DIY fertilizer is a blessing as farmers face steep prices due to the Iran war

The Iran war disrupted shipments through the Strait of Hormuz, driving fertilizer prices higher worldwide. African smallholders have felt the impact, as they can be exposed to sudden increases in farming costs.

Zambian farmer Kanangwa Newlove avoided much of the price shock by using bokashi, a fermented compost she has made for years. She says it can be ready in weeks and has helped her grow vegetables for sale.

Bokashi is now sold at some Zambian markets, and farmers share advice about making it online. The Kasisi Agricultural Training Centre also provides instruction and brings students to Newlove’s farm to observe the method.

Farmers can make bokashi from materials such as leaves, crop leftovers, animal manure, charcoal and ash, adding yeast and a sugar source to start fermentation. Agricultural specialist Rabecca Mwila says such inputs can help farmers lower expenses; the article gives no details on further developments.