Published: 10 hours ago

Blue Ribbon Foods, Zimbabwe's second-largest milling company, has suspended operations at its Bulawayo plant due to a severe maize shortage, contradicting government claims of a national surplus.

The company's seven silos, each holding 180 tonnes, have been empty since April, forcing production to a halt. At full capacity, the plant produces 60 tonnes of maize meal daily and employs 34 workers per shift.

"The situation is critical. Our workers are hanging in the balance," said Nqabutho Mkhize, Blue Ribbon's Sales Coordinator for Matabeleland North.

Despite President Emmerson Mnangagwa's assurances of a "bumper harvest" and government reports of 2.9 million tonnes of maize produced, millers are struggling to source grain. David Moyo, chairperson of the Grain Millers Association of Zimbabwe (GMAZ) Southern Region, said filling even a single 30-tonne truck can now take a week.

The government banned maize imports in June, worsening supply shortages. Other milling companies, including National Foods and Sunset Marketing, have also downsized or laid off workers.

Trade analysts warn the maize shortage could trigger a major food crisis if the import ban persists. Economist Tinashe Murapata estimates actual maize production is closer to one million metric tonnes, far below official projections.

"We need an environment where maize can flow freely and market forces determine prices," Moyo said. "This isn't just about millers—it's about every Zimbabwean's right to affordable food."
- zimlive

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