$170 MILLION AGRIBUSINESS PROJECT TO CREATE 12,000 JOBS

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Posted by admin on March 18, 2026 at 7:27 AM

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Over 12,000 jobs are expected to be created nationwide through the Zambia Agribusiness and Trade Project II (ZATP II), a five-year initiative worth US$170 million jointly implemented by the Government and the World Bank Group.

Speaking at the launch, Minister of Commerce, Trade and Industry Chipoka Mulenga said the project is designed to expand access to markets and finance while promoting agribusiness growth. The initiative has three components: market connect, product alliances, and a line of credit.

The line of credit, valued at US$90 million, includes US$30 million ring-fenced to facilitate sustainable financing for the agribusiness sector.

In addition, a matching grants facility has been allocated US$52 million, with Zanaco contributing an extra US$8 million as fund manager, bringing total financing to US$90 million.

Through these instruments, ZATP II will benefit producer organisations such as cooperatives, district farmers’ associations, business associations, and small and medium enterprises, positioning them as catalysts for economic growth and social transformation.