Chapter One: Introduction
1.1 Background of the Study
Post-harvest losses remain a significant challenge in Nigeria's agricultural sector, affecting food security and the livelihoods of millions of smallholder farmers. These losses occur due to poor storage facilities, inadequate market access, and limited knowledge of modern preservation techniques. In Wurno Local Government Area, where agriculture is a primary economic activity, reducing post-harvest losses is crucial for improving productivity and income. Local radio, as a widely accessible communication tool, has proven effective in disseminating critical agricultural information. According to Abdullahi and Musa (2024), radio programs tailored to farmers’ needs can provide timely advice on harvesting, storage, and marketing, reducing losses significantly. This study explores how local radio contributes to reducing post-harvest losses in Wurno, emphasizing its role as an enabler of agricultural development.
1.2 Statement of the Problem
Farmers in Wurno face significant post-harvest losses due to inadequate knowledge of preservation methods and lack of access to timely market information. Despite the availability of local radio as a communication platform, its role in addressing these issues remains underexplored. Without a clear understanding of how local radio impacts post-harvest practices, efforts to enhance agricultural productivity in Wurno may remain ineffective, perpetuating food insecurity and economic hardship.
1.3 Objectives of the Study
To examine how local radio provides information on post-harvest practices in Wurno.
To assess the impact of local radio on reducing post-harvest losses among farmers in Wurno.
To identify the challenges faced by local radio in promoting post-harvest loss reduction in Wurno.
1.4 Research Questions
How does local radio provide information on post-harvest practices in Wurno?
What is the impact of local radio on reducing post-harvest losses in Wurno?
What challenges hinder the effectiveness of local radio in promoting post-harvest loss reduction in Wurno?
1.5 Research Hypotheses
Local radio significantly provides information on post-harvest practices in Wurno.
Local radio has a positive impact on reducing post-harvest losses in Wurno.
Challenges significantly limit the effectiveness of local radio in reducing post-harvest losses in Wurno.
1.6 Significance of the Study
This study is valuable to agricultural policymakers, broadcasters, and development organizations aiming to enhance food security through improved post-harvest practices. It highlights the role of local radio as a critical tool for knowledge dissemination and offers recommendations for optimizing its use. The findings contribute to academic literature on media and agricultural development, supporting strategies to reduce post-harvest losses in rural communities.
1.7 Scope and Limitations of the Study
The study is limited to Wurno Local Government Area, focusing on the role of local radio in reducing post-harvest losses. It excludes other media platforms and regions outside Wurno.
1.8 Operational Definition of Terms
Local Radio: A broadcasting platform providing region-specific audio content.
Post-Harvest Losses: Losses incurred during harvesting, storage, and marketing of agricultural produce.
Farmers: Individuals engaged in agricultural activities as their primary occupation.
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