FNB Zambia Signs US$50 Million Facility to Drive Climate-Resilient Growth
First National Bank (FNB) Zambia has officially signed a US$50 million development finance facility with the Dutch Development Bank (FMO), in partnership with the Dutch Fund for Climate Development (DFCD) and WWF, marking a major milestone for sustainable finance and green growth in Zambia.
The signing ceremony, held in Lusaka, was attended by senior representatives from FNB Zambia, FMO, DFCD, WWF, the Ministry of Green Economy and Environment, and the Bank of Zambia. The event highlights the growing collaboration between the Zambian government, financial institutions, and development partners to advance climate-resilient and inclusive economic development.
FNB Zambia Chief Executive Officer, Kapumpe Chola, described the partnership as “more than a financial transaction” but a shared commitment to sustainable growth, climate resilience, and inclusive development.
She highlighted that at least 50% of the facility will directly support green and climate-resilient projects, including renewable energy, sustainable agriculture, water and waste management, and energy efficiency. The remaining funds will support broader initiatives for sustainable economic growth.
“This facility ensures that businesses and communities are better equipped to withstand environmental shocks,” Ms Chola said. “It reflects our philosophy of shared prosperity, where FNB Zambia can only sustainably grow if the communities around it thrive.”
She further emphasised that sustainable finance must be underpinned by strong governance, environmental and social management systems, and adherence to IFC performance standards. The facility will be administered through FNB Zambia’s standard frameworks, ensuring that qualifying applicants meet the terms and conditions of the agreement while focusing on climate-smart investments.
Speaking on behalf of the Honourable Minister of Green Economy and Environment, Dr. Douty Chibamba, Permanent Secretary for the Green Economy, highlighted that the facility represents a shared commitment to Zambia’s climate-resilient and green future.
He noted that Zambia is already experiencing the severe effects of climate change, from prolonged droughts affecting agriculture to increasing pressure on water resources and livelihoods.
“The scale of climate challenges is such that government alone cannot shoulder responsibility,” Dr. Chibamba said. “The private sector, particularly financial institutions like FNB Zambia, plays a critical role in mobilising capital for climate-smart solutions.”
The facility aligns with Zambia’s national green growth strategy, its National Adaptation Plan, and pledges under the Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs), ensuring that climate finance reaches businesses and communities on the ground.
Both Dr. Chibamba and Ms Chola emphasised the importance of shared prosperity, with climate finance generating tangible benefits such as job creation, skills development, and inclusive economic growth.
FNB Zambia acknowledged the support of its development partners, including ETHERON, DFCD, WWF, and the Government of the Netherlands, whose global expertise in development finance and ESG leadership has been instrumental in shaping the initiative. The Bank also highlighted the regulatory support of the Bank of Zambia, which enables innovation while safeguarding financial stability.
As FNB Zambia approaches its 17th anniversary this April, the signing of the facility demonstrates the bank’s long-term commitment to supporting sustainable development, climate resilience, and inclusive economic growth across the country.
“Together with our partners, regulators, customers, and the communities we serve, we are financing a greener future responsibly and collectively,” said Ms Chola. “At FNB, we believe that help changes everything.”
