The International Fertilizer Development Center (IFDC) has unveiled a new strategy for the next decade, placing soil health at the heart of Africa’s efforts to increase agricultural productivity, protect natural resources and improve farmer profitability.

The strategy builds on more than two decades of IFDC research, technical expertise and knowledge exchange across the continent. It recognises that increasing food production cannot depend solely on greater use of agricultural inputs but must also focus on maintaining healthy and productive soils.

IFDC President and CEO Henk Van Down discussed the new roadmap with CNBC Africa’s Ridhima Shukla, highlighting the importance of sustainable soil management in shaping Africa’s agricultural future.

For farmers, healthier soils can support improved yields, greater resilience to climate pressures and more efficient use of fertiliser and other inputs. For governments, the strategy provides a framework for strengthening agricultural policies around long-term productivity and land management.

The approach also has implications for investors, as healthier and more productive agricultural systems can create stronger foundations for commercial farming, agribusiness investment and food value chains.

As Africa faces rising food demand, climate change and pressure on its land resources, the renewed focus on soil health reflects a broader shift towards agricultural growth that combines productivity with sustainability and improved farmer incomes.