Zimbabwe: GMB Receives 15,000 Tonnes of Maize

ZIMBABWE has in the past week received at least 15 000 tonnes of maize from the region as Government intensifies efforts to augment local supplies.

GMB acting general manager Mr Zvidzai Makwenda confirmed that consignments were being delivered from Zambia, Malawi and South Africa.

Last Tuesday, GMB received more than 2 000 tonnes of maize. Aspindale Depot has so far received 390 tonnes, Banket Depot 120 tonnes, Hwange 180 tonnes, Chegutu 60 tonnes, Chinhoyi Depot 690 tonnes, Cleveland Depot in Msasa 150 tonnes, and Norton 90 tonnes, all from Zambia.

From Malawi, Norton Depot has received 300 tonnes while the Beitbridge Depot received 150 tonnes from South Africa.

"The programme on maize importation into the country is on course to ensure that there is enough grain in the country.

"The Government has paid for maize that is being imported from Malawi, South Africa and Zambia," said Mr Makwenda.

Although there had been some challenges in the movement of maize from these countries, the situation had improved over the past week.

"Maize is being moved by both rail and road trucks to receiving depots like Bulawayo, Aspindale in Harare, Beitbridge," he said.

GMB has added Gweru and Kwekwe to be receiving depots to cope with the increased movement of grain.

The national granary has also deployed its officials in Malawi and Zambia to mobilise transporters to ensure the smooth movement of the grain.

"Zimbabwe has some existing contracts in Malawi, Zambia and South Africa. To date, the country has received 40 000 metric tonnes of maize imports from Zambia from a total of 150 000 tonnes, and a total deficit of 110 000 is coming," he said.

However, Mr Kwenda highlighted that they are currently facing transport challenges with only 400 trucks presently bringing the maize in.

Speaking during a media tour of Aspindale Depot in Harare on Wednes-day, the depot manager, Mr Sam Matabeya, confirmed the deliveries.

President Mugabe last week also confirmed that maize had started coming in from neighbouring countries.