A local investor in Mansa District of Luapula Province has urged smallholder farmers to apply for loans from the Citizens Economic Empowerment Commission (CEEC) to fund their projects.

In an interview with Zambia News and Information Services (ZANIS), Eunimos Investment Limited Chief Executive Officer, Collins Chongo, said CEEC’s empowerment initiatives are a great opportunity for entrepreneurs, especially smallholder farmers who want to grow their agriculture business and add value to their produce.

Mr Chongo observed that the major challenge with those getting loans from CEEC is that some of them are failing to pay back, consequently depriving others of an opportunity to benefit when they urgently need capital finance.

“I got a loan from CEEC to fund the hatchery which is operational and we will be supplying over 2 million fingerlings per annum. We are walking the talk because this loan was specifically meant for the hatchery and paying it back is our priority so that others can also benefit,” he said.

Mr Chongo noted that the only way farmers can grow their business is by taking advantage of the available government-supported initiatives aimed at providing a conducive environment for businesses to thrive.