Jesuit Scholars Urge Zambian Government to Expedite Availability of “affordable” Foodstuff

Lusaka, 05 November, 2023 / 9:00 PM

The Jesuit Centre for Theological Reflection is calling on the government of Zambia to speed up the process of providing “affordable” maize flour, mealie meal, in the local market.

In October, the Zambian government announced that it had reached an agreement with the Zambia National Service (ZNS) to release cheaper mealie meal on the local market. The government-provided flour is expected to retail at K230 (US$10) per 25kg, a decrease from K250 (US$11).

In a Tuesday, October 31 statement, JCTR officials say that while it is important to hasten the process of availing cheaper mealie meal, the government needs to come up with a long-term solution to enhance food security. 

“We encourage the government to expedite this process, as such direct assistance can significantly aid households in meeting a portion of their daily nutritional needs,” officials of the Lusaka-based Centre that is engaged in research, advocacy, education, and consultancy on social issues say.

While implementing the food program, the Jesuit scholars add that it is important for the government to ensure that most vulnerable communities are targeted.

They further urge the Zambian government to proceed with its plans to distribute maize grain directly through the Food Reserve Agency (FRA) to communities as a short-term measure to mitigate the impact of the rising cost of mealie meal. 

“It is crucial that this effort is accompanied by a long-term strategy to enhance domestic maize production and food security, as sustained and affordable access to staple foods should be a fundamental goal for ensuring the well-being of all Zambians,” JCTR officials say.

They propose the establishment of “a more sustainable approach that involves enhancing maize production (and other cereals) thus allowing the Food Reserve Agency (FRA) to maintain a consistent grain stock throughout the year, available at an affordable price.”

Zambia has been experiencing a maize shortage, which has affected the production of mealie meal, thus leading to an increase in its price.

In their October 31 statement, JCTR officials also raise concern about the “persistent” high cost of living in the Southern African nation.

They say the high cost of living has left citizens with the challenges of affording basic needs.

JCTR officials call on President Hakainde Hichilema-led government to address the high fuel prices, saying, “It is crucial for economic stability.”

“Achieving stability and predictability in fuel prices is essential to prevent these costs from being passed on to consumers,” they say.

The Jesuit scholars also urge the government to “enhance social protection initiatives to guarantee their meaningful impact and preserve human dignity, both by increasing the value transfer amount on programs such as social cash transfer and expanding the coverage to reach more beneficiaries.”