An agricultural expert, Leonard Chimwaza, has urged farmers to sell their crops to the Agricultural Development and Marketing Corporation (ADMARC), saying the move will help them fetch better prices.
Chimwaza’s advice comes in the wake of a recent announcement by ADMARC Executive Director Daniel Makata, who confirmed that the state grain marketer is set to begin purchasing crops next week, with all necessary preparations already completed.
Speaking in an interview with Yetu Radio, Chimwaza noted that ADMARC typically offers more competitive prices compared to those offered by unscrupulous vendors in local markets.
He encouraged farmers to prioritize quality when harvesting and packaging their produce, stressing that high-standard maize sold to ADMARC will not only earn them profits but also support the country during times of hunger and national crisis.
To improve accessibility, Chimwaza called on ADMARC to open more depots in rural areas, noting that long travel distances to sell crops discourage many smallholder farmers.
He also highlighted the importance of using accurate and standard weighing scales at ADMARC depots to ensure farmers receive fair value for their produce.