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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