Fertilizer market crisis and its impact on food security in sub-Saharan African countries

The stability of the fertilizer market plays a critical role in ensuring food security, particularly in regions heavily reliant on agriculture such as Sub-Saharan Africa. However, the recent fertilizer market crisis has underscored the vulnerability of African countries to external shocks, exacerbating existing challenges related to food production and access. The article examines the assessment of the role of the fertilizer market crisis of 2022-2023 in exacerbating the food security situation in Sub-Saharan African countries. The findings suggest that the increase in the number of people experiencing malnutrition, reaching 262 million individuals (23 % of the population) in 2022 in Sub-Saharan Africa, is largely attributed to the inability to enhance domestic agricultural production. In turn, events in the fertilizer market, leading to a reduction in available supply and price hikes in the global market, hindered African farmers from increasing fertilizer application to boost crop yields. The article also conducts an analysis of factors that prevented African countries from adapting to the fertilizer market crisis, drawing comparisons with developed nations. Addressing the fertilizer market crisis in Sub-Saharan Africa requires a multi-faceted approach that involves improving domestic fertilizer production capacity, enhancing agricultural extension services, and promoting sustainable farming practices. Furthermore, there is a need for increased collaboration between governments, international organizations, and the private sector to develop long-term solutions that strengthen food security and resilience in the face of future challenges.