ZNS Commits to Procure Fertilizer from Nitrogen Chemicals of Zambia for Agricultural Boost
Lieutenant General Maliti Solochi, the Commander of the Zambia National Service (ZNS), has directed production units nationwide to purchase Basal Fertilizer from Nitrogen Chemicals of Zambia (NCZ) for the upcoming 2024/25 farming season and beyond.
The ZNS Commander disclosed plans to procure over 20,000 metric tonnes of fertilizer from NCZ to enhance agriculture production.
During a courtesy visit from NCZ CEO Mr. William Mwale at ZNS Headquarters, Lt Gen Solochi highlighted the Service’s commitment to supporting local industries, expressing confidence in the authenticity and quality of NCZ fertilizer. Funds have already been allocated for the procurement of the consignment.
Lt Gen Solochi emphasized the importance of ZNS personnel participating in national food security by cultivating at least a hectare or more of staple crops. Plans are underway to sign a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with NCZ, enabling Service personnel to acquire fertilizer through salary-backed loans.
The Commander assured personnel of a guaranteed market and prompt payment for their agricultural output. ZNS aims to cultivate over 2,000 hectares of maize to meet market demand, contributing to a reduction in mealie meal prices.
Lt Gen Solochi revealed intentions to collaborate with NCZ in distributing fertilizer under the Farmer Input Support Program (FISP) through ZNS units across the country. He commended NCZ for proactively producing local fertilizer, expecting it to reduce market costs.
Mr. Mwale, in turn, acknowledged ZNS’s significant contribution to national food security and highlighted NCZ’s commitment to meeting local standards.
He assured consistent and suitable fertilizer supply, with plans to increase production capacity to meet 50% of the country’s demand. NCZ is also diversifying into the production of battery water and acquiring new equipment to boost capacity.
