AU and AGRA rally partners in Ghana to continue restoring Africa’s soils and reclaiming agricultural prosperity

African leaders and development partners are committed to restoring Africa’s soils. This effort aims to improve food security, climate resilience, and economic transformation.

A high-level meeting took place in Accra, Ghana. Stakeholders gathered to discuss the Africa Fertiliser and Soil Health Action Plan (AFSH-AP).

The workshop was co-hosted by the African Union Commission (AUC), Forum for Agricultural Research in Africa (FARA), and AGRA. It included technical experts, policy institutions, and advocacy leaders. They aimed to align national and continental priorities.

This event followed the AFSH Declaration adopted by African Union Heads of State in Nairobi in May 2024. The declaration marks a decade-long commitment to increase fertiliser efficiency and regenerate degraded lands.

Prof. Fatunbi Oluwole from FARA emphasized the importance of soil restoration. He stated that ending hunger requires restoring Africa's most valuable asset—its soils.

Africa loses over 65% of its cropland due to degradation. Farmers face declining yields, rising costs, and erratic weather patterns. Urgent investments in soil health are needed to support food security and economic growth.

AGRA is a key partner in this initiative. It is part of two coalitions within the AFSH-AP: Policy and Advocacy Coalition, and Coalition of Extension and Advisory Services.

AGRA aims to connect science, policy, and partnerships for localising the AFSH-AP across member states. Asseta Diallo from AGRA expressed pride in being part of this advocacy movement.

AGRA supports Ghana's government in aligning fertiliser strategies with local needs. They promote regenerative land management and develop systems for guiding input use.

The focus includes not just fertilizer access but also soil stewardship, farmer training, and inclusive market systems benefiting women and youth.

A key outcome from the Accra workshop was reaffirming local ownership as essential for change. Participants called for more investment in local institutions, blending facilities, and data systems reflecting agroecological diversity.

They stressed that trust, coordination, and African leadership are vital for AFSH-AP success. Dr. Godfrey Bahiigwa from the African Union Commission described it as a call to action for shared accountability among stakeholders.

With support from FARA, AGRA, coalitions, and technical partners, Ghana can become a model for localized fertiliser systems focused on soil health.

The meeting also allowed coalitions to begin shaping work plans for 2025 that support implementing the Nairobi Declaration.

AGRA is dedicated to elevating farmer voices while celebrating partner contributions. The organization will continue serving as a technical convener for inclusive soil health initiatives across Africa.

The AFSH-AP is a ten-year strategy adopted by African Union Heads of State addressing declining soil fertility issues. It was developed through collaboration among multiple stakeholders based on principles of inclusiveness and partnership.

The African Union unites leading institutions committed to translating the AFSH Declaration into coordinated action.