Choma farmers sign five-year jatropha deal
By Business Reporter
OVER 200 small-scale farmers in Choma have entered into a five-year agreement with D1 Oils Africa which will entail promoting the cultivation of the jatropha plant in the district. D1 Oils Africa is a bio-fuels development and promotion company with a presence in many African countries. The company’s field technician for Choma Bernard Mulenga said D1 Oils Africa has signed contracts with about 220 local farmers with the aim of promoting the cultivation of Jatropha in the district under an out-growers scheme.
Speaking in an interview in Choma, Mr Mulenga said the contracts include the provision of extension services, training, seedlings provision and market access.
He said the farmers’ diversification into jatropha cultivation would help boost the rural economy and contribute to poverty allevisation.
“We are interested in providing market access to farmers instead of them to go looking for markets when the seeds are ready. We are also encouraging farmers to diversify into other crops.” he said.
Mr Mulenga said the company would also bring in its refinery technology which would be used in processing the oil from the jatropha plant. He allayed fears that the plant caused soil erosion, saying it did not if properly used.
The jatrohpa plant has been identified as one of the more promising sources of fuel as the world grapples to search for alternatives in the face of a looming energy crunch. Ecological concerns have, however, stirred debate about the plant.
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