LILONGWE-(MaraviPost)-Blantyre South East legislator Jeremia Jumbe has defended the government’s decision to maintain low maize prices, saying the move is necessary during the rainy season when many households face food shortages and economic strain.
Speaking in an interview with Maravi Post on Wednesday, Jumbe said increasing maize prices at this time would have worsened the situation for vulnerable families already struggling to make ends meet.
“Looking at the current economic trend, a lot of people could have suffered if the price had gone up,” Jumbe said.
He explained that during the rainy season, many households experience reduced incomes while food reserves from previous harvests begin to dwindle, making affordable maize crucial for survival.
Jumbe emphasized that while farmers’ concerns are understandable, the broader national interest must also be considered.
He noted that maize remains Malawi’s staple food, and any significant price increase would have a direct impact on the cost of living especially for low-income earners in both rural and urban areas.
However, some farmers have expressed dissatisfaction with the government’s position, arguing that the current buying price does not reflect the high cost of production.
They say they invested heavily in inputs such as fertilizer, seeds, and labor, and fear that low prices will reduce their profits and discourage future production.
Agricultural stakeholders warn that balancing the interests of producers and consumers remains a major challenge for policymakers.
While consumers are pushing for affordable food prices, farmers are calling for fair compensation to sustain agricultural productivity.
He stressed the importance of long-term strategies that support farmers through subsidies, access to affordable inputs, and stable markets, while ensuring food remains accessible to the general population.
The debate over maize prices continues as the country navigates economic pressures and seasonal food security concerns.
