Zambia signed an agreement with Kenya’s Baita Trading Limited for the export of 540,000 metric tonnes of Grade A, white non-GMO maize following a bumper harvest in the southern African country.
The deal comes after Zambia recorded maize production of more than 5.1 million metric tonnes, leaving the country with a significant surplus for export.
Deputy Secretary to the Cabinet for Finance and Economic Development Siazongo Siakalenge said the surplus presents an opportunity for Zambia to earn foreign exchange, support farmers and strengthen economic growth.
The agreement is also expected to enhance regional food security while deepening trade ties between Zambia and Kenya, local media said.
Food Reserve Agency (FRA) Board Chairperson Suresh Desai said the deal demonstrates growing confidence in the quality of Zambia’s agricultural produce.
He said the agreement is in line with the Government’s ambition to increase maize production to 10 million metric tonnes annually.
Baita Trading Limited Director Martin Kinoti welcomed the agreement, saying the export would contribute to regional food security while strengthening economic relations between the two countries.
The maize consignment will be transported to Kenya in five tranches, with prices determined according to prevailing market rates.
The agreement comes as Kenya continues to rely on regional markets to supplement domestic grain supplies, while Zambia seeks to capitalise on increased agricultural production by expanding its export market.
Critics asked why private entities were being allowed to import the maize on behalf of the government.
“We know the owners of the this company are linked to top government officials. Ordinarily we would be seeing the National Cereals and Produce Board for the importation of the food,” said an official in government who asked not to be named.
He said Zambia is using state corporation as a representative for the deal.
“This is what is killing our economy.”
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