Global Phosphorus Summit to Tackle Africa’s Food and Water Security Challenges
A critical international summit focusing on the future of phosphorus, a key yet finite agricultural resource, will take place in Accra, Ghana, from September 30 to October 3, 2025, marking the first time the event will be hosted in Africa.
The 8th Sustainable Phosphorus Summit (SPS8) will convene global scientists, policymakers, industry leaders, and environmentalists to tackle pressing challenges around phosphorus management, food production, and water quality.
The summit is jointly organised by Lancaster University, the UK Centre for Ecology & Hydrology, Rothamsted Research, Ghana’s Council for Scientific and Industrial Research, and the Forum for Agricultural Research in Africa.
Phosphorus, a critical component of fertilisers, is vital for global food systems but poses dual threats as both a finite resource and a pollutant. Experts warn that mismanagement could exacerbate food insecurity and environmental degradation, particularly in Africa, where phosphorus use remains below optimal levels.
“Africa boasts some of the most locally adaptable soil fertility management innovations including Integrated Soil Fertility Management,” said Dr Grace Kangara, an SPS8 organiser. “This summit is a chance to bring African voices and realities to the forefront.”
While the continent grapples with declining phosphorus use, limited livestock for manure recycling, and soil micronutrient imbalances, innovations like phosphate rock application and biomass recycling offer hope. However, these solutions remain largely at pilot scale, and the need for balanced fertiliser use is growing.
Globally, inefficient phosphorus use has led to pollution and toxic algal blooms in high-income countries. At the same time, rising demand from emerging green technologies, including lithium batteries, adds new pressure on phosphorus reserves.
SPS8 aims to promote smarter phosphorus use, better fertiliser efficiency, and innovations in recycling, culminating in the launch of an African Sustainable Phosphorus Network (ASPN). The summit is also expected to inspire a new generation of “Phosphorus Champions” to drive change.
“This is the most important, challenging, and potentially satisfying project I have contributed to,” said Prof. Phil Haygarth of Lancaster University. “Making soils more phosphorus efficient in Africa is critical for the future of world food production.”
The event will be held at Alisa Hotel, North Ridge, Accra, with registration now open at www.upcyclelakes.org/sps8africa.
