Vegetated buffer strips for reducing diffused agricultural water pollution in Africa

Agricultural pollution poses a significant global threat to biodiversity, water quality, and human health, with particularly acute to chronic toxic impacts on living beings in low- and middle-income countries. Vegetated buffer strips (VBSs) are recognized as a cost-effective, nature-based solution for managing agricultural pollution risks. Despite their proven efficacy, the adoption of VBSs remains very limited across African countries. This review provides comprehensive scientific literature to assess VBS effectiveness in mitigating diffuse agricultural water pollution, with a specific focus on its potential for Africa. Out of the initial pool of publications, 35 studies (23.3%) met the inclusion criteria, consistently demonstrating the statistically significant effectiveness of VBSs in reducing non-point source pollution (sediment, particulate, dissolved forms of phosphorus, pesticides, and dissolved nitrogen). Beyond direct pollution control, the review underscores the broader benefits of VBSs, including improved sediment and nutrient management during runoff events, enhanced biodiversity, and contributions to carbon sequestration. The findings highlight a critical need for tailored policy development and robust economic incentives to support VBS implementation in Africa. Successful integration of VBS can be instrumental in achieving the 2030 agenda for sustainable development, particularly in improving food security and water quality across the continent. This work advocates for localized research and collaborative efforts to unlock the full potential of VBS as a sustainable agricultural practice in diverse African contexts.