The growing contrast between the very limited use of fertilizer in Sub-Saharan Africa (only 9 kg of nutrients per hectare) and the role played by fertilizer in other regions of the world (100-135 kg/ha in Asia, where 50% of yield growth is attributed to fertilizer) has stimulated debate about the role of fertilizer in Africa and what types of policies and programs are needed to realize its potential benefits. The objective of this paper is to provide a comprehensive overview of the current state of knowledge and the key debates concerning fertilizer demand in Sub-Saharan Africa (SSA). Technical, economic, and policy issues are addressed. The underlying assumption is that SSA needs to increase fertilizer consumption to meet agricultural growth, poverty reduction, and environmental objectives. This will require policies and programs that encourage economically sound and technically efficient fertilizer use, not simply increased use.
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