OCP Africa, a subsidiary of Morocco’s phosphate giant OCP Group, has signed a historic Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Niger’s Ministry of Agriculture and Livestock to enhance agricultural value chains, the company announced Friday.
Supported by the World Bank, the partnership focuses on sustainable agricultural development and improving soil health and fertility in Niger.
The initiative targets six key areas, including soil mapping and fertilizer models to enhance soil health. The plan also includes establishing Advanced Agricultural Service Centres, through which farmers can access quality inputs, machinery, irrigation systems, finance, and market opportunities.
The partnership seeks to promote youth and women entrepreneurship in agri-tech through training, incubation, and start-up acceleration while facilitating access to tailored fertilizers for Niger’s soil and crops.
Around 230 demonstration plots will be established in collaboration with local partners, including Niger’s National Agricultural Research Institute (INRAN) and the Directorate General of Agriculture.
For the 2025 winter season, an additional 400 plots will support rainfed crops such as millet, cowpea, and rice, bringing the total number of demonstration plots to 630, covering both rainfed and irrigated crops such as onions, tomatoes, potatoes, and peppers.