Continental Programme on Post-Harvest Losses (PHL) Reduction

Abstract

Reduction of post-harvest losses (PHL) is a priority area of collaboration between FAO and the African Development Bank (ADB). It was one of three pillars identified by ADB within its African Food Crisis Response (AFCR) of June 2008, in response to the rise of food prices in 2007 and 2008. In 2009, collaboration between FAO and ADB on PHL reduction was organized along two pillars: (i) screen the ADB agricultural portfolio and sensitize/train ADB staff to improve PHL activities within ongoing and future projects; and (ii) prepare a framework paper for a continental programme on PHL reduction in Sub-Saharan Africa (SSA), based on needs assessments undertaken in 14 African countries. These needs assessments were carried out by FAO’s Rural Infrastructure and Agro-Industries Division (AGS) and Investment Centre Division (TCI) through joint field missions undertaken with ADB in six countries (Cameroon, Ghana, Malawi, Mali, Mozambique and Sierra Leone). Additional data were also obtained from ADB and FAO country offices and concerned stakeholders in another eight countries (Chad, Ethiopia, Kenya, Nigeria, Rwanda, Senegal, Uganda and Zambia). In 2010, six working papers entitled: “Continental Programme on Post-Harvest Losses (PHL) Reduction: Rapid Needs Assessment” were prepared for Cameroon, Ghana, Malawi, Mali, Mozambique and Sierra Leone which analyzed needs and opportunities for investing in PHL reduction in SSA. These reports provided the foundation on which ADB could begin deve loping its strategy to assist SSA countries in integrating the recommendations provided on key areas for intervention for PHL reduction.