Maize Supply at 700,000 Tons, Says Millers Association

The President of the Millers Association of Zambia (MAZ) has revealed that the country currently has over 700,000 metric tons of maize, enough to last up to the next harvest season.

MAZ President Andrew Chintala revealed the surplus during an interview with ZNBC in Lusaka on Sunday. An additional 150,000 metric tons is expected from commercial farmers, further cushioning supplies.

This news comes after Agriculture Minister Reuben Phiri said that maize—the country’s staple crop—will not be exported until it is known for certain how much will remain until the next harvest.

Food security has declined due to the drought that has affected over half of the country’s provinces, many of which are key agricultural hotspots, raising concerns for food supplies as well as the livelihoods of farmers who have been affected. Over 50% of the country are employed in the agriculture sector.

President Hakainde Hichilema announced plans last week to adjust the national budget to cope with the effects of the drought, saying that the government was poised to purchase all crops grown domestically to ensure sufficient supply. Chintala added that the government should help people who are unable to afford the crop by creating subsidies for those most affected.