Enhancing Post-Harvest Handling Practices to Mitigate Fruit and Vegetable Losses in Côte d'Ivoire

Côte d'Ivoire is a significant producer of fruits and vegetables in West Africa, yet post-harvest losses remain substantial, impacting both producers' income and food security. The study will employ a mixed-methods approach, including surveys, focus groups, and on-site assessments to gather data from farmers and local markets in Côte d'Ivoire. Data analysis will use descriptive statistics and thematic analysis to identify key factors contributing to losses and potential mitigation strategies. Initial findings suggest that improper storage conditions are a major contributor to post-harvest losses, with an observed average loss rate of 15% across various fruits and vegetables. The identified strategies for reducing losses include improved packaging materials, better cold chain management practices, and enhanced market linkages between producers and buyers. These interventions aim to create a more resilient agricultural sector in Côte d'Ivoire. Implementers should prioritise training programmes for farmers on best storage techniques and market engagement initiatives to support small-scale producers. Additionally, government stakeholders are encouraged to provide financial incentives and policy support for adopting recommended practices. post-harvest handling, fruit losses, vegetable losses, Côte d'Ivoire, agricultural sector resilience The empirical specification follows $Y=\beta_0+\beta^\top X+\varepsilon$, and inference is reported with uncertainty-aware statistical criteria.