IGAD Ministers Endorse Fertiliser and Soil Health Hub to Strengthen Regional Food Security

Addis Ababa, September 9, 2025 (FMC) – Ministers responsible for Agriculture and Food Security from the Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD) have officially endorsed the establishment of the Fertiliser and Soil Health Hub during a ministerial meeting held in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia.

The endorsement marks a decisive step towards building a regional platform aimed at addressing soil fertility challenges, enhancing food security, and bolstering resilience across the IGAD region. The Ministers have granted IGAD the mandate to proceed with the operationalisation of the Hub.

Six Priority Areas of Action

The Fertiliser and Soil Health Hub will focus on six Key Priority Areas (KPAs):

1. Policy and Advocacy Support: Promoting harmonised policies and coordinated strategies on soil health and fertiliser use across the region.
2. Capacity Strengthening: Enhancing technical and institutional capabilities to address soil fertility challenges.
3. Soil Information Systems & Integrated Soil Fertility Management (ISFM) Practices: Developing robust data systems for evidence-based decision-making and scaling ISFM practices that address soil-based resilience interventions.
4. Research and Innovation: Advancing scientific research, technologies, and innovative solutions to improve soil productivity and sustainability, including economic and environmental risk management.
5. Markets, Trade, and Supply Chains: Improving access to affordable, quality fertiliser inputs and strengthening regional markets. Promoting local manufacturing and exploiting the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) for improved regional trading on soil health products.
6. Resource Mobilisation and Partnerships: Leveraging investments and partnerships to ensure sustainability and impact, including private sector, development partners, farmers, and technical organisations. Enhancing inclusion of women, youth, and smallholder farmers.

Speaking at the meeting on behalf of the IGAD Executive Secretary, Deputy Executive Secretary H.E. Mohamed Abdi Ware welcomed the endorsement, stating:

“The establishment of the Fertiliser and Soil Health Hub is a decisive step in securing the foundations of food security and resilience for our region. By investing in healthier soils, stronger markets, and innovative solutions, we are not only feeding our people today but also safeguarding the prosperity of generations to come.”

The creation of the Fertiliser and Soil Health Hub comes at a critical time when IGAD Member States are grappling with the impacts of climate change and land degradation, which exacerbate food and nutritional insecurity. By prioritising soil health, the Hub aims to contribute directly to improved agricultural productivity, resilient livelihoods, and sustainable food systems.

IGAD remains committed to working closely with Member States, partners, and stakeholders to ensure the Hub delivers tangible benefits for farmers and communities across the Horn of Africa.