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- ItemIFDC Magazine, Volume 39, No. 1(2014) IFDCIFDC Magazine commemorates the International Fertilizer Development Center's (IFDC) 40-year journey in advancing agricultural production and fertilizer technologies. Founded in 1974, IFDC's mission was rooted in the National Fertilizer Development Center's (NFDC) work under the United States Tennessee Valley Authority. Initially focused on South America and Asia, IFDC successfully addressed nitrogen use efficiency in rice production, contributing to food security in developing nations. As its influence expanded across Eastern Europe, the Middle East, and Africa, IFDC evolved beyond fertilizer development, fostering national and regional input supply chains and empowering smallholder farmers through access to markets and professionalization. This magazine explores IFDC's history, decade by decade, highlighting achievements, challenges, and future opportunities in international agricultural development. With a firm belief in innovation, IFDC emphasizes the role of fertilizer technology advancements in feeding the projected global population of 10 billion by 2050. By leveraging sustainable agricultural practices, pro-agriculture policies, and public-private partnerships, IFDC envisions a future that protects the environment, combats climate change, enhances nutrient use efficiency, and improves human health. Through informative articles, IFDC Magazine aims to inspire and guide future work in international agricultural development, fostering a food-secure world for future generations.
- ItemIFDC Report, Volume 17, No. 3(1992-09) IFDCThis report presents a comprehensive profile of Dr Paul J. Stangel, a distinguished international development official, researcher, and former President and Chief Executive Officer of the International Fertilizer Development Center (IFDC). Dr Stangel's remarkable career spans several decades, during which he played a pivotal role in shaping the agricultural development landscape of developing countries, particularly in Asia and the Middle East. He focused on integrating fertilizer into sustainable and economically viable nutrient management programs for small farmers and establishing agribusiness programs. This report highlights Dr Stangel's contributions, including his advancements in nitrogen fertilizer efficiency and his work in various positions such as agronomist, deputy managing director, and president of IFDC. The report acknowledges Dr Stangel's expertise in research and development, technical assistance, and training programs, emphasizing his lasting impact on improving food production and enhancing the quality of life for people in developing countries.
- ItemIFDC Report, Volume 17, No. 4(1992-12) IFDCThe report discusses the progress and impact of Project Rebuilds Albanian Fertilizer Sector, a technology transfer project funded by USAID, which began in 1991. The project aims to rebuild the Albanian fertilizer sector and has achieved significant results. It has created a national network of 120 private fertilizer dealers with commercial experience, providing them with the knowledge and skills to become marketers of agricultural inputs. This network of dealers is crucial in reducing the technical and financial constraints faced by small-scale farmers in the developing world. The project initially supplied farmers with emergency fertilizer when there was no domestic production. It also facilitated the development of knowledge and skills among bankers in managing a commercial credit program for fertilizer dealers, improving Albania's banking and financial community. The report highlights the concrete outcomes of the project and its contribution to the agricultural sector in Albania.
- ItemIFDC Report, Volume 18, No. 2(1983-06) IFDCThis report provides an overview of the work and progress achieved by the International Fertilizer Development Center (IFDC) in Eastern Europe, specifically focusing on their efforts in Romania. The IFDC, funded by the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID), aims to introduce the free market system to Romania's farming sector. The report highlights the positive impact of the agricultural development program on Romanian agriculture, particularly in the swine and poultry operations that have become private since the 1989 revolution. The report features the case of Dumitriu Emil, a private swine farmer who benefits from the IFDC-conducted project. Emil's farm, established in 1970, has become a significant swine complex with a production capacity of 120,000 fattening hogs per year. Through the IFDC project, Emil purchased a substantial protein-based feed supplement, enabling him to operate his enterprise more efficiently and profitably. The feed supplement reduces the feed needed to produce pork and shortens the feeding cycle, resulting in increased profits for the farmers. The successful introduction of competitive auctions by IFDC has demonstrated the existence of a viable Romanian market among private farmers for protein supplement products at or near world market prices. The auctions have facilitated the sale of 10,220 tons of swine feed supplements, indicating the demand for this product. The funds generated from the auctions will support land surveys required to privatise Romania's agriculture.
