Zambia, Malawi Sign $77 Million Maize Export Deal to Boost Regional Food Security
The Government of the Republic of Zambia has successfully concluded and signed a maize supply agreement with the Government of the Republic of Malawi, marking a major milestone in regional cooperation and food security efforts.
The agreement, valued at US$77 million, provides for the export of 200,000 metric tonnes of maize grain from Zambia to Malawi. The signing ceremony took place in Lilongwe and follows a recent telephone conversation between President Hakainde Hichilema and his Malawian counterpart, President Professor Arthur Peter Mutharika, highlighting the shared commitment of both Heads of State to address food insecurity in the region.
The contract was officially signed by Mr. Justin Chuunka, Executive Director of the Food Reserve Agency (FRA) of Zambia, and Mr. George Macheka, Executive Director of Malawi’s National Food Reserve Agency. The event was witnessed by Mr. Rueben Mtolo, Zambia’s Minister of Agriculture, and Ms. Rosa Fatch Mbilizi, Malawi’s Minister of Agriculture, Irrigation and Water Development.
Speaking during the ceremony, Mr. Mtolo reaffirmed the Zambian Government’s dedication to supporting humanitarian and food security initiatives across the region. He emphasised that the export aligns with the directive of both Presidents, adding that the maize will be sourced from Chipata in the Eastern Province to minimise transport costs and stimulate local economic activity.
“We are pleased to collaborate with Malawi in the spirit of regional solidarity and sustainable development,” Mr. Mtolo stated, further commending Malawi for prioritising the fight against hunger and food insecurity.
In her remarks, Ms. Mbilizi expressed profound gratitude to the Government and people of Zambia for their swift and positive response to Malawi’s request for strategic maize support. She highlighted that the administration of President Mutharika has prioritised food security through interventions such as irrigated winter cropping, promotion of climate-resilient crops, and strengthened bilateral partnerships.
“The maize procurement deal with Zambia will play a crucial role in stabilising our national food supply, especially in light of climate challenges and rising demand for staple commodities,” Ms. Mbilizi said.
The Zambian Government has emphasised that the agreement not only supports Malawi’s food security needs but also provides socio-economic benefits for Zambians through increased agricultural trade and cross-border cooperation.
The Ministry of Agriculture has assured the nation that the Food Reserve Agency will implement the contract efficiently and responsibly, ensuring that Zambia’s domestic food security remains fully protected.
“This agreement reaffirms Zambia’s position as a regional leader in promoting food security, economic cooperation, and diplomatic engagement within Southern Africa,” reads a statement issued by Mr. Balewa Zyuulu, Principal Public Relations Officer at the Ministry of Agriculture.
