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Daniel, J., SHu’aib, A. U., Lawal, A. T., Abdullahi, Z. Y., Umar, U. S. & Abubakar, A. (2026)

Articles by Daniel, J., SHu’aib, A. U., Lawal, A. T., Abdullahi, Z. Y., Umar, U. S.

Original ResearchSep 2026
Assessment of Strategies Used by Merchants for Postharvest Loss Control of Pawpaw and Banana in Kano, State, Nigeria.
Daniel, J., SHu’aib, A. U., Lawal, A. T., Abdullahi, Z. Y., Umar, U. S. & Abubakar, A. (2026)

This study assessed strategies adopted by pawpaw and banana marketers to reduce postharvest losses (PHLs) in selected markets in Kano Metropolis, Kano State, Nigeria. Specifically, it described the socio-economic characteristics of marketers and examined strategies used to mitigate PHLs at different stages of the marketing chain. A multi-stage sampling technique was used to select 159 pawpaw marketers, comprising 39 wholesalers and 120 retailers, and 120 banana marketers, comprising 19 wholesalers and 101 retailers, from three markets. Primary data were collected through structured questionnaires administered by personal interviews and analysed using frequencies, percentages, means, and standard deviations. Poor market patronage was identified as a major cause of PHLs. Strategies adopted to mitigate this included buyer persuasion (32.5%), advertisement (30.0%), attractive packaging (22.5%), and price reduction (20.0%). Other prominent causes included inadequate transportation, obsolete storage facilities, pest and disease infestation, and adverse weather conditions. Commonly adopted mitigation practices included the use of jute bags, storage under shade, selection of suitable transport vehicles, and training in improved postharvest management. The findings highlight significant gaps in transportation and storage infrastructure and limited access to improved management skills. Strengthening market and transport infrastructure, expanding access to affordable storage facilities, and providing targeted training in modern postharvest management practices are recommended to reduce PHLs and improve the efficiency and profitability of pawpaw and banana marketing in Kano Metropolis.