- ItemIFDC Report, Volume 20, No. 4(1995-12) IFDCThis report provides an overview of the IFDC (International Fertilizer Development Center) project to increase Bangladeshi farmers' agricultural productivity and market access. The project addresses the need for improved access to agricultural inputs such as high-yielding seeds, fertilizer, and machinery to boost crop yields and meet the growing food demands of the country's population. The report highlights the successful implementation of the Agro-Based Industry and Technology Development Project (ATDP), which builds upon the achievements of previous initiatives in privatizing fertilizer distribution and improving availability across the country. With the establishment of a private agribusiness sector, the project aims to reduce poverty by creating more productive employment opportunities in agriculture. Considering Bangladesh's population growth rate and the stagnation in food production per capita, the report emphasizes the importance of progress in agricultural production for the nation's future well-being. It underscores the potential impact of the IFDC project in increasing investment in agribusiness and creating competitive markets for agricultural products, benefiting both local agribusinesses and export markets. The report also highlights IFDC's involvement in other global initiatives, such as the Desert Margins Initiative, Soil, Water, and Nutrient Management Initiative, and Alternatives to Slash-and-Burn Initiative. These initiatives address land degradation, promote sustainable agricultural practices, and reduce deforestation in various regions.
- ItemIFDC Report, Volume 21, No. 2(1996-12) IFDCThis report highlights the transformative contribution of Dr S. H. Chien and the International Fertilizer Development Center (IFDC) to using phosphate rock for direct application in Malaysia. Peter Sze, General Manager of Pengedar Bahan Pertanian Sendirian Berhad (PBP), expresses gratitude for Dr Chien's research findings presented at a conference in Kuala Lumpur in 1994. The research demonstrates that directly applying phosphate rock can be a cost-effective alternative to water-soluble phosphate fertilizers under specific soil, crop, and agroclimatic conditions. The effectiveness of phosphate rock for direct application depends on factors such as rock source, soil properties, and crop species. This information has led to a shift in the traditional use of lower reactive rocks in Malaysia, which are now known to be suboptimal for acidic soil conditions. The report emphasizes the suitability of phosphate rock for direct application in Malaysia due to its acidic soils, high temperature, and ample rainfall, which are conducive to long-term plantation crops like rubber and oil palm. However, choosing the right source of phosphate rock is crucial, as properties can vary significantly among different rock sources in terms of their chemical and mineralogical compositions. The dissemination of this valuable information to plantations and end-users has led to a shift towards highly reactive phosphate rocks for direct application, not only in long-term crops but also in short-term crops such as rice, pineapples, fruits, and other plantation crops. While Malaysia has been using phosphate rock for an extended period, limited research has been conducted on various rock sources' reactivity and agronomic effectiveness. Recent studies have addressed this knowledge gap, although further research is needed due to the availability of different phosphate rock sources in the market. Dr Chien's additional seminars in 1995 and 1996 have raised awareness and emphasized the importance of rock reactivity and the availability of P2O5 in driving agronomic effectiveness. While Malaysia has been using phosphate rock for an extended period, limited research has been conducted on various rock sources' reactivity and agronomic effectiveness. Recent studies have addressed this knowledge gap, although further research is needed due to the availability of different phosphate rock sources in the market. Dr Chien's additional seminars in 1995 and 1996 have raised awareness and emphasized the importance of rock reactivity and the availability of P2O5 in driving agronomic effectiveness. As a result, many estate farmers have transitioned to highly reactive phosphate rocks. This report showcases the efforts of IFDC in promoting the use of phosphate rock for direct application in Malaysia, highlighting the potential benefits for agricultural productivity, economic development, and environmental stewardship. The involvement of the private sector, represented by PBP, has been instrumental in disseminating this knowledge and encouraging the adoption of highly reactive phosphate rocks in various crop systems. This paradigm shift marks a significant step towards maximizing the benefits of using phosphate rock for direct application and underscores the role of IFDC in contributing to global food security. Collapse
- ItemIFDC Report, Volume 22, No. 1(1997-06) IFDCThis report highlights the success of Mohammed Ibrahim, an entrepreneur from Bangladesh who transformed his egg production business with the support of the Agrobased Industries and Technology Development Project (ATDP). Facing challenges in meeting the local demand for eggs, Ibrahim built a poultry shed for 5,000 chickens and successfully expanded his egg business. Seeking financial assistance, he applied for a working capital loan funded through the Agribusiness Credit Fund (ACF) established by the ATDP. The report showcases how ACF loans have empowered numerous entrepreneurs like Ibrahim, enabling them to invest in agribusiness ventures and contribute to food security in Bangladesh. Implemented by the Government of Bangladesh, USAID, and a consortium led by IFDC, the project aims to create competitive markets for agricultural inputs, outputs, and technologies through a $52 million agribusiness credit fund. The report emphasizes the project's impact in fostering economic growth, revitalizing agricultural subsectors, and improving the livelihoods of farmers and agribusiness entrepreneurs across Bangladesh.
