been approved so far. A total of US$2 million dollars was received in December, 2018 for this activity (operations and loan funds). The Management Credit Committee (MCC) and Technical Evaluation Committee (TEC) were evaluating the proposals for the main call received. A total of 23,511 applications were received; and

• at the time of project appraisal, the Ministry of Fisheries and Livestock had identified the Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO) of the United Nations as the institution to assist in training the commercial banks on aquaculture modules and related risk identification in the sector. The implementation agreement 78

between FAO and Ministry of Fisheries and Livestock was cleared by both the Bank and the Ministry of Justice and implementation was going on. The needs assessment and development of the curriculum was still on-going.

2. Support to Growth Enabling Infrastructure

45/18 Zambia Aquaculture Enterprise Development Project

On 29th September, 2017, the Minister of Finance via his budget address made the following assurance on the floor of the House:

Livestock and Aquaculture Census

Zambia Aquaculture Enterprise Development Project (ZAEDP)

1. Support to Aquaculture Entrepreneurs

1.4 Out-grower Development Scheme

1.5 Enhancement of aquaculture input supply

Under the Enhancement of aquaculture input supply, the Committee was informed as follows:

the aquatic animal health and fish (food) safety laboratory in Kafue. The drawings were expected to be completed in September, 2019; • the contractors took possession of the sites in readiness for the rehabilitation of the four aquaculture research stations, namely: Chipata, Fiyongoli in Mansa, Misamfu in Kasama and the National Aquaculture Research and Development Centre in Kitwe; • the project procured and distributed 140 motorcycles and twenty-three motor vehicles to support aquaculture extension services. Training of the extension officers on maintenance of the same motorcycles was conducted too; and • the project had already engaged Zambia Bureau of Standards (ZABS) on the certification of the hatcheries and development of fish feed standards. A total of eighty-five Zambians were trained in hatchery and fish and fishery products certification with the facilitation made by ZABS

The Committee was informed as follows:

2.1 Aquaculture – Parks and processing Zone Development

The project was supposed to conduct the Environmental and Social Impact Assessment (ESIA). The consultants for the same activities were identified and were at the time of the submission collecting data for the assessment. The decision letters were expected in October, 2019.

2.2 Food Safety Programme At the time of project appraisal, the Government, through the Ministry of Fisheries and Livestock, identified the Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO) of the United Nations as the institution to assist in food safety. The implementation agreement between FAO and Ministry of Fisheries and Livestock was cleared by both the Bank and the Ministry of Justice and implementation was under way.

2.3 Fisheries Sector Research and Development

• the project had already evaluated the bids to rehabilitate the aquaculture research stations. • at the time of project appraisal, the Government through the Ministry of Fisheries and Livestock identified World Fish as an institution to assist in the establishment of the Genetic Improvement Programme (GIP) for the Kafue bream. The contract between World Fish and Ministry of Fisheries and Livestock was approved and implementation had commenced. • The Government, through Ministry of Fisheries and Livestock, provided twelve scholarships (eight at MSc and four at PhD levels). The students were at the University of Zambia (UNZA), Lilongwe University of Agriculture and Natural Resources (LUANAR), University of Zimbabwe (UZ), University of Pretoria (UP), and University of Rhodes. 81

2.4 Support to National Aquatic Health System

At the time of project appraisal, the Government, through the Ministry of Fisheries and Livestock, identified the Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO) of the United Nations as the institution to assist in food safety. The implementation agreement between FAO and Ministry of Fisheries and Livestock was cleared by both the Bank and the Ministry of Justice and implementation was under way.

3. Project Management & Institutional Capacity Building

The Committee was informed that the Bill of Quantities (BOQ) for the rehabilitation of the Department of Fisheries offices in Chilanga had been prepared. The request for bids was delayed because the Ministry was thinking of building a new office block. This entailed looking for extra funds as the money available was not adequate.

Committee’s Observations and Recommendations The Committee, in noting the progress made on the livestock and aquaculture census, urges the Government to ensure that the census results are used as baseline data for statistics of livestock and aquaculture and guide the formulation of livestock and aquaculture policies in the country as promised on the floor of the House. Further, the Committee urges the Government to ensure that the Zambia Aquaculture Enterprise Development Project is fully implemented and resolves to await a comprehensive progress report on the matter.

46/18 Recruitment of Extension Service Workers

On 29th September, 2017, the Minister of Finance in his budget address made the following assurance:

Mr Speaker, the Government will enhance extension service provision. In partnership with the private sector, it will work towards improving agricultural market information systems and the development of functional markets, which is essential to sustained higher production, enhanced agricultural value chains, improved farmer incomes and reduced poverty. To support the outlined measures, the Government will recruit 750 extension service workers in the agricultural sector.

The Committee in the last Session had urged the Government to ensure that the remaining eighty-nine extension service workers in the agricultural sector were recruited and resolved to await a progress report on the matter.

Executive’s Response The Executive in its response to the Committee submitted that the Ministry of Agriculture was granted Treasury Authority in 2018 to recruit a total of 700 staff in the Ministry. The Treasury Authority of 700 staff included other officers apart from the extension service 82 officers. Therefore, all the positions provided for in the Treasury Authority were exhausted. There was no position which was not yet filled.

POSITION NUMBER RECRUITED

EXTENSION OFFICERS Technical Officers 11 Agriculture Supervisors 50 Agriculture Assistants 564 Agriculture Research Officers 12 Technical Research Assistants 19 Senior Technical Research Assistant 1 Seeds Officer 1 Seed Inspectors 3 SUB TOTAL 661

AGRICULTURAL MARKETING OFFICERS District Marketing Development Officers 7 SUB TOTAL 7

NATIONAL AGRICULTURE INFORMATION SERVICES District Agriculture Information Officers 4 Producers 3 SUB TOTAL 7

POLICY AND PLANNING Assistant Director 1 Senior Budget Analyst 1 SUB TOTAL 2

NEW POSITIONS CREATED Provincial Agribusiness Development Officer 1 Principal Planner 1 College Principal 1 Training Officers 2 Chief Coordinator ATIs 1 Chief Human Resource Planning Officer 1 Human Resource Planning Officer 1 Administrative Officer 1 Chief Registry Officer 1 SUB TOTAL 10

POSITION NUMBER RECRUITED

Senior Executive Officer 1 General Workers 10 SUB TOTAL 11 TOTAL POSITIONS 698

Committee’s Observations and Recommendations The Committee notes with concern the response by the Executive that there are no other positions yet to be filled as they have exhausted the Treasury Authority as opposed to the assurance made on the floor of the House. In this regard, the Committee strongly urges the Government to ensure that the 750 extension services officers are recruited as was promised on the floor of the House and resolves to await a progress report on the matter.

47/18 Geological Mapping Programme On 29th September, 2017, the Minister of Finance through his budget address made the following assurance:

Mr Speaker, to enhance information provision and planning, the Government will, in 2018, continue with the geological mapping programme for the remaining 40 per cent of the country. In addition, to promote inclusiveness in the sector, the Government will continue to support artisanal and small-scale miners through the Development Mineral Capacity Building Programme. Further, promotion of downstream value chains will be emphasised.

The Committee, in previous Session had resolved to await a progress report on the geological mapping programme.

Executive’s Response The Executive in its update to the Committee submitted that following the completion of geologically mapping of 8,748 Km² (03 quarter degree sheets) across Kasama, Mporokoso, Luwingu and Lunte Districts in Northern Province in 2018, the Government, through the Ministry of Mines and Minerals Development, in collaboration with the China Geological Survey undertook a data verification and validation exercise in July, 2019.

The objective of this undertaking was to check the accuracy of the sampling points and the sample observations which were made during the geological mapping of the three quarter degree sheets mentioned above and part of Muchinga Province namely, the Shiwang’andu – Chinsali – Isoka area. This exercise was completed and the geological as well as geochemical maps were expected to be published and handed over to the Government of the Republic of Zambia in 2020.

Furthermore, the Government, through the Ministry of Mines and Minerals Development, with support from the China Geological Survey in May, 2019 embarked on geochemical 84 studies of some districts on the Copperbelt and Mushindamo District in North-western Province and the exercise was expected to be completed in 2020.

Committee’s Observation and Recommendation The Committee, in noting the progress made, urges the Government to ensure that geological mapping programme is expeditiously completed and ensure continued support to artisanal and small-scale miners through the Development Mineral Capacity Building Programme. The Committee resolves to await a progress report on the matter.

48/18 Energy Regulation and Electricity Bill

On 29th September, 2017, the Minister of Finance in his budget address made the following assurance:

Mr Speaker, stable and reliable energy supply is critical to the welfare of our people and productivity of business. Priority in the electricity sub-sector will, therefore, be on increasing the energy mix through the promotion of off-grid electricity generation and alternative energy sources. In this regard, the Government will continue with on-going reforms in the sector to boost private sector participation. Sir, in 2018, the Government will present the Energy Regulation and Electricity Bills to this august House for enactment. The Energy Regulation Bill will allow for enhanced supervision and regulation of the energy sector while the Electricity Bill will, among other outcomes, allow for participation of other players in the industry. To ensure cost reflectivity in tariffs and encourage investment in the sector, the Government will, in 2018, finalise the cost of service study. The results will provide the basis for future adjustments to electricity tariffs.

The Committee in the previous Session had urged the Government to expeditiously finalise the cost of service study whose results would provide the basis for future adjustments to electricity tariffs and the drafting of the Energy Regulation and Electricity Bill without further delay.

Executive’s Response The Government in its update to the Committee submitted that the Ministry of Energy and the Energy Regulation Board (ERB) in April, 2017, launched the cost of service study. Following the withdrawal by the consultant from Economic Consulting Associates (ECA) who was engaged to undertake the study, the ERB communicated to Africa Development Bank (AfDB) in July, 2018 on the availability of the funds and to formally inquire on the willingness of the Bank to continue funding the study since only 10 per cent of the contract sum was paid to the consultant. The Ministry of Energy through ERB was given a go ahead to shortlist candidates to undertake the cost of service study by the Bank.

The re-procurement of the consultant to undertake the study has reached an advanced stage. The technical and financial evaluations of the bids were successfully completed and

85 the African Development Bank (AfDB) being the financier granted a “no objection” to the evaluation report on 18th July, 2019. The best evaluated bidder was invited for negotiations which were scheduled to take place in August, 2019. The Committee was further informed that after the conclusion of the negotiations, the draft contract would be submitted to African Development Bank (AfDB) for a “no objection” and subsequently to Attorney General Chambers for approval. The Consultant was expected to officially commence the study soon after the signing of the contract which was cleared by Attorney General’s Office. The indicative date for commencement was 1st September, 2019, subject to successful negotiations, no objection of the contract by AfDB and approval of the contract by Attorney General.

Committee’s Observation and Recommendations The Committee notes the progress made and resolves to await a progress report on the matter.

50/18 Dam Construction at Kafue Gorge Lower Project and Maamba Thermal Plant

On 29th September, 2017, the Minister of Finance in his budget address made the following assurance:

Sir, I am glad to inform this House that the dam construction of the 750 MW Kafue Gorge Lower Project is progressing well. Further, the work on the second phase of the 300 MW Maamba Thermal Plant is expected to commence in 2018. In addition, the 250 MW Kalungwishi Hydro Power Project will commence in 2018. The Committee, in the previous Session had resolved to await a comprehensive progress report on the dam construction at Kafue Gorge Lower Project, Maamba Thermal Plant and Kalungwishi Hydro Power Project.

Executive’s Response The Executive in its update to the Committee indicated that the Ministry of Energy nominated ZESCO Limited to develop both the Kafue Gorge Lower Project and the Kalungwishi Power Project.

Kafue Gorge Lower Project

The Kafue Gorge Lower Hydropower Scheme (750 MW) Project commenced in 2016 and was expected to come to completion in 2020. The project was being implemented to ensure security of electricity supply to the nation. The Committee was also informed that the cost of development of the Kafue Gorge Hydroelectric Project and associated transmission lines for the evacuation of the power to the National Grid was USD2.4 billion. Furthermore, the Kafue Gorge Lower Hydropower overall project completion level was estimated at 51 per cent. The main works were in progress and were estimated at 37 per cent completion.

The Committee was further informed that funding for the project was arranged from the Export-Import Bank of China (C-EXIM) and the Industrial and Commercial Bank of China (ICBC) as senior lenders for the hydropower plant and ICBC for the transmission lines. ZESCO and the Government of the Republic of Zambia through ZESCO Limited were providing the counterpart equity funding.

The Committee was also informed that the scope of works included the construction of a dam, a 750MW (5 x 150MW) power plant, a switchyard and transmission lines. The construction of the hydroelectric project commenced in January, 2016, with an initial construction period of 51 months. However, due to delays in achieving financial close, construction progress was affected and an extension of 4 months was granted to the contractor to complete the project. The project was scheduled for completion before the end of 2020. The construction of the hydroelectric plant was advanced and stood at 70 per cent at the end of June, 2019 and works were scheduled for completion in 2020.

Kalungwishi Power Project

The Committee was informed that the Government terminated an Implementation Agreement (IA) signed between the Government and Lunzua Power Authority, a private developer that was procured by the Government in 2007, citing lack of progress in the implementation of the project.

The Committee heard that as at 31 July, 2019, the following activities aimed at proceeding the project to full implementation within the shortest possible time were concluded by ZESCO Limited: Environmental and Social Reconnaissance Survey within the project affected Chiefdoms i.e. Senior Chief Mushota, Chief Munkanta and Sub-Chief Kabanda in Kawambwa district; and Chief Mumpolokoso, Chief Mukupa Katandula and Senior Headman Katuna in Mporokoso district, including consultations with both local district administrations.

Land acquisition consent obtained

The Committee was informed that 30 hectares from the Chishinga Royal Establishment (Senior Chief Mushota, Chief Munkanta and Sub-Chief Kabanda); and 130 hectares from Chief Mumpolokoso for the development of the Kabweulume Falls Hydropower Station, balance of 135 hectares was yet to be secured. The Committee was also informed that 600 hectares from the Chishinga Royal Establishment; and 400 hectares from Chief Mukupa Katandula of Kaputa for Kundabwika. A total of 1000 hectares consent acquired was sufficient for development of the Kundawika Falls Power Station.

The application for the grant of water rights for the purpose of hydroelectric power generation was submitted to the Water Resources Management Authority (WARMA) and the review of the feasibility and the environmental and social impact studies reports (original studies completed by ZESCO in 2001). 87

The following activities were planned for execution up to end of 2019:

Laying of foundation stone

Acquisition of 120 hectares from the National Heritage and Conservation Commission and 15 hectares from the Department of National Parks and Wildlife (through Lusenga Plain National Park); submission of updated draft environmental and social impact assessment (ESIA) to the Zambia Environmental Management Agency (ZEMA); draft the resettlement and compensation plan (RECAP) and update draft ESIA incorporating results of the RECAP as well as any comments from ZEMA; and preparation of pre-qualification tender documents for the development of both Kabweulume and Kundabwika sites.

Maamba Thermal Plant

With regard to the construction of Phase II 300MW Maamba Coal Fired Plant, the Committee was informed that the Government constituted a team to spearhead the review of the feasibility study report and initiate negotiations for an Implementation Plan. However, the developer was yet to submit the feasibility report for Phase II 300MW Maamba Coal Fired Plant.

Committee’s Observations and Recommendations The Committee, in noting the submission, urges the Government to ensure that the works are completed in 2020 as submitted without further delay. The Committee resolves to await a comprehensive report on the dam construction at Kafue Gorge Lower Project, Maamba Thermal Plant and Kalungwishi Hydro Power Project.

51/18 Implement the Renewable Energy Feed-in Tariff Regulatory Framework

On 29th September, 2017, the Minister of Finance through his budget address made the following assurance:

Mr Speaker, in the 2017 Budget Address, the Government indicated its intention to disengage from direct procurement of finished petroleum products by March 2017, to remove the burden of oil procurement from the Treasury, attain efficiencies and promote private sector participation. The measure will take effect in the first quarter of 2018.

The Committee, in the last Session had urged the Government to expedite the procurement process of petroleum suppliers in order for it to disengage from direct procurement. The Committee had resolved to await a progress report on the matter and the presentation of the Petroleum Management Bill to Parliament.

