State Media|Government has set up a taskforce to ensure transparent and equitable distribution of Mealie Meal.

The taskforce will make follow-ups with retailers to curb diversion of the maize-meal to the black market.

This comes amid observations that even refined maize-meal was no longer readily available.

There is panic-buying, while connected individuals buy as many bags as they can and divert them to the black market each time deliveries are made.

At the black market, subsidised roller meal is selling for almost twice the gazetted $50 for a 10kg packet.

Industry and Commerce Minister Dr Sekai Nzenza told a Press conference yesterday that the maize-meal taskforce was headed by her deputy, Raji Modi.

The taskforce has hit the ground running in Bulawayo, ensuring equitable distribution of the much sought after commodity.

“Already in Bulawayo, retailers have started receiving their maize-meal at affordable prices,” said Dr Nzenza.

The minister is in constant touch with GMB on grain allocations to millers to ensure the production of roller meal and its availability to consumers at affordable prices.

She appealed to consumers to avoid panic-buying and hoarding.

“We reiterate that none will go hungry as Government will ensure that we accelerate the importation programme,” said Dr Nzenza.

Grain Millers Association of Zimbabwe media and public relations manager Mr Garikai Chaunza yesterday said: “Maize has started moving from South Africa with the first batch having arrived in Bulawayo and we are calling upon local transporters to assist us move the grain.

“We are going to see huge volumes of maize grain consignments coming into the country until the situation stabilises.”