Nationwide distribution of capsule fertilizer underway as farmers show growing interest

The Smallholder Farmers Fertilizer Revolving Fund of Malawi (SFFRFM) has successfully rolled out the nationwide distribution of encapsulated bio-organic fertilizer, which officially began on 1 September this year.

According to SFFRFM spokesperson Grace Thipa, all 51 SFFRFM retail outlets across the country have been fully stocked with the capsule fertilizer.

She expressed satisfaction with the initial response from smallholder farmers, noting that while the product is new on the market, adoption has been encouraging.

“So far, we are happy with the adoption of the product. Capsule fertilizers are relatively new on the market, but we have registered reasonable sales,” she said.

Thipa added that the rollout has been smooth and without any supply challenges, as all shops remain well-stocked and accessible to farmers nationwide.

“All our 51 retail shops have the fertilizers, and we have not experienced any challenges,” she emphasized.

To help farmers understand how to use the product effectively, SFFRFM plans to conduct demonstration sessions and field days across all regions.

“We will set up capsule fertilizer demonstration fields in all regions and arrange field days to engage farmers on the proper use and benefits of these fertilizers. Farmers can also visit any SFFRFM shop nearest to them for assistance on usage and application procedures,” Thipa said.

The encapsulated bio-organic fertilizer developed in India and approved for use in Malawi in November 2024 is now being marketed locally through SFFRFM. One capsule, priced at K45, 000 can be used to treat a one-acre plot.