Smallholder Growers Tobacco Finance  
(A1, Old Resettlement and Communal Growers)

Agribank in partnership with TIMB and the following are the requirements:

• Old clients must have proof of sales currently taking place. (Growers are encouraged to show commitment by employing their own resources to reduce heavy reliance on borrowings).
• Old clients applications will be fast-tracked if they have already repaid their loans in full or if the prospects of full loan repayment exist.
• A full cropping programme and cash flow for the coming season should be presented.
• New applicants must have proof of access to land through either an allocation permit/offer letter or lease arrangement.  Please note that this scheme is strictly for eligible A1, communal and resettlement tobacco farmers.
• All new applicants are required to produce a certified copy of  their National Identity.
• New applicants who have grown tobacco before are required to submit production records (including tobacco sales sheets)  i.e. years of experience, area grown and  yield.
• The availability of adequate curing and handling facilities and management of cropping at the farm with details of qualifications and experience of the manager.
• A list of assets used on the farm to accompany application will be an added advantage.
• TIMB will provide inputs and Agribank will provide working capital for the same crop.
• Applications to be submitted to the nearest Agribank branch or TIMB office.

Preferential treatment will be given to growers who are working in groups as this facilitates easy loan administration and input distribution.

Eastern and Southern African Trade and Development Bank (PTA Bank

This facility is targeted at Exporters and funding is for both pre and post shipment finance. Loan tenor is 12 months.

Arab Bank for Economic Development in Africa (BADEA) 

This line of credit is targeted at agricultural and food processors. Funding is mainly for capital expenditure although working capital may be considered. Loan tenor is up to 24 months.