The Arab Potash Company (APC), a leading player in the global fertilizer industry, has successfully conducted its fourth specialized training course, titled "Soil Health and Integrated Fertilizer Management," in Malawi, East Africa, from October 20 to October 25, 2024. This training initiative, held in collaboration with the African Fertilizer Volunteer’s Program (AFVP), a program that was developed jointly by the African Fertilizer and Agribusiness Partnership (AFAP) and the International Fertilizer Association (IFA), builds on APC’s series of educational efforts across East and Southern Africa. Similar training courses have previously been conducted by APC in Uganda, Tanzania, and Mozambique.
This session in Malawi brought together 74 participants, including farmers, agricultural extension agents, fertilizer traders, and users, all of whom play key roles in agriculture, fertilizer application, and food security. Professor Munir Rusan, APC’s agricultural advisor, led discussions on vital topics, enhancing participants' understanding of how fertilizers contribute to soil fertility, increased crop productivity, and overall food security.
Through practical training, participants learned about balanced fertilization methods, developing site-specific fertilizer recommendations, and integrated fertilizer management under the 4R Nutrient Stewardship framework. This approach—emphasizing the right source, rate, time, and place for fertilizer use—enhances agricultural yields and farmer profitability and aligns with environmental protection standards. The course supports the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), which advocate for global agriculture's economic, social, and environmental sustainability.
The Participants and AFAP representatives expressed their gratitude to APC for its continued support of the agriculture sector in East and Southern Africa. They highlighted the positive impact of APC's training courses, significantly strengthening their scientific and practical knowledge of efficient and balanced fertilizer management.
Dr. Maen Nsour, President and CEO of APC, emphasized that the company has long been committed to promoting sustainable agricultural practices. "Through awareness and training programs, research, and the transfer of modern fertilization technologies, we aim to advance sustainable development and food security globally," he stated. APC’s outreach extends beyond Africa to countries including India, Pakistan, Egypt, and Jordan, where the company collaborates with research institutions and local entities to strengthen sustainable agricultural practices.
Mr. Rashid Lubani, APC’s Vice President for Marketing and Sales, added that APC's participatory approach allows farmers to be directly involved in research and field experiments. "This approach promotes balanced fertilization, efficient use of resources, and adherence to the best fertilizer management practices under the 4R principles. Our activities reflect APC's commitment to global food security, farmer empowerment, and sustainable agriculture," he remarked. Additionally, APC has significantly contributed to global agricultural education by publishing manuals and extension materials on best practices in multiple languages.