East to contribute over 100,000 metric tonnes of maize reserves

East to contribute over 100,000 metric tonnes of maize reserves

By Gloria Siwisha

EASTERN Province is expected to contribute 108,600 metric tonnes of white maize to the Food Reserve Agency (FRA) as part of efforts to ensure national food security.

Eastern Province Minister Peter Phiri said government would also be a source of reliable market for smallholder farmers countrywide.

Phiri said this in a speech read on his behalf by the provincial deputy permanent secretary Dr Lewis Mwape at the 47th Eastern Province Agriculture and Commercial Show in Chipata.

He said government was also exploring digital platforms to streamline market information, improve logistics and reduce post-harvest losses.

“With several markets now open, we are pleased to see both government and the private sector buyers actively participating in purchase of agricultural commodities. This competition is healthy for our farmers as it ensures fair pricing, diversified markets and faster cash-flows,” Phiri said.

He also said the province contributed to the production of 535,743 metric tonnes of maize, and 71,906 metric tonnes of soya bean during the 2024/2025 farming.

“These figures are a testament to the resilience of our farmers, the commitment of our extension officers and the strength of the agricultural policies we implement,” he said.

And Phiri has announced that 2.4 million chickens have been vaccinated against New Castle disease in Eastern Province, and more than 22,000 calves vaccinated against East Coast Fever (ECF).

Phiri said an additional 50,000 calves would be vaccinated against ECF this year.

“Recognising that livestock diseases pose a major challenge to sustainable livestock production; government is committed to supporting livestock disease control activities in the Province,” he said.

Phiri said livestock and aquaculture production continue to play a critical role in improving the nutrition and quality of life of farmers because of their immediate and futuristic benefits.

Eastern Province Agriculture and Commercial Show Society chairperson Thomas Mtonga said there was an urgent need to bring efficiency to the entire agricultural value chain in order to increase the yields to 12 tonnes per hectare from the current two tonnes per hectare.

“We are, however, happy to note government has put efforts in place to address this through a number of means which include mechanisation, irrigation and financial support to farmers through various programmes,” Mtonga said.

Seedco regional sales manager David Chandalala said farmers were at the front-line of climate change hence the company’s commitment to delivering resilient, high performing seed varieties that helped farmers to thrive.

“Climate change is affecting the way we farm, from unpredictable rainfall and pro-longed dry spells, to pest outbreaks and declining soil health. The question guest of honour, is no-longer if we should adapt but how fast we can,” he said.

The provincial show was held under the theme ‘Adapting to Climate Change’. – NAIS