Farmers in Mbala District have started delivering maize to the Food Reserve Agency (FRA) satellite depot after the commencement of the marketing season.

Mbala District Commissioner, Justus Sikazwe confirmed the development to the Zambia News and Information Services (ZANIS) in Mbala recently.

Mr Sikazwe is however happy with the response from many farmers that are

taking maize to FRA saying this will help the district to contribute to national food security and also help to fight hunger in the country. 

The District Commissioner has since cautioned farmers who want to sell the maize to other buyers to desist but instead support the government.

A check at Mwamba satellite depot found farmers preparing their maize in readiness for sale to the agency.

The agency had only managed to buy 212 by 50 kilograms bags of maize in two days.

Kelaby Simuchenje, one of the farmers from Kasunga village is happy to sell his maize to the agency.

He said his decision will also help the government to achieve its target to secure more food for strategic food reserves.

FRA is buying a 50 kg bag of maize at K330.