Zambia, Malawi accelerate maize exports to support drought recovery, regional food security
Zambia and Malawi are moving quickly to implement a presidential agreement that will see 200,000 metric tons of maize exported to Malawi.
The initiative is part of broader efforts by both nations to deepen cooperation on food security and enhance regional resilience against climate shocks.
Finance and National Planning Minister Dr. Situmbeko Musokotwane met his Malawian counterpart, Joseph Mwanamveka, on the sidelines of the IMF–World Bank Annual Meetings.
During their discussions, both leaders reaffirmed their commitment to fast-track arrangements for maize exports through the relevant sector structures.
The maize export agreement follows a bilateral understanding reached between President Hakainde Hichilema of Zambia and President Arthur Mutharika of Malawi during a recent summit.
Musokotwane used the occasion to share Zambia’s experience in addressing one of its worst droughts in recent memory during the 2023–2024 farming season.
“Through a Cabinet-led, coordinated approach, our goal was to ensure that no Zambian died of hunger,” he said.
He explained that by realigning the national budget and securing partner support, the government expanded social cash transfers, launched a “Cash for Work” program for vulnerable citizens, and implemented targeted relief to protect livelihoods across the country.
The Minister highlighted that Zambia’s national action plan, partially funded by a World Bank grant of over US $200 million and additional partner contributions, provided food and cash assistance to 1.6 million households in drought-affected districts.
The relief efforts were coordinated through the Drought Disaster and Emergency Response Team, in partnership with the UN, World Bank, and civil society organizations.
Both Ministers agreed to convene an emergency inter-governmental meeting in Chipata, Zambia, in the coming days to finalize contractual, logistical, and policy arrangements for the maize exports.
Musokotwane emphasized that Zambia’s recovery and support to Malawi demonstrate the government’s commitment to regional solidarity, food security, and resilience building.
“When our neighbors face difficulty, we stand together,” he said. “Our experience reminds us that unity, preparedness, and compassion are as vital as rainfall itself.”
Mwanamveka also highlighted a desire to exchange knowledge, particularly on how Zambia successfully reversed the effects of drought into a historic bumper harvest.
The collaboration underscores the importance of regional cooperation in addressing food insecurity and building sustainable agricultural systems across Southern Africa.
