GMB bosses in grain, cash scams

The maize is then sold to GMB at US$285 per tonne.

Farmers said they were forced to sell the maize to the agents because they paid cash on the spot.
“Some people have died while waiting for their money. They have got a well-oiled syndicate and they make sure that they are the ones who benefit when the money comes.
“We don’t even know when the money comes and the story is just that Government has not yet released the money. Surprisingly, we know some people who delivered after us but they have since been paid,” said Mr Henry Sobha of Glendale.

He said some farmers were selling livestock to buy inputs after losing hope.
“We have to buy inputs since the season is approaching but how do you plan when you do not have the money. Imagine selling cattle for inputs, it’s very bad,” he said.
Most of the affected farmers are from Mvurwi, Glendale, Bindura, Mt Darwin and Rushinga.

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“They are sabotaging Government programmes and if they are not investigated or stopped, the country’s agriculture will never develop,” said Mr Benjamin Zimuto.
In such areas as Rushinga, farmers were exchanging maize for fertiliser.
“Only a few weeks ago most of us delivered our maize to the board and we got fertiliser. We do not have any option because we need the inputs,” another farmer added.

A source at GMB headquarters in Harare said such stories are not new.
GMB general manager Mr Albert Mandizha last week warned the board would deal with any employee involved in corruption according to the company rules.
He, however, said some farmers were fuelling corrupt tendencies.

Mr Mandizha said the activities would end if the Finance Ministry released more money to the GMB.
“It takes two to tango. The farmers are also participating in the scheme but as an organisation, we will not tolerate such behaviour by our employees.

“Loyal employees should report such malpractices, but Minister Biti should avail the money to us so that we pay farmers. Of the US$110 million he promised in his mid term policy review, he has just given us about US$11,4 million yet we owe farmers US$41 million,” he said.