Reducing postharvest loss in Liberia
No Access Until
Permanent Link(s)
Other Titles
Author(s)
Abstract
This paper presents a framework for tackling postharvest loss in Liberia. It is informed by evaluating efforts to address this issue using case studies. Drawing on the food loss literature, the assessment focuses on four projects: i) The lost food project, ii) WFP postharvest loss venture, iii) Postharvest management in Sub-Saharan Africa, and iV) Fenik cool box. The resulting framework adopts a circular economy approach to tackling conventional practices and seeks to close loops in the food system. Most importantly, it promotes sustainable and resource-efficient policies and actions for long-term socioeconomic and ecological benefits. Liberia has struggled with food insecurity for many years, and research has shown that postharvest loss is one of the factors contributing to food insecurity. Additionally, postharvest loss negatively affects the environment and public health in the country, thus negatively affecting the livelihood and well-being of its people. A robust intervention to address postharvest loss incorporates local dynamics and is best addressed through partnerships, using a system thinking approach involving multiple stakeholders at various levels.