FRA buys 61,408 metric tonnes in North-Western

he Food Reserve Agency (FRA) has so far purchased 61,408 metric tonnes of Grade A white maize from farmers in North- Western Province.

FRA Head of Corporate Communication, John Chipandwe, says the purchases were recorded from 176 established satellite depots currently open and operational in the province.

Mr Chipandwe says K250,000,000 has so far been paid to the farmers.

“Since the crop marketing season is still in progress, payments have continued to be made to farmers in the province as funds are being disbursed to the region. As per government directive, all farmers supplying maize and paddy rice to FRA this year are being paid using digital payment methods,” he said.

He said the whole amount was paid using digital payment methods adding that farmer payments are being made within three days.

“As the crop marketing season progresses, the Agency wishes to remind farmers to respect satellite depot committees that are in-charge of depots countrywide,” he said.

Mr Chipandwe said farmers should follow guidance by the committees to ensure that operations at depots are conducted in an orderly manner and avoid congestion.