By JAMES KUNDA –
FRANCE has given Zambia 500,000 Euros in a study and capacity building fund to benefit the public and private sectors.
The grant which has been provided through the French Development Agency (AFD) will go towards financing of studies, preparatory services and selective technical assistance related to projects of mutual interest to Zambia.
The grant agreement was signed at the Ministry of Finance in Lusaka yesterday by AFD regional director Martha Stein-Sochas, French Ambassador to Zambia Emmanuel Cohet and Secretary to the Treasury Fredson Yamba.
Ms Stein-Sochas said the sectors eligible to apply the funding were agriculture, water and sanitation, solid waste management and renewable energy.
“Alongside with Government departments and public institutions, private institutions and companies may benefit from the study and capacity building fund I their envisaged project is in support of public policies in one o the eligible sectors,”
Ms Stein-Sochas said.
AFD provided several long-term loans to Zambia which including financing to the tune of 53 million Euros or the rehabilitation of the Great East Road and 50 million Euros or water and sanitation projects
by Mulonga Water and Sewerage Company.
The energy sector has been given US$34.4 million for the Itezhi-Tezhi transmission station and 40 million Euros or distribution in the southern division by Zesco.
“AFD is considering increasing its support to Zambia both in the public and private sectors,” Ms Stein-Sochas said.
Mr Cohet indicated that France appreciated Zambia as one of the most lucrative investment destinations.
“We have about 20 to 30 French companies tapping into Zambia and we see this country as a long term partner in the area of investment,” he said.
Mr Yamba thanked the cooperating partner or the grant stating that the agreement was a clear demonstration of cordial relations between the two countries.