Reported by: Samuel Ernest.
Date: 24th February, 2025.
Samfya, Luapula Province, Zambia.
The Zambia National Service (ZNS) has reinforced its commitment to food security and price stability in Luapula Province, as senior officials outlined plans to sustain the affordability of Eagle’s Mealie Meal. During a recent visit to Samfya District, ZNS leadership emphasized strategic interventions aimed at mitigating the high cost of living and enhancing local production capacity.
Led by ZNS Chief of Fisheries and Livestock, Brigadier General Mutandalike Choonga, the delegation paid a courtesy call on Samfya District Commissioner, Mr. Kayula Mulenga, following an inspection of the Samfya Aquaculture Service Centre. The visit underscored the government’s broader agenda to integrate fisheries and agricultural development, fostering economic resilience in the region.
Speaking during the engagement, ZNS Luapula Province Regional Commander, Brigadier General Simasiku Ikabongo, reaffirmed the government’s position on maintaining controlled pricing for Eagle’s Mealie Meal. He assured the public that the staple food would continue to retail at K230 for a 25kg bag of breakfast mealie meal and K190 for roller meal, consistent with national pricing policies.
“This initiative is a direct response to the economic challenges facing our people. By stabilizing mealie meal prices, we are ensuring that no citizen is disadvantaged due to high costs,” Brigadier General Ikabongo stated.
He further revealed that plans were underway to establish a milling plant in Luapula Province, aligning with the government’s vision to boost local production and reduce dependency on distant supply chains. “We have secured a 10-hectare parcel of land, and once finalized, this facility will greatly enhance regional self-sufficiency,” he added.
District Commissioner Kayula Mulenga welcomed the proposed milling plant, highlighting Samfya’s strategic location as a central distribution hub for surrounding districts. “This development will not only create jobs but also reduce transportation costs, ultimately benefiting the end consumer,” he noted.
ZNS has committed to conducting a comprehensive feasibility study to assess maize production capacity, demand trends, and logistical factors before commencing construction. “Our team will evaluate the necessary infrastructure to ensure the project meets the long-term needs of Luapula’s residents,” Brigadier General Choonga assured.
Brigadier General Ikabongo also warned against unscrupulous traders inflating prices beyond the government-approved rates. “Some dealers are taking advantage of the situation by selling mealie meal at K300 per bag. This is unacceptable, and those found guilty will face strict enforcement measures,” he cautioned.
The Luapula Provincial Administration commended ZNS for its proactive approach in addressing food affordability and called for stakeholder cooperation in ensuring price compliance. “We urge all traders and stakeholders to support these government efforts, ensuring that Eagle’s Mealie Meal remains accessible to all,” the administration stated.
With the government’s continued investment in local production and price control measures, Luapula Province is poised to benefit from enhanced food security and economic stability, reinforcing national efforts to make staple foods affordable for all Zambians.
The Agency.
