By Morgan Chomba
The Citizen Economic Empowerment Commission (CEEC) has temporarily halted the Marketeer Booster loan program, according to its communications manager, Michelo Mukata.
Mr. Mukata stated that the commission is allowing time for beneficiaries to recover their resources.
He said that since 2022, the program has supported numerous individuals, including women, youth, and persons living with disabilities across the country.
He disclosed that the commission has injected significant resources into the program but has encountered challenges.
“There has been a low repayment rate among traders, as some beneficiaries perceive the loans as entitlements or rewards rather than obligations,” he said.
He cited the difficulty of reaching traders operating from unrecognized areas, which complicates the program’s outreach.
Mr. Mukata urged those who owe the Commission to repay their loans so that these funds can benefit other citizens in need.