Economist, Kelvin Chisanga, has urged government to be cautions with implementing it’s maize export policy amid projections of a 4 million metric tonne stock by the Food Reserve Agency (FRA).
Mr. Chisanga warns that despite the apparent surplus, the country must consider risks posed by climate change, regional food insecurity, and economic instability before aggressively pursuing exports.
He called for the establishment of a strategic food reserve capable of sustaining the country for at least two years to cushion against poor harvests, price shocks, or emergencies.
“There is also need to shift from exporting raw maize to processed products like mealie meal and flour, which offer better revenue, job creation, and industrial growth,” said Mr. Chisanga in a statement issued to RCV News in Lusaka today.
He stressed that any export drive must strike a balance between immediate trade benefits and long-term national food security and economic resilience.
Angel Kasabo
