First National Bank (FNB) Zambia has partnered with Choppies Supermarket, through the formalization of a Memorandum of Understanding, aimed at enhancing access to finance for local vendors, strengthening supply chain reliability, and supporting the growth of Zambian small and medium enterprises (SMEs).
A Memorandum of Understanding for the partnership was signed on 18th December 2025, and has been formalized today, February 16, 2026. The partnership establishes a framework for collaboration that aligns with both organisations’ commitment to empowering local businesses and promoting sustainable economic development.
Under the partnership, eligible Choppies vendors will have access to FNB’s trade finance and lending solutions, designed to help them meet supply obligations more efficiently and competitively. Choppies will play a key role in verifying and recommending vendors, while FNB provides the structured financial support.
Speaking during the formalization ceremony in Lusaka, FNB Zambia Head of Business and Commercial, Kabanda Lilanda, said key benefits of the partnership include improved access to finance for vendors, strengthened supply chain reliability and empowerment of local businesses.
“Choppies vendors can access tailored loan facilities from FNB Zambia, enabling them to deliver on supply contracts efficiently and competitively. Predictable financing for the vendors will enable Choppies to benefit from a more reliable, and consistent supply chain,” Mr. Lilanda said.
Mr. Lilanda stressed that by empowering vendors with financial solutions tailored to their business needs, the partnership directly supports Zambia’s broader economic development goals—including SME growth, job creation, and increased financial inclusion.
He emphasized the importance of the initiative for the local business ecosystem, stating that a more robust and reliable supplier base is expected to contribute significantly to operational efficiency.
“Across our economy, small suppliers are the backbone of commerce—innovators, job creators, and silent drivers of growth. Yet many are held back by limited access to working capital. This partnership exists to change that,” he added.
“For FNB, this partnership reflects our commitment to being a trusted financial partner that supports real needs and drives meaningful economic progress. For Choppies, it reaffirms their dedication to strengthening local procurement and building sustainable commercial relationships.”
At the same event, Choppies Country Operations Director, Manish Patel described the collaboration as a milestone that will allow both entities to facilitate financial services for vendors nationwide.
Mr. Patel said by leveraging the supermarket’s extensive network of suppliers and ovwr 200 active vendors, the partnership aims to drive mutual growth and operational success.
“We currently have close to 250 SMEs listed on our system nationwide and close to about a thousand suppliers countrywide as well. So we are excited that this partnership is only the way forward and growth and success for everybody involved. We are looking forward to the beginning of this journey,” he added.
