FRA buys 165,684 bags of maize in Mpongwe

The Food Reserve Agency (FRA) has purchased 165,684 bags by 50 kilograms of maize from farmers in Mpongwe District. Mpongwe District Commissioner, Mwambashi Mwitwa, says the maize was bought from 19 satellite depots across the district. Speaking during the launch of the 2026/2027…

The Food Reserve Agency (FRA) has purchased 165,684 bags by 50 kilograms of maize from farmers in Mpongwe District.

Mpongwe District Commissioner, Mwambashi Mwitwa, says the maize was bought from 19 satellite depots across the district.

Speaking during the launch of the 2026/2027 input redemption exercise, Mr Mwitwa disclosed that the maize was cultivated on 98,283.59 hectares and yielded 280,365.38 metric tonnes.

Mr Mwitwa said the district recorded an average productivity of about 2.85 metric tonnes per hectare.

“This is the first time in the history of Zambia that farmers are redeeming inputs in August. It shows our commitment to ensuring farmers access inputs early for the next farming season,” Mr Mwitwa said.

He further revealed that 500 farmers in Mpongwe have already received codes to enable them to redeem farming inputs under the Farmer Input Support Programme (FISP).

And Luanshya Agro Suppliers Director, Dinah Kabonso, urged farmers to only access inputs through approved channels.

Ms Kabonso warned that buying inputs from the streets compromises quality and can lead to poor yields.

“Farmers should avoid shortcuts. Genuine inputs accessed through the proper system will guarantee better production,” she said.

The early start of input redemption is expected to give farmers in Mpongwe and across the Copperbelt adequate time to prepare their fields ahead of the 2026/2027 farming season.