Food Reserve Agency (FRA) has urged farmers to exercise prudence when selling their harvested crops.
In a statement, FRA Public Relations Coordinator, John Chipandwe stated that the Agency has noted with concern media reports indicating that some farmers have already started selling their maize at giveaway prices.
Mr. Chipandwe said the Agency acknowledges that farmers need to generate income from their hard work, but selling the entirety of their harvest immediately after production and while the crop is still in the field can lead to losses.
He noted that this can also result in unintended consequences for both households and the wider food system at national level.
“Therefore, farmers are strongly encouraged to retain reasonable quantities of their produce for future household consumption and use the same stock as a buffer against unforeseen circumstances such as drought, market fluctuations, or supply disruptions,” Mr. Chipandwe advisee.
Mr. Chipandwe stressed that maintaining reserves helps to ensure food security at both domestic/household and national levels.
He added that gradual and strategic selling can enable farmers to benefit from better market prices over time, unlike disposing of all produce when supply is high and prices are typically low.
“The Agency remains committed to providing a reliable market as required by law, and farmers are urged to seek guidance from local agricultural officers from the Ministry of Agriculture on best practices for post-harvest management and current crop marketing prices,”he added.
Mr. Chipandwe emphasized that ensuring households remain food secure is a shared responsibility.
“By managing harvests wisely, farmers contribute not only to their own well-being but also to national food security,” Mr. Chipandwe said.