- ItemIFDC Report, Volume 25, No. 1(2000-06) IFDCThis publication highlights the efforts of the International Fertilizer Development Center (IFDC) in Kosovo to rebuild the agribusiness sector and foster economic development in the aftermath of the conflict. With funding from the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID), IFDC collaborated with non-governmental organizations (NGOs) and other entities to transform the state-run agricultural system into a competitive market. The publication sheds light on the challenges faced by the Kosovar people and the role played by various stakeholders in revitalizing the agricultural sector. It emphasizes the significance of sustainable agriculture in fueling economic growth, increasing food production, and raising the population's living standards. The material underscores the pivotal role of IFDC in providing technical expertise, promoting trade associations, and facilitating policy reform to support the transition to a market-based agricultural system. Through its initiatives, IFDC aims to create a brighter future for the people of Kosovo by leveraging agriculture as a catalyst for prosperity and peace.
- ItemIFDC Report, Volume 26, No. 1(2001-06) IFDCThis publication highlights the formation and significance of the Albanian Agribusiness Council (KASH) in Albania's private business sector. With agriculture playing a crucial role in the country's economy, KASH emerged as a strong voice for agricultural businesses, addressing policy issues and promoting economic growth. Supported by the International Fertilizer Development Center (IFDC) and funded by the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID), KASH serves as an umbrella organization for 16 member associations. Through advocacy efforts and engagement with governmental authorities, KASH aims to address critical issues affecting its members, such as agricultural land, product marketing, fiscal systems, and corruption. The publication also highlights the success story of EN&ZY, Ltd., a fruit and vegetable processing company that experienced remarkable growth with technical assistance from IFDC. Additionally, the publication discusses the importance of agribusiness in Kosovo's development and the efforts of IFDC in promoting sustainable agricultural practices and higher crop yields through research and extension services. Overall, the publication emphasizes the role of KASH and IFDC in fostering agricultural advocacy, economic progress, and improved livelihoods in Albania and Kosovo.
- ItemIFDC Report, Volume 28, No. 1(2003-06) IFDCThis publication highlights the innovative approach of the Integrated Soil Fertility Management (ISFM) project, developed by the International Fertilizer Development Center (IFDC), to stimulate agricultural development in West Africa. The project aims to disseminate information and knowledge about ISFM among farmer organizations, agricultural input dealers, and policymakers at the village and regional levels. The study focuses on the experiences of Madja Koumboguidja and his wife Gbanyab, two Togolese farmers who have successfully implemented ISFM practices on their 3-hectare farm. The region where the farmers reside receives limited rainfall, and the soil fertility is extremely low, posing significant challenges to crop production. Madja and Gbanyab adopted an innovative farming system that integrates crop, livestock, and agroforestry elements to overcome these obstacles. They gradually intensified agricultural production by combining organic and mineral fertilizers, implementing erosion control measures, and employing crop association, rotation, and diversification techniques. The study illustrates how the adoption of ISFM practices transformed the lives of Madja and his family. With increased agricultural productivity, they could improve their livelihoods, feed their family, purchase agricultural equipment, increase their livestock, and send their five children to school. Their farming system's success was achieved by adapting management strategies tailored to different soil types, field histories, rainfall patterns, crop associations, and available financial resources. The findings of this publication demonstrate the potential of ISFM in overcoming soil fertility limitations and improving agricultural productivity. The experiences of Madja and Gbanyab inspire other farmers and provide valuable insights for policymakers and organizations working in the agricultural sector. The ISFM project, facilitated by IFDC and partner organizations, holds promise for sustainable agricultural development in West Africa and beyond.
- ItemIFDC Report, Volume 36, No. 2(2011) IFDCThis report highlights the role of the International Fertilizer Development Center (IFDC) in assisting Albania's transition to a free-market economy in the early 1990s. Albania faced an agricultural crisis and food shortage at that time due to decades of isolation and communist rule. IFDC, working with the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID), developed innovative strategies to revitalize the agricultural sector and promote private and competitive agriculture in Albania. They established the Albanian Fertilizer and Agribusiness Dealers Association (AFADA) and provided farmers and agribusinesses training, credit assistance, and technical know-how. These efforts increased agro-input availability and improved crop yields and income for smallholder farmers. AFADA became an active organization under the Albania Association and Business Management Center (ABMC), advocating for agricultural policy reforms and negotiating free trade agreements. IFDC's projects in Albania received support from the United States Department of Agriculture's (USDA) Food for Progress program. The success story of Albania's agricultural transformation inspired similar initiatives in other countries.
