Spreading the Knowledge on How to End Dependence on Chemical Fertilizers
Soil fertility is the most valuable asset of every smallholder farmer, especially in Malawi, where over 80% of the population depends on their land for survival. In recent years, this fertility—and consequently, yields—have been stagnating or declining due to climate change effects such as droughts, floods, and heatwaves. Another major factor is the contamination of soils with heavy metals and other pollutants, often present in chemical fertilizers, which has led to the disappearance of essential soil microbes. These microbes play a crucial role in breaking down organic matter, storing moisture, and mobilizing nutrients for plants. Additionally, improper application of fertilizers and pesticides has caused environmental damage, including water pollution.
Soil degradation has occurred over decades, resulting in the loss of organic matter—one of the key indicators of soil resilience against climate change (especially droughts), as well as diseases and pests.
POSSIBLE SOLUTIONS
Mbeya fertilizer—a mixture of organic materials such as manure, maize or rice husks, wood ash, and a reduced amount of mineral fertilizer—has proven to be a useful transitional tool for many smallholder farming communities in Malawi. Over two to three years of application, soil organic matter and microbial diversity can gradually recover, ultimately allowing farmers to completely eliminate the use of chemical fertilizers such as NPK and Urea.
Additionally, biofertilizers, which are 100% organic, can be made using locally available resources such as fresh livestock manure and urine, crushed charcoal, sugarcane molasses, and nutrient-rich plant leaves (such as Moringa or Mexican sunflower). When mixed and fermented in a drum for 30 days, beneficial microorganisms multiply, creating a powerful natural fertilizer. This solution can then be diluted and applied using a sprayer or watering can over large areas of land.
Foliar application of biofertilizers not only enhances plant health and productivity but also reintroduces beneficial microbes into the soil. To further improve their effectiveness, soils should always be covered with organic mulch, such as tree prunings, maize stalks, or grasses.
Step by step, smallholder farming communities can regain their food sovereignty and restore agroecosystems.
Read more in CARD’s recently published Policy Brief on Fertilizers:
🔗 Read here
Or visit 🌍 www.cardmalawi.org for more information.