Fertilizers and Soil Health in Africa: Sustainable Agriculture Summit Kicks Off in Kenya

On May 7, 2024, the African Fertilizer and Soil Health Summit opened in Nairobi, a three-day event that will continue until May 9, 2024. Major players in the agricultural sector are meeting to discuss the challenges related to the quality of agricultural soils in Africa, as well as ways to improve access to quality fertilizers and promote good agricultural practices for farmers on the continent.

Under the chairmanship of the ministerial segment, the Summit brings together African agriculture ministers, African Union officials, and a host of agricultural sector stakeholders for a frank discussion on the need to ensure food security in the face of the growing challenges of climate change.

The summit's main objective is to highlight the critical importance of fertilizers and soil health in sustainable agricultural development in Africa. It also seeks to build consensus around the African Fertilizer and Soil Health Action Plan, aimed at mobilizing the resources and efforts needed to promote more resilient and productive agriculture on the continent.

One of the major concerns addressed at the summit was the alarming degradation of African soils, with FAO reports indicating that 33% of the soil is already affected. In this context, urgent measures are needed to increase the production of organic fertilizers and promote sustainable agricultural practices, taking into account the specific needs of each region.

The summit also sees the presentation of the draft Nairobi Declaration, a document intended to provide policy guidance for strengthening soil health and improving food systems across the continent. This declaration emphasizes the importance of comprehensive agricultural policies and investments to support more resilient and productive agriculture in Africa.

Finally, the summit will conclude with a high-level meeting bringing together African heads of state, government officials, policymakers, scientists, farmers, civil society and private sector representatives, as well as development partners from around the world. This meeting will consolidate the commitments made at the summit and outline a roadmap for the future of agriculture in Africa.

The Africa Fertilizer and Soil Health Summit is a milestone in the quest for sustainable food security on the continent. By emphasizing the importance of fertilizers and soil health, it offers a unique opportunity to mobilize the resources and efforts needed to transform African agriculture and ensure a secure and prosperous food future for all.

Djamiou ABOUDOU