Govt must help farmers tackle postharvest losses

IT is a sight many Tanzanians are familiar with: a convoy of trucks and trailers laden with fruits, vegetables and grains making their way from the heart of rural areas to bustling urban centres.

Some even cross borders to neighbouring countries, proudly showcasing the bounty our farmers produce. But, here is the paradox – despite this visible surplus, our farmers face significant post-harvest losses that threaten to undermine the progress of the agricultural sector.

If only a fraction of the crops that go to waste could be preserved, Tanzania would not just be feeding its own citizens but could become an agricultural powerhouse in the region.

It is time the government and all relevant stakeholders took a hard look at this issue and acted decisively.

For anyone who has had the chance to visit countryside, it is clear that we have no shortage of food. From maize in Morogoro to avocados in Arusha, there is enough variety to feed the nation, even our neighbours.

Yet, for every truckload of food that reaches the market, an alarming percentage of crops do not make it past the farm gates.

According to estimates, post-harvest losses in Tanzania can range between 20 per cent and 40 per cent.

That is nearly half of what our farmers produce, lost due to inadequate infrastructure, poor storage conditions, and a lack of proper handling techniques.

This is not just a logistical nightmare; it is a huge economic setback. Tanzania’s agriculture is the backbone of the economy, contributing around 25 per cent of GDP and employing over 65 per cent of the population.

When crops rot in the field or spoil on the way to the market, it is not just the farmers who lose out.

It is the entire economy, food security, and the country’s ability to export its surplus. Farmers are doing their best with the limited resources they have.

ALSO READ: Tanzanian innovator introduces Kilimotech Chatbot to empower farmers

But with poor roads, outdated storage facilities, and a lack of training in post-harvest management, they are up against monumental challenges.

The situation is not simply a result of nature’s whims, we must invest adequately in agricultural infrastructure and knowledge transfer.

Without proper storage facilities, food is often left to spoil before it can be transported or sold. Even when storage exists, it may be inadequate or poorly maintained, leading to further losses.

Furthermore, the farmers’ lack of skills in post-harvest handling contributes to wastage.

A significant portion of crops spoil simply because they are not harvested, handled, or stored properly.

These are not problems that can be solved by farmers alone. They require systemic changes and substantial investment.

This is where the government and stakeholders must step in with concrete solutions.

First, there must be a focus on improving rural infrastructure. Better roads, modern storage facilities and reliable transportation networks would go a long way in reducing post-harvest losses.

Second, the government should prioritise training programmes for farmers to help them learn the best practices for harvesting, handling, and storing their crops.

Finally, the private sector, NGOs, and agricultural experts can collaborate with the government to provide farmers with the tools and technology they need to improve crop preservation.

As we look to strengthen our agricultural sector, there must be systems to ensure that what is grown can be consumed and the government must see postharvest loss management as a priority.

In doing so, we not only ensure food security but also boost the livelihoods of millions of farmers, improve Tanzania’s position as an agricultural leader, and ultimately feed more people both at home and abroad.