Advancing Biochar Innovation Insights from CBEA Monthly Call Pre-BIO360 Africa 2026

CBEA Members during the Monthly call

The Circular Bioeconomy East Africa (CBEA) community convened for its monthly call, bringing together members, partners, and stakeholders to share insights and updates shaping the region’s bioeconomy landscape. The session provided a valuable platform for knowledge exchange, with a strong focus on innovation, sustainability, and upcoming opportunities within the sector.

A key highlight of the call was a presentation by BEES, offering important updates on the highly anticipated Bio360 Africa Conference, set to take place in June 2026 in Johannesburg, South Africa. The event is positioned as a leading continental platform that will convene policymakers, researchers, entrepreneurs, and industry players to explore solutions in bioenergy, biochar, and the circular economy.

The call also featured a compelling research presentation by Dr. Hibret Demissie, who shared findings from a study examining the impact of waste-derived biochar on maize (Zea mays L.) growth and physiological performance. Against the backdrop of global challenges such as soil degradation, declining agricultural productivity, and climate change, the research highlighted biochar as a promising, sustainable solution. By converting organic waste into a soil-enhancing material, biochar not only improves soil fertility but also contributes to better waste management practices.

Hibret Presentation-CBEA Monthly Call, May.pdf

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The study demonstrated that biochar applications substantially improved overall plant growth, with noticeable increases in plant height, leaf area, and root development compared to conventional practices. In addition, treated crops exhibited enhanced physiological performance, including higher photosynthesis rates and improved stomatal conductance, which are key indicators of plant health and efficiency.

A particularly significant finding was the potential to reduce dependence on synthetic fertilizers. The research showed that combining biochar with as little as 50% of the standard fertilizer rate could achieve results equal to or even better than using full fertilizer inputs. Furthermore, biochar contributed to the development of stronger and more extensive root systems, enabling better nutrient uptake and increased resilience under varying soil conditions.

These findings underscore the transformative potential of biochar in advancing sustainable agriculture across Africa. By turning agricultural waste into a valuable resource, biochar supports a circular approach that addresses both environmental and productivity challenges. It offers farmers a practical pathway to improve yields while reducing input costs and mitigating the impacts of soil degradation.

In line with these insights, the study recommends the application of 10–20 t/ha of avocado seed biochar (ASB) or its co-composted form as an effective soil amendment, particularly for managing soil acidity. It also highlights the efficiency of integrating biochar with reduced fertilizer inputs, enabling farmers to maintain productivity while lowering costs and environmental impact.

CBEA continues to play a pivotal role in connecting stakeholders and promoting innovative, climate-smart solutions. The discussions from this month’s call reflect a growing commitment to scaling sustainable technologies and strengthening Africa’s bioeconomy.

 By Erick Opiyo Abala

Head of Communications-CBEA