Executive’s Response The Committee was informed that the Government had taken steps to strengthen the legal framework of the petroleum subsector by reviewing the Petroleum Act, Chapter 435 of the Laws of Zambia. In this regard, the Ministry of Energy had drafted a Petroleum Management Bill to repeal and replace the Petroleum Act. The draft document was submitted to Ministry of Justice for drafting and the Ministry of Energy was awaiting the first drafted bill from Ministry of Justice. The Petroleum Management Bill once enacted would provide a clear legal and operational framework on private sector financing of petroleum products.

Committee’s Observations and Recommendations The Committee notes the submission with concern as it has taken the Government over two years to disengage from direct procurement of finished petroleum products, a measure which was to take effect in the first quarter of 2018. The Committee, therefore, urges the Government to ensure that the assurance is actualised without further delay. The Committee resolves to await a progress report on the matter.

52/18 Expansion and Modernisation of the Kenneth Kaunda International Airport (KKIA)

On 29th September, 2017, the Minister of Finance in his budget address to the House made the following assurance:

The expansion and modernisation of the Kenneth Kaunda International Airport (KKIA) was expected to be completed in 2019. Further, the Government has commenced the construction of the Copperbelt International Airport. The Committee in the previous Session had resolved to await a comprehensive progress report on the completion of the two airport construction projects.

Executive’s Response i. Kenneth Kaunda International Airport (KKIA)

As at 31st March, 2019, the overall progress on the expansion and modernisation of the Kenneth Kaunda International Airport (KKIA) was at 84 per cent. Progress on the various components of the project was as follows:

Ultra-modern Terminal Building 91% Hotel 87% Fire Station 98% Rescue Centre 98% Water Tank and Pump House 100% ATC &Control Tower 93% Viaduct 100% VVIP Pavilion 86% 89

Warehousing Facilities (Cargo Terminal) 91% Airport shopping mall 85% New Airport Office Park 85% Terminal Building Apron 95% VVIP Apron 100% New Warehousing Facilities Apron 88% Taxiway Extension 92%

ii. Construction of the Copperbelt International Airport (CIA)

As at 31st March, 2019, the overall progress was at 42.98 per cent. Progress on the various components of the new Copperbelt International Airport (CIA) was as follows:

Parking Apron 100% Runway, Taxiway and earth works 100% Terminal building 35% Airfield drainage 100%. Business Complex 43% ATC building 32% Airfield ground lighting substation 18% Airfield ground lighting 12% Viaduct 52%

Committee’s Observation and Recommendations The Committee, in noting the submission, urges the Government to ensure that works on the two airports are expeditiously completed and resolves to await a progress report on the matter.

54/18 Decentralisation

On 29th September, 2017, the Minister of Finance in his budget address made the following assurance:

Mr Speaker, centralisation of power, particularly in respect of resource control and decision making has hampered the attainment of equitable national development. In order to address that, the Government will, in 2018 ensure that the finances required for the provision of frontline public services and infrastructure projects at provincial and district levels are de- concentrated to the provincial administration

The Committee in the last Session had urged the Government to expedite the harmonisation of the relevant pieces of legislation and policies to support transfer of mandates to the councils as per the provisions of the Constitution of Zambia, as amended by Act No. 2 of 2016, on the application of a devolved system of Government. 90

Executive’s Response In its update to the Committee, the Government submitted that the main focus of the component on fiscal decentralisation was to establish and operationalise a comprehensive local government financing system and enhance the capacity of councils to effectively mobilise and apply the required resources for effective service delivery. As part of the fiscal decentralisation component, the Local Government Equalisation Fund (LGEF), actualised through the Local Government Amendment Act, Number 12 of 2014 and enshrined in Article 163 of the Republican Constitution had been operational since 2015.

The LGEF provided for the appropriation by Parliament of not less than 5 per cent of the total amount projected to be collected as income taxes for the Republic for that financial year to support local governments and service delivery at the local level. In 2018, the Treasury increased the budgetary allocation for the LGEF from K1,078,428,000 to K1,164,567,612 in 2019. This was in addition to the allocation of K249,600,000 for the Constituency Development Fund (CDF) and K23,187,800 for Grants in Lieu of Rates.

Further, in the 2018 Budget, the Government made progress towards deconcentrating financial resources from central government to the districts through provincial administration. During the 2019 budget formulation, however, the arrangement was reviewed following a number of consultations with implementing Ministries, Provinces and other Spending Agencies (MPSAs). Therefore, it was decided that the deconcentration of financial resources to the districts be done through the line ministries rather than provincial administration. This was in order to harmonise the Appropriation Act with the Government Gazette for ease of accountability on both the performance of functions by responsible MPSAs and accounting for funds budgeted for those functions. The deconcentration of resources to districts means that funds were to be disbursed directly from the Treasury to the districts, within the sector Ministries, thereby facilitating timely implementation of Government programmes.

However, the implementation of fiscal decentralisation was still experiencing some challenges which had had an impact on speedy implementation. These challenges related partly to the Constitutional provisions brought about by Act No. 2 of 2016 which prescribed devolution as a form of decentralisation for the country. Accordingly, devolution demanded that selected functions be devolved from central government to the local authorities with matching resources and in line with the principle of “Finance Follows Function”. Whereas, expenditure assignment responsibilities were identified for each level of the government, there had been a delay in the formal transfer of responsibilities to the local authorities. To cure the problem, there was need to expedite review of the Constitution to inform the devolution of functions with matching resources to the local authorities. In particular, Article 147 (2) provided for the schedule of functions between the two tiers of government; and as part of the policy and legislative undertaking, there was need to review Cabinet Circular No. 10 of 2014. Accordingly, compel devolving ministries to finalise development/review of the sector devolution plans to inform the devolution process. 91

The provision of the Gazette Notice which prescribed mandates had also compounded the slow pace of fiscal decentralisation implementation. Sector ministries in accordance with the provisions of the Government Gazette still had authority over mandates identified for devolution and any attempt to support these mandates within the local authorities could be against the provisions of the Gazette Notice. It was therefore, expected that the Gazette Notice be revised to reflect the realignment of functions as fiscal decentralisation was premised on the principal of “Finance Follows Function”. This principal implied that resources could only be allocated to institutions that were mandated to execute the assigned functions of the Government.

Committee’s Observations and Recommendations

The Committee, in noting the submission, urges the Government to expeditiously harmonise the relevant pieces of legislation for fiscal decentralisation to be actualised. The Committee resolves to await a progress report on the matter.

MINISTRY OF LABOUR AND SOCIAL SECURITY

03/18 Payment of Terminal Benefits for Zimbabwe Iron and Steel Company (Zisco) Former Workers

On 17th June, 2011, the Vice-President and Minister of Justice made the following assurance:

Mr Speaker, as the Hon Member has rightly pointed out, that is a labour matter and the Ministry of Labour and Social Security is addressing it. As a Government, we are concerned about situations of that nature because we want our workers to be paid whatever dues are owed to them. Having been brought to the attention of the Ministry of Labour and Social Security, it is a matter that can be looked into.

The Committee in the last Session had strongly urged the Government to expeditiously address the matter and provide a comprehensive progress report.

Executive’s Response The Government in its update to the Committee reiterated that the assurance given at the time was premised on the fact that being a labour matter, the Ministry of Labour and Social Security was looking into the plight of former workers of the Zimbabwe Iron and Steel Company (ZISCO). The Committee was also informed that the Government was doing everything possible to bring the matter to its logical conclusion, bearing in mind that it had indeed taken long for the former ZISCO workers to be paid their dues.

The Committee was further informed that the Ministry of Labour and Social Security had been engaging relevant authorities on the matter. However, these efforts had not yielded desirable results as expected. Suffice to mention that the company in question was solely 92 owned by the Zimbabwean Government before it was dissolved. In this regard, it had been very difficult for the Ministry to make appropriate interventions on issues bordering on foreign jurisdiction. Therefore, the Ministry sought the intervention of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs to facilitate the follow-up actions through diplomatic channels. To this end, discussions on the matter between the Ministry of Labour and Social Security and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs had continued. In this regard, a comprehensive progress report on the matter would be availed to the Committee as soon as discussions were concluded and feedback given from the Zimbabwean Government.

Committee’s Observation and Recommendations The Committee, in noting the submission, urges the Government to ensure that the plight of the former ZISCO workers is expeditiously addressed considering that it has taken a long time it has taken for the retirees to be paid their terminal benefits. The Committee resolves to await a progress report on the matter.

MINISTRY OF DEFENCE

30/13 – Resuscitation of Mulungushi Textiles

On 7th December, 2012, His Honour the Vice President undertook the following:

Mr Speaker, the project to get Mulungushi Textiles working again is underway. There are negotiations between the Ministry of Defence, which happens to have a chunk but, does not own the majority, it owns a significant chunk of about 30 percent or 34 per cent. We are expecting it to be open, again, as a textile factory, and not as a dairy or piggery, within the next year.

The Committee in the previous Session had urged the Government to ensure that the textile was re-opened and operationalised and resolved to await a comprehensive progress report on the matter.

Executive’s Response The Government in its update to the Committee submitted that the Ministry of Defence had identified a strategic investor by the name of Qindao Ruichang Industrial Technology Company Limited on behalf of the Government of the People’s Republic of China. On 12th July, 2019, a team of Technical Experts from China accompanied by officials from the Ministry of Defence travelled to Kabwe to assess the state of existing equipment at Mulungushi Textiles. The report on the findings and recommendations had not yet been submitted to the Ministry of Defence by the Chinese Experts.

Committee’s Observations and Recommendations The Committee, in noting the submission, is concerned that the resuscitation of the Mulungushi Textiles has take too long and urges the Government to come up with alternatives measures of revamping the textile, as delay in doing so may result in 93 vandalism of the remaining machinery at the factory. The Committee resolves to await a progress report on the matter.

MINISTRY OF LOCAL GOVERNMENT

16/18 Public Libraries in Ndola Central

On 20th February, 2018, the Minister of Local Government made the following assurance:

Mr Speaker, I wish to inform the House that Ndola City Council has plans to construct one library in each of the following constituencies: Ndola Central Kanini, Chifubu Misundu, and Bwana Mkubwa Ndeke. Mr Speaker, according to the Council’s strategic plan, three libraries will be constructed in three years with effect from 2018.

The Committee in the previous Session had resolved to await a comprehensive progress report on the construction of public libraries in Ndola Central.

Executive’s Response The Executive submitted as follows with regard to the status of public libraries in Ndola:

1. Ndola Central (Kanini)

The Committee was informed that the project had not commenced because it was dependent on capital grant from the Local Government Equalisation Funds, which funds were not enough to cater for the project. This was as a result of the capital component also being utilised on other projects such as the Fire Station in Bwana Mkubwa Constituency. However, the project was still on the Council’s plans.

2. Chifubu (Misundu)

The Committee was informed that there was a library in Chifubu which was constructed sometime back. However, Ndola City Council entered into partnership for a sales agreement with Convex Equity Limited an agent of RMB West Point who were supposed to construct a shopping mall and a new library side by side. Construction had not commenced in the second quarter due to procedural issues. The site for construction of the same was handed over to the contractor.

3. Kabushi

The Committee heard that a library in Kabushi Constituency was rehabilitated with the help of Ndola Rotary Club and handed over to Ndola City Council on the 19th June, 2019. It had both an adult and children section from age’s three to twelve.

Committee’s Observations and Recommendations The Committee expresses concern that the library projects has not taken effect almost two years from the time the assurance was made on the floor of the House and strongly urges the Government to ensure that the projects are actulised. The Committee resolves to await a progress report on the construction of libraries in Ndola Central - Kanini, Chifubu - Misundu, and Bwana Mkubwa - Ndeke.

40/18 Tarring of Township Roads in Mkushi District

On 29th June, 2018, the Minister of Local Government made the following assurance: Sir, the cause of the delay in completing the works on the tarring of township roads in Mkushi District has been the delay in making advance payments. However, this has now been settled. The contractor has already started mobilising equipment on site and works are expected to commence next month in July and are expected to be completed in 2019. The contract duration is fourteen calendar months.

The Committee in the previous Session had urged the Government to ensure that works were completed as was assured on the floor of the House.

Executive’s Response The Executive in its submission to the Committee submitted that the contractor had not made any significant progress from the last report made citing difficulties in sourcing the crusher run (stone aggregate) used for the base course in the road works.

Committee’s Observations and Recommendations The Committee is saddened to note that no significant progress has been made from the last report made to the Committee. The Committee, therefore strongly urges the Government to ensure that assurances made on the floor of the House are implemented as promised and resolves to await a progress report on the matter.

43/14 – Construction of infrastructure in Sikongo District

On Wednesday, 10th December, 2014, the Deputy Minister of Local Government and Housing made the following assurance:

Mr Speaker, as a Ministry, we have budgeted for the construction of the offices through the Local Government Equalisation Fund for 2015. We expect the construction works to start as soon as the money is released to that district.

The Committee in the last Session had urged the Government to seriously consider giving the mandate of supervising projects to officers in the District rather than those from

95 headquarters. The Committee resolved to await a comprehensive progress report on the construction of infrastructure in Sikongo

Executive’s Response The Government in its update to the Committee submitted that it was constructing various infrastructure in Sikongo District. These included district administration block, civic centre and two high cost houses, post office, twenty low cost houses and ten medium cost houses. The Project Manager for the said projects was the Provincial Infrastructure Officer of Western Province and not the Director of Public Infrastructure in Lusaka, which was in line with Cabinet Office Circular Minute of 2014, dated 13th October, 2014.

The current status of the projects was as follows.

District Administration block

The Committee was informed that the construction of the District Administration block in Sikongo District was being done by MUCO Trading Ltd at a contract sum of K6,886,367.05. The overall work done was at 85 per cent with the administration block having been roofed, plastered, and had window and door frames fitted. The contractor was remaining with electrical and water reticulation fittings, finishes and external works.

The Committee was further informed that the delay in completion of the project was due to the delays in honouring Interim Payment Certificates owed to the contractor. The contractor had however, since been paid all his outstanding payments for work done so far and was expected to return to site to resume work, but had not yet done so. The contractor was warned about abandoning the site and that failure to mobilise would result in the commencement of a process to termination of the contract. Post Office

The Committee was informed that construction of Sikongo Post Office was being done by Kutambuka Enterprise at a contract sum of K2,604,484.20. The Post Office was at wall plate level but works had stalled due to failure to honour the outstanding Interim Payment Certificates amounting to K373,540.95 in time. The amount would be settled in line with Government’s directive to prioritise payment to projects that had reached 80 per cent complete and above.

Construction of Twenty Low-cost Houses

The Committee was informed that construction of twenty low cost houses in Sikongo District was being done by Kutambuka Enterprise Limited at a contract sum of K9,503,553.60. Of the twenty houses, five were roofed, seven were at gable level, two at ring beam level and six were at slab level. The delay in completing the project was due to the delay in honouring the Interim Payment Certificates owed to the contractor in time. The contractor had since been paid and was expected to return to site but had not. The 96 contractor had since been warned about abandoning the site and the next step was to process the termination of the contract.

Construction of Ten Medium-cost Houses

The Committee was informed that construction of ten medium cost houses in Sikongo was being done by Lilamono Shop and Hardware at a contract sum of K9,263,237.60. All the ten houses on this project had been roofed, plastered, door frames fitted, electrical wiring done and the contractor was about to start fitting window frames, water reticulation fittings and finishes. The delay to complete the project was due to the delay to honour outstanding interim payment certificates in time. The contractor had made progress on the project which was expected to be completed before the end of the fourth quarter of 2019 subject to availability of funds.

Construction of Civic Centre and Two High Cost Houses

Construction of the civic centre and two high cost houses in Sikongo District was being done by MUCO Trading Ltd at a contract sum of K12,407,555.91. MUCO Trading Ltd took over the project after the initial contract awarded to Sokotela Investment was terminated. Works on this project were at slab level.

Further, the Committee was informed that the Project Manager for the said projects was the Provincial Infrastructure Officer of Western Province and not the Director of Public Infrastructure in Lusaka, which was in line with Cabinet Office Circular Minute of 2014 dated 13th October, 2014.

Committee’s Observations and Recommendations The Committee, in noting the submission, urges the Government to ensure that all the projects which are 80 per cent and above in Sikongo are funded and immediate action taken against contractors who are not willing to return on site even after being paid. The Committee resolves to await a progress report on the matter.

