DETERMINANTS OF POSTHARVEST LOSSES AMONG TOMATO FARMERS IN GBOKO LOCAL GOVERNMENT AREA OF BENUE STATE
Kuranen-Joko, D. N. & Dzahan Hilary Liambee
Department of Home & Rural Economics, Akperan Orshi College of Agriculture, Yandev
Department of Agricultural Extension & Management, Akperan Orshi College of Agriculture, yandev
Email: dorcasnjoko@gmail.com
ABSTRACT
The study determined the factors affecting postharvest losses in tomato in Gboko Local Government Area of Benue State, Nigeria. Using non-probability sampling technique, 170 farmers were selected but 164 completed their questionnaire. The primary data for the study were analysed using descriptive statistics, regression, and independent samples test of means’ difference. Findings showed that tomato farming is male dominated as most families used family labour. While farming experience statistically reduced postharvest losses in tomato, farm size led to increase in postharvest losses. It was concluded that average postharvest loss among tomato farmers in Gboko LGA was quite large, as well as revenue lost due to postharvest losses. The study, therefore, recommended that both male and female farmers be trained on the management of postharvest losses in tomato; farmers with long farming experience should be involved in the training to share their experiences; and farm size should be as minimal as the farmers can manage so that postharvest losses do not increase.
Keywords:Tomato, Postharvest Losses, Gboko, Revenue, Management.
