The World Bank has committed 45 Million Dollars to support 900 cooperatives in Zambia, through the Alliance Productive Programme, implemented by Zambia Agribusiness and Trade Project (ZATP) II.
ZATP Region Four Regional Facilitator, Keith Kancheya says each cooperative will receive a 50, 000 United States Dollar loan under the five-year project, set to end in 2028, to grow their businesses across the country.
Speaking during a sensitisation meeting in Luangwa district, Mr Kancheya explained that the cooperatives are expected to put in 40 percent of their total budgets while the 50,000-dollar loan is 60 percent of the total.
“The call for proposals is open until 31st March, 2026, when no more proposals will be accepted, and the number of cooperatives in each district is not restricted,” he said.
He clarified that if one district has the highest number of successful applicants compared to other districts, they will be given the loans because the awarding system does not give restrictions per district.
Mr Kancheya explained that successful cooperatives will be given technical support in their businesses so that they can improve and thrive.
He indicated that businesses can range from agriculture to livestock, provided they are profitable in that cooperative.
And Luangwa District Commissioner, Luke Chikani encouraged cooperatives to venture into profitable businesses that will help expand their businesses.
District Cooperatives Inspector, Teddy Katongo said the district is working towards establishing a bulk centre for goats, to enable easy access to markets.
He said there is a need for cooperatives who have ventured into livestock production to have an established market for their businesses.
Apart from Livestock Services Which Coop has survived
Put funds into education so we learn to distinguish who’s who ???
This loans are never paid back. Its as good as gone into individuals pockets.