Agricultural Inputs Dispersed in Northern Province Through Private Partnership

The distribution of liquid fertilisers has begun in northern province in order to boost agricultural productivity. The fertiliser and natural boosters are provided by Geoveda Lenders Limited who currently employ 3000 workers across Zambia. 

Executive Officer, Vernon Chembe, has said the company aims to empower small entrepreneurs through loans and fertiliser. The firm intend to create jobs for Zambians throughout their supply chain. In fact, they intend to create 1000 jobs in every province in which they’re active.

The company specialise in the manufacture and processing of organic products like organic liquid fertilisers and boosters designed to cure and prevent livestock diseases.

Acting Northern Province Permanent Secretary, Lewis Mwape, emphasised the government seeks to encourage partnership between the private and public sectors. The government’s Public Private Dialogue Forum seeks to foster such partnerships, which Mwape emphasises can be of great benefit to the people of Zambia.

The benefits of fertilisers – cheap access, improved water retention in the soil, accelerated growth – align with President Hichilema’s recent call via Twitter for Zambians to move towards an agricultural model that focuses on efficiency. Geoveda’s organic fertiliser is particularly welcomed due to its comparative impact on the environment when compared to synthetic alternatives.

The distribution of this fertiliser will aid the government in its efforts to roll out the new Comprehensive Agricultural Support Plan. The plan, which replaces the Fertiliser Input Subsidy Programme, has a budget of K.9.1 billion for 2023, a 59% increase compared to last year. The reformed programme aims to improve extension support services, access to finance, and increase the use of high efficiency irrigation systems.

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