NBC campaign drives agriculture growth in Ruvuma

RUVUMA: THE National Bank of Commerce (NBC) has launched the second season of its “Shinda Mechi Zako Kinamna Yako na NBC Shambani” campaign to boost coffee production in Ruvuma, specifically in the Mbinga and Nyasa districts.

The initiative offers tailored financial services to support local coffee farmers. As part of the campaign, NBC is conducting training sessions to educate farmers on its offerings, including crop and health insurance, digital and agency banking, loans for farming tools and inputs and support for warehouse construction and crop marketing.

Mbinga District Commissioner Mr Kisare Makori officiated the campaign over the weekend pinpointing the importance of access to loans for equipment and inputs, as well as the value of health and crop insurance.

“I am particularly heartened to learn that this campaign empowers farmers to access loans for tractors and other modern farming tools, as well as agricultural inputs and advance payment loans,” Mr Makori said.

The launch was attended by various stakeholders include government officials, cooperative leaders, farmers and NBC representatives.

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NBC Head of Strategy Mr Msafiri Shayo aligning with the 10/30 agenda designed to elevate agricultural production from currently 5.0 per cent to 10 per cent by 2030.

“We are providing loan services for individual farmers seeking essential agricultural tools, such as tractors, along with loans for cooperative societies [AMCOS/Union] for their input needs,” Mr Shayo said.

NBC Head of SMEs and Agriculture Unit Mr Raymond Urassa said that that the campaign targets all farming groups, from individuals to apex cooperatives.

“Unions will have the opportunity to win tricycles to facilitate the transportation of their produce,” Mr Urassa said.

Farming representatives of Kibandai AMCOS Chairperson Ms Vestina Nombo and Kipowolo AMCOS Secretary Mr Matius Kapinga expressed their gratitude, noting the high demand for health and agricultural insurance among farmers seeking better protection for themselves and their livelihoods.