By Twink Jones Gadama
The National Food Reserve Agency (NFRA) has announced the arrival of 20,000 metric tons of maize from Tanzania.
The first consignment of 9,400 metric tons is expected to arrive in the country.
According to George Macheka, Director of the NFRA, the maize importation is aimed at addressing the current food shortage in the country. “We are working to distribute the maize to all parts of the country,” Macheka said.
The NFRA plans to import an additional 50 million metric tons of maize from other countries to supplement the local production.
Rev. Moses Chimphepo, Chairperson of the Civil Society Agriculture Network, said the importation of maize would help address the food shortage. “Many households are struggling to access maize, and this importation will help increase the availability of the staple food,” Chimphepo said.
Malawi is currently experiencing a severe food shortage, which has been exacerbated by drought, floods, and other climate-related disasters.
According to a report by the Malawi Vulnerability Assessment Committee (MVAC), approximately 5.7 million people are facing food insecurity.
The government has been working to address the food shortage through various interventions, including the importation of maize and the distribution of relief food to vulnerable households.
The NFRA’s maize importation is part of the government’s efforts to address the food shortage.
The agency is working to distribute the maize to all parts of the country.
