§ Virginia BottomleyTo ask the Secretary of State for International Development when she last visited Zambia; what assistance her Department is providing to Zambia; and if she will make a statement on her Department's assistance for Mechanics for Africa. [45833]
§ Clare ShortI last visited Zambia in November 2000.
In the current financial year we estimate that we will spend around £41 million in Zambia. We concentrate on four key areas: good governance and human rights, sustainable livelihoods, health and education, and HIV/AIDS. We are working closely with the World Bank on plans to mitigate the effects of Anglo-American's withdrawal from mining operations in Zambia.
My Department is not currently providing assistance to Mechanics for Africa, although we are aware of their work in Zambia. They have been given advice on applying to the British High Commission's Small Grants Scheme.