44/14 – National Fire Service Training School

On Wednesday, 10th December, 2014, the Deputy Minister of Local Government and Housing made the following assurance:

Mr Speaker, I wish to inform this august House that in an effort to improve the operations and training at the National Fire Service Training School, the Ministry of Local Government and Housing has acquired land in Kafulamase in Kabwe in order to construct a modern training school that will have modern facilities. The Procurement and Supply Unit in the Ministry is currently studying the terms of reference for consultancy services for the development of construction designs for the modern training school.

The Committee in the last Session had urged the Government to ensure that the title deed was obtained and the construction of the National Fire Service School undertaken.

Executive’s Response The Committee was informed that the Site designs and the offer letter by Ministry of Lands for Plot No. F/387a/A315 in Kafulamase, land for the National Fire Service Training School was wrongly issued in the name of Kabwe Municipal Council instead of National Fire Service Training School. However, Ministry of Lands was addressing the issue to amend the records and the title would be issued in the name of the School. However, due to austerity measures the Government was implementing, the construction of the National Fire Service Training School was suspended until funds were made available.

Committee’s Observations and Recommendations The Committee, in noting the submission, urges the Government to ensure that the title deed is amended accordingly and construction of the training centre prioritised considering the time it has taken for the Government to actualise the project. The Committee resolves to await a progress report on the matter.

26/14 – Rehabilitation of Kabwe Venus Theatre

On Wednesday, 2nd October, 2014 the Deputy Minister of Tourism and Arts made the following assurance: Mr Speaker, all works are being done and will be completed in January 2015.

The Committee in the previous Session had urged the Government to see to it that the theatre was urgently demolished and reconstructed without any further delay as it was at the verge of collapsing.

Executive’s Response The Committee was informed that the Executive had engaged the local authority to act on the recommendations by the Committee as follows:

1. Demolition and Reconstruction of Venus Theatre

No demolitions or rehabilitations were done to the building as the works were not provided for in the estimate of income and expenditure for 2019.

2. Eviction of Artists who were operating at the Theatre Hall to ensure their safety 3. a) the local authority had evicted all the artists and suspended activities at the centre in anticipation of rehabilitation works; and b) the local authority was providing security for the hall in its current state.

Committee’s Observations and Recommendation The Committee in noting the submission resolves to await a progress report on the matter.

22/16 - Upgrading of Township Roads in Western Province

On 18th February, 2016, the Deputy Minister of Local Government and Housing made the following assurance:

“Mr Speaker, ....the following are the roads earmarked for upgrading and the estimated completion dates:

Name Status Estimated Completion Date Mongu Urban Works in progress 30th April, 2016 Roads Kaoma Urban Roads Contract signed and site handed over to contractor on 31st December, 15th September 2015. The contractor is mobilising 2016 Senanga Urban Contract signed and the site 31st December, 2016 Roads handed over to contractor on 4th September, 2015. The contractor is mobilising. Sesheke Urban Roads Project is at procurement stage To be advised Roads Kalabo Urban Roads Contract is awaiting signing To be advised

The Committee in the previous Session had urged the Government to ensure that funds were disbursed to commence the road works.

Executive’s Response The following table gives an update on the status of township roads rehabilitation in Western Province:

Name Status Estimated Completion Date Kaoma Site handed over to contractor on 15th To Be Advised based Urban Roads September 2015. Mobilisation done and on funds being made preliminary work camp site. However, works available had not progressed, contractor citing financial constraints

Current Status: Financial status has not changed,equipment and minimal staff on site. However, no works were ongoing due to financial constraints. 99

Senanga Site handed over to contractor on 4th September To Be Advised based Urban Roads 2015. Mobilisation done some preliminary on funds being made works at camp site. However, works had not available progressed contractor citing financial constraints.

Current Status: Financial status had not changed, equipment and minimal staff on site. However, no works were ongoing due to financial constraints.

Sesheke Contractor had mobilized and commenced To Be Advised based Urban Roads works on setting out, clearing and grubbing. on funds being made Works had stalled due to non-payments available

Current Status: Equipment and minimal administrative staff on site however, no works were on going as contract still faced with financial constraints

The Committee was informed that the above response was as was provided in January, 2019, as no funding was released to date for these projects. The contractors (in Kalabo and Senanga) had however, expressed desire to have these contracts terminated and only be reinstated once the Government had sourced financing. This was in line with the austerity measures to reduce on standing time being charged for equipment already mobilised on site.

Committee’s Observations and Recommendations The Committee expresses concern that nothing has been done with regard to the upgrading of township roads in Western Province and urges the Government to ensure that assurances made on the floor of the House are implemented within the promised timeframe. Further, the Committee urges the Government to secure funds for the project and also emphasises on the need for the Government to desist from making assurances when funds are not certain. The Committee resolves to await a progress report on the matter.

05/14 – Solwezi Township Roads

On 25th February, 2014, the Deputy Minister of Local Government and Housing made the following assurance:

Mr Speaker, the Government has got money to work on those roads. The Committee in the previous Session had urged the Government to prioritise projects which have been outstanding for some years.

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Executive’s Response The Executive in its update to the Committee submitted that the Government was still faced with financial constraints and therefore, the Solwezi Township Roads project was affected in terms of its execution programme. In this regard, adhering to planned programmes was made difficult due to insufficient funds allocated to the road projects. However, within the constrained financing, the contractor was able to fully mobilise with equipment, materials and personnel in 2015, but had not been able to progress with works due to non-payment on their claims.

It was envisaged that once the financial position improves, the contractor would resume works with normal programming. Completion date would be advised once funding was allocated to the project.

Committee’s Observations and Recommendations The Committee, in noting the submission, expresses concern at the failure by the Government to implement the Solwezi township road projects for over five years and urges the Government to seriously prioritise implementation of assurances made on the floor of the House. The Committee further urges the Government to ensure that where contracts have been signed and the contractor mobilises, funds are secured to avoid additional costs due to standing time charges and increase in the cost of materials. The Committee resolves to await a progress report on the matter.

09/14 – Modern Market for Solwezi

On 26th February, 2014, the Deputy Minister of Local Government and Housing made the following assurance on the floor of the House: Sir, the Ministry intends to construct a multi-storey market in Solwezi District.

The Committee in the previous Session had urged the Government to come up with concrete plans and timelines to put up modern markets in Solwezi using the Contractor Finance Initiative (CFI) model.

Executive’s Response The Executive in its update to the Committee submitted that it had repeatedly reiterated the need and necessity of such a project in Zambia’s fastest growing town. It should be noted that construction of modern markets required availability of funds, which was not the case now.

Despite this, the Ministry had made progress on plans to use the CFI model. To this end, a contract was signed with Chinese firm-Sinomine Resource exploration cooperation, to construct Solwezi market and many other markets across the country. The hitch was that financing terms being proposed by contractors were not favorable for the Government, otherwise negotiations were still underway.

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Committee’s Observations and Recommendations The Committee, in noting the submission, urges the Government to expeditiously conclude the funding negotiations and resolves to await a progress report on the matter.

13/14 – Construction of Chipili District Council Houses

On 6th March, 2014, the Deputy Minister of Local Government and Housing assured the House as follows:

Mr Speaker, the construction of staff houses for Chipili District Council is earmarked for completion in September, 2014.

The Committee in the previous Session had urged the Government to ensure that funding to the contractor was made available to enable them complete the remaining works. The Committee had resolved to await a progress report on the matter.

Executive’s Response The Government in its update to the Committee submitted that it was still committed to completing the remaining works on the construction of Chipili District houses project. However, the Government had not yet provided funding to the contractor due to financial constraints.

Committee’s Observations and Recommendations The Committee, in noting the submission, expresses concern at the slow pace at which the project is being undertaken and urges the Government to ensure that funds are secured to complete the remaining works. The Committee resolves to await a progress report on the matter.

09/17 Feeder Road Rehabilitation in Lumezi Constituency

On 22nd February, 2017, the Minister of Local Government made the following assurance: Mr Speaker, the Ministry will be able to commence the rehabilitation works for feeder roads in Lumezi Parliamentary Constituency once funds are secured. The roads in question are among priority roads that have been earmarked to be worked on in the 2018 Annual Work Plan and budget. Sir, the time frame for the completion will only be determined after the completion of the feasibility studies and signing of the contract. The total cost is currently unknown and will only be known when the feasibility studies are conducted.

The Committee in the previous Session had urged the Government to ensure consistent release of funds for projects on which assurances had been made on the floor of the House and that such projects should be prioritised when it comes to funding.

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Executive’s Response The Committee was informed that as was reported in January, 2019, the works that were carried out by Zambia National Service on the road from Lundazi to Kazembe, Chitungulu and Mwanya in Lumezi were approximately 26km. The works were being financed through the National Road Fund Agency. Unfortunately, there had been no more works on site as no funds had been released by the National Road Fund Agency since then.

Committee’s Observations and Recommendations The Committee, in noting the submission, expresses concern that assurances made on the floor of the House are not being prioritised for funding by the Government. The Committee therefore, urges the Government to ensure that funds are secured to complete the remaining works. The Committee resolves to await a progress report on the matter.

28/17 Modern Bus Station and Three Market Shelters Construction in Katete

On 15th June, 2017, the Minister of Local Government made the following assurance: Mr Speaker, the Ministry of Local Government, with the help of the German Development Coorporation, plans to construct a modern bus station and three market shelters in Katete District, under the Strengthening of Local Governance System in Zambia Project. Sir, the construction of a modern bus station and three market shelters will commence by January, 2018. The estimated cost of the project is K15 million.

The Committee in the previous Session had urged the Government to expeditiously finalise the agreement with the German Development Corporation. The Committee had resolved to await a progress report on the matter.

Executive’s Response The Committee was informed that not much progress had been recorded. The feasibility study and site selections were still in progress and almost concluded. The success of the project was highly dependent on the German Development Corporation. The Ministry was readily furnishing all the needed requirements being requested for the project to commence on schedule.

Committee’s Observations and Recommendations The Committee in noting the submission is concerned at the slow pace at which the requirements needed for the project to commence are being undertaken and urges the Government to push for the expeditious actualisation of the project. The Committee resolves to await a progress report on the matter.

20/16 Modern Market and Bus Station for Chama District

On 15th December, 2016, the Minister of Local Government made the following assurance:

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Mr Speaker, the Ministry is planning to construct a modern market and bus station in Chama District under the 2017 Annual Work Plan. This, however, is subject to availability of funds. The delay in the commencement of the project was due to the non-availability of funds in 2015.

The Committee in the previous Session had urged the Government to ensure that assurances made on the floor of the House were prioritised and implemented as promised. The Committee had resolved to await a progress report on the matter.

Executive’s Response The Committee was informed that there had been some challenges in adhering to planned programmes due to insufficient funds allocated to the markets and bus stations projects. However, the Government made progress on plans to use the Contractor Financing Initiative model. In this regard, a contract was signed with a Chinese firm, Sinomine Resource Exploration Cooperation, to construct markets across the country, Chama inclusive. The hitch was that financing terms proposed by contractors were not favourable for the Government, otherwise negotiations were still underway.

Committee’s Observations and Recommendations The Committee, in noting the submission, urges the Government to take concrete steps to ensure that assurances are prioritised when it comes to funding. The Committee resolves to await a progress report on the matter.

16/17 Construction of Livingstone Town Centre Market

On 1st March, 2017, the Minister of Local Government made the following assurance on:

Mr Speaker, the Ministry intends to complete the construction of Livingstone Town Centre Market by December, 2017, subject to availability of funds.

The Committee in the previous Session had urged the Government to ensure that the project was completed within eight months. Further, the Committee had urged the Government to consider contracting the Zambia National Service in construction projects and not merely using them to rectify the shortcomings of other contractors. The Committee had also observed that ZNS was much cheaper than other private contractors, hence the need for the Government to use them in major contracts.

Executive’s Response The Committee was informed that a total contract amount signed with Zambia National Service (ZNS) to complete the works was K35,195,703.01. An advance amount of K3,849,642.03 was paid for the bus station and K4,271,991.64 was paid for the market. The Zambia National Service had since mobilised on site and works started after an inception meeting held on 10th July, 2019.

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Committee’s Observations and Recommendations The Committee, in noting the progress made, urges the Government to be consistent in the disbursement of funds to enable Zambia National Service complete the project within the scheduled timeframe. The Committee resolves to await a progress report on the matter.

SECRETARY TO THE TREASURY

The Committee in the previous Session in noting the submission had urged the Government to come up with deliberate measures of ensuring that assurances made on the floor of the House were given priority when in terms of funding. The Committee had further emphasised the need for the Government to urgently consider implementing or completing projects which had been outstanding for over three years. The Committee had also urged the Government to ensure that the Planning and Budgeting Bill was urgently brought to Parliament as it had taken too long from the time the assurance was made.

Executive’s Response The Committee was informed that the Government took note of its concerns and would endeavour to give priority to funding assurances made on the floor of the House. Priority would also be given to projects that were outstanding and were at 80 per cent and above in terms of completion.

The Committee was also informed that the Planning and Budgeting Bill was tabled in Parliament.

Committee’s Observations and recommendations The Committee notes the promise by the Treasury that assurances made on the floor of the House will be prioritised starting with those that are 80 per cent and above complete and have been outstanding for over three years. The Committee resolves to await a progress report on the funding of assurances.

MINISTRY OF HIGHER EDUCATION

34/13 – Construction of Chalimbana, Mukuba and Kwame Nkrumah Universities

On Friday, 22nd February, 2013, the Vice-President assured the House as follows:

Mr Speaker, according to the latest information I have, and it is very hot-off-the-press, I think, this morning, in fact, the progress in the construction of Chalimbana, Mukuba and Nkrumah Universities is good. They will open as universities this year, 2013.

The Committee in the previous Session had urged Government to ensure that funds were released in a consistent manner on the remaining works.

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Executive’s Response In its update to the Committee, the Executive submitted as follows:

Kwame Nkurumah University

The Committee was informed that phase one of Kwame Nkrumah University had been completed and the facility was commissioned to operate as University by the Republican President on 3rd April, 2019. However, phase two of the project was at 30 per cent completion. The delay in completing the project was due to financial constraints. The Committee was further informed that it would be updated on the progress when funds were made available. Phase three projects would only commence once phase two was completed.

Mukuba University

The Committee was informed that that phase one of Mukuba University was completed and the facility was commissioned to operate as University by the Republican President on 6th April, 2019. However, phase two of the project was 30 per cent complete. The delay in completing the project was due to financial constraints.

Chalimbana University

The Committee was informed that phase one of the project stood at 30 per cent complete. The delay in completing phase one of the project was due to financial constraints. The Committee would be updated on the progress once funds were made available.

Committee’s Observations and Recommendations The Committee, in noting the progress made, urges the Government to ensure that funds are made available for the remaining works at the three universities to be completed. The Committee resolves to await a progress report on the matter.

40/14 – Construction of King Lewanika University

On 2nd December, 2014, the Deputy Minister of Education, Science, Vocational Training and Early Education made the following assurance:

Mr Speaker, the construction of King Lewanika University in the Western Province will commence in January, 2015. The contractor, by the name of Datong Construction Limited, has been identified. The project is estimated to cost K160 million. The project will be constructed within a period of three years.

The Committee in the previous Session had urged the Government to ensure that assurances were prioritised and projects were only initiated when resources to complete

106 the construction were available. The committee had resolved to await a progress report on the matter.

Executive’s Response The Committee was informed that the Government regretted that the construction of King Lewanika University stood at 10 per cent complete and the slow pace of construction was attributed to inconsistent release of funds by the Treasury, resulting in the project stalling.

Committee’s Observations and Recommendations The Committee expresses concern that little has been done to actualise this important project and urges the Government to source the necessary funds to ensure that the project is actualised. The Committee further reiterates the need by the Government to only initiate projects once the requisite funding is secured. The Committee resolves to await a progress report on the matter.

14/15 – Mumbwa Trades Training Institute

On Friday, 6th March, 2015, the Minister of Education, Science, Vocational Training and Early Education made the following assurance:

Mr Speaker, I wish to inform the House that the construction of Mumbwa Trades Training Institute will commence in 2015.

