By Staff Reporter
Farmers in Eastern Uganda and across the country have been encouraged to closely monitor post-harvest handling of their agricultural produce to reduce losses and increase earnings from their farm products.
The call comes as many farmers resume full agricultural activities following the return of seasonal rains and growing national efforts to strengthen agricultural productivity as Uganda pushes toward sustaining its middle-income economic status.
According to Pius Woniala, an analyst and microbiologist working with the Uganda National Bureau of Standards (UNBS), poor post-harvest handling remains one of the major causes of financial losses among farmers.
Woniala explained that many farmers unknowingly reduce the quality and value of their produce through improper drying, storage, and transportation methods.
He cited common practices such as drying cassava and other food crops directly on bare ground, storing produce in unhygienic environments, and transporting food in poorly handled conditions.
“These practices reduce the quality of the products and may lead to rejection in both local and international markets,” Woniala said.
He further noted that when agricultural products fail quality tests conducted by regulatory authorities such as the Uganda National Bureau of Standards, they can be banned from markets, resulting in heavy financial losses for farmers and traders.
Woniala therefore encouraged farmers to adopt improved post-harvest handling techniques that meet market standards, including proper drying methods, hygienic storage facilities, and safe transportation practices.
Meanwhile, Victoria Namutebi Wamala, the Senior Public Relations Officer at the Uganda National Bureau of Standards, emphasized the importance of public awareness regarding product certification and quality control.
She explained that UNBS plays a critical role in monitoring agricultural products to ensure they meet required safety and quality standards before entering both domestic and export markets.
Namutebi recalled previous incidents where Ugandan produce faced rejection in international markets, including a case where maize destined for the Kenya market was rejected after it was found to be contaminated with aflatoxins.
Such incidents, she noted, highlight the importance of maintaining strict quality standards throughout the production and post-harvest processes.
She therefore urged farmers, traders, and processors to cooperate with regulatory authorities and adopt proper handling practices to protect Uganda’s reputation in international markets.
Officials say improving post-harvest management will not only reduce food losses but also help farmers earn better incomes while strengthening Uganda’s agricultural export potential.
