FRA reaches three million metric tonnes of Maize

The Food Reserve Agency (FRA) has achieved a historic milestone by securing three million metric tonnes of maize in national strategic reserves, representing the highest grain stock level ever recorded in the country's history. Announced during the ongoing 2026 crop marketing season, this accomplishment highlights a remarkable turnaround for Zambia's agricultural sector following the severe weather shocks and drought conditions experienced in previous seasons. FRA Executive Director Justin Chuunka confirmed that the rapid pace of purchasing and rigorous nationwide monitoring have ensured that local grain is safely mopped up and stored. This record-breaking accumulation is a direct implementation of President Hakainde Hichilema’s strategic directive to prioritize local food security and insulate the nation against heavy reliance on external grain imports. Government backing has been robust, with the treasury releasing billions of Kwacha to pay farming households swiftly upon delivery. By August, the FRA had disbursed over K6 billion to farmers who supplied significant volumes of non-genetically modified Grade A white maize within weeks of the marketing season opening, injecting much-needed liquidity back into rural agrarian economies. Provincial administrations and agricultural leaders have echoed the significance of these reserves, noting that regional depots have outperformed initial intake projections. For instance, strong yields and proactive mopping-up exercises in provinces like Lusaka and Southern Province have prevented post-harvest losses and ensured that small-scale farmers have a reliable, lucrative market for their produce. Ministers have assured the public that satellite depots will remain operational until every designated crop from compliant farmers is fully bought up. Beyond immediate domestic consumption, maintaining a three-million-tonne buffer cements Zambia's historical standing as a primary regional food basket within the Southern African Deve