MUST is making significant progress towards transforming agriculture through the development of an innovative organic fertilizer that will provide farmers with a more affordable and sustainable option for improving crop production.

The granulated urine fertilizer, developed by Dr Jabulani Nyengere, a senior lecturer and Postgraduate Coordinator at MUST, has successfully gone through the required tests and demonstrated strong potential as an alternative to conventional inorganic fertilizers.

The fertilizer, which is made from a special blend of rocks and liquid urine, was tested at Bvumbwe Research Station in Thyolo under maize production using rainfed conditions.

Results from the trials showed that the fertilizer performed comparably to inorganic fertilizers, offering hope for improved soil fertility and increased crop productivity.

According to Dr Nyengere, the innovation aims to address challenges faced by smallholder farmers by providing a locally developed and affordable fertilizer option.

“Our goal is to provide an accessible fertilizer solution that can support farmers, especially those in rural communities,” he said.

Following successful testing, MUST is moving towards scaling up production and preparing for wider use across different agroecological zones.

The university will continue working with relevant stakeholders, including the Department of Agricultural Research Services (DARS), towards registration process.