By Given Mutinta
MUNDUBILE PROMISES TIMELY MAIZE PAYMENTS TO FARMERS
Brian Mundubile the President of the National Reconciliation Party for Unity and Prosperity (NRPUP), has pledged timely maize payments to farmers within two days of depositing their maize.
To address current payment delays resulting often from inefficient procurement, logistical issues, and bureaucratic obstacles, he plans to streamline the entire maize value chain, from the farm gate to the buyer.
A key initiative is the establishment of a centralized digital payment platform connecting farmers, buyers; such as the Food Reserve Agency, private millers, exporters, and financial institutions.
Farmers will register their details, enabling automated payment triggers upon verification of sales.
Mundubile also intends to enhance the warehouse receipt system, where farmers receive digital receipts as collateral for loans or immediate payment.
This will expedite transactions by allowing buyers to verify ownership and transfer funds without physical maize delivery.
To assure liquidity for quick payments, he proposes creating pre-arranged financing through dedicated credit lines or a government-backed agricultural fund.
Besides, infrastructure improvements will be made in rural areas, including partnerships with private logistics firms to improve transportation.
He said that decentralized buying centers and mobile procurement teams will also be established to reach farmers in remote areas, facilitating immediate sales transactions via digital payments, thereby reducing travel for farmers.
Furthermore, robust transparency and accountability measures will be implemented, including independent audits of the digital platform, regular payment reporting, and grievance mechanisms, ensuring that the system is effective and trustworthy.
Mundubile asserts that these interconnected strategies will enhance farmer confidence, improve livelihoods, and promote Zambia’s agricultural sector growth.