Post-harvest losses are a significant challenge facing the agricultural sector in Uganda and, largely, Sub-Saharan Africa, with over 37% of food produced lost between production and consumption, according to a report from the Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO) of the United Nations.
The Ministry of Agriculture, Animal Industry and Fisheries (MAAIF) in Uganda contends that this loss not only affects the food security of millions of people but also has a substantial impact on the economy.
In this article, we will explore the causes of post-harvest losses, their effects on the economy, and ways to minimise them.
Causes of Post-Harvest Losses
The Ministry of Agriculture categorises Post-harvest losses into two types: quantitative and qualitative.
Quantitative losses refer to the physical loss of produce, such as reduction in weight and volume, while qualitative losses affect the nutrient and caloric composition and edibility of a product.
These losses, according to experts from the Ministry of Agriculture, can occur at various stages of the supply chain, including harvesting, transportation, storage, and handling.
Effects on the Economy
Post-harvest losses have a significant impact on the economy, particularly in agriculturally dependent countries. The losses result in:
Reduced Income for Farmers
Post-harvest losses lead to reduced income for farmers, making it challenging for them to invest in their farms and improve productivity.
Increased Food Prices
The losses lead to a scarcity of produce, resulting in increased food prices, which affect consumers, particularly the vulnerable populations.
Food Insecurity
Post-harvest losses contribute to food insecurity, as the lost produce could have been used to feed millions of people.
Waste of Resources
The losses result in a waste of resources, including water, labour, and inputs used in production.
Ways to Minimise Post-Harvest Losses
To minimise post-harvest losses, everyone involved in the supply chain has a role to play. Some of the strategies include:
Proper Harvesting Techniques
Harvesting produce at the recommended time and using proper techniques can reduce losses.
Improved Storage and Transportation
Storing and transporting produce under recommended temperature and moisture conditions can reduce losses.
Use of Proper Packaging
Using proper packaging materials can reduce physical damage to produce during transportation and storage.
Regular Inspection and Maintenance
Regular inspection and maintenance of storage facilities and equipment can help identify and address potential issues before they lead to losses.
Collective Responsibility
The Kampala Declaration for the new decade of the Comprehensive Africa Agriculture Development Programme (CAADP) calls for a collective effort to reduce post-harvest losses by 50%.
This can be achieved through a collaborative approach involving farmers, traders, policymakers, and other stakeholders. By working together as stakeholders in the agricultural sector, we can reduce post-harvest losses, improve food security, and promote economic growth.
This is because post-harvest losses are a significant challenge facing the agricultural sector in Uganda and other parts of Sub-Saharan Africa.
By understanding the causes of these losses and implementing strategies to minimise them, we can reduce the economic impact and improve food security.
But this requires a collective effort from all stakeholders to achieve the goal of reducing post-harvest losses by 50%.
In so doing, we can create a more efficient and sustainable food system that benefits everyone.