The African Development Fund has been instrumental in transforming the lives of Zambians, particularly in the areas of agriculture, education, and entrepreneurship. In the town of Kafue, farmer Grace Nyirongo Phiri has seen a significant improvement in her crop yields thanks to the introduction of a drip irrigation system, made possible by a loan from the Sustainable Agriculture Finance Facility. This initiative, pioneered by the African Development Fund, has enabled Phiri to increase her productivity and income, providing a better future for herself and her community.
The African Development Fund has also invested in the education sector, with a focus on science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) education. At the University of Zambia, civil engineering student Kangwa Bwalya has benefited from the construction of new state-of-the-art lecture theaters and laboratories, courtesy of the African Development Bank Group. This investment has not only improved the learning environment but also equipped students with the skills and knowledge required to tackle real-world challenges.
Furthermore, the African Development Fund has supported entrepreneurship and vocational training in Zambia. Joseph Banda, a graduate of a trade training institute, has successfully established his own agribusiness shop, Akunzi AgroVet, with the help of skills acquired through the Technical Education, Vocational and Entrepreneurship Training (TEVET) pathway. Banda’s story is a testament to the impact of targeted investment in skills and education, which can lead to job creation and economic growth.
The African Development Fund’s interventions in Zambia have had a ripple effect, contributing to the country’s overall development and growth. The fund’s support for the Zambia Emergency Food Production Facility has helped to increase food production and reduce reliance on imports. Additionally, the development of a digital risk-sharing platform has enabled small and medium-scale farmers to access loan financing, further boosting agricultural productivity.
The success stories of Phiri, Bwalya, and Banda demonstrate the significance of investing in human capital and infrastructure. As Zambia continues to develop and grow, it is essential to build on these achievements and create more opportunities for its citizens. The African Development Fund’s commitment to supporting Zambia’s development agenda is a step in the right direction, and its impact will be felt for generations to come. With continued investment in education, agriculture, and entrepreneurship, Zambia can look forward to a brighter future, driven by the determination and resilience of its people.