Muchinga authorities say 700 bags of rain-soaked maize successfully dried, evacuated to Mpika FRA depot

Government, through the Muchinga Provincial Administration, has assured the public that measures had been taken to protect the national strategic food reserve following an incident at the Mutamba satellite depot in Mpika, where a severe storm exposed part of the stored maize to rain.

According to a statement issued by Muchinga Province Principal Public Relations Officer Ruth Mumba, the incident occurred on Friday, November 7, 2025, when strong winds partially blew off the protective tarpaulin covering one of the maize stacks at the depot.

This resulted in approximately 700 bags of maize being soaked by rain.
“Immediate action was taken to move the affected bags to the Tazara Open Shed in Mpika for drying, and we are pleased to report that the process was successfully completed.

“Following a quality assessment, including moisture content tests, the maize has been found fit for storage and will be professionally rebagged on Monday, November 10, 2025,” Mumba said.

She added that, as a precaution, the remaining maize stocks at the Mutamba depot are being systematically transported to the more secure Mpika FRA Depot to ensure their safety.

The Provincial Administration has also implemented urgent preventive measures, including reinforcing and securing all tarpaulin covers at the Mutamba depot. Additionally, all maize depots across Muchinga Province have been directed to conduct immediate inspections and strengthen their security measures.

“Government deeply regrets the soaking of the 700 bags of maize due to this unforeseen natural event. However, we want to assure the public that every step has been taken to protect the remaining stocks and prevent a recurrence.

“The protection of our strategic food reserves is a top priority. We are taking all necessary steps to safeguard this vital national asset,” Mumba said.

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