ILLEGAL SALES OF MAIZE AND OTHER FARM PRODUCE

ILLEGAL SALES OF MAIZE AND OTHER FARM PRODUCE

The nation is informed that this is a lean year based on the available indicators as there has been prolonged dry spells and other serious flash floods. The Ministry of Agriculture has observed that there has been a lot of theft and sales of green maize and partially dry maize before the actual time of harvest. This malpractice may put the nation in critical situation of food insecurity.

The Ministry of Agriculture is seriously warning all unscrupulous buyers involved in this malpractice including thieves who engage in stealing the maize crop from farmers whilst in the field that the law will take its course once found.

In improving food availability in relation to the prolonged dry spells, serious flash floods and other harsh climatic circumstances, the Ministry appeals to all farmers to preserve the maize grain after harvest using proper storage practices (it is recommended that an adult person requires 4 bags of 50 kilograms of cereals per annum); engage in production of sweet potato, cassava and cowpea wherever possible. Those with access areas that may have residual moisture and those with irrigation facilities are encouraged to fully utilize these areas.

The Ministry is further requesting farmers and all those who are concerned to take these measures seriously to protect the nation from food insecurity.