The Committee in the previous Session had urged the Government to ensure that adequate staff were recruited and deployed in all districts to supervise construction works in their jurisdictions. Further, the Committee had urged the Government to urgently take measures to eradicate the termites that had invaded the plastered and roofed housing units at the Institute. The Committee had also emphasised on the need for the officers in charge of supervising Government projects to discharge their duties effectively.

Executive’s Response The Executive in its update to the Committee submitted that it had increased monitoring activities in collaboration with the Ministry of General Education Infrastructure Unit and the Ministry of Housing and Infrastructure Development to ensure that all projects were adequately supervised. The Committee was also informed that the current establishment under the Ministry of Higher Education did not provide for technical staff. The Executive further submitted that in collaboration with the contractor, efforts to eradicate termites were undertaken as per directive. Further, efforts to effectively discharge duties by technical officers involved in the project were made and this had resulted in the project recording considerable progress.

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Committee’s Observations and Recommendations The Committee, in noting the submission, urges the Government to ensure that funds are secured and disbursed consistently for the project to be completed without further delay. The Committee resolves to await a progress report on the Mumbwa Trades Training Institute.

11/17 Construction of FTJ Chiluba University

On 24th February, 2017, the Minister of Higher Education made the following assurance:

Madam Speaker, my Ministry is currently discussing the commencement of the project with the contractor. We want to agree on certain mechanisms before the commencement, which is envisaged to be in the second quarter of 2017.

The Committee in the previous Session had noted the progress made and urged the Government to ensure that works were executed within the stated time frame. The Committee had resolved to await a progress report on the matter.

Executive’s Response The Executive in its update to the Committee indicated that the project stood at 5 per cent complete for the Mansa Campus while the Kasama Campus was at 2 per cent. The slow pace of construction works were attributed to erratic release of funds by the Treasury. The construction works were however, on-going though at a slow pace. The Committee was further informed that it would be updated on the progress of the project once the flow of funds was improved.

Committee’s Observations and Recommendations The Committee expresses serious concern at the slow pace at which construction works are being undertaken and urges the Government to be consistent in the release of funds to ensure progress in the construction works is made. The Committee resolves to await a progress report on the construction of FTJ University.

MINISTRY OF GENERAL EDUCATION

05/15 - Construction of Teachers’ Houses in Chasefu Constituency On Thursday, 29th October, 2015, the Deputy Minister of General Education made the following assurance:

Mr Speaker, twenty-eight staff houses are currently being constructed in Chasefu Constituency at Chasefu Boarding Secondary School, which is under construction. Sir, the estimated cost of building the houses is K8. 4 million.

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Mr Speaker, as already stated in (a), Chasefu Boarding Secondary School will benefit from the construction of the staff houses.

The Committee in the previous Session was concerned with the time it had taken for the project to be completed and urged the Government to secure funds to complete the project.

Executive’s Response The Government in its update to the Committee submitted that the status quo had remained the same due to limited fiscal space.

Committee’s Observations and Recommendations The Committee in noting the submission expresses concern that the status quo at the school has remained the same and that it has taken inordinately long for the Government to actualise the project. The Committee urges the Government to take steps to actualise this project and resolves to await a progress report on the matter.

07/16 - Chasefu Boarding Secondary School

On 12th April, 2016, the Deputy Minister of General Education made the following assurance:

Mr Speaker, the construction of Chasefu Boarding Secondary School in Chasefu Parliamentary Constituency is expected to be completed in the last quarter of 2016. The delay in completing the project is due to insufficient budgetary allocation to on-going project implementation. Mr Speaker, the school is expected to open in January, 2017, after completion of the works in the fourth quarter of 2016.

The Committee in the previous Session had strongly urged the Government to ensure that funds were secured and the project was completed without further delay.

Executive’s Response The Executive in its update to the Committee indicated that the status quo had remained the same due to limited fiscal space.

Committee’s Observations and Recommendations The Committee, in noting the submission, bemoans the slow pace at which construction works are going and strongly urges the Government to secure funds for the project to be actualised considering the time it has taken for the project to be implemented. The Committee resolves to await a progress report on the matter.

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12/16 - Manyama Basic School Desks

On 14th April, 2016, the Deputy Minister of General Education made the following assurance:

Mr Speaker, there were 140 double-seater desks at Manyama Basic School in Solwezi West Parliamentary Constituency, as at February, 2016. The shortfall at the school is 160 double-seater desks. Sir, the shortfall of desks is expected to be covered in the second quarter of 2016.

The Committee had in the last Session urged the Government to ensure that funds were secured for the procurement of the shortfall of desks to Manyama Primary School. The Committee had resolved to await a progress report on the matter.

Executive’s Response In its update to the Committee, the Government submitted that the Ministry was lobbying for an increase in funding so as to undertake such projects as the procurement of desks for Manyama Primary School and other schools countrywide which were in a similar situation.

Committee’s Observations and Recommendations The Committee expresses concern over the long time it has taken the Government to procure the shortfall of 160 double-seater desks at Manyama Primary School and strongly urges the Government to ensure that funds are secured to actualise the project. The Committee resolves to await a progress report on the matter.

21/16 - Classroom Blocks for Schools in Sikongo Constituency

On 17th February, 2016, the Deputy Minister of General Education made the following assurance:

Mr Speaker, the mentioned schools are at varying levels of construction. The biggest problem has been limited resources. In terms of completing the projects, the officers in Sikongo are trying to secure funding from the Constituency Development Fund (CDF). The Ministry of General Education is also committed to including some of the schools in its 2016 Infrastructure Development Plan (IDP). Sir, the construction of the 1x2 classroom block at Simbuu Primary School is expected to commence in 2016.

The Committee in the last Session had urged the Government to expedite the completion of the outstanding works.

Executive’s Response The Government in its update to the Committee submitted that the status quo had remained the same due to limited fiscal space.

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Committee’s Observations and Recommendations The Committee, in noting the submission, expresses disappointment at the continued delay in the commencement of construction works of a 1 x 2 Classroom block at Simbuu Primary School and strongly urges the Government to ensure that this assurance is actualised as promised. The Committee resolves to await a progress report on the matter.

31/16 - Ncheka Primary School in Malambo

On 23rd February, 2016, the Deputy Minister of General Education made the following assurance:

Mr Speaker, the blown off roof at Ncheka Primary School will be rehabilitated this year because it has been provided for in the 2016 Annual Work Plan. The works will be undertaken as soon as the funds are released.

The Committee in the previous Session had urged the Government to urgently secure the funds for rehabilitation before the existing infrastructure deteriorated due to exposure to the elements.

Executive’s Response The Executive in its update to the Committee submitted that the Ministry was lobbying for more funding to enable it undertake such rehabilitation works.

Committee’s Observations and Recommendations The Committee finds the response by the Executive casual and unacceptable, given the inordinate time it has taken for it to rehabilitate the blown off roof at Ncheka Primary School and urges the Government to take this assurance seriously and rehabilitate the roof without further delay. The Committee resolves to await a progress report on the matter.

13/15 - Laboratories at Secondary Schools in Chasefu

On 23rd September, 2015, the Deputy Minister of Education, Science, Vocational Training and Early Education made the following assurance:

Mr Speaker, the Ministry, through the National Science Centre, has approved the supply of mobile science laboratories to Lusuntha and Emusa Day Secondary Schools while funds are being sourced for the construction of permanent laboratories. Hoya Day Secondary School might be considered in 2016.

The Committee in the previous Session had urged the Government to ensure that permanent laboratories were constructed and operationalised.

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Executive’s Response The Government in its update to the Committee submitted that the status quo had remained the same as the Ministry was not funded due to limited fiscal space.

Committee’s Observations and Recommendations The Committee, in noting the submission, expresses concern that the status quo has remained the same and that assurances are not being actualised as promised. The Committee strongly urges the Government to ensure that funds are secured to actualise the project. The Committee resolves to await a progress report on the matter.

30/14 – Construction of Nakonde Secondary School

On 7th October, 2014, the Deputy Minister of Education, Science, Vocational Training and Early Education made the following assurance:

Mr Speaker, the construction of Nakonde Secondary School is planned to be completed in 2015.

The Committee in the previous Session had urged the Government to secure funds for the construction of the school without further delay.

Executive’s Response The Executive in its update to the Committee submitted that the status quo at Nakonde Secondary School had remained the same due to limited fiscal space.

Committee’s Observations and Recommendations The Committee notes the submission with concern considering the inordinate time it has taken the Government to actualise the assurance and urges the Government to ensure that funds are sourced to actualise the project. The Committee resolves to await a progress report on the matter.

03/13 – Ntatumbila and Shemu Basic Schools

On Thursday, 21st February 2013, the Deputy Minister of Education, Science, Vocational Training and Early Education made the following assurance:

The Provincial Education Officer (PEO) for Muchinga Province has been tasked to identify schools in the Province which could be transformed into secondary schools. This process of identification and transformation has already started in Muchinga Province and the Honourable Member of Parliament will be informed in due course.

The Committee in the previous Session had urged the Government to ensure that funds were secured for the construction of additional infrastructure at the upgraded Ntatumbila Basic School. 112

Executive’s Response The Executive in its update to the Committee submitted that the status quo had remained the same due to limited fiscal space.

Committee’s Observations and Recommendations The Committee in noting the submission urges the Government to seriously ensure that priority is given to such assurances and resolves to await a progress report on the matter.

39/17 Mateyo Kakumbi Primary School in Chitambo

On 16th June, 2017, the Minister of General Education made an assurance:

Mr Speaker, the repair of the blown-off roof at Mateyo Kakumbi Primary School is expected to commence in the third quarter of this year. Sir, the delay in repairing the roof was basically due to a lack of funds. Mr Speaker, the estimated cost of repairing the roof is K72,717.

The Committee in the previous Session had strongly urged the Government to treat this case as a matter of urgency and construct a 1 x 2 classroom block without further delay as the existing one was on the verge of collapsing.

Executive’s Response The Executive in its update to the Committee submitted that the status quo at Mateyo Kakumbi Primary School in Chitambo had remained the same due to limited fiscal space.

Committee’s Observations and Recommendations The Committee is concerned over the failure by the Government to construct a 1 x 2 classroom block at Mateyo Kakumbi School where a 1 x 2 classroom block whose roof was blown-off is on the verge of collapsing. The Committee urges the Government to ensure that funds are secured for the construction of a new class-room block so as not to continuously disadvantage the pupils at the school. The Committee resolves to await a progress report on the matter.

21 /17 Mufumbwe Day Secondary School Laboratory

On 3rd March, 2017, the Minister of General Education made the following assurance: Mr Speaker, I wish to inform the House that the Government has plans to refurbish the laboratory at Mufumbwe Day Secondary School in Mufumbwe District to replace the one which was gutted by fire three years ago. Sir, plans to carry out the refurbishment are expected to be implemented in 2017.

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The Committee in the previous Session had urged the Government to ensure that funds to refurbish the laboratory at Mufumbwe Day Secondary School were urgently secured as it was a prerequisite for secondary school learners.

Executive’s Response The Executive in its update to the Committee submitted that the status quo at Mufumbwe Day Secondary School had remained the same due to limited fiscal space.

Committee’s Observations and Recommendations The Committee, in noting the submission, expresses serious concern that the Government has failed to refurbish the Mufumbwe Day Secondary School laboratory which was gutted over six years ago and urges the Government to ensure that the laboratory is refurbished without further delay. The Committee resolves to await a progress report on the matter.

26/17 Pondo Basic School

On 14th March, 2017, the Minister of General Education made the following assurance:

Mr Speaker, the Ministry is aware that a 1 x 3 classroom block was blown off. The repair works have been costed and the project is among those that will be implemented in the 2017 Budget. Mr Speaker, the construction of additional classrooms will start in 2017, once funds are released as the school is appearing in the budget. Since it has already been budgeted for, what remains is the release of the funds.

The Committee in the previous Session had urged the Government to take measures to avoid further dilapidation of the school infrastructure and had resolved to await a progress report on the matter.

Executive’s Response The Executive in its update to the Committee submitted that the status quo at Pondo Basic School had remained the same due to limited fiscal space.

Committee’s Observations and Recommendations The Committee expresses concern over the failure by the Executive to repair the blown off roof at Pondo Basic School and urges the Government to urgently secure funds for the repairs to avoid further dilapidation of the school infrastructure and additional cost due to time lapse. The Committee resolves to await a progress report on the matter.

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28/17 Deployment of Teachers to Nangoma Constituency

On 16th March, 2017, the Minister of General Education made the following assurance: Mr Speaker, the Government deployed thirty-eight teachers to Nangoma Parliamentary Constituency and hopes to send twenty more during the 2017 recruitment exercise.

The Committee in the previous Session had urged the Treasury to urgently release funds for the recruitment process.

Executive’s Response

The Executive in its update to the Committee submitted that during the 2018 teacher recruitment, six teachers were deployed to Nangoma Parliamentary Constituency. Further, the Ministry was awaiting Treasury Authority for the 2019 teacher recruitment for the deployment of additional teachers to Nangoma Parliamentary Constituency and other parts of the country as well.

Committee’s Observations and Recommendations The Committee, in noting the submission, urges the Government to ensure that funds for the recruitment process are consistently released and resolves to await a progress report on the matter.

17/17 Electrification of Chama South Schools

On 2nd March, 2017, the Minister of General Education made the following assurance: Mr Speaker, Chikwa and Chitheba Day Secondary Schools will be electrified or provided with generators after they are fully constructed. In the meantime, there are plans to provide them with solar panels with the capacity to meet their electricity demands. Mr Speaker, the schools will be electrified by the end of 2017.

The Committee in the last Session had urged the Government to expedite the process of installing solar panels at the said schools so as to meet their electricity demand.

Executive’s Response The Government in its update to the Committee submitted that the status quo at the two schools had remained the same due to limited fiscal space.

Committee’s Observations and Recommendations The Committee, in noting the submission, expresses concern that it has taken the Government over three years to install solar panels at Chikwa and Chiteba Day Secondary Schools to meet their electricity demands. The Committee urges the Government to ensure that the two schools are provided with either solar panels or generators without further delay. The Committee resolves to await a comprehensive progress report on the

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MINISTRY OF WATER DEVELOPMENT, SANITATION AND ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION

24/18 –Boreholes in Mushindamo District

On 27th February, 2018, the Minister of Water Development, Sanitation and Environmental Protection made the following assurance:

Mr Speaker, the Government has planned to sink a total of ten boreholes in Mushindamo District in 2018.

The Committee in the previous Session had resolved to await a progress report on the sinking of the ten boreholes as was assured on the floor of the House.

Executive’s Response The Committee was informed that the Ministry of Water Development, Sanitation and Environmental Protection had planned to sink and equip ten boreholes in Mushindamo District. However, due to budgetary limitations, the Ministry was not able to drill the boreholes. The Ministry was hopeful that the funds would be released from the Treasury to drill the said boreholes during the 2019 fiscal year.

Committee’s Observation and Recommendations The Committee, in noting the submission, expresses serious concern over the failure by the Government to actualise the project as was promised on the floor of the House. The Committee urges the Government to ensure that the project is actualised without further delay and resolves to await a progress report on the matter.

28/16 - Rural Water and Sanitation Project in Mitete District

On 19th February, 2016, the Deputy Minister of Local Government and Housing made the following assurance:

Mr Speaker, the Rural Water and Sanitation Project funded by the African Development Bank (ADB) has already commenced in Mitete District. Preparations for actual water supply and sanitation infrastructure development will start this year.

The Committee in the previous Session had urged the Government to ensure that the project was actualised without further delay as nothing had been done in the past two years.

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Executive’s Response In its update to the Committee, the Executive submitted that it had engaged a contractor to drill eighty-five boreholes in Mitete District. The contractor was on site and so far, ten boreholes had been drilled and works were expected to be completed as funds were made available.

Committee’s Observation and Recommendations The Committee, in noting the progress made, urges the Government to ensure that assurances are always completed within the scheduled timeframe as per contract and resolves to await a progress report on the matter.

29/16 - Sinking of Boreholes in Lumezi

On 21st April, 2016, the Deputy Minister of Local Government and Housing made the following assurance:

Sir, the number of boreholes earmarked for sinking in Lundazi District in 2016 is seventy- one, out of which seventeen will be sunk in Lumezi Constituency.

The Committee in the last Session noted the submission with concern considering that it had taken the Government over two years to drill and equip the remaining four boreholes in Lumezi Constituency and had resolved to await a progress report on the matter.

