adminLungelo Ndhlovu Chronicle Reporter
Farmers in Matabeleland North will benefit from the Government’s Create Fund which seeks to boost and revitalise collapsing agricultural activities throughout the country. Banks responsible for managing the fund, which include FBC Bank have already availed the money to different farmers, including commercial and small holder farmers.
Bulawayo FBC bank manager, responsible for small and medium enterprises, Mr Future Makuvaro confirmed the bank had availed some money but could not disclose the amount.
“FBC Bank has funds available for agricultural value chain players with strong links to small holder farmers,” said Mr Makuvaro.
“Farmers will benefit both directly and indirectly as the bank will assist them in acquiring these loans. Purchasing of various inputs such as seed, fertilizers and farming implements would be made very easy through this facility,” said Mr Makuvaro.
He said that the facility is ongoing and relevant stakeholders should apply.
Targeted beneficiaries under the fund include agro-dealers, traders, processors, and wholesalers, contracting companies, manufactures of inputs or implements and farmers.
With two thirds of Zimbabwe’s population living in the rural areas, the resuscitation of the agricultural sector is key to improving the livelihoods of ordinary Zimbabweans.
Create Fund – an initiative of the Zimbabwe Agriculture Development Trust (ZADT) — was launched on 5 September last year, providing access loans for the small-scale farmers in Zimbabwe to boost agricultural productivity.
Support under Create Fund is being made available through three commercial banks — FBC Bank, NMB and TN Bank.
Online Reporter