MAZ peg contracts with farmers in early maize production

THE Millers Association of Zambians (MAZ) has signed contracts with farmers who have produced early maize to boost reserves.

MAZ president Andrew Chintala said a number of farmers who have produced early maize have come forth to sign lucrative contracts.

In an interview, Mr Chintala said the farmers have done so to have a ready market to sell the crop easily.

He said the move will boost the strategic reserves for the millers to enhance mealie meal production.

Mr Chintala said it is gratifying to see that farmers have opted to sell their maize locally instead of exporting it.

“I think you are aware that the current situation in the country calls for some quick interventions. We have been called by farmers who have produced maize and some of the farmers we have signed with them already.

So, once they complete the harvest they will start pushing that maize to the millers. It is easier to buy from the local market instead of importing.

So, we are ready. If others can see us as an alternative market, they are equally welcome to come to us so that we can offload part of that maize.

“We are looking for that maize, so our appeal is that all those who have maize, please let’s transact so that food security is not compromised in any way,” Mr Chintala said.

He however said the millers will also tap into the early maize that has been produced by commercial farmers that have a direct contract with the Food Reserve Agency if it is made available on the local market.

Mr Chintala said the millers will not hesitate to mop up maize that will be offloaded on the market.

Meanwhile, Mr Chintala has anticipated that the 2023/2024 crop marketing season will start early instead of July.

He said because of the weather most maize has dried up and the marketing season might begin by April or May.