Zambia has banned maize and mealie meal exports due to a prolonged dry spell threatening the upcoming harvest. Minister of Agriculture Reuben Phiri emphasized prioritizing national food security and announced the restrictions until a harvest assessment is conducted. They’ve deployed security forces to guard smuggling routes and increase patrols in vulnerable areas to prevent illegal exports. This action raises concerns about the dry spell’s potential impact on Zambia’s food supply and their commitment to safeguarding domestic needs.