Cold Storage: Reducing Post-Harvest Losses Effectively

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Cold Storage: Reducing Post-Harvest Losses Effectively

The Role of SMEs in Nigeria's Horticulture Sector

The Programme Director of HortiNigeria, Mohammed Salasi Idris, has emphasized that small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) play a crucial role in driving innovation within Nigeria's horticulture sector. However, many of these businesses are underperforming due to inadequate infrastructure.

According to Idris, post-harvest losses account for over 45% of produce in the horticulture value chain. This significant loss not only deprives farmers of potential revenue but also highlights the need for intervention. HortiNigeria, a program funded by the Dutch Embassy in Nigeria, aims to address these challenges through various initiatives.

Addressing Post-Harvest Losses

HortiNigeria has managed to reduce post-harvest losses by an impressive 83% in its intervention areas by introducing and deploying cold storage facilities and other strategies. Off-grid cold storage solutions, such as Ecotutu's solar-powered facilities, can extend the shelf life of fresh produce by up to 21 days. This innovation allows farmers to reduce waste, sell at better prices, and boost their income significantly.

Idris explained that the program has brought together farmers, traders, input providers, and innovators to collaborate with Ecotutu in building cold-room infrastructure to tackle postharvest losses. This collaboration has led to the installation of a 10-metric-tonne solar-powered cold room at Mile 12, marking Ecotutu's entry into a high-demand market and laying the foundation for broader expansion.

Expanding Cold Storage Facilities

In 2023 and 2024, Ecotutu partnered with two of the program's business champions to develop two 30-metric-tonne cold storage facilities in Ogun and Oyo states, with continued support from HortiNigeria. The first facility was established at Soilless Farm Lab in Awowo, while the second was set up at the National Horticultural Research Institute (NIHORT) in Ibadan.

These installations are more convenient because they are closer to farmers' production sites, helping them reduce spoilage, stabilize income, and gain stronger control over market timing. With the new storage facilities, farmers and aggregators can now manage surpluses more strategically and respond to price changes without compromising product quality.

A Story of People, Partnerships, and Progress

'HortiNigeria is more than a development programme—it is a story of people, partnerships, and progress. Over the past four years, we have witnessed how targeted support in knowledge, technology, finance, and policy can transform lives, strengthen value chains, and position horticulture as a driver of economic growth in Nigeria,' Idris said.

Key Achievements and Future Goals

  • Reduction in Post-Harvest Losses: By implementing cold storage solutions, HortiNigeria has significantly reduced post-harvest losses.
  • Collaboration with Innovators: The program has successfully partnered with companies like Ecotutu to build essential infrastructure.
  • Strategic Location of Facilities: The placement of cold storage units near production sites has helped farmers manage their produce more effectively.
  • Economic Growth: Through targeted support, the program has contributed to the growth of the horticulture sector in Nigeria.

The Impact of Cold Storage Solutions

Cold storage facilities have proven to be a game-changer for farmers in the horticulture sector. These facilities not only help in preserving the freshness of produce but also allow for better market access. By extending the shelf life of products, farmers can sell their goods at optimal times, leading to increased profits and improved livelihoods.

Conclusion

HortiNigeria's efforts have demonstrated the potential of collaborative initiatives in addressing critical challenges within the horticulture sector. By focusing on infrastructure development, technological innovation, and strategic partnerships, the program has laid a solid foundation for sustainable growth. As the initiative continues to expand, it holds the promise of transforming the horticulture landscape in Nigeria and beyond.


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