Basic commodity supplies guaranteed: Minister Nyoni

Source: The Chronicle – Breaking news

 

Dr Sithembiso Nyoni

Peter Matika, peter.matika@chronicle.co.zw

GOVERNMENT has assured the nation of the continued stable supply of basic commodities and has put in place measures to ensure citizens are not shortchanged by unscrupulous dealers.

In a statement, the Minister of Industry and Commerce Dr Sithembiso Nyoni said the Government was working closely with the private sector to ensure market stability while promoting consumer welfare.

As such, the ministry will continue to monitor the prices and availability of 14 basic commodities, which are cooking oil, mealie-meal, bathing soap, beef, bread, chicken, eggs, flour, fresh milk, laundry soap, rice, salt, sugar and washing powder.

Eggs- Image taken from Britannica

 

“The aim is to ensure that the consumer has access to basic products at affordable prices. On 3 January 2024, the Ministry of Industry and Commerce held robust engagements with key stakeholders, including various Government agencies and the Grain Millers Association of Zimbabwe,” said Dr Nyoni. 

She said the purpose was to deliberate on the maize supply situation, a basic commodity, which is required by the nation.

Minister Nyoni said the Government and grain millers committed to supplying the country with adequate mealie-meal through the various distribution outlets, including the formal retailers.

In addition, the Grain Marketing Board has also committed to avail and distribute maize to the millers through its various depots countrywide.

“In terms of imported maize, Zimra has committed to operate special routes to fast track the clearance at the various ports of entry and exit,” said Dr Nyoni. 

She also said her Ministry had an opportunity to meet the major wholesalers and retailers and similar commitments were made to ensure availability of basic commodities on the shelves, particularly roller meal.

Dr Nyoni said her ministry will continue to monitor the supply situation and apprise the nation accordingly.

“Let me applaud the local industry, both the manufacturers and the retailers for their continued support to Government policies to ensure consistent availability of basic commodities on the market,” she said.