Own Correspondent |Subsidised mealie-meal supplies have remained erratic across the country, with major supermarkets running out of the commodity, forcing most consumers to access it on the black market.

The shortages have also turned some people into “professional queuers” as they hop from one supermarket to the other anticipating deliveries, either for own consumption or for the black market.

The re-introduction of subsidised mealie-meal by Government brought relief to most people as the commodity is pegged at $50, while it is selling for up to $100 on the black market.

But while the decision by Government was noble, citizens are battling to access the product as it is in short supply.

Whenever deliveries are made, consumers — especially those selling on the black market — stampede to get the product.

Some retailers are accused of releasing small quantities to the public, while diverting it to the black market.

Grain Millers Association of Zimbabwe (GMAZ) chairperson Mr Tafadzwa Musarara said shortages were a result of the non-availability of maize.

Grain Marketing Board general manager Mr Rockie Mutenha asked for questions to be put in writing through the public relations department.

Industry and Commerce Minister Sekai Nzenza was not reachable.

Mr Musarara said: “It is purely an issue of maize availability and the shortage has nothing to do with the subsidy, which we have resolved.

“The issue of availability stemmed from the fact that GMB was the primary source.

“However, Government allowed millers to import maize starting December 2019 and we have made efforts to import the maize. We signed up for 50 000 tonnes of imported maize per month from South Africa. Initially the maize imports will come from South Africa and later on from Brazil.

“As such, the subsidy for roller meal will cover both maize from local suppliers and imported grain. The maize will start arriving in the country as early as next week and that should improve the situation.”

GMAZ spokesperson Mr Garikai Chaunza, said: “We have been meeting members of the Confederation of Zimbabwe Retailers in Bulawayo today (yesterday) to try and find a lasting solution on the channelling of the subsidised mealie-meal to the black market.

“We resolved that supplies will be made to reputable retailers so that adequate monitoring is done. This is meant to address the issue of having mealie-meal being diverted to the parallel market.

“We are expecting the first consignment this weekend and tenders will be offered to transporters to speed up the transportation process.

“We will be working closely with the police to ensure that the grain reaches its intended destination.

“At least 110 000 tonnes are needed to satisfy the market per month.”

Source: State Media