FRA reaches three million metric tonnes of Maize

The Food Reserve Agency (FRA) has reached three million metric tonnes of maize in national strategic reserves, the highest level ever recorded in the country, with the milestone reached in September as the 2026 crop marketing season continues. FRA Executive Director, Justin…

The Food Reserve Agency (FRA) has reached three million metric tonnes of maize in national strategic reserves, the highest level ever recorded in the country, with the milestone reached in September as the 2026 crop marketing season continues.

FRA Executive Director, Justin Chuunka says the rate at which maize is being purchased means the grain coming in is being secured, with the agency continuing to monitor purchases and storage capacity across the country.

Ministry of Information and Media Director Spokesperson, Henry Kapata, said the record stock comes as Government Implements President Hakainde Hichilema’s directive to secure enough maize locally and avoid relying on imports, following the food-security concerns created by the drought.

Mr Kapata has told the media  in Lusaka that the Government has also been supporting the purchase of maize from farmers, with FRA having paid more than K6 billion to farmers by 28 August after purchasing over one million metric tonnes within days of the opening of the marketing season.

He says the three-million-tonnes reserve puts Zambia in a stronger position to meet domestic food requirements and maintain its position as a regional food basket.