Researchers in Malawi have developed an organic fertiliser to help smallholder farmers cope with degraded soils and rising fertiliser costs. The work in Mzimba District involved Mzuzu University, the Science Granting Councils Initiative (SGCI) and Malawi’s National Commission for Science and Technology. The team mixes rice husk biochar with black soldier fly frass and used coffee grounds, sends samples for laboratory analysis, leaves the blend to dry and then packages the product for storage or use.
The project produces both solid and liquid fertiliser formulations and has produced prototypes of animal feed for starters, growers and finishers. Lead researcher Elija Wanda says the initiative aims to restore soil health and offer a low-cost alternative to synthetic fertilisers. A policy brief by Mwapata Institute notes nearly 40 percent of Malawi’s soils are in poor health and estimates the country is losing at least 2.3 million metric tons of maize each year; maize is the staple crop. Maggie Munthali-Ngosi highlights that animal feed now accounts for 70 per cent of production costs because of protein ingredients, and she says black soldier fly could be a cost-effective substitute; she led a similar 2023 study.
Researchers are refining formulations and say wider adoption will need more training, greater awareness, continued research and clear regulatory frameworks. In the village, healthy banana plants have given farmers renewed hope and they say modest support to scale fertiliser production could help them become self-sufficient.
- Inputs: black soldier fly frass, rice husk biochar, coffee grounds
- Outputs: solid and liquid fertiliser; animal feed prototypes
Difficult words
- degraded — damaged so it works less well
- biochar — charcoal used to improve soil fertility
- frass — organic insect waste used as fertiliser
- prototype — early model used to test a productprototypes
- formulation — a specific mixture or recipe for useformulations
- synthetic — made by chemical processes, not natural
- self-sufficient — able to meet needs without outside help
Tip: hover, focus or tap highlighted words in the article to see quick definitions while you read or listen.
Discussion questions
- What challenges might farmers face when trying to scale production of this organic fertiliser in their villages?
- How could replacing some protein ingredients with black soldier fly change costs and practices for smallholder animal producers?
- What effects on soil health and local food security might occur if more farmers adopt these fertilisers?
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