Perception of Processors about Value Chain Approach for Minimizing Plantain (Musa Spp. L.) Post-Harvest Losses in Akure South Local Government Area of Ondo State, Nigeria

Abstract

This study was carried out to assess the perception of processors about value chain approach for minimizing
plantain (Musa spp. L) post harvest losses in Akure south Local Government Area of Ondo State, Nigeria.
Simple random sampling technique was used to select ninety (90) respondents for the study. Data were
collected using pre-tested interview schedule. Descriptive statistics was used to analyze the data while
Pearson Product Moment Correlation was used to test the hypotheses of this study. Results showed that the
key actors in Plantain Value Chain were input suppliers, producers, marketers, and consumers. The
predominant plantain product forms were plantain chips (80.0%) and dried plantain flakes (20.0%) in the
study area. The common marketing strategies were hawking (76.70%) and displaying of dried plantain flakes
(23.30%). Majority (90.00%) of the respondents strongly agreed that well coordinated plantain value chain
reduced spoilage and deterioration of plantain products, minimized post-harvest losses, and improved quality
of plantain products. Results of correlation showed that positive and significant relationships existed between
inadequate processing facilities (r = 0.68, p = 0.00), epileptic power supply (r = 0.83, p = 0.04), inadequate
rural infrastructure (r = 0.91, p = 0.00) and perception of respondents on reduction of post-harvest losses
through plantain value chain at p < 0.05. It was therefore recommended that improved processing facilities
should be provided for the processors as this will assist in the processing of plantain. Financial institutions
should also provide affordable loans to the processors.