Zambian government lifts onions import ban due to shortages

Just weeks after the Zambian government banned the import of onions and potatoes, authorities reversed this decision. The main reason for this turnaround is that shortages of this basic product are starting to arise. The original decision was taken in an effort to boost local onion cultivation, but now the Agriculture Ministry says the country urgently needs to import 10,000 tons of onions. Bernard Sikunyongana, Chairman of the Zambian Fruit and Vegetable Traders Association, praised the government for its responsiveness and willingness to reconsider its decision. He said 10,000 tons of imported onions would be enough for three months' demand. Frank Kayula, former Director General of the National Union for Small-Scale Farmers in Zambia, added that the ...