Executive’s Response The Committee was informed that the remaining four boreholes would be drilled once the funds were released from the Treasury.

Committee’s Observations and Recommendations The Committee, in noting the submission, expresses concern that the Government has done nothing during the year under review with regard to the drilling and equipping of the remaining four boreholes in Lumezi Constituency. The Committee urges the Government to consider funding assurances that have been outstanding for over three years and resolves to await a progress report on the matter.

12/17 Serenje Water Reticulation System

On 24th February, 2017, the Minister of Water Development, Sanitation and Environmental Protection made the following assurance:

Madam Speaker, the Government has plans to improve the water reticulation system in Serenje Township. Madam, the Government is currently implementing a water supply project in the New Serenje area of Serenje town and progress is currently at 42 per cent. So far, 30 km of pipeline has been laid and a storage tank erected. The project is expected to be completed by the third quarter of 2017. In addition, the Government has mobilised US$1.6 117

million to fund feasibility studies that facilitate the preparation of investment proposals for the implementation of water supply and sanitation projects in selected districts that will include Serenje, under the Lukanga, North-Western and Southern water utility companies. The Committee in the previous Session had urged the Government to ensure that the remaining amount was paid for the project to be completed in the shortest possible time.

Executive’s Response The Committee was informed that the Treasury had up to date not released the funds for the execution of the remaining works on the Serenje Water Supply Project. The works still awaited the release of funds from the Treasury to continue.

Committee’s Observations and Recommendations The Committee, in noting the submission, urges the Government to ensure that the Treasury is consistent with the disbursement of funds, especially where works have commenced, to avoid vandalism of the works already undertaken and standing charges as well as to ensure the intended beneficiaries begin to enjoy the intended service. The Committee resolves to await a progress report on the matter.

33/17 Water Reticulation System for Chiengi District

On 23rd March, 2017, the Minister of Water Development, Sanitation and Environmental Protection made the following assurance:

“Mr Speaker, yes, the Government has plans to construct a water reticulation system in Chiengi District. The implementation of the project has been planned for in the 2017 Annual Work Plan (AWP), once funds are released from the Treasury.”

The Committee in the previous Session had urged the Government to ensure that the advance payment request of ZMW 22,416,910.33 was paid expeditiously so that the works may commence.

Executive’s Response The Committee was informed that the Treasury had up to date not released the funds for advance payment for the contractor to mobilise and commence the works. The contractor would mobilise and commence works once funds from the Treasury were released.

Committee’s Observations and Recommendations The Committee, in noting the submission, urges the Government to ensure that assurances made on the floor of the House are financially backed so as to avoid making assurances that take inordinately long to implement. The Committee resolves to await a progress report on the matter.

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03/16 – Rehabilitation of Mambuluwe Dam

On 10th February, 2016, the Deputy Minister of Energy and Water Development made the following assurance:

Mr Speaker, the rehabilitation of Mambuluwe Dam, also called Nangoma Dam, will commence in 2016 after the procurement process, which will start in the second quarter of 2016, is finalised.

The Committee in the previous Session had urged the Government to ensure that funds were released without any further delay to commence the rehabilitation of the dam and resolved to await a progress report on the matter.

Executive’s Response The Committee was informed that the rehabilitation works on Mambulwe Dam started in June, 2019 and were expected to finish in December, 2019, but works could not be completed due to financial constraints.

Committee’s Observations and Recommendations The Committee in noting the progress made resolves to await a progress report on the matter.

17/16 Dams and Boreholes in Nyimba District

On 30th November, 2016, the Minister of Water Development, Sanitation and Environmental Protection made the following assurance:

Mr Speaker, ...... the Government has budgeted for ten boreholes in 2016 in Nyimba under the National Rural Water Supply and Sanitation Programme. Out of the ten potential dam sites, the one in Kacholola is undergoing feasibility studies and is likely to be constructed in 2017.

The Committee in the previous Session urged the Government to ensure that funds were secured for the construction of the Kacholola dam.

Executive’s Response The Committee was informed that the construction of Kacholola Dam in Nyimba Constituency was awaiting funding from the Treasury as the feasibility studies and designs were concluded.

Committee’s Observations and Recommendations The Committee in noting the submission urges the Government to ensure that funds are released for the construction of the dam without further delay and resolves to await a progress report.

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14/13 – Construction of Dams in Mapatizya Constituency

On Friday, 22nd February, 2013, the Deputy Minister of Mines, Energy and Water Development made the following assurance:

Mr Speaker, the Government through the Department of Water Affairs plans to rehabilitate the mentioned dams in 2013. This will be done after the rainy season.

The Committee in the previous Session had urged the Government to ensure that the Tambana proposed dam site court case was urgently disposed of and funds secured to commence the construction of the three dams without further delay.

Executive’s Response In its update to the Committee, the Executive submitted as follows:

(i) Tambana proposed Dam Site The matter was in court and had not been disposed of yet.

(ii) Siambelele and Chuundwe Proposed Dam Site The feasibility studies had not been undertaken by the Ministry due to lack of funding by the Treasury.

Committee’s Observations and Recommendations The Committee, in noting the submission, is disappointed that the status quo at the three proposed dam sites has remained the same and reiteratesthe need for the Government to ensure that the Tambana proposed dam site court case is urgently disposed of and funds secured to commence the construction of the three dams without further delay. The Committee resolves to await a comprehensive progress report on the matter.

05/16 – Improvement of Water Reticulation in Samfya

On 10th February, 2016, the Minister of Local Government and Housing made the following assurance:

Mr Speaker, the Government has plans to improve the water supply and sanitation situation in Samfya District. Sir, the Government has already engaged the African Development Bank (AfDB) to finance the rehabilitation and construction of water and sanitation infrastructure in Samfya District. The Bank has just undertaken its preparatory mission to Samfya and, once it approves the project proposal, the implementation of the project will commence in the third quarter of this year.

The Committee in the previous Session had urged the Government to ensure that the process of finalising the design review consultancy was completed urgently.

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Executive’s Response The Executive in its update to the Committee submitted that it had finalised the process of engaging a design review consultant and was in the process of signing contracts with successful firms to pave way for review of the designs before engaging the contractor.

Committee’s Observations and Recommendations The Committee in noting the submission urges the Government to expedite the contract signing process so as to pave way for the review of the designs before engaging the contractor. The Committee resolves to await a progress report on the matter.

MINISTRY OF CHIEFS AND TRADITIONAL AFFAIRS

38/14 – 1958 Chiefdom Boundaries Re-Designation

On Tuesday, 2nd December, 2014, the Deputy Minister of Chiefs and Traditional Affairs made the following assurance:

Mr Speaker, the Ministry of Chiefs and Traditional Affairs is currently consulting with the Ministry of Lands, Natural Resources and Environmental Protection through the Surveyor- General’s Office on the issuance of a new chiefdom boundary map.

The Committee in the previous Session had urged the Government to ensure that accurate and more detailed 1958 Chiefdom Boundary and Topographic Maps were urgently printed.

Executive’s Response The Executive in its update to the Committee submitted that the 1958 Chiefdom and Topographic Maps were being printed out. So far, the Copperbelt and Lusaka Provinces had been printed and submitted to the Ministry of Chiefs and Traditional Affairs.

Committee’s Observations and Recommendations The Committee, in noting the progress made, urges the Government to ensure that the remaining maps are printed and submitted to the Ministry of Chiefs and Traditional Affairs. The Committee resolves to await a progress report on the matter.

24/13 – Construction of Palaces for Traditional Leaders in Serenje

On 1st March, 2013, the Minister of Chiefs and Traditional Affairs made the following undertaking:

Mr Speaker, the construction of palaces will commence this year, 2013, after the completion of preparatory work. As we all know in this august House, there is a provision in the 2013 121

budget for the construction and rehabilitation of palaces in amounts totaling to K11,215,500. The Ministry of Transport, Works, Supply and Communication has submitted the plans for palaces which will be discussed by the House of Chiefs as it convenes on 18thMarch, 2013.

Let me also take this opportunity, Mr Speaker, to say to this august House that our assessment around the country depicts that we do not have many palaces as per the English dictionary. What we have are just little huts in some places or just what would be a house. So, I think we have a lot of work to do to construct these palaces. We have decided, as a Ministry, to do a lot of preparatory work of assessment, proper drawings, and to listen to histories of particular chiefdoms so that the palaces depict this history. We also want to add value to the palaces so that, like everywhere else in the world, they are part of our tourist attractions.

The Chiefs in Serenje District were as follows: 1. Senior Chief Muchinda; 2. Chief Kabamba; 3. Chief Chisomo; 4. Chief Chitambo; 5. Chief Mailo; 6. Chieftainess Serenje; 7. Chief Muchinka; and 8. Chief Chibale.”

The Committee in the previous Session had urged the Government to ensure that the remaining balance was consistently disbursed and the project completed within the project schedule.

Executive’s Response The Committee was informed that Chieftainess Serenje’s palace was roofed and window fittings done. However, out of the balance of K612, 221.62, the Ministry received an Interim Payment Certificate (IPC) of K372,199.89 on 18th December, 2018 which had not yet been paid to the contractor. The palace was at 80 percent complete.

Committee’s Observations and Recommendations The Committee, in noting the progress made regarding the construction of Chieftainess Serenje’s palace, urges the Government to ensure that the outstanding payment certificate of K372,199.89 is paid without further delay and funds to construct the remaining palaces urgently secured. The Committee resolves to await a progress report on the matter.

16/16 Chieftainess Kanyembo’s Palace

On 23rd November, 2016, the Minister of Chiefs and Traditional Affairs made the following assurance:

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Mr Speaker, the construction of Chieftainess Kanyembo’s Palace, which encompasses the main house and queen’s quarters and is currently standing at wall plate level, is earmarked for completion in 2017.

The Committee in the previous Session had urged the Government to ensure that funds were consistently disbursed, so that the project could be completed within the shortest possible time. The Committee had resolved to await a progress report on the matter.

Executive’s Response The Committee was informed that Chieftainess Kanyembo’s palace was roofed, window frames fitted, and the Queen’s quarter also constructed up to roof level. Further, the office block had been constructed up to wall plate level. In addition, the septic tank and soak away excavations were done, the tank stand fabricated, and the wall fence constructed to fourth course on one wing.

However, out of the balance of K1,353,054.75 owed to the contractor, an interim payment certificate (IPC) of K478, 128.70 was on 20th July, 2018 received which was not yet paid to the contractor. The palace was above 80 per cent complete.

Committee’s Observations and Recommendations The Committee, in noting the submission, expresses concern that an interim payment certificate of K478,128.70 issued over a year ago has not been honoured and strongly urges the Government to ensure that the outstanding IPC is settled and funds secured to complete the remaining works. Considering that the palace is already above 80 per cent complete, the Committee strongly implores the Government to facilitate the completion of the palace and resolves to await a progress report on the matter.

05/17 Rehabilitation and Electrification of Palaces for Chiefs Shibwalya Kapila and Mukupa Kaoma

On 21st February, 2017, the Minister of Chiefs and Traditional Affairs made the following assurance:

Mr Speaker, the Ministry of Chiefs and Traditional Affairs wrote to the Provincial Administration Office requesting it to assess the state of dilapidation of the palaces and, thereafter, provide the Ministry with a bill of quantities (BoQ). We have since received the BOQs from the Northern Province Administration and have permitted the Provincial Administration to commence the tendering process. So, the works will be executed.

The Committee in the previous Session had urged the Government to ensure that the remaining works were completed within the shortest possible time.

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Executive’s Response The Committee was informed that there was no progress on Chief Mukupa Kaoma’s palace due to the fact that out of the balance of K782,497.11 owed to the contractor, an interim payment certificate of K176,480.19 was on 13th August, 2018 received, which had not been paid to the contractor. To this effect, no further work was done.

Committee’s Observations and Recommendations The Committee, in noting the submission, urges the Government to honour the outstanding certificate of payment and secure funds to complete the construction of Chief Mukupa’s Palace. The Committee resolves to await a progress report on the matter.

MINISTRY OF TOURISM AND ARTS

08/12 – Restocking of Game Management Areas (GMAs)

On Friday, 16th March, 2013, the Minister of Tourism and Arts made the following assurance: Mr Speaker, all GMAs whose stocks are depleted are being considered for restocking.” Lusaka National Park (2010 to 2013); Mosi-Oa-Tunya National Park (2011 to 2013); and Nsumbu National Park.

The Committee in the previous Session had urged the Government to ensure that more wildlife officers were deployed at the park so that other species could be introduced to the park. The Committee had resolved to await a progress report on the translocation of additional species and deployment of more wildlife officers to help provide protection to the animals.

Executive’s Response In its update to the Committee, the Executive submitted as follows:

Translocation of Additional Species

The Committee was informed that the Department of National Parks and Wildlife intended to budget for recruitment and training of 300 wildlife police officers in the year 2020 as part of the ongoing exercise to help improve staffing levels. Further, the Department continued to absorb trained village scouts into the system whenever a vacancy occurred.

From the year 2013 to date, the Department had undertaken the following restocking exercises where by 1,535 animals of different species were translocated for purposes of restocking different protected areas as outlined in the table below:

Destination Animal Species Number Source of Wildlife Sioma Ngwezi NP Impala 200 Mosi-Oa-Tunya NP 124

Impala 200 Lower Zambezi NP Buffalo 35 Mosi-Oa- Tunya NP Wildebeest 105 Namibia Zebra 100 Namibia Wildebeest 48 Lusaka NP Sable 48 Lusaka NP Bangweulu Wetlands Hartebeest 47 Kafue NP Impala 105 Kafue NP Puku 100 Kasanka NP Mosi-Oa-Tunya NP Zebra 7 Sun Hotel Livingstone Mundawanga Lion 3 Livingstone Impala 30 Lower Zambezi NP Giraffe 2 Mosi-Oa- Tunya NP North Luangwa NP Black Rhino 2 Zimbabwe Kafue NP Elephants 8 Lilayi Elephant nursery Lion 1 Livingstone Monkeys 100 State House Ngonye falls Lechwe 9 Kafue NP waterbuck 8 Kafue NP Zebra 12 Kafue NP Simalaha Buffalo 200 Namibia Zebra 50 Namibia Giraffe 20 Namibia Wildebeests 100 Namibia Total 1535

Committee’s Observations and Recommendations The Committee, in noting the progress made, urges the Government to ensure that Nsumbu National Park and Lusaka National Parks are restocked as assured on the floor of the House and resolves to await a progress report on the matter.

MINISTRY OF AGRICULTURE

37/17 Irrigation Schemes in Feira Parliamentary Constituency

On 13th June, 2017, the Minister of Agriculture made the following assurance:

“Mr Speaker, the Government has identified two sites with 800 hectares and 1,000 hectares of land in Yapite Agricultural Camp for possible establishment of irrigation schemes in addition to the existing schemes at Chafukula in Kaunga A and Tiyeseko in Kaunga B camps which are used for banana production.

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In addition, the Government in collaboration with Child Fund, is establishing an irrigation scheme at Kavalamanja Agricultural Camp. Three villages, namely Kavalamanja, Tinkolo and Kandembwele will benefit from the scheme. Farmers under this scheme will be growing vegetables.

The Committee in the previous Session had strongly urged the Government to finance the irrigation schemes in Yapite, Kaunga A and B in the subsequent budget.

Executive’s Response

The Committee was informed that efforts were being made to ensure that irrigation schemes in Feira Constituency were fully developed. The Ministry had a budget line of K2,000,000 under the Department of Agriculture, irrigation development component for the development of irrigation schemes.

Further, the Ministry in partnership with the United Nations Development Programmes (UNDP) under a project Strengthening Climate Resilience of Agriculture Livelihoods in Agro Ecological Region I and II (SCALA) had a budget line to develop three irrigation schemes in Feira Constituency.

These were:

i. Chafukula site in Kaunga A camp. The proposed site is 2 hectares, to be equipped with a solar pump, a raised 10,000 litres tank and a drip kit covering 5 hectares area; ii. Tiyeseko site in Kaunga B camp. The proposed site in 20 hectares to be equipped with 4 solar pumps, 4 raised 10,000 litres tanks and drippers covering 20 hectares; iii. Yapite site in yapite camp. The site has 10 hectares and will be equipped with 2 solar powered pumps, two raised 10,000 litres tanks and drippers covering 10 hectares of land.

