Developing Community Food Storage Systems to Minimise Post-Harvest Losses Among Smallholder Farmers in Northern Uganda: An Analytical Survey Study

Food insecurity remains a significant challenge for smallholder farmers in northern Uganda, leading to substantial post-harvest losses (PHL). These losses are exacerbated by inadequate storage facilities and infrastructure, particularly during peak harvest seasons. The research employed a mixed-methods approach, combining qualitative interviews with quantitative surveys to gather data from farmer groups in three selected districts. Data analysis involved thematic coding and statistical testing using SPSS software. Findings indicate that community food storage systems can significantly reduce PHL by up to 40% when compared to traditional storage methods. Farmers reported a preference for communal facilities, which were perceived as more reliable and cost-effective than individual storage options. The study concludes that implementing structured community-based food storage systems is an effective strategy to combat post-harvest losses among smallholder farmers in northern Uganda. Recommendations include prioritising the establishment of multiple storage facilities across target regions, engaging with local government and non-governmental organizations for support, and conducting periodic maintenance to ensure system longevity.