As one way of addressing challenges rocking the supply of fertiliser on the market, the National Commission for Science and Technology (NCST) has developed a new type of fertiliser called Organi-Mineral Fertiliser.
The new fertiliser is being touted as affordable and environmental friendly as it is being manufactured using organic matter.
NCST Director General Gift Kadzamira has said trial for the fertiliser conducted last growing season showed that it has huge potential.
Kadzamira said the product, which was tested in a liquid form, will be granulated for easy application by local farmers.
“It’s indeed true that we are developing this product and I am very happy to report that farmers, who participated in our trials last growing season, have reported several standout advantages, including it’s effectiveness,” she said.
Kadzamira said the fertiliser has been carefully tailored for local environment to suit the needs of local farmers.
“Our aim is to develop fertilisers and other agricultural technologies that harmonise with the local ecosystem,” said Kadzamira.
She has since indicated that in the next growing season, the institution is ready to supply farmers with the product.
“We believe our product has come at a critical time when the agricultural sector is grappling with fertilizer shortages due to, among others, forex scarcity,” she added.
Coleta Tembo, a Dedza-based farmer involved in the trial of the fertilizer hailed the product, calling it effective.
“This fertilizer has managed to restore soil fertility in my field and it’s cost-effective,” said Tembo.
Statics shows that the country requires about 400,000 metric tonnes of fertilizer annually, most of which is not being supplied due to persistent forex shortages.
