09/09/2024

Post-harvest loss represents a significant challenge in global agriculture, particularly in developing countries. Factors such as inadequate storage, pest infestations, and poor handling can not only result in economic losses for farmers but also exacerbate food insecurity. Addressing these issues requires a multifaceted approach that includes technology promotion, capacity development, knowledge sharing, and the integration of various perspectives and expertise.

A recent FAO publication “Post-harvest management: bridging gaps and embracing innovations” has made substantial contributions to ongoing efforts to reduce post-harvest losses. It is the result of collaborative work between development partners, who have collectively contributed to the mechanization working group of the Green Innovation Centres for the Agriculture and Food Sector (GICAFS) programme led by GIZ, supported financially by the German Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ). It brought together a wealth of expertise and experience from FAO, GIZ, the International Maize and Wheat Improvement Center (CIMMYT), AfricaRice, and the Sokoine University of Agriculture (SUA) to identify major challenges, propose solutions, and share innovative technologies and approaches.

The resource offers a comprehensive analysis of the current state of post-harvest management, provides four case studies with success stories from the field and outlines recommendations for further actions, including to:

• Prioritize and develop institutional support for smallholder farmers adopting agricultural technologies
• Harness entrepreneurship and agribusinesses for sustainable post-harvest management
• Strengthen technical innovation gaps through training, accessible technologies and knowledge sharing
• Advance equal opportunities for both women and men in post-harvest management for sustainable agriculture

By disseminating knowledge and best practices, it seeks to empower practitioners, including extension staff, non-governmental organizations, community-based organizations, and academic institutions.

The publication highlights the importance of incorporating gender perspectives into post-harvest management strategies. Women play a crucial role in agriculture in many developing countries, and their involvement in post-harvest activities is vital. Recognizing and addressing the unique challenges faced by women in this sector can lead to more inclusive and effective interventions. Beyond reducing losses, the publication advocates for value addition and the creation of job opportunities. By supporting agribusiness and entrepreneurship, especially in rural areas, the initiative aims to generate income, stimulate local economies and contribute to broader socio-economic development. Moreover, it seeks to promote adapting post-harvest strategies in the face of climate change, minimizing that post-harvest losses to ensure climate resilience and mitigate environmental impacts.

Calling for continued investment in capacity building, particularly in the areas of technology promotion and market access, it also stresses the need for policies that support sustainable agricultural practices and the empowerment of women and marginalized groups in the agricultural sector.

This publication is not just a resource for current practitioners but also a guide for future initiatives, including FAO field projects that incorporate post-harvest components. By providing a comprehensive overview, case studies and practical recommendations, it aims to inspire and inform projects that will continue to address post-harvest loss in the years to come.