Zambia to Export 150 Trucks of Maize to Malawi Daily
The Ministry of Agriculture has directed all officers and institutions involved in the transportation and export of maize to the Republic of Malawi to accelerate operations and increase truck movements to a minimum of 150 per day.
The directive was issued by John Mulongoti, Permanent Secretary for Technical Services, during a working visit to Eastern Province, where he toured the Mwami Border Post to assess the maize export process under the government to government arrangement between Zambia and Malawi.
Speaking after inspecting operations at the border, Mr Mulongoti emphasised the need for efficiency, coordination and urgency in executing the export programme.
“We must enhance our operational efficiency and ensure that at least 150 trucks are cleared and dispatched per day. This is critical to meeting our contractual obligations and maintaining Zambia’s credibility in regional trade,” he said.
The Permanent Secretary noted that while safeguarding national food security remains a priority, it is equally important for Zambia to honour its bilateral commitments in a timely and transparent manner.
During the visit, Mr Mulongoti also toured several depots managed by the Food Reserve Agency across Eastern Province to assess stock levels, storage conditions, loading procedures and compliance with operational guidelines.
He urged officers to streamline loading systems and strengthen coordination among depot managers, transporters, security agencies and border authorities to support the increased dispatch target.
Mr Mulongoti further commended the Provincial Administration, FRA, security wings, clearing agents and border officials for their role in the export programme, noting that effective inter agency collaboration is essential to achieving the daily dispatch goal.
He reaffirmed Government’s commitment to transparency, accountability and professionalism throughout the export process, while continuing to strengthen Zambia’s food systems and regional cooperation frameworks.
The Ministry of Agriculture said it will continue to closely monitor operations to ensure the accelerated export target is achieved without compromising compliance and quality standards.
