The United States Agency for International Development (USAID) has announced a call for concept papers from Uzbekistan companies to co-finance the introduction or improvement of diagnostic soil and leaf testing to guide fertilizer use. In addition, selected companies will receive equipment and customized training valued at up to UZS 2bn each.
USAID Mission Director in Uzbekistan Mikaela Meredith explained, ‘USAID works with the Government of Uzbekistan and agribusinesses to help producers meet the demands of local and international markets, expand agricultural productivity, and increase incomes in the agriculture sector. When agribusinesses use fertilizer effectively, food is more plentiful and affordable, and farmers prosper.’
Earlier this year, USAID announced $2mn in new commitments to help keep food affordable by supporting Uzbekistan’s farmers and fertilizer producers. This new commitment follows the recent announcement of USAID’s $1mn Fertilizer Development Fund.
Using fertilizers at critical stages of plant growth allows farmers to achieve high yields and increase profits. Unfortunately, most farmers in Uzbekistan do not use testing to identify these opportunities and, therefore, often use fertilizers at inopportune times or in excessive or insufficient amounts. Sub-optimal fertilizer use negatively affects plant growth, causes environmental pollution and soil degradation, and produces low crop yields. Regular soil testing is critical for optimizing fertilizer use and raising crop yields throughout agribusiness.
To provide farmers and agribusinesses with timely, accurate information on the types and quantities of fertilizers for specific crops, the USAID Agribusiness Development activity will co-invest with selected companies to introduce or improve soil and leaf testing services. In addition, soil and leaf testing technicians and extension agents will be trained in best practices for providing farmers and agribusinesses with recommendations on the types and quantities of fertilizers to increase soil fertility.
The deadline for the submission of applications is December 15, 2022.
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