The National Food Reserve Agency (NFRA) has purchased 64,274 metric tonnes of maize out of this year’s target of over 82,000 metric tonnes.

NFRA Chief Executive Officer, George Macheka, told Zodiak Online on Thursday that along with ADMARC's target of 20,889 metric tonnes, the two institutions have cumulatively procured 85,162 metric tonnes.

"The government and partners have been forthcoming with funds to procure maize from traders," said Macheka.

He emphasized that due to this year's growing hunger and poor maize output, the procurement drive will continue, funded by the government and partners to stock the strategic grain reserves.

Meanwhile, Grain Traders Association of Malawi President, Grace Mijiga Mhango, suspects that the agency is slow to meet the target due to liquidity challenges, as some suppliers have yet to be paid after delivering the grain.

Earlier, the treasury provided the NFRA with K22 billion to purchase the staple grain at its seven centers across the country.

According to the Malawi Vulnerability Assessment Committee (MVAC), 5.7 million Malawians are currently facing severe hunger.