Fertilizer consumption in Africa has shown some improvement over the past decade, but it still falls far short of targets, according to the African Union (AU). Currently, the consumption stands at 18 kilograms per hectare (kg/ha), up from 8 kg/ha in 2006. However, this is well below the AU’s target of 50 kg/ha.
Josefa Leonel Correia Sacko, the AU’s commissioner for agriculture, rural development, blue economy, and sustainable environment, highlighted the challenges facing African countries in a recent virtual media briefing held in Nairobi, Kenya. Despite producing approximately 30 million metric tons of mineral fertilizer annually, many African nations heavily rely on imports, particularly non-phosphate-based fertilizers. This reliance leaves them vulnerable to market shocks.
Sacko emphasized that African soils are facing a critical juncture, with low levels of soil organic matter and nutrient stocks. To address this issue, she advocated for the optimized use of mineral and organic fertilizers, along with complementary inputs, which can drive higher productivity, profitability, soil health improvement, and climate resilience.
The Abuja Declaration on Fertilizer for the Africa Green Revolution, endorsed by African heads of state and governments in June 2006, aimed to boost fertilizer use in Africa. However, despite these efforts, challenges persist.
Paul Ronoh, principal secretary for the Kenyan Ministry of Agriculture and Livestock Development, outlined Kenya’s initiatives to address these challenges. Kenya has introduced a fertilizer subsidy program targeted at smallholder farmers. The program aims to provide 7 million bags (50 kg per bag) of subsidized fertilizer to farmers, with the goal of improving soil productivity and enhancing food and nutrition security in the country.
Efforts like these are crucial for Africa to realize its agricultural potential and achieve sustainable development goals. However, more coordinated action and investment are needed to overcome the persistent challenges in the continent’s agricultural sector.
