FRA Signs Maize Export Deal With Kenyas Baita Trading

By Justine Akakulubelwa The Food Reserve Agency – FRA- has signed a maize export agreement with Baita Trading Limited of Kenya for 540,000 metric tonnes of white non-GMO Grade A maize. Deputy Secretary to the Cabinet for Finance and Economic Development, SIAZONGO SIAKALENGE, says the maize will be exported to Kenya in six tranches, providing a major market for Zambia’s record surplus following a harvest of more than 5.1 million metric tons. Speaking during the signing of export agreement, Mr. SIAKALENGE said the export deal demonstrates government’s commitment to turning surplus maize into foreign exchange and economic growth. He said increased agricultural exports will also support Kwacha stability, while abundant maize stocks should help maintain stable mealie-meal prices on the domestic market. Mr. SIAKALENGE said Zambia recorded agricultural exports worth more than 1.1 Billion United States Dollars in 2025, up from 967 million dollars in 2024, with the Kenya deal expected to further grow exports in 2026 and beyond. He has challenged private-sector players to seize the export opportunities created by Zambia’s bumper harvest and help expand markets for locally produced agricultural commodities.