By Umar Nsubuga
Post-harvest losses remain a major challenge for commercial farmers in Uganda, with improper storage methods costing farmers up to 30% of their produce annually.
Despite the country’s favourable climate and fertile soils, poor handling and storage practices threaten agricultural productivity and profits.
These losses undermine food security, reduce incomes, and discourage farmers from expanding their operations.
Effective storage systems are critical to maintaining crop quality, prolonging shelf life, and securing better market prices.
Professor Kant Kanyarusoke, the Director of the Revamping of Renewable Energy for Food and Water Engineering (REFWE) farm in Kyegegwa district, highlights the need for better storage practices to address post-harvest challenges.
He provides insights into cost-effective and sustainable solutions that help farmers preserve their harvests and minimize losses.
Poor storage practices
Inadequate drying
Moisture content is a critical factor in storage. Crops stored without proper drying are prone to mold, rot, and pest infestations.
Lack of proper facilities
Many farmers rely on rudimentary storage structures that fail to protect produce from heat, rain, and pests.
Insufficient knowledge
Limited awareness about modern storage techniques leaves farmers vulnerable to losses.
Pest infestation
Without preventive measures, crops like maize, beans, and groundnuts often suffer from weevil and rodent damage.
“Farmers often lose months of hard work because they don’t invest in proper post-harvest management,” says Professor Kanyarusoke.
“Storage is not just about keeping produce it’s about ensuring quality and marketability.”
Modernising storage systems
To tackle these issues, Professor Kanyarusoke offers practical advice for farmers to reduce losses and improve their profitability.
Proper drying techniques
“Moisture is the enemy of stored crops,” he emphasises. Farmers should invest in moisture meters to ensure produce is sufficiently dried before storage. Sun drying on raised platforms or using solar dryers can help maintain the right moisture content.
Improved storage structures
The use of silos, hermetic bags, and ventilated storage facilities can significantly reduce losses. These systems protect crops from pests, moisture, and temperature fluctuations.
“Hermetic bags are particularly useful for small-scale farmers as they are affordable and effective,” adds Professor Kanyarusoke.
Pest and disease control
Regular fumigation and the use of natural pest repellents can keep storage areas pest-free.
“Farmers should also adopt practices like cleaning storage spaces and using airtight containers,” he advises.
Training and capacity building
Farmers need education on best practices for post-harvest handling. REFWE farm conducts training programmes to equip farmers with knowledge about storage innovations and sustainable practices.
Renewable energy solutions
One of REFWE’s unique contributions is the promotion of renewable energy for storage. Solar-powered cold storage units allow farmers to preserve perishable vegetables and fruits.
“This is particularly important for farmers producing high-value crops,” explains Professor Kanyarusoke.
The economic benefits of better storage
Improved storage practices can transform farming into a more profitable venture. By reducing losses, farmers can sell more produce and negotiate better prices. Quality produce also attracts premium markets, both locally and internationally.
Professor Kanyarusoke cites an example from REFWE farm, where farmers who adopted solar drying and hermetic storage bags reduced losses by 60% within a year.
“The results are clear when farmers embrace proper storage methods, they earn more and waste less,” he says.
“Farming doesn’t end at harvest,” says Professor Kanyarusoke.
“Post-harvest management is just as critical. If farmers understand this, they will not only secure their produce but also contribute to Uganda’s food security and economic growth.”
