Assessment of Post-Harvest Losses in Yam Marketing Among Traders in Plateau State, North Central Nigeria

Post-harvest losses in yam marketing represent a critical inefficiency in Nigeria's agricultural value chain, with estimates suggesting that between 30 and 50 percent of harvested yam is lost before reaching the consumer. In Plateau State, yam is both a subsistence crop and a major commodity in rural and peri-urban markets. This study assessed the magnitude and determinants of post-harvest losses in yam marketing among traders in Plateau State. A survey of 88 yam traders from four major markets was conducted using structured questionnaires and direct observation of storage and handling practices. Weight loss measurements were taken at key post-harvest handling stages. Descriptive statistics and logistic regression were used in the analysis. Results revealed a mean post-harvest weight loss of 23 percent across the sampled marketing chain, with mechanical damage during loading and inadequate storage conditions being the primary causes. Small-scale traders with limited access to improved storage infrastructure recorded losses significantly higher than those with access to ventilated barns. The study recommends investment in affordable rural storage infrastructure, training of traders in good handling practices, and promotion of yam-specific packaging standards. Strengthening market information systems to reduce trader glut behaviour is also critical. These findings provide a practical evidence base for value chain development interventions targeting the yam commodity in Plateau State. Keywords: post-harvest losses, yam marketing, traders, Plateau State, storage infrastructure.