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The Promise of Microbial Fertilizer for Affordable and Sustainable Food Production in Africa

Author

Listed:
  • Tavneet Suri
  • Petar Madjarac
  • Robert D. van der Hilst

Abstract

Food insecurity is an existential threat for Africa (a continent facing rapid population growth and dire climate impacts) and addressing it a global imperative. Over 30% of caloric intake comes from maize, but crop yields are low partly because high costs make synthetic fertilizers uneconomical. A field experiment with Kenyan smallholder farmers explores the promise of genetically modified (microbial) biofertilizers to deliver nitrogen and increase yields at affordable costs. We see significant increases in yields (up to 110% for some farmers) and lower environmental impact than synthetic products. This suggests that biofertilizers could dramatically improve food security and child nutrition in Africa.

Suggested Citation

  • Tavneet Suri & Petar Madjarac & Robert D. van der Hilst, 2026. "The Promise of Microbial Fertilizer for Affordable and Sustainable Food Production in Africa," NBER Working Papers 34858, National Bureau of Economic Research, Inc.
    • Handle: RePEc:nbr:nberwo:34858
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    More about this item

    JEL classification:

    • O13 - Economic Development, Innovation, Technological Change, and Growth - - Economic Development - - - Agriculture; Natural Resources; Environment; Other Primary Products
    • O55 - Economic Development, Innovation, Technological Change, and Growth - - Economywide Country Studies - - - Africa

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