the government has facilitated a bus loan scheme which will enable over 1,300 public and private service drivers to become proprietors.
The first beneficiary is Ms Sara Njovu, a widowed taxi driver who has supported her family using income from the male-dominated business.
Ms Njovu received her prized asset from President Sata at State House at a ceremony to introduce the loan scheme that is being driven by the Ministry of Transport, Communications, Works and Supply, in conjunction with the Development Bank of Zambia (DBZ) and Higer Bus Company.
Handing over two of the buses to two of the beneficiaries, President Sata promised to empower all Zambians, regardless of their political affiliation.
Mr Sata said he is ready to assist Zambians who are organised and ready for empowerment.
“I have no problem assisting MMD, UPND members as long as they are organised. If PF members are not organised, we will continue to help those who are organised,” Mr Sata said.
DBZ and Higer Bus Company Limited of China have entered into an agreement which will enable drivers to acquire a 26-seater Higer bus at US$45,000 on two percent interest, repayable in five years.
Deputy Minister of Transport, Communications, Works and Supply Panji Kaunda said Government facilitated the bus loan scheme when a group of drivers approached the ministry.