In Zambia's Lusaka and Southern Provinces, The Harvest Fund collaborates with six women's farming cooperatives, providing various agricultural supplies including fertilizer. Unfortunately, the fertilizer supply in Zambia is unreliable, with prices skyrocketing and shortages occurring during planting season. To address this issue, we have sought environmentally friendly solutions and turned to regenerative agriculture. In our recent blog post, we shared our partnership with soil scientist Brian Sakala, who advised us on the use of green fertilizers like cow or chicken manure.
A second life for poop
Unlike chemical fertilizers, organic fertilizers like cow or chicken manure offer numerous benefits. Firstly, they reduce greenhouse gas emissions and minimize reliance on harmful chemicals. Additionally, organic manure and cover crops provide several advantages for soil intensification. These fertilizers enrich the soil's structure, enhance nutrient availability, and promote microbial activity, all of which contribute to improved crop yields.
However, it is important to note that improperly using cow or chicken manure can have detrimental effects on the crops. The manure can potentially burn the crops if not applied correctly. Therefore, in collaboration with Brian, we plan to establish a demo site on the cooperatives' shared plot. Here, we will experiment with different application methods by combining either chicken or cow manure with other organic materials like leaves or corn husks. This experiment will allow us to determine the most effective mix for maximizing crop yield. Additionally, we will educate farmers about the importance of drying chicken manure before using it as fertilizer, as using it fresh from the chicken can be harmful to the crops.
Easier on our pockets
By harnessing the power of green fertilizers, we are laying the foundation for long-term growth in terms of both economic viability and environmental preservation. The use of green fertilizers reduces the need for costly synthetic inputs, thereby lowering production costs. Furthermore, adopting sustainable practices ensures the preservation of soil health and enables higher yields for future generations of farmers.
Overall, by actively implementing regenerative agriculture techniques and promoting the use of organic fertilizers, we aim to create a sustainable farming system that benefits both the environment and the livelihoods of local farmers.