Itracom Fertilizers Limited has launched construction of three new phosphate processing plants in Vilima Vitatu, Babati District, Manyara Region, as part of efforts to increase the production of raw materials used in various fertilizers.
The expansion aims to meet growing domestic and regional demand while strengthening Tanzania’s agricultural sector.
Deputy Director of Itracom, Nestor Nibitanga, said the current single plant is insufficient to meet market needs.
“Our plan is to add three more plants, bringing the total to four. This expansion will accelerate production and improve supply. Currently, we produce between 400 and 700 tons per day, but demand far exceeds this,” Nibitanga explained.
He highlighted that the company had paid TZS 4.9 billion in compensation to 567 residents whose land was affected by the project.
Compensation covered houses, trees, relocated graves, and included construction of a new primary school to replace the one displaced by the project.
“We have ensured fair compensation and invested TZS 1.5 billion in a new school, so the local community can benefit without disruption,” Nibitanga said.
Since the project began, Nibitanga noted, benefits have extended beyond local communities. The agricultural sector has gained access to high-quality raw materials and fertilizers, boosting productivity.
Looking ahead, the company plans to move from raw material production to complete fertilizer manufacturing, reducing reliance on imports.
“Our vision is self-reliance through locally produced complete fertilizers. High-quality fertilizers also require high-quality seeds, and we plan to invest in seed production to complement this,” he added.
Unlike mineral-only fertilizers that can deplete soil fertility over time, Itracom’s products combine 50% natural raw materials with 50% minerals, preserving soil health while improving yields. The company continues research to tailor fertilizers for specific crops and soil types.
Itracom’s Fomi fertilizer is already sold in Uganda and Kenya, with Angola and Malawi in advanced stages of preparing for distribution.
Projest Amos, Marketing Manager at Itracom, said the Nala plant in Dodoma has the capacity to produce up to one million tons of fertilizer annually using locally mined phosphate.
“The shift to locally produced fertilizer has significantly benefited farmers. Fomi fertilizer reduces soil acidity and enhances nutrient uptake, especially in the Southern Highlands, contributing to higher productivity and sustainability,” Amos said.
Experts say the expansion of local fertilizer production is a critical step for Tanzania’s agriculture sector, supporting farmers, reducing import dependence, and ensuring food security while promoting industrial growth.
