By KALOBWE BWALYA
GOVERNMENT and millers are holding talks to arrive at incentives that will enable the country see reduction in the cost of mealie meal locally which has been on an upward trajectory recently.
Minister of Agriculture Reuben Phiri however said Government has already allowed millers to buy maize from the Food Reserve Agency (FRA) and to export with a condition that this should help reduce the cost of mealie meal locally.
Mr Phiri said the ministry is currently talking to millers and other stakeholders on possible incentives for cheaper mealie meal especially for the domestic market.
He said Government is concerned with the ever-increasing price of mealie meal despite the country having surplus maize.
He said government is hopeful that millers will consider slightly reducing the price of the country’s staple following a drop in fuel pump price.
Mr Phiri said it is sad that the mealie meal price is ever increasing which should not be the case. Government will therefore ensure that mealie meal become affordable for everyone.
He said it is President Hakainde Hichilema’s major priority to ensure that agriculture is prioritised so that the country continues recording bumper harvests.
“It is unfortunate that some traders have opted to be selling mealie meal at an exorbitant price, however ministry of Agriculture is currently talking to millers and stakeholders on possible incentives for cheaper price ,” said Mr Phiri.
