In a landmark event held on 15th July 2025 at Sinamu Lodge, the Northern Province Permanent Secretary, Mr. Bernard Mpundu, officiated the 2025 Constituency Development Fund (CDF) Loan Disbursement Ceremony and Financial Literacy Orientation Session. The occasion marked the disbursement of over ZMW 6.8 million to 66 empowerment groups across Kasama Central and Lukashya Constituencies, underscoring the government’s commitment to inclusive economic empowerment and accountable service delivery.
During his keynote address, Mr. Mpundu praised the community-driven and transparent loan approval process—starting at Ward Development Committees and culminating with the Provincial CDF Committee. He described the initiative as a demonstration of the New Dawn Government’s agenda to ensure that development is participatory, accountable, and impactful. The Permanent Secretary also reminded recipients that CDF loans are not grants, stressing that repayments are critical to allow others to benefit from the revolving fund.
Kasama Central Constituency disbursed ZMW 3,076,936.61 to 29 groups, while Lukashya Constituency disbursed ZMW 3,782,628.79 to 37 groups. In her remarks, Her Worship the Mayor of Kasama, Madam Theresa Kolala, echoed the importance of timely loan repayments to safeguard the sustainability of the program. She was joined by the Kasama District Commissioner, who urged beneficiaries to act with integrity and take the opportunity seriously for the sake of community development.
The event also featured a Financial Literacy Orientation Session conducted with the support of ZANACO and Indo Bank. Bank representatives educated recipients on the importance of maintaining proper financial records, managing loan repayments, and tracking their business growth. The ceremony was attended by a wide range of stakeholders including government officials, bank managers, the Kasama Municipal Council, CEEC officers, and members of beneficiary cooperatives.
