food security africa - Big3Africa.org

Sub-Saharan Africa’s Soils Among World’s Worst, FAO Warns of Food Security Threat

Peter Ngare September 3, 2026

Sub-Saharan Africa’s soils have been rated among the world’s worst, with severe erosion, nutrient loss and declining soil biodiversity threatening agricultural production and food security. A new FAO assessment warns that urgent action is needed to restore soil health and protect the livelihoods of millions who depend on agriculture.

Food Systems

Subsidized Fertilizer, Seeds Fails to Stem Rising Hunger in Kenya, Report Says

Dan Kaburu August 25, 2026

A new report is challenging the effectiveness of Africa’s input-led Green Revolution model, finding that Kenya’s chronically undernourished population more than doubled to over 20 million between 2006 and 2024 despite increased use of fertiliser, commercial seeds and subsidies. The report calls for greater investment in agroecological farming, local seed systems, soil restoration, extension services and crop diversity.

El Niño Watch

East Africa Told to Prepare for Climate Shocks Beyond El Niño

Neville Ng'ambwa August 19, 2026

East African governments are being urged to look beyond the immediate threat of El Niño and build permanent defences against increasingly severe climate shocks. VI Agroforestry says the region needs stronger early-warning systems, resilient infrastructure, sustainable farming, watershed restoration and locally led adaptation to reduce the risks of floods, landslides, drought and displacement.

International Youth Day Tech & Energy

The Farmer’s Daughter Using Solar and AI to Keep Harvests Alive

Correspondent August 12, 2026

A Ugandan farmer’s daughter is turning the problem of post-harvest losses into a technology-driven opportunity. Through Solafam Uganda, Shifra Ainomugisha combines solar-powered cold storage, solar irrigation and AI-powered farm advice to help farmers preserve produce, improve productivity and adapt to climate challenges. Her work earned her the 2026 Commonwealth Young Person of the Year award.

El Niño Watch

Five Lessons Africa Can Teach the World About Super El Niño

Correspondent July 6, 2026

As scientists warn that a powerful "Super El Niño" could develop in 2026, experts argue the world has much to learn from Africa's decades of experience managing climate extremes. From early warning systems and climate-resilient crops to community-led adaptation and integrated planning, Africa's hard-earned lessons offer a blueprint for building resilience in an increasingly unpredictable climate.

El Niño Watch

El Niño: Scientists Warn of Major Crop Disruptions Across Africa

Peter Ngare June 17, 2026

Scientists warn that shifting rainfall patterns, droughts, floods, and rising temperatures may severely impact agricultural productivity, food prices, and livelihoods, underscoring the urgent need for preparedness and climate-resilient farming strategies.

Food Systems

Maize Aggregation Defends Against Climate-Driven Hunger and Aflatoxin

Pauline Ongaji May 26, 2026

Farmers in Laikipia are using maize aggregation, modern drying, and safer storage technologies to fight climate-driven hunger and rising aflatoxin contamination threatening food security and public health in Kenya.

El Niño Watch

Extreme Heat is Pushing Agrifood Systems to the Brink Worldwide, says FAO, WMO

Peter Ngare April 28, 2026

Extreme heat is rapidly emerging as one of the most severe threats to global food systems, with new findings from FAO and WMO warning that rising temperatures are already disrupting crops, livestock and fisheries, while placing over a billion people at risk and pushing agricultural systems toward a breaking point.

Food Systems

Climate Smart Agriculture Lessons from Rwanda

Neville Ng'ambwa April 28, 2026

Rwanda is accelerating Climate Smart Agriculture to protect farmers from climate shocks while boosting productivity. Its approach offers practical lessons for Kenya and East Africa to scale resilience, improve yields, and secure food systems.

Food Systems

EAC Seed Bill Raises Alarm Over Indigenous Seeds and Farmer Rights

Peter Ngare February 9, 2026

A proposed East African Community Seed and Plant Varieties Bill is triggering concern among farmers, environmentalists, and indigenous groups. Critics warn the legislation could sideline traditional seed systems, expand corporate control over agriculture, and threaten biodiversity and food security across the region.