CONSUMERS are cautiously welcoming a significant drop in mealie meal prices across the country, with the Zambia Consumer Association (ZACA) urging milling companies to maintain the reductions for long-term affordability.
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The price cuts, ranging from K60 to K130 per bag, have been confirmed by the Millers Association of Zambia (MAZ).
MAZ president Andrew Chintala attributed the price reduction to the influx of newly harvested maize into the market.
He explained that the blending of this new maize with existing stock has bolstered production, leading to the “considerable reduction” in prices, with some major brands seeing cuts of over K120.
Despite the positive development, ZACA executive secretary Juba Sakala expressed “cautious optimism” in an interview with Kalemba.
While welcoming the price cuts, Sakala stressed the critical importance of sustained implementation.
“Our focus is not just on short-term price reductions but on establishing a system that guarantees stable prices over time,” Sakala stated.
“We understand that price fluctuations are inevitable but it is crucial that we aim for a long-term solution that provides relief to consumers without placing undue pressure on the milling industry.”
Sakala further articulated ZACA’s aspiration for even lower prices to ensure widespread access.
“We hope to see mealie meal prices drop to as low as K100, K50, or even lower, so that every Zambian can afford it, irrespective of their financial situation,” he said.
“Affordable food is a basic human right and as a nation, we must strive to ensure that all our citizens have access to nutritious and affordable staples, such as mealie meal.”
This development comes as a relief to many households grappling with the cost of living.
By Sharon Zulu
Kalemba May 22, 2025
