Africa's agroecology offers systemic resilience amid global fertilizer dependency and climate vulnerability
Original framing: “Amid the fertiliser crisis, Africa has a chemical-free option: Agroecology” — Al Jazeera
The push for chemical fertilizers in Africa began in the 1960s and 1970s under Green Revolution policies, which were backed by Western governments and agribusiness interests. These policies disrupted traditional soil management practices and created a dependency on imported inputs. The current crisis is a direct consequence of this historical shift.
Agroecology in Africa is not merely an alternative to chemical fertilizers but a systemic reimagining of agriculture that addresses historical injustices, ecological degradation, and economic dependency.
By centering indigenous knowledge, supporting smallholder farmers, and reforming agricultural policies, African nations can build resilient food systems that are both productive and just. This transition requires dismantling the power structures that have long favored agrochemical interests and fostering a new paradigm where ecological and cultural diversity are assets rather than obstacles. The success of agroecology depends on cross-sectoral collaboration, including scientific validation, policy innovation, and grassroots mobilization. When viewed through a systemic lens, agroecology emerges as a holistic strategy for food sovereignty, climate adaptation, and social equity.