eBusiness Weekly
Business Writer
State-owned the Industrial Development Corporation of Zimbabwe (IDCZ) is seeking a partner for its organic fertilizer project, according to a statement seen by this publication.
“IDCZ would like to expand its footprint in the fertilizer production sector by venturing into organic fertilizer production,” reads part of the statement.
“This is expected to fit into the horticulture production value chain, which is expected to grow on a yearly basis as more farmers develop their farming businesses to meet the export market requirements in pursuit of the much-needed foreign currency,” IDCZ added.
The industry is dominated by the production of synthetic fertilisers which are not good for the soils as well as the health and well-being of the people consuming food produced using such fertilisers.
The prevalence of non-communicable diseases across the world has resulted in more people becoming health conscious.
“Organic fertilizer manufacturing provides a low-hanging solution to this problem as there are abundant organic raw materials to process into value-added fertiliser at a lower cost than synthetic fertilizer production,” said IDCZ.
“This segment will target the niche market and the discerning and health-conscious members of society both locally and internationally.
The sector is currently dominated by very few, small players some of whom are struggling to make an impact on the market.”
With consumers becoming more concerned about their health, demand for organic foods including fruits and vegetables has risen steadily in the past 10 years.
Currently, there is a growing demand for organic foods among consumers, as more people are becoming health-conscious and looking for products that are high in nutrients and low in calories.
Consumers are also becoming more aware of foods containing synthetic pesticides and fertilizers and are switching to organic foods, which is driving the market growth of organic farming that is devoid of the chemicals used in crops.
IDCZ said a detailed market survey will be conducted to firm up on the market as part of the feasibility study development.
IDCZ is already in production of fertilisers through associate or subsidiary companies. It is a major shareholder in Chemplex Corporation, Zimbabwe Fertilizer Company and Dorowa Minerals which produces phosphates.
