The ongoing Iran war is threatening food security in Africa, potentially leading to dramatic consequences for the continent’s most vulnerable populations.
As of early Tuesday, the price of urea, a key fertiliser ingredient, has surged by 60% to 70% since the conflict began. This spike affects farmers across sub-Saharan Africa who rely heavily on affordable fertilisers for crop production.
Africa imports a significant amount of its food despite having the capacity to produce it. The war has disrupted ammonia supplies, which impacts fertiliser production and raises concerns about agricultural imports.
Key statistics:
- 35% of the world’s supply of urea comes from Gulf states.
- The EU has announced grant aid of up to €50,000 for farmers affected by the Iran war.
- Ethiopia and Kenya are particularly vulnerable due to their dependence on Middle Eastern nitrogenous fertilisers.
S&P Global reported challenges in food supply chains due to fuel and fertiliser restrictions linked to the conflict. Farmers fear a global auction on fertiliser will make it unaffordable for those most in need.
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.” He emphasized that losing production daily could lead to severe shortages.
Many farmers express disillusionment with farming as a viable livelihood. One farmer lamented that he would rather work as a day labourer earning 100 to 200 baht daily just to get by.
With food insecurity looming large, immediate action is crucial. The next steps taken by governments and organisations will significantly impact the region’s resilience against these challenges.