- ItemIFDC Report, Volume 38, No. 3(2013) IFDCThis report provides an update on the work and progress of the International Fertilizer Development Center (IFDC) in different countries, focusing on developing the poultry sector and agricultural productivity. The report highlights the positive outcomes of IFDC's efforts in collaboration with various stakeholders, including the Kyrgyz Agro-Input Enterprise Development (KAED) project and the USAID Productive Agriculture projects in Tajikistan. In Kyrgyzstan, the capacity-building efforts of KAED have resulted in significant growth in the poultry sector. Poultry farms experienced an 8.6 per cent increase in egg production during the first half of 2013, leading to a 95 per cent market share for locally produced eggs. The success of these farms, supported by IFDC's work in establishing and strengthening formal value chains, has contributed to Kyrgyzstan's self-sufficiency in egg production. Furthermore, the increasing production capacity has opened opportunities for exporting Kyrgyz eggs to regional markets, such as Uzbekistan, addressing their constant shortages of meat and eggs. The report also highlights the role of private-sector collaboration in promoting agricultural development. IFDC's partnership with Kumtor Gold Company, the largest gold-mining company in Central Asia, aims to improve agricultural productivity and profitability in Kyrgyzstan. Through a joint project, efforts are underway to rehabilitate agricultural land, restore soil fertility, and enhance irrigation systems, thereby facilitating long-term sustainable development in the region. In Tajikistan, the USAID Productive Agriculture Project has addressed the challenges farmers face due to inadequate access to agricultural machinery. The project implemented a loan program in collaboration with local banks to support farmers purchasing tractors, resulting in improved efficiency and profitability. Farmers like Kholov Behruz have benefited from this program, enabling them to generate higher incomes and sustain their farming operations. Additionally, the report highlights the success of IFDC's Accelerating Agriculture Productivity Improvement (AAPI) project in Bangladesh. Farmers increasingly adopt fertilizer deep placement (FDP) technology, leading to higher yields and reduced labour-intensive practices. Promoting innovative FDP applicators has further enhanced the efficiency of fertilizer placement, saving time and effort for farmers and labourers.
- ItemIFDC Report, Volume 38, No. 4(2013) IFDCThis report provides an update on the work and progress of the International Fertilizer Development Center (IFDC) in Bangladesh, focusing on efforts to empower women in agriculture. Gender equity is crucial for economic productivity and prosperity, and Bangladesh has made significant strides in reducing gender disparities in the past two decades. However, challenges persist, particularly in expanding women's agricultural participation beyond traditionally limited roles. IFDC has been actively involved in Bangladesh for over 35 years, working to increase agricultural productivity, introduce new technologies, and advocate for enabling policy environments. Recognizing the importance of crop diversification and the role of women in fruit and vegetable production, IFDC has partnered with the Walmart Foundation to train 40,000 small-scale women farmers in cultivating high-value crops. The project emphasizes using technology, such as fertilizer deep placement (FDP), to improve productivity and increase family income. The report highlights the project's achievements, including training thousands of women farmers and cultivating thousands of hectares of vegetables. To ensure the sustainability of FDP technology, the project is also developing a private sector, women-led supply system for FDP briquettes, creating opportunities for women entrepreneurs. The report emphasizes the importance of national commitment and the role of organizations like IFDC in advancing gender equality and creating inclusive societies. It concludes with a call to continue supporting women's empowerment and creating opportunities for advancement, ultimately leading to a more equitable and equal world.
- ItemPerspectives - December 2016(IFDC, 2016-12) IFDCThis material highlights the importance of engaging the largest youth population in history in agribusiness. With a significant percentage of Africa's and the world's youth residing in Asia and the Pacific, their involvement in agriculture presents a tremendous opportunity for advancing farming practices in developing nations. However, perceiving agriculture as a low-income profession challenges attracting young people who favour urban job sectors. To address this issue, the material explores various strategies employed by 2SCALE, an organization promoting sustainable agribusiness clusters. One key challenge young individuals interested in agribusiness face is limited access to financing. Recognizing this, 2SCALE facilitates partnerships between financial institutions and agri-preneurs, providing them with the necessary funding to start their businesses. By connecting entrepreneurs with business services and equipment, such as harvesters and planters, 2SCALE aims to change the perception of farming and showcase its profitability. To attract youth to agribusiness, it is essential to dissociate agriculture from poverty and emphasize its potential for economic growth. The material emphasizes the need for governments to create an enabling business environment by reducing taxation burdens, establishing networks for transportation, and addressing issues like high interest rates and limited financial options for young women. Additionally, utilizing young people's natural skills in information and communication technology (ICT) can help build networks, provide access to timely information, and enable fair pricing negotiations. The material concludes by emphasizing the importance of educating young people about the evolving opportunities in agriculture. By dispelling the notion of agriculture as a dead-end job and highlighting the sector's increasing prospects and global significance, youth can be motivated to pursue agribusiness careers, ensuring food security and sustainable employment for future generations.