NASFA Welcomes Government Assurance on Maize Payments to Farmers

The National Association for Smallholder Farmers (NASFA) has welcomed Government’s assurance that all outstanding payments to farmers who supplied maize to the Food Reserve Agency (FRA) will be cleared by 10 January 2026.

NASFA Executive Director Dr Frank Kayula urged farmers not to lose hope over the delayed payments and encouraged them to continue cultivating and increasing maize production.

Minister of Finance and National Planning, Mr Situmbeko Musokotwane, said Government regretted the delays but explained that payments were being made in phases as the FRA receives funds from financing institutions and proceeds from maize sales.

He assured farmers that payments would continue on a rolling basis until all outstanding balances are settled by the announced deadline.

In an interview, Dr Kayula acknowledged Government’s intentions in purchasing the maize but noted that the delays had been excessive.

“It is very good news and very welcome, but the payments have over-delayed. We still applaud the Government for committing to clear the arrears,” he said.

Dr Kayula said he was optimistic that the payments would now be concluded, pointing to Zambia’s recent maize export agreement with Malawi as a positive development.

The Governments of Zambia and Malawi recently flagged off the first consignment of maize destined for Malawi, marking a major step in strengthening bilateral co-operation and enhancing regional food security.

He said the export deal was likely to improve cash flows for the FRA and support timely payments to farmers, while also reinforcing the importance of maize production to Zambia’s economy and regional trade.