AS the 2016/17 farming season draws closer, it is refreshing to note that some banks have committed themselves to continue availing funds towards the agricultural sector while discussions over the use of 99-year leases as collateral continue. The 99-year leases have been a bone of contention between farmers and banks, with the latter holding back on advancing loans in the absence of bankable collateral, to the detriment of the sector.CBZ Holdings head of agribusiness Mr Cordiad Munemo told delegates at a Zimbabwe National Chamber of Commerce breakfast meeting on Wednesday that while stakeholders were still negotiating over the bankability of the 99-year leases, his bank would provide funding for viable projects despite the absence of collateral.

Agribank official Mr Divine Ngwenya also said while negotiations on the bankability of the 99-year leases were progressing, the bank would continue financing the sector.

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