An Investigation into the Impact of Interest Rate Fluctuations by Financial Lending Institutions on Small and Medium Enterprises’ (SMEs’) Loan Repayment among Selected Lusaka-Based Firms

This study purposed to investigate the impact of interest rate fluctuations by financial lending institutions on small medium enterprises’ (SMEs’) loan repayment Among selected Lusaka based SMEs. The issue of high interest rates charged by financial institutions is a significant concern for SMEs in Zambia. The study was guided by three research objectives; to examine the challenges SMEs face in repaying financial credit gotten from financial lending institutions; to find out the effect of interest rate fluctuations on loan repayment among SMEs operating in Lusaka City and to propose a policy framework amenable for stable and affordable interest rate by financial lending institutions operating in Lusaka City. The target population for this research was one hundred (100) SMEs registered and operating in Chilenje market in Lusaka city. This study employed a descriptive design and a mixed-method approach, combining qualitative and quantitative data collection to leverage the strengths of both methodologies. The research population was well-defined and complete for simple random and purposive sampling methods. The research paradigm was rooted in pragmatism, focusing on empirical data to explore the relationship between interest rate fluctuations and SME loan repayment behavior in Lusaka, using a sample size of 53 SMEs from Chilenje market. Data collection involved administering questionnaires with both open and closed-ended questions and interview schedules. This research study successfully established the effect of interest rate fluctuations on loan acquisitions among SMEs operating in Lusaka city. It demonstrated that SMEs are sensitive to changes in interest rates, with the majority indicating that their decision on loan acquisitions is affected by fluctuating interest rates. This underscores the importance of interest rate stability for SMEs in making informed borrowing decisions and managing financial risks. The study advocates for a framework which promotes transparency and market efficiency, implementing regulatory measures to mitigate risk and encourage competition, and facilitating access to credit information and alternative financing options. By comparing these findings with existing research, the study underscores the complex nature of SME loan repayment behaviors in response to interest rate fluctuations and emphasizes the need for collaborative efforts among policymakers, financial institutions, and SME stakeholders to address challenges and promote sustainable growth within the SME sector.