Sugarcane Production in Sub-Saharan Africa: Historical Trends, Sustainability Challenges, and the Emerging Role of Frass Fertilizer

Publication Type

Journal Article

Journal Name

Sugar Tech

Publication Date

1-1-2025

Abstract

Sugarcane is a vital commodity in sub-Saharan Africa (SSA), yet its production has experienced significant shifts due to climate change, soil degradation, and socioeconomic challenges. This review synthesizes historical production trends in key SSA sugarcane-producing countries, examining factors influencing growth, yield variability, and sustainability challenges. Focusing on frass fertilizer (the nutrient-rich excrement produced by insects such as black soldier fly larvae fed on organic waste) as a sustainable alternative, this work analyzes findings from published field trials across SSA to compare sugarcane metrics under traditional fertilization versus frass application. Data from peer-reviewed studies demonstrate frass fertilizer's capacity to enhance yields (12–22%), improve soil health (organic carbon + 1.8%), and reduce environmental footprints in SSA contexts. Economic analyses reveal frass adoption is feasible at $80–150 tonne–1, with net revenue increases of $340 ha–1 in Kenyan trials, though scalability faces barriers like infrastructure gaps and limited smallholder access. Despite these benefits, limitations persist, including inconsistent ground validation data and knowledge gaps in climate-specific physiological responses. The review concludes that frass fertilizer shows promise for sustainable intensification in SSA sugarcane systems, but realizing this potential requires addressing research gaps, investing in decentralized production infrastructure, and implementing context-specific policies. Future efforts should prioritize SSA-focused validation studies, economic scaling models, and integration with indigenous knowledge systems to advance climate-resilient sugarcane production.

Keywords

Food security, Frass fertilizer, Nutrient management, Saccharum officinarum, Sub-Saharan Africa, Sustainable agriculture

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