Zambia Denies Maize Export Deal with DRC
The Zambian government has refuted claims that it has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) for maize or mealie meal exports.
In a statement issued by Acting Minister of Agriculture, Hon. Eng. Peter C. Kapala, the Ministry clarified that while formal export agreements have not been concluded, there have been enquiries from the DRC and other neighbouring countries.
Zambia has recorded an estimated bumper maize harvest of 3,655,646 metric tons for 2025—the highest in recent years—alongside 384,999 metric tons in carryover stock, bringing the national maize total to 4,040,645 metric tons.
With the national requirement for both human consumption and industrial use standing at 3,539,024 metric tons, the country projects a surplus of 501,621 metric tons. This surplus opens up the potential for export, though the government has emphasized that any consideration of exports will occur only after the Food Reserve Agency (FRA) meets its procurement targets for strategic reserves.
“The priority right now is to procure maize from local farmers and build up our national strategic food reserves. We are also working to open satellite depots in areas where the moisture content has reached the ideal 12.5%,” said Kapala.
The Ministry reiterated its commitment to safeguarding food security while exploring export opportunities for value-added maize products in the future.
