By DAVIES CHUTU
GOVERNMENT says the implementation of the Sustainable Agriculture Finance Facility (SAFF) is a significant step towards transforming the country’s agricultural sector through enhanced access to finance for small-scale farmers.
Eastern Province Provincial Agricultural Coordinator Adreen Nansungwe disclosed that out of 12,222 applicants, 1,268 farmers in Eastern Province have successfully received financial support under the SAFF initiative.
Dr Nansungwe emphasized the importance of beneficiaries ensuring they are responsible and pay back the loans, as it was a conditionality of the facility.
“With the favourable rainfall experienced in the region, farmers have an opportunity to maximise yields and make the most of the support provided. Timely repayment will ensure that more farmers can benefit in future seasons,” she said.
And Senior Marketing Development Officer Mike Mubalu noted that the facility not only boosts productivity but also promotes financial inclusion.
“It is a major contributor to food security and national economic growth,” Mr Mubalu said.
He, however, said that in the Eastern Province, we are focusing on maize grain.
Mr Mubalu added that beneficiaries must use the loans for their intended agricultural purposes.
“The goal is to see improved livelihoods and sustainable agribusinesses. Farmers should be accountable and ensure these resources reach even more people in future cycles,” he advised.
Chipata District Marketing Development Officer Charles Mwanza also hailed SAFF as it aligns with district priorities of achieving food security and building a resilient local economy.
Mr Mwanza stated that during the 2024/2025 farming season, 97 female and 167 male farmers benefited from the initiative, noting that the implementation was well-coordinated and showing positive results.
Mr Mwanza further noted that the Government has enhanced its partnership with banks such as ZANACO, Indo-Zambia, and NATSAVE Banks, which are instrumental in delivering the funds, with 16% of the approved loan amount paid in cash. The remainder is provided through registered agro-dealers in the form of farming inputs.
The SAFF programme is designed to strengthen Zambia’s agricultural value chain by providing financial support ranging from K24,000 to K500,000. It supports aquaculture, irrigation, mechanization, livestock, and crop production.
Eligibility requirements include; a Zambian citizen in possession of a valid National Registration Card, at least one hectare of land (owned or leased), and engaging in recognised farming activities.
The SAFF programme continues to gain momentum as a reliable vehicle for supporting Zambia’s agricultural transformation. Its emphasis on inclusivity, sustainability, and productivity has not only improved lives in the province but also laid the foundation for long-term economic empowerment of rural communities.
As the government continues to monitor progress, stakeholders remain optimistic that the initiative will serve as a model for agricultural financing across the country. -NAIS
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