First National Bank (FNB) Zambia has secured a USD 50 million Development Finance Facility from FMO, the Dutch Entrepreneurial Development Bank, in partnership with the Dutch Fund for Climate and Development (DFCD). The landmark deal strengthens Zambia’s green finance landscape and reinforces FNB Zambia’s commitment to climate resilience, sustainable development, and inclusive economic growth.
The facility was officially signed during a high-level ceremony in Lusaka, attended by government officials, diplomats, development partners, and leaders from the financial sector. Speaking on behalf of the Minister of Green Economy and Environment, Hon. Mike Mposha, Permanent Secretary Mr. Douty Chibamba described the agreement as “a statement of intent and a shared commitment to Zambia’s climate-resilient future.”
Mr. Chibamba highlighted the urgent need for climate action, noting Zambia’s vulnerability to prolonged droughts that affect energy generation, agriculture, water resources, and livelihoods. He emphasized that government efforts alone are insufficient, and the private sector and financial institutions play a critical role in mobilizing capital for climate-smart solutions.
The USD 50 million facility will channel development finance through FNB Zambia to support renewable energy, sustainable agriculture, water conservation, and climate-resilient infrastructure. The initiative aligns with Zambia’s Green Growth Strategy, National Adaptation Plan, and Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs). Mr. Chibamba commended FNB Zambia for strengthening its Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) frameworks and positioning itself as a responsible partner in the country’s green transition.
Dutch Embassy Chargé d’Affaires to Zambia, Zimbabwe, and Malawi, H.E. Ilyaas Sherally, described the deal as a symbol of resilience and innovation amid challenging economic conditions. He praised the collaboration between FMO, WWF, and FNB Zambia, which combines financial expertise with environmental stewardship to address Zambia’s economic recovery and climate challenges. H.E. Sherally reaffirmed the Netherlands’ commitment to climate adaptation, drawing on its global leadership in water management, smart agriculture, and renewable energy.
WWF Zambia Country Director, Ms. Nalucha Nganga, explained that the facility was enabled through the DFCD consortium, comprising WWF, SNV, FMO, and Climate Fund Managers. She highlighted how blended and concessional finance can de-risk investments, attract private capital, and empower local banks to scale up climate-aligned lending. Ms. Nganga emphasized that the facility signals the viability and impact of green investments in Zambia and commended FNB Zambia for integrating sustainability into its core lending operations.
FNB Zambia Chief Executive Officer, Ms. Kapumpe Chola, described the facility as a transformative milestone in the Bank’s growth journey. She reiterated the Bank’s ambition to lead in green and climate-resilient financing, supporting inclusive development and shared prosperity. Ms. Chola noted the timing of the transaction is significant, as FNB Zambia marks 17 years of operations in the country in April 2026, demonstrating its long-term commitment to national development priorities and economic resilience.
The USD 50 million facility positions FNB Zambia as a key driver of climate-resilient investments, enabling the country to address pressing environmental challenges while fostering sustainable economic growth.