Boost for Zim agriculture, million dollar fertilizer plant commissioned
By Delicious Mathuthu
Zimbabwe has receive a boost in fertilizer production for the agriculture sector following the commissioning of a new US$1 million fertilizer plant in Norton today (Saturday 20/04/2024).
Zimbabwe has been facing fertilizer shortages which compromised productivity as farmers were getting limited supplies.
The plant, which is located in Norton, Mashonaland West Province which is one of Zimbabwe’s top agricultural areas, is a Fertop Agriculture project, a subsidiary of Heliconvest Investment.
The Fertop Agriculture plant, funded by its mother company Heliconvest, has a capacity of producing over 300 tonnes of MoreHarvest brand fertilizer per day, amounting to about 80 000 tonnes each year.
Speaking during the commissioning of the plant, Fertop Agriculture and Heliconvest Investments Chairman, Pony Liang, said the company is committed to advancing Zimbabwe’s agricultural productivity and sustainability.
“This project exemplifies our shared commitment to advancing agricultural sustainability and promoting economic growth in Zimbabwe.
“We are confident that this state-of-the-art facility will play a pivotal role in enhancing agricultural productivity and food security in the region,” he said.
In a statement, the company said the state of the art plant will be using the latest technology in fertiliser production, sensitive to the environment.
“Fertop Agriculture… proudly announces the inauguration of their cutting-edge fertilizer plant in Norton, Zimbabwe.
“This momentous occasion marks a significant step towards enhancing agricultural practices, fostering economic development, and ensuring food security in the region,” the company said.
“… the newly commissioned facility is equipped with automatic blending lines and packing line, showcasing the latest advancements in fertilizer production technology.
“This state-of-the-art facility incorporates the latest technology, making fertilizer production more efficient and environmentally friendly.”
Fertop Agriculture further says it aims at providing a steady supply
of a variety if blended fertilizers in the country to ensure food security.
Mashonaland West Minister of State for Provincial Affairs and Devolution, Hon. Marian Chombo, was
Guest of Honour at the commissioning, and made an emphasis on government’s commitment to support investment into the agricultural sector.
Lands, Agriculture, Fisheries, Water and Rural Development Permanent
Secretary Professor Obert Jiri, Chief Fortune Charumbira, Chief Chivero and ARDA Chairperson Ivan Craig were some of the dignitaries present.
Fertop Agriculture says the presence of government officials at the commissioning shows the essence of Public-Private Partnership in sustainable development.
“Their presence underscores the importance of public-private partnerships in driving sustainable growth and development,” the company said.
All is in place and production of fertilizer has already began.
Fertop Agriculture was established in 2023 with a focus in agri-business investment while the mother company, Heliconvest Investments, has interests in mining, agriculture and trading.
