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IFPRI in Africa provides on-the-ground support for local research, capacity building, and partnerships to reduce poverty and end malnutrition across the continent.

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We conduct evidence-based research on agriculture, food security, nutrition, gender, markets, and climate resilience—tailored to African contexts.

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BBC Interview: Fertilizer Supply Disruptions and Implications for Africa’s Food Security

In a recent interview on BBC’s Focus on Africa, Dr. Oliver Kirui, Research Fellow and Acting Country Program Leader for Nigeria and Ghana at IFPRI, highlighted the growing risks fertilizer supply disruptions pose for Africa’s food security.

Africa currently imports more than 80% of its fertilizer. While countries such as Nigeria, Egypt, and Morocco have some domestic production capacity, more than 45 countries remain fully dependent on imports. Fragile and conflict‑affected states in the Horn of Africa and the Sahel face “double challenges” due to weak infrastructure and existing food insecurity.

Kirui emphasized the urgent need to support farmers in the short term through targeted input support and efficient distribution, while also investing in long‑term resilience. Building regional fertilizer markets, expanding domestic production, and improving soil health are critical steps to reduce dependence on external suppliers and strengthen food systems across the continent.

Listen to the full episode of Focus on Africa (fertilizer segment begins at 13:20).