MZUZU-(MaraviPost)-Second Vice President Enock Chihana has shifted the spotlight onto the economic risks of maize hoarding, warning that individuals keeping large stocks for speculative future sales may face significant financial losses if they delay releasing the grain onto the market.
Chihana made the warning on Tuesday afternoon during an interactive meeting with stakeholders in Mzuzu, where he also addressed concerns over the government’s decision to source maize externally.
He explained that government opted not to buy locally for two main reasons:First, some suppliers are allegedly concealing maize in warehouses, making it difficult for authorities to trace available stocks.
Second, publicly announcing a government purchase would likely trigger artificial price hikes, pushing maize beyond the reach of ordinary Malawians.
“There are people hiding maize in warehouses. How can government buy what it cannot locate.
“And if we declared our intention to purchase, prices would immediately be raised, making the commodity unaffordable,” he said.
Shifting to urban issues, the second VP also challenged Mzuzu residents to take greater responsibility for the cleanliness and development of their city.
He noted that several challenges such as poor waste management and inadequate maintenance of business premises can be addressed through community initiative.
“My appeal to business operators is simple: organise yourselves, refurbish your buildings, and clean the areas around your shops.
“Why wait for the council to collect rubbish right at your doorstep? How can investors be attracted when the city remains this dirty,” said Chihana.
