MTolo Orders FRA to Protect Maize Stocks from Early Rains

Minister of Agriculture Mtolo Phiri has directed the Food Reserve Agency (FRA) to strengthen measures aimed at protecting maize stocks from damage caused by the early onset of rains.

The directive comes in response to the rains that have already begun in North-Western Province, posing a threat to maize stored in depots across the region.

During his tour of selected FRA depots in the province, Mr. Phiri emphasized that the agency bears full responsibility for safeguarding all maize stocks until the buying and storage processes are concluded.

He urged FRA management to act swiftly and implement proactive measures to prevent any potential losses, stressing that maintaining the quality of the maize is vital for the nation’s food security.

Mr. Phiri further noted that several parts of the country, including Northern and North-Western Provinces, often experience early rains around October, making it crucial for FRA to enhance its preparedness.

He has since called on both FRA officials and other government representatives nationwide to closely monitor storage conditions and ensure that no maize is lost or wasted due to poor handling or exposure to rain.