10.09.2025
A major international summit, held for the first time in Africa, will bring together scientists, policymakers and industry leaders from across the world to address the urgent need for sustainable phosphorus management.
The UK Centre for Ecology & Hydrology (UKCEH) is partnering with Lancaster University, Rothamsted Research, The Council for Scientific and Industrial Research in Ghana and the Forum for Agricultural Research Africa (FARA) to organise the event in Accra, Ghana.
Phosphorus is a key nutrient in crop and livestock production, and is present in human and animal excreta as well as chemical fertilisers. Excess amounts pollute aquatic ecosystems through agricultural run-off and wastewater, which can lead to the development of toxic algal blooms.
Experts warn that without urgent investment and innovation, the lack of availability of fertiliser to Africa’s farmers – exacerbated by population growth and climate change – could threaten the region’s food production.
The eighth Sustainable Phosphorus Summit (SPS8), held from 30 September-3 October, aims to kickstart efforts in Africa to address these issues. Delegates will discuss improving fertiliser efficiency and recovering phosphorus from agricultural runoff and wastewater, enabling it to be reused in agriculture.
Call for action
Adelaide Asante, head of UKCEH’s West Africa office, based in Accra, said: “Amid growing global demand for phosphorus and concern about its environmental impacts, coordinated global action is needed to avoid a crisis that could jeopardise food security and water quality in Africa and worldwide.”
Professor Wole Fatunbi of FARA added: “The Sustainable Phosphorus Summit has come to Africa at the most opportune time when continental efforts are driving effective soil health and nutrient management to achieve sustainable, environmentally friendly agriculture.
“The SPS8 summit will ensure that African voices and experiences are prominent and inform the design of solutions to deliver sustainable phosphorus management.”
The event aims to inspire the creation of an inclusive network of representatives from academia, agriculture, environmental organisations, industry and policy, in order to bring about change across Africa.
The summit runs from 30 Sept-3 October at the Alisa Hotel, North Ridge, Accra, Ghana. Visit upcyclelakes.org/sps8africa for more information and register online here.
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