ASPNet Strengthens Foundations through Hosting Agreement with FARA
Photo of the ASPNet from the side-event of the 8th Sustainable Phosphorus Summit.
The African Sustainable Phosphorus Network (ASPNet) continues to make important progress in advancing sustainable phosphorus management across Africa. Launched at the 8th Sustainable Phosphorus Summit (SPS8) in Accra, Ghana, ASPNet brings together researchers, policymakers, development partners, private sector actors, and practitioners committed to addressing phosphorus-related challenges affecting food systems, environmental sustainability, and resource security across the continent.
One of the network’s most significant recent milestones has been the signing of a Hosting Agreement with the Forum for Agricultural Research in Africa (FARA), which will serve as the institutional host of ASPNet. This formal arrangement provides the network with a strong foundation for growth, positioning it within a leading pan-African organization dedicated to advancing agricultural research and innovation across Africa.
By hosting ASPNet, FARA provides an institutional platform that supports the network’s long-term sustainability, visibility, and engagement with diverse stakeholders. The agreement marks an important step in ASPNet’s evolution from a concept launched at SPS8 into an operational network capable of facilitating collaboration, knowledge exchange, and collective action on sustainable phosphorus management across the continent.
“Africa’s soils sustain its people, and their future depends on how wisely we steward every nutrient. By hosting ASPNet, FARA is helping transform phosphorus knowledge into collective action for resilient soils, thriving communities and generations yet unborn.”
Additional efforts to strengthen the network and expand strategic partnerships were undertaken during the Africa Food Systems Forum (AFSF) in Kigali, Rwanda. Engagements with research institutions, development organizations, government representatives, and private sector stakeholders helped raise awareness of ASPNet’s mission and explore opportunities for future collaboration. These discussions highlighted growing recognition of the importance of sustainable nutrient stewardship, soil health and context-appropriate approaches to building resilient and productive African food systems.
“The future of phosphorus sustainability will be determined by the choices we make today. By working across borders, disciplines and sectors, Africa can build phosphorus systems that strengthen food security, protect our water resources and leave a healthier environment for future generations.”
Looking ahead, ASPNet will focus on expanding its membership, strengthening partnerships, advancing the development and consultation of the P Action Plan for Africa, and supporting collaborative initiatives that promote sustainable phosphorus stewardship, nutrient recovery, innovation and evidence-informed policy development. Through its growing community of stakeholders and its institutional home at FARA, ASPNet is well positioned to contribute to more resilient, sustainable and resource-efficient food systems across Africa.
For enquiries, partnership opportunities, or information on becoming involved in the network, please contact: ASPNetInfo@faraafrica.org
Written by ASPNet Secretariat