Government Sets January 10 Deadline for Clearing All Outstanding Farmer Payments
Government has confirmed that all outstanding payments owed to farmers who supplied maize to the Food Reserve Agency will be fully settled by January 10, 2026, following delays that affected disbursements to producers across the country.
In a statement issued on December 30, the Ministry of Finance and National Planning said payments to affected farmers are already underway and will continue in phases until the final settlement date. The ministry acknowledged that the delay in settling the payments was regrettable and assured farmers that mechanisms are in place to ensure full clearance within the stated timeframe.
According to the statement, farmers who supplied maize to the Food Reserve Agency are currently receiving payments on a rolling basis. The payments are being made in tranches as funds become available, allowing continued disbursement ahead of the January 10 deadline.
Government explained that the Food Reserve Agency is receiving funding from financing institutions in addition to proceeds generated from ongoing maize sales. These resources are being channelled toward settling the outstanding obligations to farmers who delivered maize under the agency’s procurement programme.
The ministry stated that this financing arrangement is intended to maintain a steady flow of payments while preparations are finalised for the complete clearance of all outstanding balances. Farmers are therefore expected to continue receiving payments during this interim period rather than waiting for a single lump-sum settlement.
Finance and National Planning Minister Situmbeko Musokotwane said government recognises the importance of timely payments to farmers, particularly during the farming season when access to capital directly affects household welfare and agricultural preparedness.
He noted that payments to maize suppliers play a direct role in supporting farming households, sustaining livelihoods, and enabling preparations for ongoing and upcoming agricultural activities. The minister said government remains fully committed to ensuring that every farmer who supplied maize to the Food Reserve Agency is paid in full.
The statement further indicated that the administration considers farmer payments a priority because of their contribution to national food security and broader economic stability. Government acknowledged the patience shown by farmers during the delay and expressed appreciation for their continued participation in national food supply efforts.
Dr Musokotwane said he joined President Hakainde Hichilema in thanking farmers for their perseverance and for continuing to support the country’s food reserve system despite the payment challenges.
The ministry did not specify the total value of outstanding payments but reiterated that all balances owed to farmers who supplied maize will be cleared by January 10. It also confirmed that additional updates will be issued as the payment process progresses.
The Food Reserve Agency serves as the country’s strategic grain buyer and manager, purchasing maize from farmers for national reserves and market stabilisation. Payments to suppliers are typically linked to financing arrangements and proceeds from grain sales.
Government said it remains focused on completing the payment process within the announced timeline and maintaining communication with farmers as funds continue to be released in stages.
Dear Government in power
Over this issue of disbursements to producers across the country. Your score out of 10 is 3.5. Accept your failure so that can tremendously improve. I do have family in farming and I understand their pain.
It will never happen. Come January 10 there will be another deadline.
Fat lot of use that is at such a time
It was 31 october now 10 january, we will be waiting for another deadline..nd point of correction its not even patience dat farmers are exercising but they jst dont have a choice
Planting season is long gonebut pay us civil servants our pension
Does the government really recognize timely payments? Who can buy fertilizer and plant maize on 10th january if that is timely payment as u call it?
Election year ultimatum! January 10 or else! Next ultimatum? Zescooo! Ministry of health? Free education up to unza?
Pay them, remauning ones, we know you over bought the maize, which is okay.