Cold Chain Infrastructure Gaps and Post-Harvest Loss in the Tomato Value Chain: An Empirical Study in Kano and Jigawa States

This study empirically investigates the relationship between cold chain infrastructure gaps and post-harvest losses in the tomato value chain in Kano and Jigawa States, North West Nigeria. Nigeria is among the world's largest tomato producers, yet post-harvest losses are estimated at 40 to 60 percent, driven significantly by the near-total absence of functional cold chain infrastructure from farm gate to urban markets. Using a mixed-methods design combining quantitative value chain surveys and qualitative key informant interviews, data were gathered from 180 tomato farmers, aggregators, processors, and market traders across the two states. Cold chain infrastructure is assessed through cold storage availability, refrigerated transport access, pre-cooling facility proximity, and power supply reliability. Post-harvest loss is measured quantitatively through daily weight loss per consignment, spoilage percentage, and price discount attributable to quality deterioration. Multiple regression analysis identifies the dominant cold chain gap variables predicting loss magnitude. Qualitative data from 20 key informants contextualise systemic and investment barriers. The study draws on cold chain development and post-harvest loss literature from sub-Saharan African agricultural value chains. Findings are expected to confirm that power supply unreliability for cold storage is the most critical predictor of loss magnitude. The study fills an empirical gap in the literature by quantifying loss drivers at each value chain node. Recommendations address the Federal Ministry of Agriculture, investors, and NGO partners on targeted cold chain investment priorities for the tomato value chain in North West Nigeria. Keywords: cold chain infrastructure, post-harvest loss, tomato value chain, Kano, Jigawa.