Committee’s Observations and Recommendations The Committee in noting the submission urges the Government to ensure that the irrigation schemes in Feira Constituency benefit from the K2,000,000.00 irrigation development component for the development of irrigation schemes under the Department of Agriculture, so as to fully develop them. The Committee resolves to await a progress report on the matter.

MINISTRY OF ENERGY

8/17 Connection of Luangwa District to the National Grid

On 22nd February 2017, the Minister of Energy made the following assurance: 126

Mr Speaker, the delay in the project delivery on the Luangwa Electrification Project has been caused by poor performance by the Engineering, Procurement and Construction (EPC) contractor – PME Power Solutions Ltd of India. The project was financed through a loan facility from the Exim Bank of India. Therefore, the contractor was from India. The current overall project implementation status stands at 51 per cent….

The contract with PME Power Solutions Ltd of India was terminated and the Zambia Electricity Supply Corporation (ZESCO) has since awarded contracts to two contractors from India. One of them will be in charge of sub-station works and the other transmission line works. The site works are expected to resume in the second quarter of 2017. Sir, it is expected that the entire project to connect Luangwa District to the national grid shall be completed in the second quarter of 2018.

The Committee in the previous Session had urged the Government to expedite the financial closure by issuing the sovereign guarantee through the Ministry of Finance.

Executive’s Response The Committee was informed that the Ministry of Finance issued a sovereign guarantee and financial close on Lot 1 (Line component) which was attained in February, 2019. Fund disbursements commenced and invoices in excess of US$10million were paid. Lot 1 line contractor re-mobilised and anticipated completing works by first quarter of 2020.

Lot 2 (Substation component) only attained financial close in June, 2019, and that was when the project became effective. The contractor was actively working to complete the remaining scope on the substations. A Project kick off meeting for discussions of fresh schedules to accelerate the works was held on 5th July, 2019. ZESCO was still awaiting the fresh schedules from the contractor.

Committee’s Observations and Recommendations The Committee, in noting the progress made, urges the Government to ensure that funds are consistently disbursed so as to fully implement the projects within the scheduled timeframe. The Committee resolves to await a progress report on the matter.

38/17 Rural Electrification Programme in Kasama

On Friday 16th June, 2017, the Minister of Energy made the following assurance:

Mr Speaker, based on the Rural Electrification Master Plan, the following areas that fall under Kasama Parliamentary Constituency were identified for electrification: Chisanga; Kachuma; Chilubula; Chishimba; Munkonge; and Lukulu North.

Based on the priority list of the Rural Electrification Master Plan, Chisanga, Lwabwe and Musa were scheduled to be electrified in 2009. However, Musa and Lwabwe were electrified in 2013, while Chisanga will be electrified when funds are made available. Further, the

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remaining areas are scheduled to be electrified in 2018. However, this is dependent on the availability of funds.

The Committee in the previous Session had urged the Government to ensure that Munkonge area was also electrified as planned.

Executive’s Response The Committee was informed that the Rural Electrification Authority (REA) signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with ZESCO for the electrification of Chisanga, Chiba, Chishipula, Chilubula, Chishimba and Luyeye areas in Kasama Central Constituency. However, the project could not commence as the scope had changed drastically considering that most of the initial beneficiaries were already connected. This was observed during the verification exercise that was conducted by ZESCO. Therefore, plans were underway to re-survey the area in order to identify new beneficiaries during the fourth quarter of 2019. Thus, the project was being considered for implementation in 2020.

On the other hand, the electrification of Kachuma was being implemented by ZESCO under the Increased Access to Electricity Services (IAES) Project supported by JICA. Lukulu North was electrified in 2013 under the IAES Project.

With regard to the electrification of Munkonge area, the Committee was informed that REA conducted a feasibility study in 2018 to ascertain the scope and cost of electrifying the area. Based on the study, the cost of electrifying Munkonge area was estimated to be K7million. However, the electrification of the area would depend on the availability of funds.

Committee’s Observations and Recommendations The Committee, in noting the submission, urges the Government to ensure that funds are urgently sourced for the electrification of of Chisanga, Chiba, Chishipula, Chilubula, Chishimba and Luyeye areas in Kasama Central Constituency and Mukonge area in order to avoid additional costs arising from change in scope of works due to time lapse and standing charges. The Committee resolves to await a progress report on the matter.

4/17 Electrification of Chiefdoms in Mpika District

On 21st February, 2017, the Minister of Energy made the following assurance:

Mr Speaker, the electrification of Chiundaponde, Kabinga and Kopa are earmarked for 2019 in the Rural Electrification Master Plan (REMP).

Mr Speaker, the Rural Electrification Authority (REA) is currently implementing a project to connect public institutions in Mpepo Chiefdom at a cost of K1 million. The beneficiaries

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of that project are Chief Mpepo’s palace, the market area, Mpepo Primary School and Mpepo Secondary School. The project is scheduled to be completed in 2017.

The Committee in the last Session had urged the Government to ensure that the Chiundaponde and Kabinga Chiefdoms were also electrified as planned.

Executive’s Response The Committee was informed that REA scoped and established the cost of electrifying public facilities that were left out during the electrification of the palaces and the palm plantation plant in Kopa Chiefdom. From the study, it was established that the electrification of the surrounding areas of Kopa Chiefdom would cost K4,000,000. However, due to limited funding, electrification of these facilities was being considered for the year 2020.

For Kabinga and Chiundaponde Chiefdoms and surrounding areas, the Committee was informed that REA conducted a feasibility study in 2018 to establish the scope and cost of electrifying the chiefdoms. From the study, it was established that the electrification of the two chiefdoms would cost K26,000,000. However, due to limited funds, electrification of these areas was being considered for year 2020.

Committee’s Observations and Recommendations The Committee, in noting the submission, urges the Government to ensure that funds are sourced for the remaining facilities in Kopa Chiefdom, Kabinga and Chiundaponde Chiefdoms and surrounding areas are electrified by 2020. The Committee resolves to await a progress report on the matter.

MINISTRY OF LIVESTOCK AND FISHERIES

01/16 Construction of Dip Tanks in Nangoma

On 24th February, 2016, the Minister of Fisheries and Livestock made the following assurance: Madam, there was no construction of dip tanks in Nangoma Constituency in 2011, as the construction of dip tanks countrywide started in 2012. The construction of the four dip tanks in the constituency started in 2014. Site identification and the development of the technical specifications was done between January and September, 2014, while the contract was approved in September, 2014. Thereafter, the site was handed over to the contractor, DDYPE Drilling and Construction Company, on 16th October, 2014. To date, 85 per cent of the works on the four dip tanks have been completed and the Ministry has engaged the Ministry of Finance for the release of the funds needed to complete the remaining works in 2017.

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The Committee in the last Session had urged the Government to ensure that the outstanding certificates were paid so that the remaining works could commence.

Executive’s Response The Committee was informed that Parliament, during its Third Session of the Twelfth National Assembly approved a K15,000,000 supplementary budget for the rehabilitation and construction of dip tanks country-wide. When released by the Treasury, the Ministry of Fisheries and Livestock intended to use the funds to pay the outstanding arrears for the completed works.

Committee’s Observations and Recommendations The Committee notes the submission and resolves to await a progress report on the construction of dip tanks in Nangoma.

OFFICE OF THE VICE PRESIDENT

02/16 Establishment of the Disaster Relief Trust Fund

On Friday 30th June, 2016, the Vice President gave the following assurance:

Mr Speaker, a great deal of progress has been noted in the establishment of the Disaster Relief Trust Fund. As the Act stipulates, the disaster fund will not only receive money from the Treasury, but also from other sources. It takes a while to study the various modes of accessing money for the Trust Fund outside Government funds. Even within Government funding, we have to look at sources to tap into to realise some funds for this Trust Fund. Something is being done, and I believe that we are almost reaching the end of our consultancy work so that the Trust Fund will be able to be part of the 2018 national budget. It is very important for DMMU to have its own fund so that it can respond to emergencies as they occur.

The Committee in the previous Session had urged the Government to ensure that the validation process was expedited so that the set-up of the Trust Fund would be concluded as indicated.

Executive’s Response The Committee was informed that on 29th July, 2019, the National Disaster Management Council of Ministers approved that the Disaster Relief Trust Fund be operationalised.

The Minister in the Office of the Vice President was urged to work in collaboration with the Minister of Finance to constitute the Board of Trustees for the Trust Fund by the Council of Ministers.

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Committee’s Observations and Recommendations The Committee, in noting the progress made, urges the Government to ensure that the Office of the Vice President and the Minister of Finance expedite the process of constituting the Board of Trustees for the Trust Fund. The Committee resolves to await a progress report on the establishment of the Disaster Relief Trust Fund.

MINISTRY OF INFORMATION AND BROADCASTING

18/15 - Radio Reception in Rural Areas

On 23rd September, 2015, the Deputy Minister of Information and Broadcasting made the following assurance:

Mr Speaker, the Government, through the Zambia National Broadcasting Corporation (ZNBC), has embarked on a nationwide programme to enhance radio reception in the rural parts of the country under the Rural FM Project.

The Rural FM Project involves installation of transmitters at the following twenty-four sites: Chienge; Kazembe; Kaputa; Samfya; Chilubi Island; Mporokoso; Isoka; Shiwang’andu; Luwingu; Senga Hill; Mwandi; Shang’ombo; Lukulu; Mulobezi; Maamba; Sinazeze; Sinazongwe; Chirundu; Kalomo; Mufumbwe; Chavuma; Luangwa; Nyimba; and Mumbwa.

The Committee in the previous Session had urged the Government to source the necessary funds to complete the remaining sites without any further delay.

Executive’s Response The Executive in its update to the Committee submitted that it had so far started installing Rural FM transmitters by utilising TV levy. The Committee was further informed that the Independent Broadcasting Authority (IBA) Act provided for the utilisation of TV levy for public broadcasting purposes. It was anticipated that rural communities would benefit from TV Levy through the construction of the FM transmitters.

Committee’s Observations and Recommendations The Committee, in noting the submission, resolves to await a comprehensive progress report on the installation of transmitters in the twenty four sites.

MINISTRY OF HOME AFFAIRS

12/15 - Construction of North-Western Province Police Administration Block

On 24th September, 2015, the Deputy Minister of Home Affairs made the following assurance: “Mr Speaker, the Government has started the construction of the Zambia Police Division Headquarters in Solwezi, North-Western Province. The project is at the excavation level

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and is being supervised by the Buildings Department. Sir, the project time frame is eighteen months. As the works started on 8th January 2015, they are expected to be completed by 30th June 2016.”

The Committee in the previous Session had urged the Government to ensure that the outstanding certificate was paid and funds to complete the project secured without any further delay.

Executive’s Response The Committee was informed that the Government was yet to honour the payment for the outstanding certificate. Once funds were released by the Treasury, the contractor would be paid. Further, the Government would consider securing funds for the completion of the project after completion of ongoing projects.

Committee’s Observations and Recommendations The Committee expresses disappointment over the failure by the Government to honour the outstanding payment of certificates on time, resulting in a delay in completing the construction works. The Committee therefore, urges the Government to urgently secure funds to pay the outstanding certificates and resolves to await a progress report on the matter.

31/15 – Construction of Milenge Police Post

On 1st October, 2015, the Minister of Home Affairs made the following assurance: “Mr Speaker, the Government has plans to construct a police post, not a police station, in Milenge. The police post will be built with three staff houses. Construction will begin this month, October, 2015, after we announce the contractor.”

The Committee in the previous Session had urged the Government to urgently settle the outstanding certificates so that works could commence.

Executive’s Response The Committee was informed that the Government would honour the payments for the three outstanding certificates for the completed construction works at Milenge Police Post once funds were released from the Treasury. The works were expected to resume as soon as the contractor was paid the outstanding certificates.

Committee’s Observations and Recommendations The Committee, in noting the submission, expresses concern that it has taken the Government inordinately long to pay the contractor the outstanding certificates issued. The Committee, therefore, urges the Government to ensure that funds are secured to pay the contractor without further delay, so that works can commence, as further delay would result in additional cost due to time lapse and change in cost of materials. The Committee resolves to await a progress report on the matter. 132

14/16 - National Registration Office in Kalabo

On 16th April, 2016, the Deputy Minister of Home Affairs made the following assurance: “Sir, the contractor engaged to construct the National Registration Office block in Kalabo District is back on site and construction works resumed on 30th December, 2015. The completion of the project has delayed due to lack of financial resources to commence the works. The contractor was waiting for an up-front payment in order to mobilise and start the works. However, this has been resolved and the contractor is back on site. The time frame for the completion of the project is eighteen months. Therefore, it is expected that the office block for National Registration in Kalabo will be handed over to the Government in July 2017.”

The Committee in the previous Session had urged the Government to ensure that funds were sourced to complete the project as it was already above 80 per cent complete. Further, the Committee had emphasised the need to have a planning and building office in the districts to be mandated to supervise works in their jurisdiction.

Executive’s Response The Executive in its update to the Committee submitted that the delay in the completion of the works was partly due to some sections of works that were not satisfactory and did not meet the required specifications, which the contractor had to correct. The contractor was expected to complete these corrections soon and initiate the preparation of certificates for payments. This caused a delay in the preparation of certificates for payments which were yet to be submitted to the Ministry of Home Affairs for payment and thereafter, the contractor was expected to expedite the completion of the remaining works.

With regard to the need to have a planning and building officer in the district mandated to supervise the works, the Committee was informed that this was within the mandate of the Ministry of Housing and Infrastructure Development and the Buildings Department under the Ministry of Works and Supply. The Committee was further informed that the construction of the National Registration Office in Kalabo District was being supervised by the Provincial Buildings Engineer for Western Province.

Committee’s Observations and Recommendations The Committee, in noting the submission, urges the Government to ensure that the remaining works are completed without further delay and resolves to await a progress report on the matter.

12/15 – Construction of Police Stations and Posts in Magoye Constituency

On Thursday, 5th March, 2015, the Deputy Minister of Home Affairs made the following assurance: “Mr Speaker, the Government, through the Zambia Police Force, has plans to construct a police post in Magoye Township in 2016.”

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The Committee in the previous Session had urged the Government to prioritise projects like police stations so that law and order could be maintained in the communities. Further, the Committee had implored the Government to prioritise implementation of assurances made on the floor of the House.

Executive’s Response The Committee was informed that the construction of Magoye Police Post in Magoye Parliamentary Constituency may be considered after completion of ongoing infrastructure development projects under the Zambia Police Service. This was in line with the Government’s policy of not embarking on new projects prior to completion of ongoing infrastructure development projects.

Committee’s Observations and Recommendations The Committee, in noting the submission, reiterates the need for the Government to prioritise projects like police stations so that law and order is maintained in the communities. Further, the Committee re-emphasises the need for the Government to prioritise implementation of assurances made on the floor of the House and resolves to await a progress report on the matter.

15/15 – Administrative Provisions for Itemba Police Post in Milenge District

On Wednesday, 11th March, 2015, the Deputy Minister of Home Affairs made the following assurance:

“Mr Speaker, the installation of solar panels at Itemba Police Post and staff houses in Milenge District will commence this year 2015, since the funds for the two projects have been provided for in the 2015 Budget.”

The Committee in the previous Session had urged the Government to ensure that funds were secured for the procurement of the solar panels for Itemba Police Post.

Executive’s Response

The Committee was informed that Zesco, through the Rural Electrification Authority (REA), had embarked on the Lwela-Milambo electricity grid extension project in Chembe and Milenge Districts of Luapula Province. Under this project, Itemba Police Post would be connected to the National Electricity Grid and therefore, there would be no need to install solar panels at this police post.

Committee’s Observations and Recommendations The Committee strongly urges the Government to ensure that Itemba Police Post is immediately electrified. The Committee resolves to await a progress report on the

134 connection of Itemba Police Post to the National Electricity Grid since the solar panels will no longer be installed at the police post.

16/15 – Construction of office block and housing units for Police in Rufunsa District

On Friday, 13th March, 2015, the Minister of Home Affairs made the following assurance:

Mr Speaker, I wish to inform the House that the Government has plans to construct an office block and ten housing units in Rufunsa District in 2015. Funds for the construction of an office block and the ten staff houses have been set aside under the Ministry of Transport, Works, Supply and Communication.

