The Zambian government has taken a big step towards modernizing agriculture by giving out more than K74 million through the Sustainable Agricultural Financing Facility (SAFF). This important program aims to help small-scale and new commercial farmers get affordable loans. The money mainly focuses on Central Province and is part of a larger K300 million fund that will benefit over 10,000 farmers across the nation.
SAFF is a mixed finance model that gets support from both the government and international partners, like development banks and donors who focus on climate-resilient agriculture. It offers low-interest loans to farmers who qualify, especially those who are using climate-smart methods and modern farming techniques.
During the launch event in Kabwe, Agriculture Permanent Secretary Green Mbozi highlighted that this funding is about more than just money. “This program is not only about cash; it’s about change. It’s about equipping our farmers with the tools they need to be competitive, sustainable, and ready for the future,” he stated.
He pointed out that many of the farmers who received the funds have used them to buy tractors, irrigation systems, solar-powered water pumps, fertilizers, and seeds that can withstand drought. Mbozi mentioned that the aim is to shift Zambian agriculture from just surviving to being commercially successful.
To make sure the funds are used effectively, the Ministry has set up strong monitoring systems, including satellite crop tracking and regular community audits. “We want to track not only where the money goes but also what it produces,” Mbozi stressed.
A technical committee within the Ministry, working with local cooperatives and district agricultural offices, is responsible for checking productivity improvements and making sure loan repayment systems are in place.
The Zambia National Farmers Union (ZN
