The ongoing conflict involving the US and Israel’s actions toward Iran is causing a ripple effect that could lead to another global food crisis. It’s not just the cost of fuel and transport rising; the prices of fertilizers and plastics are climbing, making food more expensive worldwide, from Manila to Quito. Experts say the situation is critical, especially for African nations that rely heavily on food imports.
Many high-ranking officials in development banks are urging immediate action to secure fertilizers for these countries, which could be facing food shortages. This scenario isn’t new. Back in 2008, there was a significant food crisis when similar strategies—including handing vast agricultural lands to corporations—failed, leading to long-lasting issues for communities.
A key problem with these large-scale fertilizer programs is the cost. Fertilizers in Africa are often marked up significantly compared to global prices, leading to profits that can soar between 30-80%. Even with subsidies, many farmers find it challenging to afford necessary inputs, driving them to use less fertilizer or none at all. This reliance on imported fertilizers depletes foreign reserves, making African countries vulnerable when global supply issues arise.
Billionaire Aliko Dangote runs the largest urea fertilizer factory in Nigeria. His business primarily ships fertilizer to countries like the US and Brazil, and the local prices reflect international demand. After the conflict escalated in March, Dangote’s company raised urea prices by 40%, making it even harder for local farmers.
Moreover, building more fertilizer factories could lead to increased pollution. Local communities near factories, such as those in Gabes, Tunisia, are already suffering from toxic waste. Chemical fertilizers also contribute significantly to climate change, generating more greenhouse gas emissions than air travel.
Instead of doubling down on fertilizer production, there’s a pressing need to shift focus towards agroecology. Many African farmers already grow food without chemical inputs, focusing on local staples rather than cash crops that are exported. Initiatives like the Network for Agroecological Transition in Tunisia are helping to promote these sustainable practices.
Research supports that agroecology can increase food production and enhance farmers’ livelihoods. For instance, studies involving 9 million farmers from various countries showed that environmentally sensitive farming methods led to yield increases of 50-100% for major crops. In Senegal, farmers utilizing these techniques saw 17% higher yields and 36% higher incomes than their conventional counterparts; in Brazil, the figures were even higher.
To fully harness the potential of agroecology, it’s crucial to break the cycle of monocropping and prioritize local food systems. This approach aligns perfectly with recent global calls to reduce reliance on fossil fuels to combat climate change.
The conversation has shifted. Rather than just reacting to crises with traditional solutions, we need to embrace practices that empower local communities and promote sustainability.
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Opinions, Agriculture, Africa, Malawi, Senegal
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