The First National Bank (FNB) has been named the SME Bank of the Year at the Global SME Finance Forum Virtual awards ceremony held on 27 October this year.
Acting Head of Strategic Marketing and Communications, Mukuka Mulenga said the Global SME Finance Awards 2020 which are endorsed by the G20’s Global Partnership for Financial Inclusion (GPFI) were organised by International Finance Corporation – IFC, a member of the World Bank Group and the SME Finance Forum.
According to information made available to Zambian Business Times-ZBT, Mulenga said FNB was recognised amongst over 100 global participants for its digital innovation, exceptional products and services, as well as the unique and solution-focused manner it approaches challenges facing SMEs as they incubate, start, run and grow their businesses.
The awards were judged by a committee of industry experts, with specific focus on reach, uniqueness and innovation, effectiveness and impact, as well as dynamism and scalability.
And FNB CEO-South Africa Jacques Celliers, said he was humbled that FNB received global recognition as this showcases that the work it is doing for its SME customers is truly adding value noting that SMEs are important drivers of economic activity, across all corners of society and are often referred to as the ‘backbone’ of economies.
“As we continue facing unprecedented economic challenges, coupled with the impact of Covid-19, we are cognizant that the SME sector remains a glimmer of hope in helping our country to create jobs and promote inclusive economic development, he said.”
Bydon Longwe, FNB Zambia CEO also explained that FNB’s strategy for the SME sector is underpinned by a myriad of initiatives to support businesses throughout all their life stages.
Longwe said increasing presence in local markets further increases FNB’s ability to provide contextual solutions to businesses which will further contribute to addressing the challenges faced by the country such as unemployment, empowerment and economic growth.
The global award has cemented FNB’s place as a world class bank and the commitment for FNB to provide world class solutions. FNB in Zambia is considered among the best for SME’s and clients with business banking needs.
