FRA Disburses Over K1.9 Billion to Farmers for Crop Supplies

The Food Reserve Agency (FRA) has successfully completed payments to all farmers who supplied crops during the recently concluded crop marketing season, closing on October 31st, 2023. 

According to John Chipandwe, the Public Relations Coordinator for FRA, an impressive total of K1,943,195,420.00 has been disbursed to farmers nationwide.

Mr. Chipandwe provided a breakdown of the payments, stating that K1,942,776,920.00 was specifically allocated to farmers who supplied Grade A white maize. The remaining funds were distributed among farmers who provided other crops. 

This substantial disbursement reflects the Agency’s extensive procurement during the season, with a purchase of 6,938,489 fifty-kilogram bags of maize.

In comparison to the previous year, FRA expanded its operational reach by operating 1,301 satellite depots across the country, marking a 7.7 percent increase from the 1,208 depots in the preceding year. 

This expansion not only facilitated increased market access for farmers but also generated additional employment opportunities within rural communities.

Farmers who may not have received their payments are urged to visit designated banks in their respective areas to collect their funds promptly. 

FRA emphasizes that the timely disbursement of payments aims to support farmers in adequately preparing for the upcoming farming season, stimulating rural economies, and fostering development in rural communities.

The Agency expressed gratitude to all farmers who contributed to the success of the crop marketing season, recognizing their pivotal role in sustaining national food security. 

FRA remains committed to its mission of ensuring food security in the country through effective crop procurement and support to local farmers.