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BUSINESS FOCUS WITH BALEWA ZYUULU
In a bid to fortify agricultural sustainability and elevate the nation’s economy, the Zambia Environmental Management Agency (ZEMA) has given the green light to two ground-breaking Organic Fertilizer Blending Plant projects.
These ventures align seamlessly with the Environmental Management Act No. 12 of 2012 and the Environmental Protection and Pollution Control Regulations, Statutory Instrument No. 28 of 1997.
Proposed to be established in the heart of Chilanga District, situated within Lusaka Province, these visionary projects are spearheaded by Malcut Investments Limited and Golden Horse Investments. Collectively valued at an estimated sum of US$ 3,000,000, these ventures are poised to revolutionize the agricultural landscape in Zambia.
Acting Director General of ZEMA, Mr. Maxwell Nkoya elucidated their fundamental purpose – the production of organic fertilizer derived from a medley of organic materials, including chicken manure, vegetative waste, black soil, molasses, and sawdust.
“The organic fertilizer production will not only service the needs of local farmers but will also significantly contribute to the Government’s mission to provide affordable and accessible fertilizer for the burgeoning agricultural sector,” Mr. Nkoya emphasized in an official statement provided to the media in Lusaka.
Mr. Nkoya went on to underscore the critical role that Zambia’s agricultural sector plays in the nation’s economy. With the agricultural industry serving as a cornerstone of the nation’s economic stability, augmenting the Government’s endeavors through initiatives like these projects could serve as a potent catalyst for bolstering food security across the nation. The ripple effect of this initiative promises to be far-reaching, propelling Zambia towards a brighter and more sustainable agricultural future.
In this edition of the business focus we look at the economic benefits of the Organic Fertilizer Blending Plant projects and how they elevate the nation’s economy.
The ripple effect of this initiative promises to be far-reaching, propelling Zambia towards a brighter and more sustainable agricultural future.
Establishing an organic fertilizer plant in Zambia yields several significant economic benefits:
Increased agricultural productivity
Organic fertilizers enhance soil health and fertility, resulting in higher crop yields. Farmers benefit from improved productivity and can produce surplus for sale, thereby increasing their income.
Cost savings for farmers
Organic fertilizers are often cheaper than synthetic ones, making them a cost-effective choice for farmers. This reduces their input costs, increasing their overall profitability.
Reduced dependency on imported fertilizers
With a local organic fertilizer plant, Zambia can reduce its dependency on imported chemical fertilizers, saving foreign exchange reserves and promoting self-sufficiency in agricultural inputs.
Employment opportunities
The establishment and operation of the organic fertilizer plant creates job opportunities at various levels, from factory workers to administrative staff, contributing to local employment and economic growth.
Value addition to natural resources
Organic fertilizer production adds value to locally available organic materials, utilizing natural resources effectively and reducing waste.
Promotion of sustainable agriculture
By encouraging the use of organic fertilizers, the plant supports sustainable farming practices that preserve soil health and reduce environmental degradation, contributing to long-term agricultural sustainability.
Export potential
High-quality organic fertilizers produced by the plant can potentially be exported, generating foreign exchange for the country and expanding Zambia’s footprint in the global organic farming market.
Economic diversification
Investing in the organic fertilizer industry diversifies Zambia’s economy, reducing its dependence on traditional sectors and promoting a more resilient and balanced economic structure.
Empowerment of small-scale farmers
Access to affordable organic fertilizers empowers small-scale farmers; enabling them to compete effectively in the market and improve their economic standing.
Food security and nutrition
Increased agricultural productivity due to organic fertilizers contributes to food security within the country, ensuring a stable food supply and better nutrition for the population.
Therefore, the economic benefits of an organic fertilizer plant in Zambia encompass improved agricultural outcomes, cost-efficiency, employment opportunities, and sustainable resource utilization, ultimately driving economic growth and prosperity for the nation.
It is also important to note that while synthetic fertilizers provide immediate benefits in terms of enhancing crop growth and increasing yields, it comes with several disadvantages, particularly when not used judiciously and in a sustainable manner. There are some disadvantages of synthetic fertilizers in the context of Zambia and some are:
Soil degradation and soil health: Continuous and excessive use of synthetic fertilizers can lead to soil degradation by disrupting soil microbial communities, reducing soil organic matter, and altering soil structure. This can result in diminished soil fertility and productivity over time.
Nutrient imbalance: Synthetic fertilizers often provide a limited set of nutrients (e.g., nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium) in specific ratios. Over-reliance on these fertilizers without considering the broader range of nutrients needed for healthy plant growth can create imbalances and deficiencies, affecting crop quality and resilience.
Acidification and Soil pH Imbalance: Some synthetic fertilizers, especially nitrogen-based ones, can lower the soil pH over time, leading to soil acidification. Soil acidification can negatively impact nutrient availability and soil health, making it less suitable for certain crops.
To address these disadvantages, promoting sustainable agricultural practices, encouraging soil testing and appropriate fertilizer application, integrating organic matter into farming systems, and educating farmers about balanced nutrient management are critical steps towards minimizing the negative impacts of synthetic fertilizers in Zambia.
The author is an Economist and a multiple Award Winning and certified financial journalist.
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