By Obiabin Onukwugha
The Climate Africa Media Initiative Center (CAMIC) has called for immediate and sustained action to address the growing environmental risks posed by manure and fertilizer contamination.
According to the body in a statement released on Tuesday in Abuja, the excessive and improper use of fertilizers and animal waste runoff are major contributors to water and soil pollution, thereby posing threats to ecosystems, human health, and food security.
“Across Africa, agricultural expansion has led to increased reliance on fertilizers to boost productivity. However, when these nutrients are not effectively managed, they leach into water bodies, leading to eutrophication, fish kills, and the contamination of drinking water sources.
“Similarly, animal manure, when not properly disposed of or utilized, releases harmful nitrates and ammonia into the environment, exacerbating air and water pollution.
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“While fertilizers and manure are essential for improving agricultural yields, their mismanagement is causing significant harm to the environment.
“We need urgent policy measures and community-driven solutions to mitigate these risks and promote sustainable agricultural practices,” the stetement read in part.
The statement, signed by CAMIC’s Chief Growth Officer, Pius Alabi, emphasised strict regulations on fertilizer application and manure disposal to prevent water contamination.
“The effects of fertilizer and manure pollution are already visible, with reports of deteriorating water quality, declining biodiversity, and increased cases of waterborne diseases.
“It is imperative that governments, agricultural stakeholders, and communities work together to develop and implement sustainable strategies to manage agricultural waste effectively,” statement added.
