Online Reporter
Mukudzei Chingwere in Mutare
Zimbabwe is accelerating efforts towards national fertiliser self sufficiency amid global supply chain disruptions caused by the war in Ukraine and ongoing conflict in the Middle East, where the United States and Israel are bombing Iran unprovoked.
The twin crises have interrupted international fertiliser flows, affecting Zimbabwe and threatening the country’s agricultural development plans.
Vice President Dr Constantino Chiwenga, who is touring strategic economic projects in Manicaland, revealed this after visiting Dorowa Minerals, which is on a revival path following a US$5 million capital injection. The VP said although he was impressed by the phased revival plans, current geopolitical developments demand that authorities reassess and quicken the recovery process.
“I think we are now on the right track. The plant itself is a marvel, you can see new equipment has been fitted,” said VP Chiwenga.
“Fertiliser has become key to our crop production. Because of the geopolitical situation, much of the fertiliser we used to source was produced in the Middle East; we now need to produce fertiliser ourselves. When we go back to Harare, we will sit down with all the concerned ministries. We want a Whole-of-Government approach to ensure that all required steps are carried out concurrently and that we are able to produce enough of our basic fertiliser.”
During the tour, the VP visited Dorowa Minerals in Dorowa, Sabi Star Lithium Mine and Verify Engineering in Mutare. He is scheduled to visit additional companies in the province over the coming days.
Dorowa Minerals Limited, the country’s sole phosphate mine, once produced 150 000 tonnes per annum but output fell to about 3 500 tonnes. The company has since secured a loan facility of US$5,3 million to restore the plant. VP Chiwenga described the Government’s renewed focus on domestic production of key agricultural inputs as a strategic priority to achieve self sustenance and shield farmers from international market volatility.
Speaking after touring Verify Engineering, the VP said he was impressed by the progress since commissioning.
“We are delighted by the progress Verify Engineering has achieved since the plant was commissioned by His Excellency the President. They now produce nearly all major industrial and medical gases,” said VP Chiwenga.
“They have requested assistance in establishing depots nationwide. We will begin with Harare and Bulawayo; they will establish depots in the other provincial cities independently.
“Oxygen tanks to be fitted in all major hospitals. They have undertaken additional research important to the country, and we have encouraged them to continue; we will provide full support,” said VP Chiwenga.
