Overview

COMFREP aims to enhance agricultural productivity by accelerating the regional harmonization of fertilizer regulatory frameworks and strengthening agricultural inputs distribution networks in the region. Developed in close collaboration with the African Fertilizer Agribusiness Partnership (AFAP), the programme seeks to increase household food and nutrition security and support the establishment of resilient food systems in the COMESA region.

Funding Partners

AFAP (African Fertilizer Agribusiness Partnership)

Target by 2031

Double fertilizer utilization by 2031

Focus Areas

Fertilizer & Bioprotectants Harmonization

Strategic Objectives

Accelerate the regional harmonization of fertilizer regulatory frameworks to reduce non-tariff barriers to trade.

Strengthen agricultural inputs distribution networks throughout the COMESA region for improved access.

Increase household food and nutrition security through enhanced fertilizer availability and use.

Support the establishment of resilient food systems across member states.

Enhance the commercial supply and distribution of quality fertilizers throughout the region.

Key Activities

Regulatory Framework Harmonization

Accelerating the development and implementation of harmonized fertilizer regulatory frameworks across COMESA member states to reduce non-tariff barriers and facilitate cross-border trade in fertilizers.

Distribution Network Strengthening

Strengthening agricultural inputs distribution networks to ensure farmers across the region have reliable access to quality fertilizers at competitive prices, particularly in rural and remote areas.

Quality Assurance Systems

Enhancing the commercial supply and distribution of quality fertilizers through improved quality control mechanisms, certification systems, and market monitoring to protect farmers from substandard products.

COMBIHAP Integration

Implementing the COMESA Bioprotectants Harmonisation Programme (COMBIHAP) in collaboration with USDA and IITA to develop a harmonized regulatory framework for bioprotectants (biopesticides and biocontrol agents).

Bioprotectants Registration and Commercialization

Accelerating the registration, technology transfer, and commercialization of bioprotectants for the benefit of smallholder and commercial farmers, food processors, and consumers.

Productivity Enhancement Programs

Supporting initiatives to double fertilizer utilization rates and improve seed use while increasing area under small-scale drip irrigation from 5-9% to above 30% by 2031.

Staple Food Trade Growth

Working towards achieving a 10% annual growth rate in inter-regional agricultural trade for major staples including maize, beans, soya beans, wheat, bananas, cassava, rice, livestock, fisheries, dairy, and horticultural products.

Expected Outcomes

Harmonized fertilizer regulatory frameworks across COMESA region

Reduced non-tariff barriers to fertilizer trade

Enhanced commercial supply and distribution of quality fertilizers

Improved access to fertilizers for smallholder farmers

Doubled fertilizer utilization rates by 2031

Increased household food and nutrition security

Strengthened resilient food systems across member states

Harmonized regulatory framework for bioprotectants in place

Accelerated registration and commercialization of bioprotectants

10% annual growth in inter-regional agricultural trade

Increased area under small-scale drip irrigation to above 30%

Programme Structure

COMFREP operates through close collaboration between ACTESA, the African Fertilizer Agribusiness Partnership (AFAP), and national governments. The programme coordinates with development partners, fertilizer manufacturers, distributors, and farmer organizations. COMBIHAP, as part of the broader COMFREP framework, works with USDA and IITA to specifically address bioprotectants harmonization through technical working groups and national focal points.

COMESA Fertilizer Regional Programme

Overview

Strategic Objectives

Key Activities

Expected Outcomes

Programme Structure