Reducing On-Farm Food Losses
In the OIC Member Countries
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There are several institutions that are involved in projects related to cassava with the goals of
improved varieties (stem cuttings) and linking farmers with major processors and traders, but
the most critical input suppliers for cassava cultivation are the farmers, international research
institutions (such as IITA), ADPs, RTEP, and the Ministry of Agriculture with programs like Ogun
State Cassava Revolution Programme (CRP). The Ogun State CRP aims at promoting the
development of the cassava sub-sector within the State. It also aims at harnessing the enormous
potentials in cassava for youth and women empowerment, enhancing food security, promotion
of industrialization and poverty alleviation. They multiply cassava cutting, which results in
improved varieties for farmers.
Generally, application of fertilizers, pesticides and herbicides is encouraged, but there is no
documentation that application affects the quality of roots. However, thinning of cassava stems
before maturity may result in low yield and small sized roots.
3.3.5. Lessons Learned from the Case Study
Several lessons can be learned from the relatively low levels of on-farm losses assessed for
cassava in Nigeria.
 Offering price incentives for quality leads to producers paying attention to harvest
indices (days from planting) for optimum quality and yield.
 On-farm losses can be reduced if improved pest control for insects and rodents is
practiced for roots that are left in the field after full maturity.
 Gentle harvesting and digging of roots and tuber crops can prevent physical damage.
 Avoiding rough handling after harvest such as stepping on or sitting on the heaps of
crops can reduce physical damage.
 Providing shade for harvested crops during delays in transport from the field to the
market can reduce produce temperatures and reduce on-farm losses.
 Streamlining the value chain, such as creating direct links from the farm to the final
buyer, decreases delays in transport from the farm.