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CEEC loan beneficiary Fridah Ngandu says accessing a 355-thousand-kwacha loan from the Citizens Economic Empowerment Commission has enabled her to transition from rain-fed farming to irrigation agriculture.
Ms Ngandu said she applied for the loan after seeing an advertisement and, after waiting about two to three months, secured the financing in August last year, which she used to establish irrigation infrastructure and purchase equipment.
Speaking to one love radio news, Ms Ngandu says the investment enabled her to venture into tomato production, starting with about 22-thousand seedlings during the rainy season. She says despite it being her first time growing tomatoes, the initial harvest performed well and encouraged her to continue with the crop beyond the rainy season.
She said she later planted 5-thousand tomato seedlings in April, which are currently being harvested, while another 4-thousand seedlings planted in August are expected to mature soon, alongside other crops such as rape and baby marrows.
Meanwhile, Rings Chipandu, a supervisor at Madam Ngandu Farm, says the growth of the business has positively impacted workers by improving their livelihoods and creating opportunities.
Mr Chipandu said Madam Nganduβs access to CEEC financing has benefited the farm and its six employees, while describing the loan as a blessing that has contributed to business expansion.
He has encouraged citizens to explore CEEC financing opportunities, saying eligible applicants can apply without relying on personal connections.
Meanwhile, CEEC Public Relations and Communications Manager Michelo Mukata says the Commission supported more than 1,100 agricultural clients across the country between 2025 and 2026, with financing amounting to about 325.8 million kwacha.
Mr Mukata said the funding has supported solar-powered irrigation, agricultural mechanisation and poultry farming, while prioritising young people, women and persons with disabilities.
He said irrigation is helping farmers achieve year-round production, while mechanisation is improving yields and reducing production costs.
Mr Mukata said CEECβs support goes beyond financing, as beneficiaries receive business development services and training before and after accessing loans to help them manage their enterprises sustainably.
He has reminded beneficiaries that CEEC loans must be repaid to sustain the revolving empowerment fund and enable the Commission to support more citizens.
Mr Mukata said successful businesses can create employment, strengthen household incomes and contribute to Zambiaβs broader socio-economic development.
By: Alex Siyanga
