First National Bank (FNB) Zambia has announced that it has structured and closed a K1 billion Working Capital Facility for the Food Reserve Agency (FRA), enabling payments to farmers who supplied maize during the 2025 crop marketing season.
The facility forms part of a broader K5 billion FRA financing programme designed to ensure that farmers across the country are paid without delay.
It was arranged under a Collateral Management Agreement (CMA), with repayment secured through maize sales from the national food reserve.
The financing supports key national agricultural priorities, including strengthening food security, boosting rural economic stability, and enhancing sustainability within the sector.
In a statement, Bank Chief Executive Officer Kapumpe Chola said the K1 billion agreement represents the largest structured facility FNB Zambia has delivered to the public sector.
Ms. Chola stated that the transaction demonstrates the bank’s ability to execute large-scale and complex financing arrangements in support of national development.
“This milestone aligns with our Shared Prosperity drive and underscores our commitment to the communities we serve.”
“The facility follows FNB’s earlier participation in the 2025 Crop Purchase Programme, reinforcing the Bank’s role as a strategic partner to the Government of Zambia,” she added.
She stressed that by ensuring expeditious farmer payments, the financial institution is helping to stabilise cash flow for small-scale farmers who rely on FRA receipts for their livelihoods and future planting.
“Beyond financing, FNB Zambia has actively supported operations to ensure seamless farmer payments. Through its cash-in-transit services, the Bank has facilitated payments in Solwezi, Kasama, Mbala and Kasempa,” Ms. Chola said.
She noted that the facility goes beyond financing, as it is aimed at supporting the farmers who anchor Zambia’s food system.
“Ensuring they are paid on time is critical for household welfare, national food security, and sector sustainability. We are proud to partner with FRA and the Government in advancing this essential priority,” she asserted.
