West African Nations Unite to Tackle Food Crisis, Soil Health

In a move to combat the escalating food crisis exacerbated by the relentless impacts of climate change, seventeen nations in West Africa and the Sahel signed the "Lomé Declaration on Fertilizers and Soil Health." The agreement has been called a beacon of hope by some, as it looks to revolutionise the accessibility and affordability of soil fertilisers in the region.

The leaders pledged to triple fertiliser consumption by 2035 and eliminate customs duties and taxes to facilitate their unrestricted circulation.

In recent years, several African countries have taken the initiative to produce their own fertilisers, recognising the potential benefits for their agricultural sectors. This move has been driven by the desire to enhance food security, increase crop yields, and reduce dependency on imported fertilisers. While the intention behind local fertiliser production is commendable, it is crucial to consider the broader context and the impact of fertilisers on the environment and climate change, reports allAfrica's Melody Chironda.