OC-MASSA: A scalable fertilizer solution enhancing farmer productivity on acidic soils
BY LULSEGED WORKU Worku Kurse, the main breadwinner for his family, faced low productivity that impacted his livelihood. Farming is his primary source of income for children’s school supplies, house repairs, and daily sustenance. Reflecting on his past, he recalls, “It used to be a big victory if we managed to get six quintals from one hectare.” Before OC-MASSA, farmers like him sowed seeds, scattering them across fields and accepting whatever harvest nature provided. This changed when agricultural researchers and OCP agronomists introduced new practices: treating acidic soils with OC-MASSA – a fertilizer combining phosphorus with liming effect, planting in rows instead of broadcasting, and applying Urea and OC-MASSA fertilizers at optimal rates. These innovations expanded farmers’ possibilities. Tesfaye Malei, another farmer frustrated by poor harvests, struggled despite diligent land management. Soil acidity limited his yields. With OC-MASSA fertilizer, his productivity i...
