Some farmers in Chipata have questioned government if technocrats were consulted over its decision to provide subsidized fertilizer to cotton farmers.
Speaking to Breeze News, the farmers say that it is strange that government decided to provide fertilizer without providing chemicals.
Sikondwa Multi-Purpose Cooperative Society Chairperson Tenford Daka says that it is simple knowledge that cotton needs more chemicals than fertilizer.
Mr. Daka has wondered where government expects the cotton farmers to get chemicals, considering the poor yield and low buying prices offered during this year’s marketing season.
He further wondered if government has put in place plans as to where the farmers, who will be given the fertilizer will sell their cotton and at what price.