Funded by the European commission, the « Sustainable Agrifood System Intelligence – Science-Policy Interface Initiative (SASi-SPi) » will present a food system perspective on the debate surrounding the use of fertilizers, soil health, and food security in Sub-Saharan Africa. This InfoPoint Conference aims to contribute to the discussions planned in the African Union Summit on Fertilizers and Soil Health (Nairobi, May 7- 9, 2024).
The Agrinatura-led SASi-SPi will share preliminary findings of an ongoing study that uses a systemic approach to look at the fertilizers and soil health topics, with a focus on the following issues:
- While integrating agroecological approaches with synthetic inputs is essential, the optimal combination of fertilizer use and agroecological practices depends on local soil conditions. Agroecological practices are all the more necessary as the soil is degraded.
- The average productivity of fertilizer is greater in Africa than in the rest of the world. Some rebalancing would probably also yield aggregate environmental benefits.
- The key driver for increased and sustained productivity is the effective demand for food and its impact on crop profitability which ensures the incentives for farmers to invest in soil health and fertilizer. Therefore, supporting food demand and improving its connection with local or regional food supply through investment in infrastructure (e.g., ports, roads, soil laboratories, energy) serves farmers’ income and national food security.
Speakers
- Leonard MIZZI, Head of Unit, INTPA F3, Sustainable agri-food systems and Fisheries
- Christophe LAROSE, Head of Sector, INTPA F3, Sustainable agri-food systems and Fisheries
- FAO Representative
- Dr Godfrey BAHIIGWA, Director of Agriculture and Rural Development, African Union Commission
- Marie-Claire KALIHANGABO, Coordinator, African Fertilizers Financing Mechanism, African Development Bank
- Dr Million BELAY, General Coordinator, African Food Sovereignty Alliance
- Dr Tristan LE COTTY, Economist, CIRAD
