Iran Conflict Threatens Food Security in Africa, Warns Fertilizer Giant
Iran war may cause food shortages in Africa, world’s largest fertiliser firm says
The Guardian
Image: The Guardian
The ongoing conflict in Iran could lead to severe food shortages and rising prices in Africa, particularly affecting vulnerable communities, according to Svein Tore Holsether, CEO of Yara International. He emphasized the need for global leaders to address potential fertilizer shortages that could exacerbate the crisis in food supply chains across the continent.
- 01The Iran war could result in dramatic food shortages in Africa, particularly among vulnerable populations.
- 02Yara International's CEO warns of a possible global auction for fertilizers, making them unaffordable for poorer nations.
- 03The price of urea, a key fertilizer component, has surged by 60% to 70% since late February due to the conflict.
- 04Countries like Ethiopia and Kenya are heavily reliant on Middle Eastern nitrogenous fertilizers and are particularly at risk.
- 05The EU is providing financial support to its farmers, but similar assistance is lacking in Africa, which could worsen food security.
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Svein Tore Holsether, CEO of Yara International, has raised alarms about the potential food shortages in Africa due to the ongoing conflict in Iran. He highlighted that the war could trigger a global auction for fertilizers, making them unaffordable for the continent's poorest communities. Fertilizer prices, particularly urea, have surged by 60% to 70% since the conflict escalated, with significant implications for food supply chains in Africa, where countries like Ethiopia and Kenya are heavily dependent on imports. Holsether noted that while the EU is taking steps to support its farmers, similar measures are absent in Africa, where soil health and food reserves are already compromised. He urged world leaders to act before the situation worsens, as the most vulnerable populations are likely to bear the brunt of the crisis.
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The conflict in Iran is likely to lead to higher food prices and potential shortages in Africa, affecting farmers and consumers, particularly in vulnerable communities.
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