By MAIMBOLWA MULIKELELA in Zimba –

INCREASED economic activities, infrastructure development and improved agriculture production by emerging Small and Medium Enterprenues (SMEs) in Zimba has attracted Indo Zambia Bank (IZB) to open its first retail outlet in the district.
IZB managing director Shankardas Gupta said his bank had closely followed the economic activities in Zimba district and felt compelled to serve the district in financial matters.
“It was strategically desirable for the bank to come to the newly created unbanked district of Zimba to ensure that we are actively involved in the economic activities and developments unfolding in Southern Province in general and Zimba district in particular,” he said.
He said this during the official opening of the IZB branch in Zimba on Monday this week.
Mr Gupta said Southern Province was poised for economic and social upgrade in the backdrop of sound economic policies being pursued by the Government.
He said their priority for Zimba retail outlet would be to focus on partnering with the local business fraternity and the community at large.
“IZB will work to empower the community in Zimba. We will also endeavour to mobilise the formation of Self Help Groups in the district,” Mr Gupta said.
IZB Chairperson Orlean Moyo said the Zimba retail outlet would help foster financial inclusion.
“This Zimba retail outlet facility has been put in place to compliment and supplement the good work the Government was doing to foster a people centered growth and development,” Ms Moyo said.
Southern Province Minister Nathaniel Mubukwanu said when he officially opened IZB Zimba retail outlet that it was important for Government’s departments in the district to support the growth of IZB.
Mr Mubukwanu said all Government accounts should be moved into Zimba IZB banking outlet.
He said this will help stimulate growth in the district as SMEs, farmers and individuals would be able to access loans and banking services.
Mr Mubukwanu said the Government would continue to maintain a conducive environment that supports private sector-led growth favourable for both local and foreign investment.