EFC Brings Banking Services Closer to COMESA and Soweto Market Traders

Entrepreneurs Financial Centre (EFC) Zambia has launched a new initiative aimed at bringing banking services closer to traders operating in Lusaka’s busy COMESA and New Soweto markets.

The financial institution has introduced mobile banking gazebos under a campaign themed “Save and Grow With Us,” which will run for the next 30 days in the two markets. The move is designed to help traders access banking services without leaving their businesses unattended.

According to EFC Zambia, many small-scale traders face challenges accessing financial services because most banking institutions are located within Lusaka’s central business district. As a result, traders often lose valuable business time and customers whenever they leave their stands to visit banks.

Through the new initiative, EFC says traders will now be able to access a wide range of financial products directly from their trading spaces. These include savings accounts, loan facilities, trade finance, invoice discounting services, and fixed-term deposit options aimed at helping entrepreneurs grow their businesses.

The institution stated that the campaign seeks to reduce the burden on marketeers while improving financial inclusion among small and medium-sized enterprises.

“EFC recognises how difficult it is for traders in these markets to leave their trading areas in search of financial services located around the central business district,” the institution said in a statement.

The bank further explained that the gazebos set up in COMESA and New Soweto markets from May 12, 2026, are intended to provide convenience and encourage a stronger saving culture among traders.

In addition to traditional banking products, EFC is also promoting mobile banking services that allow customers to deposit and withdraw money directly between mobile money wallets and EFC accounts without visiting a physical branch.

The institution believes the initiative will help traders save both transport costs and time, enabling them to focus more on running their businesses efficiently.

The outreach campaign has already attracted attention from traders and members of the public, with EFC representatives seen engaging marketeers and educating them about available financial services.

EFC Zambia currently operates eight branches across four provinces. These include four branches in Lusaka, two on the Copperbelt in Kitwe and Ndola, one in Solwezi, and another in Chipata.

The initiative reflects growing efforts by financial institutions in Zambia to expand access to banking services for informal sector businesses and underserved communities.