The Committee in the previous Session had urged the Government to expedite the proceed of procuring a contractor to complete the remaining works.

Executive’s Response The Executive in its update to the Committee submitted that the Government was still committed to ensuring that construction of police station, two medium cost houses and eight low cost houses in Rufunsa were completed. However, considering the slow pace at which the contractor was working despite having been paid all the outstanding interim payment certificates, the Government had recommended and commenced termination of the contract.

Committee’s Observations and Recommendations The Committee, in noting the submission, urges the Government to expedite the process of terminating the contract and immediately thereafter, engage another contractor to urgently complete the remaining works. The Committee further urges the Government to ensure that the office block and housing units are completed without further delay and resolves to await a progress report on the matter.

MINISTRY OF JUSTICE

27/14 – Kaputa Local Courts Staff Establishment

On Wednesday, 2nd October, 2014, the Deputy Minister of Justice made the following assurance:

“Mr Speaker, eleven positions were vacant as of May, 2014. The Judiciary will consider filling them once the Ministry of Finance grants Treasury Authority for recruitment in the 2015 Financial Year. Please, note that Nsumbu Local Court is non-operational as the court building collapsed.”

The Committee in the previous Session had urged the Government to ensure that Treasury Authority was granted by the Ministry of Finance without any further delay.

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Executive’s Response The Committee was informed that the Treasury had acknowledged receipt of the request for Treasury Authority from the Judiciary to create positions at Kaputa Subordinate Court, among other courts, aimed at enhancing public service delivery. However, the issuance of the Treasury Authority was pending due to the prevailing fiscal challenges. The Committee was further informed that the Treasury would endeavour to mobilise the resources required to issue the Treasury Authority, over the 2020-2022 medium term.

Committee’s Observations and Recommendations The Committee notes the submission with displeasure and urges the Government to ensure that the Treasury mobilises the requisite resources and issue the Treasury Authority in the 2020 – 2022 medium term as promised. The Committee resolves to await a progress report on the matter.

08/15 – Local Court in Chief Chisomo’s area in Muchinga

On Friday, 27th February, 2015, the Deputy Minister of Justice made the following assurance: Mr Speaker, the local court in Chief Chisomo’s area in Muchinga, which will include two low cost houses, is earmarked for construction in 2016 at a cost of K1.5 million.

The Committee in the previous Session had urged the Government to ensure that assurances made on the floor of the House were prioritised.

Executive’s Response The Committee was informed that following the 2018 budget call circular, no new projects were budgeted for apart from those capital projects that were at 80 per cent complete. However, the Government remained committed to constructing a local court and two staff houses in Chief Chisomo’s area in Muchinga Province and would do so once funds were made available.

Committee’s Observations and Recommendations The Committee, in noting the submission, bemoans the failure by the Government to actualise the project for over five years and urges it to take steps to resolve the matter. The Committee resolves to await a progress report on the matter.

09/13 – Local Courts at Nsumbu Business Centre

On Thursday, 21st February, 2013, the Minister of Justice made the following assurance:

“Mr Speaker, the Government is committed to constructing the Nsumbu Local Court in Nsama District in 2013, in accordance with the strategic plan of the Judiciary and subject to the availability of funds.”

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The Committee in the previous Session had urged the Government to urgently secure funds for the construction of Nsumbu Local Court.

Executive’s Response The Committee was informed that following the 2018 budget call circular, no new projects were budgeted for apart from those capital projects that were at 80 per cent complete. However, the Government remained committed to constructing a court in Nsumbu in Nsama District and would do so, once funds were made available.

Committee’s Observations and Recommendations The Committee, in noting the submission, is concerned that the assurance has been outstanding for over five years and urges the Government to reconsider its position and start funding assurances made on the floor of the House that have been outstanding for over five years. The Committee resolves to await a progress report on the matter.

10/13 – Local Courts in Nakonde District

On 19th February, 2013, the Minister of Justice made the following undertaking:

Mr Speaker, in accordance with the strategic plan for the Judiciary, the local court at Ntolondo in Nakonde District is earmarked for construction this year, 2013.

The Committee in the previous Session had urged the Government to ensure that funds were allocated for the construction of the local court as it had taken a considerably long time for the project to be implemented.

Executive’s Response The Committee was informed that following the 2018 budget call circular, no new projects were budgeted for apart from those capital projects that were at 80 per cent complete. However, the Committee was informed that the Government remained committed to constructing a court in Ntolondo area in Nakonde District and would do so, once funds were made available.

Committee’s Observations and Recommendations The Committee notes with disappointment that the decision by the Government to only fund projects which are 80 per cent complete also covered assurances which have been outstanding for over five years. The Committee urges the Government to reconsider this position and fund assurances made on the floor of the House which have been outstanding for three years and above. The Committee resolves to await a progress report on the matter.

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MINISTRY OF TRANSPORT AND COMMUNICATIONS

17/15 - Communication Towers in Kasempa

On 23rd September, 2015, the Minister of Transport, Works, Supply and Communications made the following assurance:

Mr Speaker, the Tower Installation Project aims at addressing the need for mobile network coverage in unserved and underserved areas in the rural areas, including chiefdoms. Only chiefs’ palaces without signal coverage will be considered for the provision of towers.

Mr Speaker, further, it must be noted that the towers were not necessarily erected within the perimeters of the targeted chiefs’ palaces, but technical consideration for maximisation of coverage was taken into account before deciding on the location of the towers.

Mr Speaker, Phase II of the Tower Installation Project will address existing gaps with regard to mobile network coverage. Therefore, priority is given to areas that were not covered in Phase I of the project. Currently, the eleven areas that have been earmarked in Kasempa are: Njenga; Kabila; Mukunashi; Kanungo; Kamakechi; Mpungu; Lubofu; Kelongwa; Nyoka; Ingwe; and Kamatete.

The Committee in the previous Session had urged the Government to ensure that assurances made on the floor of the House were actualised within the promised timeframe.

Executive’s Response The Committee was informed that ten of the eleven earmarked towers had been completed and were on air in Kasempa Constituency. The ten sites are Lubofu, Njenga, Mukunanshi, Kamatete, Kabila, Kamakechi, Njoka, Kanungo, Mpungu, and Kelongwa. The construction of the eleventh tower at Ingwe was expected to be completed by the second quarter of 2020.

Committee’s Observations and Recommendations The Committee is pleased to note the progress made towards implementation of this assurance and urges the Government to ensure that the remaining tower at Ingwe is completed by the second quarter of 2020. The Committee resolves to await a progress report on the matter.

MINISTRY OF ENERGY

5/18 Zesco Office for Chitambo District

On 26th September, 2017, the Minister of Energy made the following assurance:

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Mr Speaker, the Government has plans to establish a ZESCO Office and a sub-station in Chitambo District, as reflected in the District Development Master Plan for Chitambo. To that effect, a plot has been allocated for the construction of the office and sub-station, and ZESCO is currently in the process of formalising the acquisition of the plot. The company has submitted the application to Chitambo District Council and is currently awaiting feedback from the Council.

Sir, the implementation of the project is expected to commence in the middle of next year, once funds are made available through the ZESCO budget for 2018.

The Committee in the previous Session had urged the Ministry to engage Chitambo District Council over the quotation, taking into account that the construction of ZESCO substation and offices would bring development to the area.

Executive’s Response The Committee was informed that ZESCO was called to a full council meeting in June, 2019, to present its case pertaining to the requested waiver on the land. The Committee was informed that it was decided during the meeting that the requested waiver would be granted and that ZESCO was awaiting a formal letter from the Council to confirm the above. However, in the interest of expediting power supply to Chitambo District, ZESCO acquired land from the forestry department for the construction of the substation. Mobilisation activities for the construction of the substation were scheduled to commence in the next two months.

Committee’s Observations and Recommendations The Committee, in noting the progress made, urges the Government to ensure that the construction of the substation is actualised as submitted and resolves to await a comprehensive progress report on the matter.

15/15 – National Electricity Grid Connection in Rufunsa

On 27th September, 2015, the Deputy Minister of Mines, Energy and Water Development made the following assurance:

Mr Speaker, the Government has plans to connect Sinjela, Chinyunyu, Chitemalesa and Mwachilele in Rufunsa District to the national electricity grid.

The Committee in the previous Session had urged the Government to ensure that the funds were secured and the project implemented as assured on the floor of the House.

Executive’s Response The Committee was informed that the financial close on Lot 1 (Line component) was attained in February, 2019. Fund disbursements commenced and invoices in excess of US$10million had so far been paid.

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Lot 1 line contractor re-mobilised and anticipated to complete works by first quarter of 2020. Lot 2 (Substation component) only attained financial close in June, 2019. This was when the project became effective. The contractor was actively working to complete the remaining scope on the substations. A project kickoff meeting for discussions of fresh schedules to accelerate works was held on 5th July, 2019. ZESCO was still awaiting the fresh schedules from the contractor.

Committee’s Observations and Recommendations The Committee, in noting the progress made, urges the Government to ensure that works are expedited and completed within the anticipated completion timeframe. The Committee resolves to await a progress report on the matter.

08/15 – Construction of Filling Station in Kalabo

On 25th September, 2015, the Deputy Minister of Mines, Energy and Water Development made the following assurance: Mr Speaker, the Government of the Republic of Zambia has plans to facilitate the construction of a filling station in Kalabo in 2016. The Hon. Member of Parliament would wish to note that, in fact, we have already gone ahead and written to the Permanent Secretary (PS) for Western Province to facilitate the acquisition of a suitable place or land for us to ensure that this facility is put up. Further, the Government continues to promote public-private partnerships (PPPs) in terms of filling stations in areas such as Kalabo. Sir, the funds for the works in 2016 have been put aside by the Government.

The Committee in the previous Session had urged the Government to ensure that the construction of Kalabo filling station was actualised without further delay.

Executive’s Response The Committee was informed that the construction of Kalabo Filling Station would commence once Mporokoso Filling Station was completed as the programme on construction of filling stations was being done in phases. Phase 1 of the programme involved construction of Luwingu and Mporokoso Filling Stations. Luwingu Filling Station was completed in December, 2018 with technical handover done on the 15th February, 2019 and the official commissioning was done on 16th August, 2019. Construction of Mporokoso Filling Station stood at 70 per cent. Construction of phase 2 filling stations involved filling stations in Kalabo and Lukulu districts.

Committee’s Observations and Recommendations The Committee, in noting the submission, resolves to await a progress report on the construction of a Filling Station in Kalabo.

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10/15 – Fuel Filling Station in Mporokoso

On Friday, 25th November, 2015, the Deputy Minister of Mines, Energy and Water Development made the following assurance:

Mr Speaker, the construction of the filling station in Mporokoso District will commence in 2016. The contracts to construct filling stations in Luwingu and Mporokoso Districts were awarded to one contractor because the contractor was the best evaluated bidder for both filling stations. The Ministry advertised in the print media for the construction of filling stations in Luwingu and Mporokoso. Contractors were at liberty to bid for the construction of both filling stations.

The Committee in the previous Session had urged the Government to ensure that the project was completed within the assured timeframe.

Executive’s Response The Committee was informed that the construction of the filling station in Mporokoso District was at 70 per cent.

Committee’s Observations and Recommendations The Committee, in noting the progress made, resolves to await a progress report on the matter.

07/15 - Construction of Electricity Power Plants

On 25th September, 2015, the Deputy Minister of Energy and Water Development made the following assurance:

Mr Speaker, it is with this background that the Ministry is pursuing several programmes and projects to reduce the impact of load shedding. The following are the programmes that my Ministry will continue implementing in the 2016 Financial Year: 40 MW Kabompo Gorge Hydro Power Project - This is being developed by the Copperbelt Energy Corporation (CEC). Preliminary works have already been done.

The Committee in the previous Session had resolved to await a progress report.

Executive’s Response

Portion of Land in the National Heritage area

The Committee was informed that a meeting was held between CEC, Ministry of Energy and the National Heritage Conservation Commission (NHCC) in December, 2018 to resolve the issues related to the project land in the national heritage area. It was agreed that a 2nd Addendum to the Implementation Agreement be drawn up in order to recognise

141 the interests of the Ministry of Tourism (NHCC) in the project land. Negotiations for the Addendum to the Implementation Agreement had commenced and were to be concluded once the optimisation study by CEC was completed.

Project Optimisation

The consultant engaged by CEC to optimise the project with the intention to achieve a lower tariff was expected to finalise the study by November, 2019. The study would be submitted to the Ministry of Energy for review.

Committee’s Observations and Recommendations The Committee, in noting the submission, urges the Government to ensure that the process of reviewing the project optimisation is expedited so as to facilitate conclusion of negotiations for the Addendum to the Implementation Agreement. The Committee resolves to await a progress report on the matter.

29/14 – Electrification of Wards in Bwacha Constituency

On Friday, 7th October, 2014, the Deputy Minister of Mines, Energy and Water Development made the following assurance:

Mr Speaker, Munga, Chinyanja, Munyama, Muwowo West and Muwowo East wards in Bwacha Parliamentary Constituency are planned for electrification in 2016.

The Committee in the previous Session had urged the Government to ensure that funds were secured for the project without any further delay.

Executive’s Response

The Committee was informed that following the assurance, the Rural Electrification Authority (REA) conducted a feasibility study in Bwacha Constituency to establish the full scope of works. Based on the study, it was established that the estimated cost of electrifying the wards in Bwacha Constituency was seven million kwacha.

However, due to lack of funds, the Authority could not undertake the project at once and had employed a phased approach to the electrification of the wards in Bwacha Constituency, starting with Makululu Ward. The ward was being electrified through grid intensification and reinforcement at a cost of K2,470,284.59. The project was at 70 per cent and was expected to be completed by the last quarter of 2019.

It was expected that at the end of the project, 200 households would be connected to electricity using standard connections and a further 250 households would be connected using ready boards. Electrification of the remaining wards would be done in subsequent years depending on the availability of funds. 142

Committee’s Observation and Recommendations The Committee, in noting the progress made, urges the Government to ensure that funds for the electrification of the wards in Bwacha Constituency are disbursed consistently so that the project is completed as soon as possible. The Committee resolves to await a progress report on the matter.

MINISTRY OF COMMERCE, TRADE AND INDUSTRY

04/16 - Exports to Angola

On 10th February, 2015, the Deputy Minister of Commerce, Trade and Industry made the following assurance:

Mr Speaker, the Government is already encouraging the export of agricultural products to Angola and other countries not only for people living along borders, but all Zambians who are willing to participate. Some of the measures the Government is putting in place to encourage exports are:

Bilateral Trade Agreement The Government has negotiated a bilateral trade agreement (BTA) with Angola to pave the way for preferential trade between the two countries, given that Angola is currently not part of the Southern African Development Community Free Trade Area (SADC-FTA). The signing ceremony was on the 21st January, 2015, in Luanda, Angola. This Agreement allows some products from Zambia to enter the Angolan Market duty-free and paves the way for the resuscitation of discussions on the memorandum of understanding (MoU) to be signed between Moxico Province in Angola and the North-Western Province of Zambia. The discussions stalled due to the absence of an implementation framework at the national level. Further, the Zambian Government is in discussions with the Angolan Government aimed at facilitating business linkages between Zambian small and medium enterprises (SMEs) and their counterparts in Angola so as to encourage cross-border trade.

Development of the Lobito Corridor

Mr Speaker, the Government has mobilised a grant amounting to US$8.4 million under the African Development Fund (ADF) Regional Operation Envelope of the African Development Bank (AfDB) to support trade facilitation measures covering both rail and road components of the Lobito Corridor, as well as the development of value chains and economic clusters along the corridor in both Zambia and Angola. The following are the focus areas of the project:

a) promoting value chain development and participation of SMEs, particularly from the agricultural and construction sectors, in the supply chain of larger companies along the corridor. This will ensure inclusiveness and expand trade volumes to enhance utilisation of the corridor and amplify its development impact; 143

b) supporting marketing information or intelligence and business match-making to increase awareness of opportunities available in both Zambia and Angola, and facilitating networks and business partnerships; c) supporting the implementation of a simplified trade regime (STR) for small-scale traders, including the establishments of trade information desks; and d) developing business incubation programmes to support SMEs in agri-business and related industries in product aggregation, and access to inputs, market intelligence and capacity building, especially in moving up the value chain, such as grading, processing, packaging of products, attainment of standards et cetera. This will be done in collaboration with the Citizens Economic Empowerment Commission (CEEC) and other partners.

