FRA Expands Storage to Protect Record Maize Harvest

The Food Reserve Agency (FRA) has secured an additional 700,000 metric tonnes of storage space from the private sector to safeguard the bumper maize harvest.

Speaking to ZNBC News, FRA Acting Executive Director Justin Chuunka confirmed that the agency’s existing capacity of 1.2 million metric tonnes has already been filled. This year’s exceptional maize output has exceeded FRA’s fixed storage facilities, prompting the lease of extra space from private operators.

Mr. Chuunka assured the public that no maize will go to waste, stressing that all grain procured will be safely stored. He also praised the role of private transporters in moving maize from depots to storage facilities, describing their contribution as “patriotic.”

Highlighting the record-breaking harvest, Mr. Chuunka called for timely financial resources to be made available so that both farmers supplying maize in bulk and transporters handling logistics can be paid without delay.

He applauded Zambian farmers for achieving an unprecedented yield, noting that the bumper crop has also boosted employment opportunities, particularly for young people engaged in farming and related industries.