By 
More than K595 million has been paid to farmers that delivered grade A white maize during the on-going crop-marketing season.
Food Reserve Agency (FRA) Public Relations Coordinator, John Chipandwe, said this in a statement issued in Lusaka on Wednesday.
Chipandwe said a total of K595,945,280 had so far been paid out to the farmers across the country.
He said a total of 146,948.50 tonnes of maize had so far been purchased as at July 25, 2023.
Chipandwe said this was equivalent to 2,938,970 by 50 kilogramme (Kg) bags of white maize.
“The Agency has noted so far that the response from farmers is encouraging and is assuring other farmers across the country to deliver their crops to the nearest FRA depots as payments are made within the shortest period since funds are available,” Chipandwe said.
He assured farmers of accurate scales that had been certified by the Zambia Metrology Agency (ZMA).
Chipandwe also reminded the farmers that as the harvesting season progressed they should not sell all their produce, but only what was excess and after putting aside a variety of food for domestic future consumption.
He said this was due to the fact that the national food security began at household level.
“The excess harvest can thereafter be delivered to any nearest FRA depot and the Agency will buy the stock and keep in the National Strategic Food Reserves for future use as a nation,” Chipandwe said.
He said that this would facilitate national food security.
“Therefore, farmers are urged to adhere to this guidance for the country to continue being food secure,” Chipandwe said.
WARNING! All rights reserved. This material, and other digital content on this website, may not be reproduced, published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed in whole or in part without prior express permission from ZAMBIA MONITOR.
Comments