By Anthony Chomba,
The Ministry of Commerce, Trade and Industry has launched the Zambia Agribusiness and Trade Project II (ZATP II), a joint initiative with the World Bank Group aimed at improving access to markets, finance, and promoting agribusiness growth in the country.
The five-year project, running from 2024 to 2028, builds on the initial Zambia Agribusiness and Trade Project (ZATP), which was implemented between 2017 and 2024 in five provinces. The second phase has now been expanded to cover all ten provinces, with a budget of $170 million targeting access to markets and finance, trade competitiveness, and project management.
Speaking during the launch in Lusaka, Permanent Secretary for Investment and Industrialization at the Ministry, Crusivia Hichikumba, said the Line of Credit under the project will enhance access to affordable financing and strengthen partnerships between farmers and businesses.
Mr. Hichikumba noted that the financing mechanism is a key component of ZATP II, aimed at supporting business growth while improving market linkages.
Meanwhile, Achim Fock, World Bank Zambia Country Manager, said the initiative is expected to attract more financial institutions to invest in the agribusiness sector and expand financing opportunities for enterprises.
He added that the World Bank remains committed to supporting Zambia’s economic development through partnerships that promote private sector growth.
