A social reporter for the African Agriculture Science Week blogs on the importance of storage for smallholder farmers to increase food security. The post describes the role of technologies such as silos and solar dryers, and describes ways to make low-cost storage options to fit farmers’ needs. http://aasw6.wordpress.com/2013/07/16/when-food-storage-can-become-food-security/#more-879
Maize Dryers to Be Set Up in Punjab
The Punjab government directed the Agricultural Department to set up maize dryers in all mandis before the next harvest season, and community maize dryers installed in two locations before procurement during this season. Subsidies will also be given on the purchase of portable dryers. http://www.thehindubusinessline.com/news/states/maize-dryers-to-be-set-up-in-punjab/article4905075.ece
Sh45m for Cereals Warehouse
The Kenyan government is constructing a large scale warehouse in Kanyekiini County, Central Province, to reduce postharvest losses. The project is expected to offer local youth employment opportunities and improve farmers’ incomes. http://www.nation.co.ke/Counties/Sh45million-for-cereals-warehouse/-/1107872/1909594/-/yx5y58/-/index.html
Agric Minister Advocates Measures to Reduce Postharvest Losses
Minister of Food and Agriculture Humado points to initiatives involved in developing comprehensive government plan for postharvest loss reduction, including model warehousing and receipt facilities, and investment in transportation. http://www.ghanabusinessnews.com/2013/07/06/agric-minister-advocates-measures-to-reduce-post-harvest-losses/
Farming Tips and Technologies
Pioneer, the hybrid seed company, evaluates poor post-production techniques (PDF) in the Philippines as a major contributor to loss, despite the use of hybrid seeds. The author gives an overview of factors to consider and options for drying and storage. http://www.pioneer.com/home/site/philippines/farming/
Modern Agricultural Centre Established in Bonyon
The United States Millennium Challenge Account has funded the construction of an Agricultural Business Center in Bonyon, Ghana, in order to aid the marketing and value chain development of staple food crops. Two additional centers will be built in the district as part of a plan for PHL reduction. http://www.ghanaweb.com/GhanaHomePage/regional/artikel.php?ID=237134
DU Scientist Invents New Grains Storage Technology
The Centre for Advanced Research Sciences of Dhaka University has developed a new grain storage technology by using ultra superheated steam (USST). Rice, wheat, broken maize, mixed animal feed and chickpea can now be stored 11 months to two years by using the new technology. http://www1.bssnews.net/newsDetails.php?cat=0&id=243357&date=2012-04-21
Large-scale Rice Cultivation Profits Can Tho
Vietnamese farmers increased their profits by VND4.8 million in the last winter-spring rice crop, due to changing to a “large-scale cultivation model.” Additionally, farmers only sowed one variety of rice at the same time in a field, which allowed them to save seeds as well. The Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development held a seminar […]
Farmers Want NCPB Depot Reopened
Kenyan farmers are urging the government to reopen the National Cereals and Produce Board in order to aid them in minimizing PHL. The Board has been closed since 1986, and farmers have found that it has impacted their ability to store and dry properly. Poor roads have also affected their access to facilities. Additionally, the […]
Kumasi Polytechnic Acquires 200-Acre Land for Entrepreneurship Village Project
The Kumasi Polytechnic school in Ghana has acquired 200 acres to build an Entrepreneurship Village, with model crop and aquatic farms, as well as small scale industries for training purposes. The school seeks to link the local and international markets as students learn how to set up their own businesses. Kumasi Polytechnic has also funded a […]