By Ousman Kaliati:
The National Economic Empowerment Fund (Neef) has implored youths to change their mindset regarding Neef loans, which they often perceive as political.
Neef has since called on them to visit their offices to learn about loan portfolios and how to access them.
Neef Zone Manager for Nkhotakota and Salima districts Kelvin Posiyano said this in Salima following a meeting with youths.
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According to Posiyano, the main challenge is that many youths do not fully understand Neef and its purpose.
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“That is why we wanted to inform youths about our loans, as many mistakenly believe that they are political. It’s essential for them to visit us and gain a proper understanding of Neef loans,” he said.
Posiyano disclosed that Neef has disbursed nearly K6 billion in loans in Salima and is currently offering a micro-irrigation loans programme.
“While Salima is performing well, in terms of loan disbursement, the district’s repayment rates need improvement, which is an issue that must be addressed,” he added.
Maxwell Chisindo, the Neef programme youth chairperson in Salima, praised the meeting, calling it timely.
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“This training has provided us with valuable knowledge, as we previously associated Neef loans with politics, which we have established is not the case,” he said.
Chisindo expressed hope that many youths would soon visit Neef offices to gain an understanding of loan portfolios.
Asiyatu Chakwera, a youth who attended the meeting, echoed Chisindo’s sentiments, noting that many youths have shied away from NEEF loans due to a lack of knowledge
