Greener Journal of Agricultural Sciences

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Josphert et al

Greener Journal of  Agricultural Sciences Vol. 2 (6), pp. 279-288, October 2012

 ISSN: 2276-7770 

Research Paper

Manuscript Number: 10021269

 

The Significant Role of Post-Harvest Management in Farm Management, Aflatoxin Mitigation and Food Security in Sub-Saharan Africa

 

Josphert N. Kimatu1*, Robyn McConchie2, Xiuyuan Xie3, and Simon N. Nguluu4

1Department of Biological Sciences, South Eastern University College, P.O. Box 170-90200, Kitui Kenya.

2Department of Plant and Food Sciences, Faculty of Agriculture and Environment, University of Sydney, 1 Central Ave Australian Technology Park , Eveleigh 2015 NSW, Australia.

3College of biological sciences and technology, Beijing Forestry University, Box 860; Beijing 100083, China.

4Katumani Research Center, P.O. Box P.O. Box 340-90100, Machakos, Kenya.

 

*Corresponding Author’s Email: josphert @yahoo. com


Abstract:

Post-harvest losses in sub-Saharan region in Africa are estimated to be about 30% annually. This review examines the vital role which post-harvest management plays in the management of crop farms and in the mitigation of aflatoxin poisoning. The capitalization of this role offers a cheaper way of improving food production in the sub-Saharan region which is drought prone and has to a large extent, seen as food insecure. Studies have shown that proper post-harvest management, especially the use of the small scale metal silo, contributes to better quality of grains, less pesticide usage and can accelerate agribusiness, therefore directly contributing to rural development and poverty reduction. However, not much effort has being invested in reducing post-harvest food losses especially in staple cereals like maize and legumes, even after many studies have shown that it offers an essential way of increasing food availability without the need of other resources. Furthermore, post-harvest management offers a cheaper way for diet diversification, which is crucial in aflatoxin poisoning reduction. This review also presents a model by which can be used in reducing the entry of toxigenic Aspergillus flavus in the grain supply chain.
 
Key Words: Post Harvest losses; Aflatoxin; Supply Chain; Mitigation; food security; metal silo.

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