The concept of a continent-wide stockpiles project grew out of informal discussions involving WWF, PAN, the World Bank, FAO, African Union, NEPAD, and several other inter-governmental organizations. Since December 2000, the Africa Stockpiles Programme has evolved substantially as a multi-stakeholder partnership.

Countries targeted for phase 1 clean-up activities include: , , , , , and , with special preparatory activities planned for . Within these 7 countries, the ASP will contribute to national development strategies, especially in agriculture and rural development, in areas of public health, poverty alleviation, environmental protection, and strengthening of the agricultural sector.