Food: The Impact of Security in Africa Amid the Iran War

The ongoing Iran war is threatening food security across Africa, with dire implications for the continent’s most vulnerable populations. As the conflict escalates, farmers in sub-Saharan Africa face skyrocketing fertiliser prices and disrupted supply chains.

Since the onset of the war, the price of urea—a crucial fertiliser component—has surged by 60% to 70%. This spike places immense pressure on farmers who rely on affordable fertilisers to cultivate their crops. Yara International, a key player in the fertiliser market and the world’s largest company in this sector, has warned that these increases could lead to significant food shortages.

Africa, despite its agricultural potential, remains heavily dependent on imports for its food supply. Approximately 35% of the world’s urea supply originates from Gulf states, which are now embroiled in conflict. The situation is particularly precarious in countries like Ethiopia and Kenya, where reliance on Middle Eastern nitrogenous fertilisers is high.

Key impacts of the Iran war on food security:

• The price of key fertilisers has risen sharply, affecting crop yields.
• Supply chains face disruptions due to fuel and fertiliser restrictions.
• The EU has pledged grant aid of up to €50,000 for affected farmers.

Svein Tore Holsether, CEO of Yara International, emphasized the urgency of the situation: “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.” He further stated, “We are losing production every day. It will take weeks or months to restart.” These statements reflect a growing concern among agricultural leaders about the implications for food security.

The repercussions extend beyond immediate price hikes. Farmers are voicing their frustrations; some have expressed a willingness to abandon agriculture altogether. One farmer lamented, “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 highlights a troubling trend—if conditions do not improve soon, many may opt out of farming entirely.

The situation remains fluid as officials scramble to address these challenges. While efforts are underway to provide assistance, many uncertainties linger. The long-term effects of this crisis could reshape agricultural practices across the continent.

As sub-Saharan Africa grapples with these escalating challenges, the need for sustainable solutions has never been more urgent. The coming months will be critical as nations seek ways to bolster their food security amidst ongoing geopolitical tensions.