The foremost challenges of post-harvest practices. A case of selected farmers in Nkomazi South Africa.

Abstract

Postharvest losses vary given the influence of heterogenous factors such as the degree of perishability of farm produce; ambient temperature and relative humidity which accounts for predisposing causes to incidences such as pest and diseases, level of deterioration, spoilage; incidence of rodents and birds, the span of time between harvesting and consumption of farm produce. The study evaluated the main challenges inherent in postharvest practices amongst selected farmers in Nkomazi, South Africa. Structured and semi-structured questionnaires, focus group and observations were used to solicit information on the foremost challenges associated with postharvest practices. Sample and collection of data were randomized ensuring that no group had special treatment. Mean and standard deviation were used to elucidate the degree of severity of challenges. Result indicated that socio-economic issues, technology, marketing, inadequate postharvest policy framework, and farming related challenges were found to be the primary and enduring challenges in postharvest practice. The paper justifies amongst others, the need for thorough understanding of the main factors affecting post-harvest practices, recommend the promulgation of effective measures to comprehend the gains of postharvest practice.