The ongoing Iran war is threatening food security in Africa, potentially leading to dramatic consequences for the continent’s most vulnerable populations. As the conflict escalates, fertiliser prices have surged, putting immense pressure on farmers in regions like Ethiopia and Kenya.
Since the war began, the price of urea—a key fertiliser ingredient—has increased by 60% to 70%. This spike is alarming for countries that rely heavily on agricultural imports. Despite being well positioned to produce their own food, many African nations find themselves at the mercy of global market fluctuations.
According to S&P Global, food supply chains now face severe challenges from fuel and fertiliser restrictions due to the conflict. In fact, about 35% of the world’s supply of urea comes from Gulf states, making sub-Saharan Africa particularly vulnerable to these disruptions.
Key impacts of the war:
- The price of crucial fertilisers has skyrocketed, affecting local farming operations.
- Africa remains a major food importer, highlighting its reliance on external sources for agricultural needs.
- The EU has announced grant aid of up to €50,000 for farmers impacted by the conflict.
Svein Tore Holsether, CEO of Yara International—one of the world’s largest fertiliser companies—emphasised the urgency of 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.” His words resonate with farmers who struggle daily with rising costs.
The reality on the ground reflects this urgency. One farmer expressed despair over his situation: “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 echoes across many communities where agricultural production is dwindling.
The ripple effects of this conflict are profound. As supplies dwindle and prices rise, officials worry about potential food shortages that could exacerbate existing hardships for millions across Africa. The next steps in addressing these challenges remain uncertain as countries navigate their dependence on external fertiliser sources.
