Zambia to import 650,000 tons of maize from Tanzania amid severe production drop

Zambia plans to import 650,000 metric tons of white maize from Tanzania after a severe drought slashed its maize production by over 50%, Information Minister Cornelius Mweetwa announced on Wednesday.

The country’s maize output for the 2023/2024 season is projected to fall dramatically to 1.5 million tons, down from 3.2 million tons the previous season, according to a crop forecasting survey.

“The government has reached an initial agreement with the Tanzanian government to import 650,000 tons of white maize,” Mweetwa stated, revealing key cabinet decisions.

Agriculture Minister Mtolo Phiri, speaking in Parliament on Tuesday, confirmed that Zambia has suspended maize exports due to a significant deficit of 2.1 million tons and will import the essential grain to stabilize supplies.

This move highlights the urgent measures being taken by the Zambian government to address the food security challenges posed by the drastic reduction in maize production.