Why cheap Zambian maize may still fail to lower unga prices in Kenya
Kenya is looking to Zambia for additional maize supplies as domestic production falls, but the cost of transporting the grain into the country could determine how much of any price advantage reaches millers and, ultimately, consumers. Zambia has emerged as one of the regional sources being considered as Kenya confronts a sharp decline in maize […]
Zambia and Kenya have entered into a significant agreement, with the southern African nation exporting 540,000 metric tonnes of Grade A, non-GMO white maize to the East African country. This deal emerged following Zambia's record maize production of over 5.1 million metric tonnes, which left the nation with a surplus for export purposes.
Deputy Secretary to the Cabinet for Finance and Economic Development Siazongo Siakalenge highlighted the surplus as an opportunity for Zambia to generate foreign exchange, assist farmers, and boost economic growth. The agreement is also set to enhance regional food security while strengthening trade ties between Zambia and Kenya, as reported by local media.
Suresh Desai, Chairperson of the Food Reserve Agency (FRA), stated that the deal reflects growing trust in the quality of Zambia's agricultural produce. It aligns with the government's objective of increasing maize production to an annual target of 10 million metric tonnes. Martin Kinoti, Director of Baita Trading Limited, welcomed the agreement, emphasizing how it would contribute to regional food security and deepen economic relations between Zambia and Kenya.
The maize shipment will be transported to Kenya in five separate batches, with prices based on current market rates. The deal follows Kenya's ongoing reliance on regional markets to bolster its domestic grain supplies, while Zambia aims to leverage its expanded agricultural output to boost its export market. Critics raised concerns regarding the involvement of private entities in the maize importation process on behalf of the government, questioning the involvement of state corporation the National Cereals and Produce Board in the deal. They argued that this practice was detrimental to the economy.
Written by urgent.news from KahawaTungu's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
This story
This is one outlet's version. Read the fullest account.
- Zambia signs 540,000-tonne maize export deal with Kenya kahawatungu.com
