M'mbelwa district council bans sale of green Maize

By Victoria Yande

M'mbelwa District Council has announced a ban on vendors selling green maize in an effort to prevent theft and maintain order in the district.

Phiri- The ban will take effect from 31st March 2024 PIC Victoria Yande

According to Public Relations Officer for M'mbelwa District Council Joel Chiheni Phiri, said the ban will take effect on Monday, March 31, 2025.

Phiri emphasized that anyone found violating the ban will face arrest and has urged all vendors to comply with this directive to avoid any consequences.

He highlighted that the council's decision aims to protect farmers' produce that has matured and ensure that maize is sold through legitimate channels and reduce hunger crisis.

" Some unscrupulous people take advantage to steal other people's maize from the fields, by banning vendors from selling fresh maize, the council hopes to prevent thieves from taking advantage of stealing farmers maize by selling their produce at low prices, on market,"said Phiri.

Phiri encouraged vendors who sell fresh maize to explore alternative business opportunities, which would not only comply with the ban but also contribute to boosting the local economy.

"We want to see our vendors venturing into other businesses that can help grow our economy," Phiri said.

One of the farmers from Mwanyamula area in the district, Pachalo Gondwe have welcomed the council's decision, saying it will help protect their maize.

"We commend the council for banning vendors from selling fresh maize, previously, the prevalence of theft has resulted in significant losses for us farmers, resulted into hunger crisis in our area, this action will help safeguard our produce and mitigate the risk of theft, ultimately contributing to food security and economic stability in our community,"said Gondwe.

The district council has assured the public that it will work closely with law enforcement agencies to ensure that the ban is enforced effectively.

The ban on fresh maize sales by vendors is expected to have a significant impact on the local market. As the district council works to ensure a smooth transition, vendors are urged to seek alternative livelihoods. By doing so, they can continue to contribute to the district's economic growth while complying with the new regulations.