Yesterday, Information and Media Permanent Secretary, Mr. Thabo Kawana, visited the Zanaco Chisamba Branch in Chisamba District to review the progress of payments to farmers who supplied maize to the Food Reserve Agency (FRA). The visit highlighted the effectiveness of Zanaco’s payment system and its impact on local farming communities.
Mr. Kawana praised Zanaco Bank for its structured and efficient payment process, which combines a depot-by-depot approach with a Cash-in-Transit model. This system allows the bank to deliver cash directly to villages, paying farmers at their locations. By bringing payments to remote depots, Zanaco reduces travel costs and inconvenience, especially for farmers in distant areas.
The Permanent Secretary encouraged other banks to adopt Zanaco’s model. He noted that each transaction takes less than two minutes, which helps maintain steady queues and ensures timely service. He emphasized that while some farmers remain concerned due to personal and operational commitments, the ongoing payments are expected to ease these worries.
Mr. Kawana confirmed that funds are already available in the banks and that payments are proceeding as scheduled. He clarified that delays, where they exist, are due to processing times rather than a lack of funds.
Looking ahead, the upcoming farming season shows positive prospects. With farming inputs supplied on time, farmers have prepared and planted their fields. Early indications suggest a strong yield, pointing to a potential bumper harvest.
The Permanent Secretary will continue visits to other districts to ensure that payments remain smooth and accessible across all depots, reinforcing government efforts to support farmers and strengthen agricultural productivity nationwide.