Govt asked to clarify planned importation of maize

Government has been called upon to give a clear position on the planned importation of maize from South America following the contradicting statements on the status of available maize stocks in the country.

FDD Spokesperson Antonio Mwanza tells QFM News that the contradictory statements from President Lungu and Agriculture Minister Given Lubinda go to show that there is no proper coordination and planning in the PF government.

Antonio Mwanza

Mr. Mwanza says it is understood that President Lungu was speaking from an informed point of view when he said the country might import maize in view of the anticipated poor harvest and the available maize stocks.

He says it is therefore worrying to hear the Agriculture Minister contradicting the President’s statement.

And MMD Sinda Member of Parliament, Levy Ngoma says people should be worried that government does not have a proper plan of dealing with the looming hunger in the country.

Mr. Ngoma says government should give a clear statement whether maize will be imported as rightly put by President Lungu or the nation has enough maize stocks to last for over three years as stated by Mr. Lubinda.