Government Owing Farmers K1.5 Billion for Maize Supplied to the FRA

Minister of Agriculture has disclosed that Government is owing farmers K1.5 billion for maize supplied to the Food Reserve Agency (FRA) during the 2024 crop marketing season.

Reuben Mtolo told Parliament during the question for oral answer session that in Chama district of Eastern province, FRA has bought over 2, 237.3 metric tonnes of non-GMO white maize valued at K14.7 million, out of which K8.5 million has been paid to the farmers, with a balance of K6 million yet to be cleared.

Mr. Mtolo reveals that FRA has also purchased over 465, 000 metric tonnes of white maize countrywide as at 22nd September 2024, costing more than K3 billion, out of which K2 billion has been paid, representing 64 percent performance.

He has assured that K500 million will be released next week and the other week in order to ensure that all the farmers are cleared.

Mr. Mtolo was responding to Chama North Member of Parliament Yotam Mtayachalo, who wanted to know why FRA has not paid some famers who supplied their maize, and when the farmers will be cleared.