As the world marked the International Day of Awareness on Food Loss and Waste, stakeholders in Port Harcourt have urged government and private sector players to implement proactive measures to curb the rising problem of food wastage in the country.
Nigeria is estimated to lose about 15 million metric tons of food annually across the value chain, from post-harvest handling and storage to distribution and consumption. According to the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), about 42 percent of fruits and vegetables harvested in the country never reach consumers. Experts warn that this not only costs the economy billions of naira but also worsens food insecurity.
Speaking with our correspondent, Vice Chairman of the Farmers Association of Nigeria, Rivers State chapter, Mr. Loveday Alozie, identified poor knowledge of best practices among farmers and consumers as a major cause of wastage. He also cited inadequate infrastructure such as storage facilities and poor transportation systems as critical challenges.
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To address these issues, Mr. Alozie called for more training and empowerment of farmers at the grassroots, while also urging the private sector to drive innovations that would reduce post-harvest losses.
Environmental expert, Dr. Kingsley Wogbidi, added that wasted food contributes to environmental degradation, including pollution, greenhouse gas emissions, and the misuse of vital resources like water and land. He advised Nigerians to embrace smart consumption and food redistribution as practical solutions.
This year’s observance was held under the theme: “Stop Food Waste! For People and Planet.”
