The National Food Reserve Agency (NFRA) has procured 10,000 metric tonnes of maize since commencement of procurement of the commodity at the government’s set buying price of K310 per kilogram, as the agency awaits a directive from the government, on whether the maize will be distributed for relief or stored for future use.

On the other hand, The Agricultural Development and Marketing Corporation (Admarc) has announced buying 5 000 metric tonnes (MT) of maize from suppliers. Admarc acting chief executive officer Felix Jumbe outlined that the adjustment of the prices from K250 to K310 per kilogram (kg) attracted many suppliers.

NFRA Chief Executive Officer, Nasinuku Saukira, said the Agency is buying in phases and is expected to purchase 14,000 metric tonnes by end next week. Also concerned with the scarcity of the grain in Malawi, Leader of the Enlightened Christian Gathering Church (ECG), Shepherd Bushiri, has announced that he will start selling maize on Malawian markets at K5,000 per 50 kilogram (kg) a price that which translates to K100 per kg.