MBABANE – In a move aimed at easing pressure on household food budgets and reinforcing national food security, the National Maize Corporation (NMC) has announced a 26 per cent reduction in the price of maize.
The development is set to provide significant relief to thousands of households that have, in recent months, been frustrated by rising prices of basic commodities and essential services.
Consumers are currently grappling with the approved electricity tariff increase of 13.61 per cent, which has further strained already tight household budgets.
The State-owned grain supplier confirmed that the price of maize has been reduced from E7 081 to E5 175 per tonne effective April. This represents a decrease of E1 906 per tonne.
As maize is the staple food for emaSwati, the reduction is expected to have a direct and meaningful impact on food affordability across the country.
In practical terms, the decrease in maize prices is highly significant for emaSwati, as it offers tangible relief to households.
Most families rely heavily on maize meal for daily meals, including dishes such as siphuphe (pap). When prices decline, families are able to afford more food, easing pressure on household finances.
The savings may also enable households to allocate funds towards other essential expenses such as transport, school fees and electricity.
Another positive outcome of NMC’s decision is the potential improvement in food security. Lower maize prices reduce the risk of hunger, particularly among low-income households, rural communities and large families, as food becomes more accessible and affordable.
The decision is also expected to have broader economic implications. Maize prices influence inflation levels, the overall cost of living and general economic stability. When maize becomes more affordable, food inflation can slow down, thereby easing economic pressure on consumers and contributing to a more stable economic environment.
Announcing the development, NMC Chief Executive Officer Mavela Vilane described the intervention as both ‘decisive and deliberate’, noting that it forms part of the corporation’s broader strategy to stabilise the maize market while safeguarding consumers.
“This reduction is a decisive and deliberate intervention by NMC to ease pressure on households and reinforce stability within the maize market,” Vilane said.
“We are confident that this adjustment will deliver meaningful relief to consumers and positively impact the affordability of staple foods. As NMC, we remain fully committed to protecting national food security and advancing grain sovereignty for the benefit of emaSwati.”
The corporation has also adjusted the prices of packaged maize sold directly to the public. A 70kg bag has been reduced from E503.20 to E369.80, while a 50kg bag now costs E265.80, down from E361.20. These price reductions are aligned with the revised per tonne rate.
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Announcing the development, NMC Chief Executive Officer Mavela Vilane described the intervention as both ‘decisive and deliberate’. (File pic)