Strengthening organic fertilizer value chains in Zambia: policy brief

The organic fertilizer value chain in Zambia is still at an early stage of development, fragmented, and under-commercialized but holds promise for improving soil health, lowering costs for farmers, and contributing to sustainable agriculture. Key constraints include the exclusion of organic fertiliz...

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Bibliographic Details
Main Authors: Subakanya, Mitelo, Kasase, Chitundu, Mulungu, Kelvin, Setimela, Peter, Simutowe, Esau, Thierfelder, Christian, Ngoma, Hambulo
Format: Informe técnico
Language:Inglés
Published: CIMMYT 2025
Subjects:
Online Access:https://hdl.handle.net/10568/180565
Description
Summary:The organic fertilizer value chain in Zambia is still at an early stage of development, fragmented, and under-commercialized but holds promise for improving soil health, lowering costs for farmers, and contributing to sustainable agriculture. Key constraints include the exclusion of organic fertilizer from the farmer input support program (FISP), high production and logistics costs, limited farmer knowledge, and limited research and development (R&D). Yet, the abundance of raw materials, emerging private sector players, and regional market opportunities provide a strong foundation for growth if supported by coherent policy reforms, targeted incentives, and strengthened advisory services.