In a declaration endorsed at the conclusion of the Africa Fertilizer and Soil Health Summit in Nairobi, Kenya and released on Thursday by the AU, African Heads of State and Government said majority of Member States are still over-dependent on imported fertilizers, especially non-phosphate-based fertilizers which exposes Africa to external market shocks and price volatility.
The declaration stated that in recent years, there has been a significant increase in local manufacturing of mineral fertilizers with over $15 billion of investments by the private sector.
However, it said, even as Africa’s mineral fertilizer production is estimated at 30 million metric tons annually, most of it is exported outside the continent.
The declaration signified a transformative step towards improving access and affordability of certified quality organic and inorganic fertilizers across the continent.
Hence, member states have been urged to explore financing tools such as trade credit guarantees, working capital, and targeted subsidies to reduce market distortions, reduce costs and strengthen input supply chains.
The leaders said increasing the use of fertilizers, both mineral and organic resources, is imperative for increased productivity and soil health restoration.
According to the declaration, Africa is seeking to enhance the efficiency and effectiveness of mineral and organic fertilizers and other complementary inputs, to increase productivity, maximize profitability and returns on investment, improve soil health, and enhance resilience to climate change.
MG/abj/APA