ZFC Limited Zimbabwe - Welcome


	TECHNICAL SERVICES DEPARTMENT
	The technical department (TSD) is made up of a dynamic and versatile team of qualified agronomists (the Technical Manager, Technical Advisor, Horticulture Advisor, Head Office Agronomist and Research Agronomist.)

	SERVICES OFFERED :
	1. Before and after sales technical back up TSD interacts with farmers or farmer organizations on a daily basis discussing what agricultural inputs they require in terms of agro-chemicals and fertilizers. Specific requirements for each client are given after discussing with the client his/her cropping programme. The clients are also advised on how to use the products correctly and safely in their fields. The technical service team can visit clients’ farms and demonstrate how fertilizers and chemicals are used.Other agronomic issues which assist the farmer in achieving optimum yields from their crops are discussed.
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	2. Crop chemical and fertilizer recommendations In the TSD we provide chemical and fertilizer recommendations for the various crops that are grown in Zimbabwe . The rates, cost per hectare and the application details of each product are outlined in the recommendation. These recommendations can be used to access funds from financial institutions.
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	3. Budget guides on various crops These are generated from time to time within the department and are used to assist farmers in planning their cropping programs and project proposal. Estimates of total inputs which include variable costs for items such as labour, fertilizers, tractor and machinery, seed, transport in and out, irrigation, herbicides, insecticides, fungicides, insurance and other inputs which farmers need to produce a specific crop are worked depending on the yield level. The gross income per hectare, gross margin per hectare and return per total variable are worked. These parameters are important as they give an indication whether it is viable to grow a particular crop or not.
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	4. Training. Farmers are trained on various aspects of crop production through field days, discussion groups and demonstrations. This is normally done in conjuction with Agricultural Research and Extension (AREX) department. The benefits of using chemicals and fertilizers and potential hazards of fertilizers and chemicals if not used correctly are also highlighted during the training programs.
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	5. Advisory publications These include advisory pamphlets on all crops and the farmers’ handbook. These are available at a reasonable price. They are continually updated in order to provide the farmer with up to date information. Other publications include newsletters and media articles.ZFC also runs a Nhau Dzevarimi program on Radio Zimbabwe every Sunday at 17:45 . The program is there to inform farmers on tips of how to grow crops for optimum yields and it also informs farmers on products that are available at ZFC.
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	6. Research and development The technical services department has a research arm which carries out research at its Aspindale site. Research on new products is made possible through continuous liaison with Principal companies. Updating of current products with new products is important so as to ensure that ZFC provides the market with appropriate products for the different challenges that the farmers are always faced with.

	7. Chemical and fertilizer registrations ZFC limited sells products that have been approved and registered by the registration authority. This ensures that farmers always get the best products on the market. Registrations and re-registrations of products is an on-going program.
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	8. Soil sample testing and interpretation of the results Soil pH testing is done free of charge at the ZFC laboratory. It is necessary that farmers know the pH of their soils as this relates to the uptake of nutrients from the soil. We also handle samples for full analysis with the relevant laboratories. The soil test results once out are interpreted and fertilizer recommendations are done accordingly.
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	9. Plant clinic cases Diseased plant material can also be brought in for diagnosis Recommendations are made based on the results of the diagnosis. Cases can also be referred to relevant institutions for further diagnosis.
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