The ongoing Iran war threatens food security in Africa, potentially leading to severe consequences for the continent’s most vulnerable populations. As the conflict escalates, fertiliser prices have surged, putting immense pressure on agricultural imports across the region.
Recent reports indicate that the price of urea, a critical fertiliser component, has risen by 60% to 70% since the onset of the war. This spike in costs significantly impacts countries like Ethiopia and Kenya, which heavily rely on nitrogenous fertilisers from the Middle East.
Africa stands as a major food importer despite its agricultural potential. The continent’s dependence on imports exacerbates the situation as the war disrupts supply chains and raises prices. According to S&P Global, challenges arise from fuel and fertiliser restrictions due to the conflict.
Key statistics:
- 35% of the world’s urea supply originates from Gulf states.
- The EU has announced grant aid of up to €50,000 for farmers affected by the Iran war.
- African farmers face daily earnings as low as 100 to 200 baht working as day labourers due to financial losses in farming.
Svein Tore Holsether, CEO of Yara International—the world’s largest fertiliser company—has raised alarms about a potential global auction for fertilisers that could render them unaffordable for those who need them most. He emphasized that immediate action is necessary to address these escalating costs and their implications for food security.
The situation remains fluid as officials assess the full impact of these developments on agricultural productivity. Local farmers express concerns about losing production every day due to rising costs and supply chain issues. Many are reconsidering their farming strategies amidst these challenges.
