Malawi urged to export maize to hunger-hit neighbors

The World Food Program (WFP) has asked Malawi to export 16,000 tons of maize to neighboring countries like Zimbabwe and Tanzania that have reportedly been hit by hunger, Nation Online of Malawi reported Tuesday.

It quoted Malawi Agriculture and Food Security Minister Uladi Mussa as saying in Lilongwe recently that the government has not yet decided on the request, but was quick to say it is important to assist the countries in need.

"WFP requested government for about 16,000 tons of maize to help countries like Zimbabwe and Tanzania. We have not yet responded, but as far as we are concerned, it is important to assist these countries, because we were also assisted during the time the country was hit by hunger," said Mussa.

Asked whether Malawi has the capacity to export the requested amount of maize, Mussa said even one local trader can meet the requested 16,000 tons.

In an interview later, Mussa said the total consumption of maize in the country is 2.1 million tons and that this year's maize output was estimated at 2.5 million tons.

"But definitely we have to first ensure that our food reserves have enough stock. We are targeting to have at least 150,000 tons in case of emergencies. Above all, we want to ensure that the poor have enough food before we think of honoring WFP's request," he said.

Source: Xinhua