Fertilizer firm adopts local blending, targets soil specific output

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Tanzania Fertilizer Company Director of Institutional Services Nuru Mhando

DODOMA: THE country’s state owned fertilizer company is shifting toward local fertilizer blending and production systems aimed at producing soil specific formulations, reducing import dependence, and cutting production costs.

The new direction focuses on replacing uniform fertilizer distribution with products tailored to regional soil conditions through soil testing and analysis.

The Tanzania Fertilizer Company said the planned system will use soil data to guide fertilizer composition, ensuring different areas receive customized blends suited to local agricultural needs.

“The aim is precision fertilizer use that responds directly to soil needs,” Tanzania Fertilizer Company Director of Institutional Services Nuru Mhando said during the public service week exhibitions in Dodoma.

She explained that her firm was also investing in processing infrastructure to support the production of customized fertilizer blends and improve efficiency in supply.

According to her, a lime processing plant is also being planned in Tanga to produce agricultural lime used to improve soil quality and correct soil acidity.

Mhando said the expansion of domestic production is expected to reduce import related costs, improve fertilizer availability, and lower prices for farmers.

She added that the company continues to train farmers on proper fertilizer use to improve productivity and ensure efficient application of inputs.

Under the government subsidy programme, farmers continue to access fertilizers at reduced prices while the government covers part of the cost.

The company said about 49,500 tonnes of fertilizer were distributed during the 2025/26 season, covering both basal and top dressing fertilizers used in crop production, including food and cash crops, such as tobacco.

Agriculture remains a key sector in Tanzania’s economy, supporting livelihoods, food security, and export earnings, with government efforts focusing on improving input use, seed quality, and mechanization to raise productivity.