The Iran war is threatening food security in Africa, potentially leading to dramatic consequences for the continent’s most vulnerable populations. The conflict has already disrupted supply chains, causing a spike in fertiliser prices. This situation could lead to significant food shortages and price rises in Africa’s poorest communities.
Key statistics:
- The price of urea, a crucial fertiliser ingredient, has increased by 60% to 70% since the war began.
- Africa imports 35% of the world’s supply of urea from Gulf states.
- The EU announced grant aid of up to €50,000 for farmers impacted by the conflict.
Africa relies heavily on agricultural imports despite its capacity to produce food. Countries like Ethiopia and Kenya are particularly vulnerable due to their dependence on Middle Eastern nitrogenous fertilisers. S&P Global reported that food supply chains face challenges from fuel and fertiliser restrictions stemming from the ongoing conflict.
Yara International, the world’s largest fertiliser company with operations in 60 countries, has noted that ammonia supplies have been severely affected by the war. Svein Tore Holsether, CEO of Yara International, stated, “The most important thing we can do now is raise the alarm on what we are seeing right now – that there is a risk of a global auction on fertiliser that means it becomes unaffordable for those most vulnerable.” He emphasized the need to treat farming like a business to mitigate these risks.
Farmers across sub-Saharan Africa are losing production every day due to these disruptions. Holsether remarked, “We are losing production every day. It will take weeks or months to restart.” The urgency of the situation calls for immediate action to support farmers and ensure food security.
Many individuals express frustration with the current state of farming. One worker indicated a willingness to abandon agriculture altogether: “Farming only leads to financial losses. I’d rather work as a day labourer and earn 100 to 200 baht a day just to get by.” This sentiment reflects the dire economic conditions faced by many due to rising costs and dwindling resources.
