By MUKWIMA CHILALA
LUSAKA business lady Putty Muuka was yesterday declared winner of the Ecobank Zambia and Millennium TV Small Medium Enterprise Competition pocketing K50, 000.
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And the Ministry of Small and Medium Enterprises Development has reiterated its dedication to nurturing the development and expansion of cooperatives, as well as Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs
Mr Muuka, through her company Save and Remit won the highly contested battle after weaning off competition from three other finalists.
Mutinta Kyalusanza was through her Kuku Crazy voted runner up earning herself K15, 000 worth of advertising on both Millennium TV and Radio.
Francesca Mulenga’ Sana Media and Maiwase Sibande’s Lusaka Smokeless Charcoal came out third and fourth respectively.
Speaking during the grand finale held in Lusaka on Tuesday, Acting Minister of Small and Medium Enterprises Development, Elijah Muchima, emphasised the ministry’s organisational structure.
He highlighted that the ministry operates with technical departments that collaborate to provide comprehensive support, including business development, market linkages, registration, and cooperative development.
Mr. Muchima said these efforts are designed to enhance the competitiveness of Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises, ultimately leading to job creation and greater citizen involvement in economic activities.
Mr Muchima urged the lending institutions such as banks not to be too hostile towards the SMEs as has been the case where they are usually denied access to loans.
Meanwhile, Mr Muchima said he was impressed with the levels of business presentation by all the four finalists.
Speaking at the same event, Ecobank Zambia Acting Managing Director, Misheck Mkokweza, highlighted the bank’s commitment to keeping SMEs updated with global technological advancements.
He revealed the bank’s partnership with Microsoft as part of the global skilling initiative, aimed at training and equipping SMEs across Sub-Saharan Africa with essential digital skills and knowledge.
Mr. Mkokweza added that this initiative enables SMEs to harness digital tools effectively and pursue their business objectives in an increasingly digital world.
Meanwhile, Millennium TV executive director Patricia Chibiliti said the initiative resonates well with the new dawn administration’s policy towards promotion of the growth of the SMEs in the country.
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