$6.8 Million Investment Boosts Fertiliser Production at NCZ, Dr. Bulaya Hails Government Efforts

Lusaka, Zambia – Climate Smart Agriculture expert Dr. Oliver Bulaya has praised the Zambian government for its strategic investment of $6.8 million into the Nitrogen Chemicals of Zambia (NCZ), a move he says will significantly enhance fertiliser production and bolster national food security.

Dr. Bulaya described the investment as a game-changer for Zambia’s agriculture sector, especially in the wake of increasing demand for high-quality fertiliser and seed. He said the modernisation of NCZ will not only revitalise the once-struggling plant but also position Zambia as a potential exporter of fertiliser in the region.

“The injection of $6.8 million into NCZ is a bold and necessary step. It will allow for increased production, improve input availability for our farmers, and reduce our reliance on fertiliser imports,” said Dr. Bulaya.

According to official projections, the revamped NCZ plant is expected to produce 144,000 metric tons of granulated fertiliser and 288,000 metric tons of blended fertiliser annually. This output is anticipated to meet local demand and support Zambia’s ambitions to become a regional agricultural hub.

Dr. Bulaya noted that the renewed capacity of NCZ reflects government commitment to agricultural sustainability and climate resilience. He further stated that the move aligns with national goals to increase productivity through local fertiliser manufacturing.

“This investment not only strengthens NCZ but directly supports farmers across the country by ensuring a consistent, affordable, and high-quality fertiliser supply,” he added.

The planned commissioning of the upgraded NCZ facility is seen as a pivotal milestone, marking a new chapter in Zambia’s efforts to achieve agricultural self-sufficiency and economic growth through the fertiliser and seed industry.

Experts believe that this investment will also create employment, support smallholder farmers, and stimulate other value chains tied to the agriculture and manufacturing.