Malawi bans exportation of maize to improve food security as hunger bites

LILONGWE, Malawi

The Malawi government banned exports of maize on Thursday to improve food security in the country, which is currently in an acute food shortage.

Secretary for Industrialization, Business, Trade, and Tourism Charity Musonzo said the restriction is part of the government’s efforts to stabilize the local food supply, control price fluctuations and safeguard the “livelihoods of millions of Malawians who depend on maize as their primary staple.”

“Maize is classified as a licensable public commodity under the Control of Goods Act, as such exporting it without proper authorization is illegal. Any individuals or businesses found violating this restriction will face legal action in accordance with the law,” said Musonzo.

Malawi is experiencing an acute food shortage, which, according to a food assessment report from the Malawi Vulnerability Assessment Committee (MVAC), affects 4 million people who are going without food due to prolonged dry spells.

During the official opening of the 2025 budget session of parliament, President Arthur Peter Mutharika described the situation as a “national crisis,” and appealed for food aid from the international community to address the situation.

The president declared 11 districts of the country a state of national disaster, two weeks ago.

Malawi has gone through cyclones and disasters in the last five years that have affected its food production.