Mitchell Dzoro
The Grain Millers Association of Zimbabwe (GMAZ) has unveiled their masterplan in grain processed products supply for the drought period that is ending in July 31 2025.
The food security of Zimbabwe is under threat due to the impact of global warming but GMAZ has vowed to increase grain importation.
“We will be increasing our source countries to about 5, to include Brazil, Mexico, Russia, Argentina, and America.
A GMAZ delegation will be in Sao Paulo and meeting members of the Brazilian Grain Exporters Association to negotiate and conclude supply agreements of maize (white and yellow) and rice,” said the chairman of GMAZ, Tafadzwa Musarara.
GMAZ, in its effort to supply grain for the drought period, it is diversifying its source countries as a way of mitigating against the risks of unstable geopolitics,
“We are aiming to bring in 1,4 million metric tonnes of maize between now and July 30, 2024 utilizing all our frontiers.
Beira port will dock maize shipments for the Eastern and Northern part of the country…
Plumtree and Beitbridge will continue to provide gateway and expedited services for maize from South Africa.
This comprehensive plan assures the market of adequate stocks from local millers,” said Musarara.
Their masterplan also includes massive distribution of roller meal products to rural shops.GMAZ revealed on their new grain miller, ‘Champion Foods’ ,which will be a key player in the supplication of maize in rural areas during the drought season.
The association also commended the government for forming Local and International Relief Agencies, “We would like to commend the government for creating the Drought Action Committee, which is a joint committee of government, development partners and private sectors. This forum seeks to, among others, coordinate the efforts of these three parties.”
His Excellency the President Mnangagwa declared the 2023-2024 agricultural season a ‘State of National Disaster’ following a drought that was cause by El Niño.