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Effects of sanctions on food security, agricultural sustainability in Africa

Raymond Rusinga

Herald Correspondent

The recent visit of a delegation from the Pan-African Parliament (PAP) to Russia has spotlighted the food crisis affecting many African nations.

This delegation, representing a dozen African countries, has made a compelling case for the urgent need for global action, particularly regarding sanctions that have restricted access to essential fertilisers.

The situation highlights the complexities of geopolitical tensions and the dire realities faced by millions across the continent. The impact of sanctions on African agriculture

The sanctions imposed on Russia due to the ongoing conflict in Ukraine have had unintended consequences that extend far beyond their intended targets.

 As noted by Gayo Ashebir, the PAP vice president for East Africa, these sanctions are adversely affecting not only Russia and Belarus but also African farmers.

With fertiliser prices skyrocketing, farmers are increasingly unable to sustain agricultural production, leading to reduced yields and soaring food prices.

This has created a humanitarian crisis, pushing millions into food insecurity.

The sanctions have disrupted the export of potash and nitrogen fertilisers from Russia and Belarus, which are critical for agricultural productivity.

These countries account for a substantial portion of the global supply of these fertilisers, and their absence is keenly felt in nations where agriculture plays a vital role in economic stability and food security.

The PAP’s call for the resumption of fertiliser exports is not merely a political statement; it is a necessary plea for the survival of agricultural sectors across Africa.

Growing food insecurity and its implications

The food crisis in Africa has intensified in Africa with the United Nations reporting that approximately 282 million people faced food insecurity in 2023.

This figure is expected to worsen in 2024 if current trends continue.

In sub-Saharan Africa, smallholder farmers produce about 80 percent of the continent’s food, yet rising fertiliser costs—up to 300 percent since the Ukraine war began—have drastically reduced cereal yields.

Analysts warn that these declines could push millions closer to famine, exacerbating an already critical situation.

Some countries in Africa have reported significant reductions in planting activities due to the unaffordability of fertilisers.

This has resulted in soaring prices for staples such as maize, wheat, and rice, making these essential foods increasingly inaccessible to vulnerable populations.

The implications of this crisis extend beyond immediate hunger; they threaten to destabilise economies and heighten social tensions across the region.

The role of international cooperation

The PAP delegation’s visit to Russia is part of a broader strategy to reframe the discourse around sanctions and food security.

 It underscores the necessity for African nations to advocate for their interests on the global stage, particularly regarding issues that affect their survival.

 Ashebir’s assertion that this is about ensuring Africa’s voice is heard is critical; it emphasises the importance of self-advocacy in a complex geopolitical arena.

Moreover, the visit serves as a call to action for international cooperation.

While the geopolitical tensions surrounding the Ukraine conflict are significant, the humanitarian needs of African nations must not be overlooked.

The UN should prioritise addressing the unintended consequences of sanctions and establishing mechanisms that allow for the free flow of essential commodities, including fertilisers.

The current food crisis in Africa demands urgent attention and action from both African leaders and the international community.

The PAP’s visit to Russia has illuminated the severe implications of sanctions on the continent’s agricultural sector and the pressing need for relief.

As policymakers navigate the complexities of global politics, it is crucial to recognise that the humanitarian needs of millions should take precedence.

By fostering dialogue and seeking collaborative solutions, the international community can help ensure food security and stability for African nations, paving the way for a more sustainable agricultural future.

This requires not only addressing the immediate challenges posed by sanctions but also investing in long-term strategies that enhance agricultural resilience across the continent.

The intersection of global sanctions and food security presents a critical challenge for Africa.

The call for the resumption of fertiliser exports is not just a matter of economic interest; it is a fundamental issue of survival for millions.

 As the continent deals with these challenges, it is imperative that African leaders and the global community work together to find solutions that prioritise the well-being of people and the sustainability of agriculture in Africa.

Feedback: WhatsApp or call: +263 776 206 227 or email: rayrusinga02@gmail.com.

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