Investigation of Supply Chain Processes Affecting Adoption of Maize Post-harvest Loss Reduction Practices among Smallholder Farmers in Chipata District, Zambia

Abstract

Persistent maize post-harvest losses continue to undermine household food security and smallholder livelihoods in Chipata District, Zambia, despite the availability of improved post-harvest technologies. This study examined the influence of supply chain processes on the adoption of maize post-harvest loss reduction practices among smallholder farmers, focusing on warehousing, transportation, evidence-based recommendations, and market access. A cross-sectional mixed-methods design was employed, involving 77 smallholder farmers and 16 key informants. Quantitative data were analysed using descriptive statistics, correlation, ANOVA, and multiple regression, while qualitative data were analysed thematically. The findings revealed that warehousing significantly influenced the adoption of post-harvest loss reduction practices (β = 0.438, p < 0.05), with improved storage facilities, storage training, and the ability to delay sales encouraging greater uptake. Market access emerged as the strongest determinant, with cooperative marketing, aggregation centres, reliable buyers, and improved price opportunities promoting investment in post-harvest management. Although transportation mode was not statistically significant (p > 0.05), qualitative findings identified poor road infrastructure and high transport costs as major constraints. Overall, the study demonstrates that effective post-harvest loss reduction depends not only on technological interventions but also on an enabling supply chain environment. The study recommends strengthening warehousing systems, market infrastructure, extension services, cooperative marketing, rural road networks, affordable transport, and market information systems to enhance the adoption of post-harvest loss reduction practices and improve food security among smallholder maize farmers.