Fertilisers in times of crisis: Dialogue on resilient value chains for food security in Africa

On 1 September, the Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences (SLU), the Nordic Africa Institute (NAI) and Länsstyrelsen Uppsala County welcomed a group of African ambassadors to Uppsala for a high-level dialogue on one of the most pressing challenges facing global food systems: strengthening fertiliser value chains in times of crisis.

Recent geopolitical disruptions have highlighted the vulnerability of global fertiliser supply chains. Rising fertiliser prices and increasing uncertainty around supply have had significant consequences worldwide, with particularly severe impacts on farmers and food-insecure communities across Africa. The effects extend beyond agricultural production, influencing livelihoods, food security and economic stability.

The meeting brought together experts from academia, government, diplomatic missions and development organisations to explore strategies for building more resilient and sustainable fertiliser systems. Discussions focused on the role of science, innovation and technology in developing sustainable fertiliser solutions, as well as how geopolitical shocks affect fertiliser access and food systems across Africa.

Participants also examined how trade, investment and regional cooperation can strengthen resilience and support greater fertiliser sovereignty, alongside policy options for safeguarding food security during periods of crisis.

The dialogue underscored the importance of international collaboration and knowledge exchange in addressing shared challenges. Participants highlighted the need for stronger partnerships between researchers, policymakers and practitioners to identify practical and long-term solutions.

“Through knowledge exchange and partnership, we can identify practical solutions that help build more resilient and sustainable food systems for the future,” was one of the key conclusions from the discussions.

The event reflects SLU’s continued commitment to fostering international cooperation and contributing research-based knowledge to address global challenges related to food security, sustainability and agricultural development.