Mr Speaker, some of the plans are already being implemented, for example, the BTA, while others, such as the Lobito Corridor Project, are in the process of being finalised. For example, an aide memoire that outlines areas of support has been signed with the ADF and AfDB. The project document will be finalised by the first quarter of 2016, while the implementation of the project is expected to begin in the second quarter of 2016.”

The Committee in the previous Session had strongly urged the Government to ensure that the project was implemented as planned and resolved to await a progress report on the launch of the Lobito Corridor Trade Facilitation Project and the finalisation of the Statutory Instrument by the Ministry of Finance which had been outstanding for over two years.

Executive’s Response The Committee was informed that the technical launch of the project took place in March, 2018 and progress was made on the implementation of project activities, which included: • hamonisation of laws and regulations among three participating countries (i.e Angola, Democratic Republic of Congo and Zambia) - A consulting firm has since been engaged to undertake this assignment which was expected to be finalised by 30th May, 2020. • The designation of office space for the operations of a one stop shop - a building was secured from the Solwezi Council and the tender process to refurbish the building had commenced. The tender closed on 30 August, 2019. Refurbishment works would be carried out after award of contract to the best evaluated bidder. It was anticipated that the works would be completed in the fourth quarter of 2019.

• The recruitment of SADC technical advisor to coordinate work among the three countries - the tender process for the recruitment of a technical advisor was completed and the process was just awaiting approval from SADC secretariat to finalise the recruitment process.

• The training of small and medium enterprises and automation of business processes - institutions were identified to undertake the trainings for SMEs. The 144

training would commence after the African Development Bank approved the training plan that was submitted to the Bank.

With regard to the issuance of the Statutory Instrument to operationalise the Zambia Angola Bilateral Trade Agreement, the Committee was informed that Statutory Instrument Number 74 of 2018 was issued on 21st September, 2018.

Committee’s Observations and Recommendations The Committee, in noting the submission, resolves to await a progress report on the matter.

MINISTRY OF TOURISM AND ARTS

30/15 - Renovation of Department of National Parks and Wildlife (Formerly Zawa) Camp Houses in Lumezi

On 2nd October, 2015, the Deputy Minister of Tourism and Arts, made the following assurance:

Mr Speaker, the Government, through the Zambia Wildlife Authority (ZAWA), has prioritised infrastructure development as a key feature in the management of Game Management Areas (GMAs) and national parks. In this regard, the Government, through ZAWA, planned in 2014, to construct houses for game scouts and other staff throughout the country which included the Lumezi Parliamentary Constituency. However, this could not be done due to lack of funds. As regards to the renovations of staff houses in Lumezi, this activity has been planned for in the 2016 budget.

The Committee in the previous Session had urged the Government to ensure that funds were secured for the rehabilitation of camp houses in Lumezi Parliamentary Constituency to ease the operational challenges faced by the Department.

Executive’s Response In its update to the Committee, the Executive submitted that the Department of National Parks and Wildlife, working with co-operating partners, managed to construct three staff houses at Lumumba wildlife camp, Lukusuzi secto in Lumezi District at a cost of K213,188.10. One more house was still at construction phase with K52,350.68 available in the Ministry to complete the House. A borehole was sunk at a cost of K37,000.

The Committee was further informed that the plans were underway to construct more houses at Lukusuzi and Luambe sectos with the assistance of cooperating partners and deploy more wildlife police officers to help provide action to wildlife.

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Committee’s Observations and Recommendations The Committee, in noting the progress made, urges the Government to ensure that the houses for the game scouts and other staff throughout the country are constructed, including renovation of staff houses in Lumezi Parliamentary Constituency. The Committee resolves to await a comprehensive progress report on the matter.

MINISTRY OF DEFENCE

11/15 – Connection of Luena Barracks to new Water System

On 4th March 2015, the Deputy Minister of Defence made the following assurance:

Mr Speaker, Luena Barracks, which was initially constructed with an independent water supply system, will be connected to the Western Water Company (WWC) system in the 2016 budget cycle.

The Committee in the last Session had urged the Government to ensure that phase II of the project was implemented and the funds secured to complete phase I.

Executive’s Response The Committee was informed that the Ministry was in receipt of new quotations from Western Water and Sewerage Company dated 3rd September, 2019. Accordingly, the Ministry was in the process of making payment to ensure that the project was completed.

Committee’s Observations and Recommendations The Committee notes the submission and urges the Government to ensure that payments to Western Water and Sewerage Company are made without further delay so that Luena Barracks is connected to the new water system and resolves to await a progress report on the matter.

MINISTRY OF WORKS AND SUPPLY

32/14 – Construction of Lunsemfwa River Bridge in Rufunsa Constituency

On Friday, 7th October, 2014, the Deputy Minister of Transport, Works, Supply and Communication made the following assurance:

Mr Speaker, the Road Development Agency (RDA) has engaged Messrs Roughton International for the design and construction supervision of the Lunsemfwa and Chipaba bridges in Old Mkushi at a combined contract sum of K5,693,309. The contract was signed on 12th August, 2013, and is expected to be completed in October, 2014. The construction of a bridge across the Lunsemfwa River, which connects the Chiefdoms of Shikabeta and Mbosha in Rufunsa Parliamentary Constituency, is expected to commence in the second quarter of 2015, after the conclusion of the procurement process.

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The Committee in the previous Session had urged the Government to ensure that assurances should not take long to be actualised as was the case with the construction of Lunsemfwa and Chipaba bridges in old Mkushi.

Executive’s Response The Committee was informed that the civil works contract for construction of Lusemfwa and Chipaba bridges in old Mkushi was awarded to Messrs China Railway Seventh Group Company Limited at a sum of K74,316,520.56. The contract was signed in 2017. The works had not commenced due to inadequate funds and works would commence once funds were secured.

Committee’s Observations and Recommendations The Committee expresses serious concern at the failure by the Government to commence the construction of Lunsemfwa and Chipaba bridges in old Mkushi considering the inordinate time it has taken for the Government to actualise the project. The Committee therefore, strongly urges the Government to ensure that funding for this assurance is prioritised. The Committee resolves to await a progress report on the matter.

42/14 – Construction of Immigration Department Offices at Nsumbu Border Post

On Friday, 5th December, 2014, the Deputy Minister of Transport, Works, Supply and Communication made the following assurance:

Mr Speaker, the Immigration Department has budgeted for the construction of an Immigration office block and medium-cost house, and the sinking of a borehole and water tank at Nsumbu Border Post in Nsama District in the 2014 budget. The procurement process for the works, which will cost K3,400,000, is in progress and construction will start in 2015, after the procurement process has been completed.

The Committee in the previous Session had urged the Government to ensure that the remaining works were completed expeditiously. The Committee had resolved to await a progress report on the matter.

Executive’s Response The Executive in its update informed the Committee that the project had advanced with all major works completed. From January, 2019 to date, the office block had been roofed and plastered. Electrical conduits, wiring and fitting of plumbing installations was done. During the execution of the project, it was observed that a few works were omitted from the initial BoQs. The omitted works included:

• fixing of the ceiling; • drainage of water from courtyard in the centre of the building; and • construction of steps, rumps and protective balustrades. 147

On the 30th July, 2019, the contractor, through the consultant, Provincial Infrastructure Officer submitted a quotation for the omitted works valued at a total cost of K550,004.72, the quotation which was being assessed by Ministry of Home Affairs before approval. Once approval was given the project could be completed as all pending works such as painting and few fixtures would be done as soon as the ceiling was fixed.

Committee’s Observations and Recommendations The Committee, in noting the submission, urges the Government to ensure that the approval process is expedited so that the remaining works can be completed. The Committee resolves to await a progress report on the matter.

03/15 – Mbala-Kasaba Bay-Nsumbu Road

On 25th February, 2015, the Deputy Minister of Transport, Works, Supply and Communication made the following assurance:

Mr Speaker, works to upgrade the road will commence after the completion of the feasibility studies and the detailed design, whose funding will be considered for inclusion in the 2016 budget.

The Committee in the last Session had urged the Government to ensure that assurances that had been outstanding for over three years were prioritised and actualised.

Executive’s Response

The Executive in its update to the Committee submitted that the 33 kilometre stretch of the Mbala to Nsumbu Road would be covered under the project for upgrading to bituminous standard of the Mbala Kasaba Bay Road (Lot 1). The contract for the upgrading to bituminous standard of the Mbala to Kasaba Bay Lot 1 covered 33 kilometres of the Mbala Nsumbu Road, 26 kilometres of the road to Chief Tafuna and 36 kilometres of the access Road to Chief Mpande’s Palace. The contractor engaged at Lot 1 was Messrs China Civil Engineering Construction Corporation. The contract was signed on July 21, 2016.

The contract for Mbala to Kasaba by Lot 2 covered the upgrading of approximately 93 kilometres of the Mbala to Kasaba Bay Road, starting at Vyamba Turnoff (RD02), 31 kilometres of Mbala to Kalambo Falls, 19.5 kilometres of Mbala to Chisanza (D7), 38.3 kilometres of Samora Machel Airport through Mbala Town to Kaseshya, 18 kilometres of Mbala Urban Road to bituminous standard in Mbala District, Northern Province of Zambia. The two projects would be implemented using contractor facilitated Model of financing. Lot 2 was awarded to Messrs China Civil Engineering Construction Corporation at a contract sum of USD286,627,532.93 VAT Inclusive with a completion period of 36 months.

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Commencement of Works was dependant on the finalisation of the financing agreement between the financier and the Ministry of Finance (MOF). However, not much progress had been made in finalising agreement as the Ministry of Finance had indefinitely postponed contraction of all pipeline debt.

Committee’s Observations and Recommendations The Committee is saddened to note that not much progress has been made in finalising the financing agreement and urges the Government to ensure that assurances made on the floor of the House are financed and actualised within the promised implementation timeframe. The Committee resolves to await a progress report on the matter.

MINISTRY OF LANDS AND NATURAL RESOURCES

10/14 – Installation of the Zambia Integrated Land Management Information System (ZILMIS)

On Tuesday, 6th March, 2014, the Minister of Lands, Natural Resources and Environmental Protection assured the House as follows: Mr Speaker, in June, 2014, the Ministry will complete the implementation of the ZILMIS.

The Committee in the previous Session had urged the Government to ensure that the progressive improvements to the ZILMIS software were consistently funded and implemented in line with the requirements for a robust system.

Executive’s Response The Executive in its update to the Committee submitted that it implemented the Zambia Integrated Land Management Information System (ZILMS) with identified areas which required improvement and enhancement to achieve the objective of designing and implementing a robust land administration system. The Executive envisioned achieving the enhancements in phase II of ZILMS implementation. To achieve this, the Ministry entered into the contract for procurement of incompleted ICT support and Programming Services for ZILMS on 27th February, 2018. The scope of the contract included development of specified features at no cost and enhancement of the software applications to improve the efficiency and integrity of the system. The contractor had since delivered on some of the scheduled tasks in the contract. The Executive further submitted that the contract was still in force and would achieve Phase II requirements once completed.

Committee’s Observations and Recommendations The Committee, in noting the submission, resolves to await a progress report on the full implementation of the Zambia Integrated Land Management Information System.

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MINISTRY OF AGRICULTURE

17/14 – Investments in Irrigation, Agro-processing and Livestock Sectors On Tuesday, 17th June, 2014, the Deputy Minister of Agriculture and Livestock made the following assurance:

Sir, the Government has made significant investments in the development of farming blocks, irrigation schemes, agro-processing, livestock and animal health services...

The Committee in the previous Session had urged the Government to expeditiously secure funds for the remaining works for the two laboratories to become operational. However, the Committee was concerned with the fact that supervision of works was a mandate of officers from the headquarters, and wondered how effective that was. The Committee, had therefore, urged the Government to come up with a deliberate policy where officers from the districts were mandated to supervise works in their areas, to ensure good quality of work. The Committee had also urged the Government to ensure that the remaining dip tanks were urgently constructed and rehabilitated.

Executive’s Response The Executive in its update to the Committee submitted that the Ministry of Fisheries and Livestock requested for supplementary funding of which K15,000,000 was approved. The funds would be used towards completion of the rehabilitation and construction of dip tanks that were above 80 per cent as per the Government policy on austerity measures.

The number of completed dip tanks had risen to 232, while the number of dip tanks under construction had reduced to 186. The number of completed dip tanks was expected to increase by end of 2019 as the supplementary funding was being accessed. Below is the table showing the status of construction and rehabilitation of dip tanks

Contracts Not under Province awarded New rehab started construction Completed Central 31 18 13 1 18 12 Copper belt 36 33 3 0 10 26 Eastern 82 10 72 5 25 52 Luapula 16 11 5 4 3 9 Lusaka 28 15 13 1 13 14 Muchinga 20 15 5 1 10 9 Northwestern 23 16 7 0 3 20 Northern 28 21 7 6 13 9 Southern 196 77 119 24 91 81 Total 460 216 244 42 186 232

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The Committee was also informed that the supervision of works of structural design by nature (two or more storey buildings) was a mandate of structural engineers. This was because of the complexity of the infrastructure (e.g Mongu Laboratory) which could not be supervised by a District Works Supervisor. The Committee was further informed that at the time, all officers who possessed this expertise were based at the Ministry of Housing and Infrastructure Development and Ministry of Fisheries and Livestock Headquarters in Lusaka.

The Committee also learnt that the District Works Supervisor had limited capacity to supervise structural works. To address this, the Ministry of Fisheries and Livestock had upgraded the minimum qualifications for District Works Supervisor to Bachelor of Engineering Degree or equivalent. The Ministry was in the process of recruiting District Works Supervisors and would ensure that they met the minimum qualifications.

Committee’s Observations and Recommendations The Committee, in noting the submission, urges the Government to ensure that funds to expeditiously complete the remaining works are secured considering that the project has been outstanding for over five years. The Committee resolves to await a comprehensive progress report on the regional laboratories and construction of dip tanks.

GENERAL OBSERVATIONS The Committee observes with concern that the Ministers of Health, Housing and Infrastructure Development, General Education and Finance have made too many assurances involving huge sums of money without the requisite funds having been secured. The Committee also notes with disappointment that in many cases, projects for which funds were said to be available remain uncompleted several years later on account of lack of funds, undermining the oversight function of Parliament. The Committee further observes that if the trend is left unchecked assurances made on the floor of the House will remain a means of appeasing Members and the general public, which is totally unacceptable and should be guarded against. This practice should therefore, be discontinued and assurances should not be made lightly, but only be made once all the requisite conditions and financing are in place. The Committee therefore, would henceforth not condone assurances not backed by the requisite funding.

CONCLUSION In conclusion, the Committee is concerned with the Government’s failure to implement the assurances made on the floor of the House, as can be evidenced in the Committee’s Report. In some cases, assurances have been outstanding for over ten years ostensibly due to financial constraints. Consequently, out of the 177 assurances, only nineteen were closed by the Committee during the period under review. Going by the slow pace at which assurances are being implemented, it appears that assurances are being made by the Executive on the floor of the House and with no real intention or plan to implement them.

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Therefore, the Committee urges the Executive to endeavour to prioritise funding for assurances, starting with those which have been outstanding for over three years. Further, to avoid accumulation of outstanding assurances, the Committee reiterates its earlier position that the Executive must hold back on making promises on the floor of the House where there are no confirmed financial resources to implement the projects .

Finally, the Committee wishes to extend its gratitude to all the stakeholders who appeared before it and made both written and oral submissions. The Committee further wishes to express its sincere appreciation to Mr Speaker, for the guidance rendered to it during the Session, and to the Office of the Clerk of the National Assembly for the advice and services rendered to it throughout its deliberations.

E Kamondo, MP June, 2020 CHAIRPERSON LUSAKA

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APPENDIX I - List of National Assembly Officials

Ms C Musonda, Principal Clerk of Committees Mr F Nabulyato, Deputy Principal Clerk of Committees (SC) Mr S Chiwota, Senior Committee Clerk (SC) Mrs M H Mweele, Committee Clerk Ms E Njobvu, Typist Mr Kantumoya, Committee Assistant

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