IGAD Hosts Regional Write-Shop to Advance Soil Health and Fertilizer Action Plan
The Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD) has convened a regional write-shop aimed at designing a comprehensive roadmap and action plan for the implementation of the Nairobi Declaration on Fertilizer and Soil Health. This event follows the Africa Fertilizer and Soil Health Summit (AFSHS) held in May 2024, where the urgent need to enhance agricultural productivity and food security across the continent was emphasized.
The meeting brings together IGAD Member States and technical partners to discuss actionable strategies for the Soil Initiative for Africa Framework. Participants are addressing critical challenges highlighted at the summit, including Africa’s low fertilizer consumption and insufficient application rates, which hinder agricultural production and soil nutrient replenishment.
IGAD’s Director of Agriculture and Environment, Dr. Eshete Dejen, stressed the vital role of healthy soils in ensuring food security and promoting sustainable agriculture. He noted that over 20% of Africa’s land is impacted by soil degradation, which poses significant threats to livelihoods and food systems. “To safeguard the future of Africa’s food systems, we must reverse soil degradation through sustainable practices and reduce reliance on inorganic fertilizers,” Dr. Eshete emphasized.
Dr. David Kamau from the Kenya Agricultural and Livestock Research Organization underscored the commitment of IGAD Member States to implement the Continental Action Plan. He called for collaborative approaches to boost domestic production and distribution of quality fertilizers, as well as targeted agronomic recommendations for smallholder farmers.
Key objectives discussed at the write-shop include increasing access to fertilizers, reversing land degradation, operationalizing the Africa Fertilizer Financing Mechanism, and enhancing extension services for smallholder farmers. The aim is to ensure that by 2034, at least 70% of these farmers have access to quality support in fertilizer and soil health management.
Participants will also share insights on successful soil hub initiatives from other African regions, drawing lessons to strengthen soil health strategies within IGAD member countries.
This regional consultative effort reflects IGAD’s commitment to resilient food systems and sustainable agricultural practices, aiming to improve the livelihoods of millions across Eastern and Southern Africa. As the write-shop progresses, the focus remains on fostering partnerships and mobilizing resources to enhance soil health and fertilizer use across the region.
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