Zambia’s Agriculture Sector flourishes as SAFF Loans reach 8,715 farmers.

-


The Ministry of Agriculture has revealed that the Sustainable Agriculture Financing Facility (SAFF) has made a significant impact on Zambia's farming community, providing loans to 8,715 farmers across the country.

Through this initiative, farmers have gained access to crucial resources that enhance agricultural productivity and resilience, paving the way for a more sustainable and prosperous future in the sector.

According to Balewa Zyuulu, the Principal Public Relations Officer for the Ministry of Agriculture, this initiative has helped drive substantial improvements in the farming sector.

“As of March 2025, a total of K755.2 million has been disbursed, with over K640.3 million already utilized by farmers. This funding has directly contributed to investments in farming activities, resulting in greater efficiency and productivity,” Mr. Zyuulu explained.

He said SAFF is a cornerstone of the Comprehensive Agricultural Transformation Support Programme (CATSP), a government-led effort designed to transform Zambia’s agricultural landscape.

Mr. Zyuulu said the program's primary goals include fostering sustainable development, increasing commercialization, and ensuring food security throughout the country.“

Through SAFF, farmers have been able to access funding for key areas such as improved agricultural inputs, mechanization, and the adoption of climate-smart farming practices strategies essential for adapting to a changing climate and enhancing crop yields, “ he said.

“The facility is administered through a network of participating banks, including Indo-Zambia Bank, NATSAVE, and ZANACO, with NATSAVE leading the charge. To date, NATSAVE has provided 4,764 loans totaling K456.9 million, helping farmers access the resources they need to thrive,” he said.

Mr. Zyuulu has reaffirmed the government’s commitment to supporting the agricultural sector through initiatives like SAFF. “The government remains dedicated to continuing investments in agriculture to boost productivity, increase farmer incomes, and strengthen food security,” he said.

“Through programs like SAFF, we are ensuring that Zambia’s farming community is well-equipped to face both current and future challenges.”As SAFF continues to support farmers across Zambia, it plays a vital role in the country’s long-term goal of achieving a sustainable, commercially viable, and food-secure agricultural sector.

Ends………

Comments

Post a Comment

Popular posts from this blog

Professionals Unite to support Women and Children through New Foundation

-
Image
A new organization dedicated to addressing the vulnerabilities faced by women and children in communities has been launched. The Acquire to Share Foundation , led by professionals from various fields, aims to bridge the gap between the elite and the underprivileged by offering support in key areas such as education, healthcare, and economic empowerment. Founded in August 2024 and registered under the Registrar of Societies, the foundation was established with the mission of bringing hope to the hopeless, reducing vulnerabilities, and advocating for the rights of marginalized groups . Speaking at the launch, Acquire to Share Foundation Executive Director Victoria Yambani   has stated that the organization’s commitment to providing access to quality education and healthcare , supporting economic empowerment programs  for families of vulnerable women and children, and protecting them from exploitation and abuse . Mrs. Yambani  has  called on the government, stakeholders...
Read more

Sinazongwe MP endorses HH for 2026, offers to Lead Campaign

-
Image
United Party for National Development (UPND) Sinazongwe Member of Parliament, Gift Sialubalo, has endorsed President Hakainde Hichilema as the preferred candidate for the party in the 2026 general elections. Furthermore, Mr. Sialubalo has committed to remaining as President Hichilema’s campaign manager for the upcoming election cycle. In his endorsement,  Mr.   Sialubalo has emphasized that the President has fulfilled nearly all of his campaign promises in Sinazongwe, making a compelling case for his continued leadership. He has highlighted the transformative changes in the constituency, particularly in the rural areas where development was once scarce. "Sinazongwe has witnessed significant change, especially in rural parts where basic infrastructure such as maternity annexes and water systems were unheard of. The President’s leadership has brought these projects to life," Mr. Sialubalo noted. He has also pointed out major infrastructure developments, such as the ongoing work...
Read more