The ongoing Iran war threatens food security in Africa, particularly impacting the continent’s most vulnerable populations. With rising fertiliser prices and disrupted supply chains, the potential for food shortages looms large.
Since the war began, the price of urea—a key fertiliser ingredient—has skyrocketed by 60% to 70%. This surge directly affects agricultural productivity in regions like sub-Saharan Africa, where countries such as Ethiopia and Kenya heavily depend on Middle Eastern nitrogenous fertilisers. Reports from S&P Global indicate that food supply chains are facing unprecedented challenges due to restrictions on fuel and fertiliser imports.
Africa is paradoxically well-positioned to produce food yet remains a major food importer. The continent relies on the Gulf states for approximately 35% of the world’s urea supply. As the Iran conflict continues, the specter of a global auction for fertilisers threatens to push prices beyond the reach of those who need it most.
Key impacts:
- The EU has announced grant aid of up to €50,000 for farmers affected by the conflict.
- The war has disrupted ammonia supplies, further complicating fertiliser production.
- Farmers are losing production daily—some experts warn it could take weeks or months to restart operations once disrupted.
Svein Tore Holsether, CEO of Yara International—the world’s largest fertiliser company—has raised alarms about the situation. He 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.” This sentiment underscores a pressing concern: without immediate action, many will face dire consequences.
The ramifications extend beyond mere economics; they touch upon human lives. Farmers express frustration over their dwindling returns. One remarked, “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 stark reality highlights the urgency needed in addressing food security issues exacerbated by geopolitical conflicts.