NCZ, UG Sign MOU to Provide Affordable Fertilizer to Government Workers

Nitrogen Chemicals of Zambia (NCZ) and the Zambia Union of Government and Allied Workers (UG) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to facilitate access to fertilizer for union members and other participating government employees through affordable installment payment plans.

Speaking during the signing ceremony, NCZ Chief Executive Officer Chanda Mongo, said that the company would establish a Joint Product Development Committee to assess the specific needs and financial capacities of beneficiaries.

Mongo said the committee would facilitate the development of customized fertilizer packages and practical payment models suited to the needs of participating government workers.

He added that NCZ would also support joint sensitization programmes to ensure eligible government employees across the country are aware of the initiative and understand how to access the fertilizer inputs.

Meanwhile, UG President Dr. Muyaywa Kabisa, said that the initiative would help remove financial barriers that have prevented many workers from investing in agriculture.

Dr. Kabisa said the programme would provide more than 40,000 union members with easier access to fertilizer through affordable monthly payroll deductions.

He reaffirmed the union’s commitment to working closely with NCZ to mobilize members, facilitate the effective implementation of the programme and ensure that the initiative is managed with accountability, transparency and mutual respect.

Dr. Kabisa has since encouraged union members to embrace the opportunity responsibly to improve agricultural productivity, increase household incomes and contribute to national food security.

By Esther Munanga.