By 
In a bold step towards empowering women-led businesses, ZANACO has announced that it has provided over K1.4 billion in collateral-free loans to support women entrepreneurs across Zambia.
The announcement was made during the 3rd Zee Women’s Banking Awards, an event celebrating the achievements of women in business, education, and leadership.
Speaking at the ceremony, Chief Executive Officer Mukwandi Chibesakunda reaffirmed the bank’s commitment to fostering financial inclusion for women through its Zee Women’s Banking initiative, which focused on access to finance, markets, and business information.
“As ZANACO, we are committed to empowering women entrepreneurs because we recognize their role in driving economic growth and social transformation. Through our Zee Women’s Banking proposition, we have provided over K1.4 billion in collateral-free loans to women-led businesses and personal finance facilities,” Chibesakunda said.
She further emphasized the importance of sustained financial support for women, particularly in light of the Africa Gender Index 2023 Analytical Report by the African Development Bank Group (AfDB) and the United Nations Economic Commission for Africa (UNECA), which highlighted a decline in women’s economic parity from 61 percent in 2019 to 58.2 percent in 2023.
“While we celebrate the progress made, we must remain resolute in addressing the barriers that hinder women’s full economic participation. Our goal is to ensure that every woman in business has the opportunity to access the financial resources needed to thrive,” she added.
Held on the eve of International Women’s Day 2025, the awards also recognized Dora Moono Nyambe, last year’s winner in the Education category, for her continued advocacy in improving livelihoods and access to education.
ZANACO reaffirmed its dedication to driving women’s financial inclusion, pledging to expand support for female entrepreneurs and contribute to Zambia’s broader economic empowerment agenda.
Speaking at the same event, Vice President Mutale Nalumango praised ZANACO for championing the welfare of women, emphasizing the importance of continued efforts to bridge gender gaps in economic opportunities.
“Zanaco has demonstrated a true commitment to uplifting women in Zambia. Women are the backbone of our economy, and with the right support, they can achieve extraordinary success,” Nalumango said.
Nalumango, who was honored with the 2025 Zee Woman CEO Award, encouraged women to push boundaries and achieve greatness.
Zee Women’s Banking Awards 2025 Winners:
1. Zee Woman in Sport: Priscilla Katoba Chewe
2. Zee Woman in Medicine: Dr. Martha Mwaba
3. Zee Woman in Mining: Taza Mulenga Lungu
4. Zee Woman in Education: Andrea Mwalula
5. Zee Woman in Aviation: Thokozile Muwamba – Zambia’s first female fighter jet pilot
6. Zee Woman in Agriculture: Zindaba Hanzala
7. Zee Woman Catalyst for Change: Bwalya Magawa Chomba
8. Zee Woman in STEM: Shupekile Mwanza
9. Zee Woman Creative of the Year: Dr. Gladys Kalichini
10. Zee Woman in Finance: Lyapa Mpempulwa-Mbewe
11. Zee Woman Entrepreneur of the Year: Kashweka Kachaka
12. Zee Woman in Sustainability: Hildah Nakatunga
13. Zee Woman CEO of the Year: Monica Musonda
CEO’s Special Awards
14. Special Achievement Award: Maria Zaloumis (The Zed Farmer)
15. CEO’s Award: Her Honour, Vice President Mutale Nalumango.
WARNING! All rights reserved. This material, and other digital content on this website, may not be reproduced, published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed in whole or in part without prior express permission from ZAMBIA MONITOR.
Comments