September 9, 2025 (Addis Ababa, Ethiopia): IGAD Ministers responsible for Agriculture and Food Security today endorsed the establishment of the IGAD 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 that will tackle soil fertility challenges, strengthen food security, and enhance resilience in the IGAD region. The Ministers further gave IGAD the green light to move forward with operationalisation of the Hub.
Six Priority Areas of Action
The Fertilizer and Soil Health Hub will drive change across six Key Priority Areas (KPAs):
- Policy and Advocacy Support: Promoting harmonised policies and coordinated strategies on soil health and fertilizer use across the region.
- Capacity Strengthening: Enhancing technical and institutional capabilities to address soil fertility challenges.
- Soil Information Systems & ISFM Practices: Developing robust data systems for evidence-based decision-making and scaling Integrated Soil Fertility Management (ISFM) practices that address soil based resilience interventions.
- Research and Innovation: Advancing scientific research, technologies, and innovative solutions to improve soil productivity and sustainability including economic and environmental risk management.
- Markets, Trade and Supply Chains: Improving access to affordable, quality fertilizer inputs and strengthening regional markets. Promoting local manufacture and exploiting AfCFTA for improved regional trading on soil health products.
- Resource Mobilisation and Partnerships: Leveraging investments and partnerships to ensure sustainability and impact, including private sector, development partners, farmers and technical organizations. Enhancing inclusion of women, youths and small holder farmers.
Speaking at the meeting, on behalf of the IGAD Executive Secretary, the Deputy Executive Secretary, H.E. Mohamed Abdi Ware, welcomed the endorsement, stating:
“The establishment of the Fertilizer 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 Fertilizer and Soil Health Hub comes at a critical time when IGAD Member States are grappling with the impacts of climate change, land degradation, which aggravate food and nutritional insecurity. By prioritising soil health, the Hub will 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.
