Fertilizer shortage in Burundi raises fears of food crisis

Farmers in Gitega province are warning that severe shortages of chemical fertilizers could undermine harvests and threaten food security, as the country’s Season B planting period nears its end. According to local media outlet SOS Médias Burundi, growers report insufficient and delayed deliveries of urea and organo-mineral fertilizers, with some receiving only a fraction of the quantities they had paid for.

At the Nyabugogo distribution site, several farmers described partial allocations despite holding multiple purchase tickets. Some said they had paid for several bags but received only one, while others reported leaving empty-handed. Farmers also raised concerns about losing their payment vouchers, which serve as proof of purchase and are required to collect supplies. The shortages come as the government promotes agricultural output under President Évariste Ndayishimiye’s pledge to ensure food availability and household income growth.

Local officials declined to comment on the reported disruptions. Farmers say the situation extends beyond Gitega, with similar complaints emerging from other regions of Burundi, where late or incomplete fertilizer deliveries have arrived months after the relevant cropping season. Producers warn that continued input constraints could reduce yields and intensify pressure on food supplies in the months ahead.

Sources: SOS Médias Burundi