Zimbabwe’s private sector takes charge in maize import drive amid food security concerns

ZIMBABWE – The private sector in Zimbabwe has imported 630 000 tonnes of maize as the drive to ensure no one starves in light of ongoing drought conditions that have adversely affected agricultural output.

The government has expressed its gratitude toward the private sector for this significant contribution, recognizing its role in complementing state efforts to maintain food security across both urban and rural areas.

At a recent conference on the Drought Action Committee Feedback in Harare, Dr. Anxious Masuka, the Minister of Lands, Agriculture, Fisheries, Water and Rural Development, praised the private sector’s proactive stance in addressing hunger.

“I want to thank the private sector for having responded in the manner that they have, to assist the Government in this vital fight to ensure that we get enough grain for our population,” Dr. Masuka stated.

He noted that the 630,000 tonnes have imported to date and they are hopeful that they will continue to import more till the country’s need is attained.

To bolster this initiative, the government has issued import permits to 313 companies, allowing for the importation of a total of 3.8 million tonnes of maize.

Dr. Masuka indicated that the private sector is expected to play a critical role in supplying the livestock feed sector, which is estimated to require approximately 450,000 tonnes.

However, the minister issued a caution to the private sector, urging them not to exploit the current drought situation by imposing exorbitant prices.

“We are currently issuing import permits to millers, not traders,” he explained, emphasizing that the government is committed to controlling the price of maize to protect consumers.

In addition to the private sector’s efforts, the government plans to import up to 300,000 tonnes of maize, of which 40,000 tonnes have already been received by the Grain Marketing Board (GMB).

This collaborative approach is crucial, especially as the country faces a monthly consumption need of 45,000 tonnes of maize.

Dr. Tafadzwa Musarara, the national chairperson of the Grain Millers Association of Zimbabwe, affirmed the commitment of millers to support government initiatives aimed at eradicating hunger.

He highlighted that while they have begun imports, logistical challenges persist. “We have commenced imports that are ongoing. Our source markets in South Africa have trading terms that are a bit harsh, and we are working on that,” he said.

Despite the issuance of import permits exceeding the number of millers needing maize, Musarara noted a reluctance from local banks to finance these operations.

 “Local banks were no longer keen to provide funds because they felt there would be just too much maize,” he explained, adding that the current situation has allowed other sectors, such as car dealerships, to hold import permits, further complicating the maize supply chain.

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