ZNFU urges govt to revisit its position on soya beans

By MacPherson Mukuka

The Zambia National Farmers Union -ZNFU- has appealed to Government to revisit its position NOT to buy soya beans from farmers.

ZNFU President, JERVIS ZIMBA says failure to buy the commodity is likely to result in wastage of the grain and will affect farmer momentum.

Speaking during the signing ceremony for the supply of early Maize to Food Reserve Agency –FRA- by ZNFU, Mr. ZIMBA said government should intervene by buying some quantities to avoid exploitation of farmers by private buyers.

Meanwhile, Mr. ZIMBA said, the UNION intends to produce 500 thousand metric tonnes of early maize.

He said ZNFU will supply 40 thousand metric tonnes of early maize to FRA and the rest will be exported.

And FRA Board Chairperson KELVIN HAMBWEZYA said the Agency wants to stimulate maize production among commercial farmers.

Mr. HAMBWEZYA said commercial farmers are key in maize farming due to their large scale production.

Meanwhile, Mr. HAMBWEZYA said the decision by FRA not to buy soya beans is an opportunity for local farmers to look into the international market.

And Millers Association of Zambia –MAZ- President ANDREW CHINTALA said the millers will support the production of early maize by ZNFU.

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