By MAIMBO MWEEMBA
Livingstone Mayor Constance Muleabai has called on CDF grant beneficiaries to show community members that funds are working, adding that going forward beneficiary cooperatives will be invited to attest to avoid speculations.
Speaking during the handover of CDF empowerment funds to 44 cooperatives and companies held at ZAF mess in Livingstone, Ms Muleabai emphasized the importance of utilizing the funds for the intended purpose of bettering the living standards.
Speaking at the same event Indo Zambia Bank Livingstone Branch Manager Peggy Hamukoma said the bank remains committed to supporting development at the household, community, and constituency level.
Ms Hamukoma also encouraged loan applicants to continue depositing money into their business accounts and utilize the bank’s digital banking platforms.
Southern and Western Provinces regional manager Mainga Matamwandi emphasized the importance of financial literacy and education adding that its only through financial literacy that financial management can be achieved.
She said it is mandatory for beneficiaries to make monthly repayments, and the bank will monitor their businesses regularly and report progress to the local authorities and the Ministry.
And acting District Commissioner Contildah Muchimba urged beneficiaries to use the funds wisely to empower themselves and contribute to the development of the country.
Ms Muchimba called for a changed mindset and a positive attitude towards handling the CDF funds and prudent use of the funds.
And guest of honor Livingstone constituency Member of Parliament Rodney Sikumba encouraged attendees to take advantage of business opportunities and become ambassadors of development in their communities.
The funds were separated into two: under companies & cooperatives K3,549,655 was allocated and for cooperatives K2,150,800 was allocated.
