Post-Harvest Losses in Artisanal Fish Processing Among Women in Rivers State

This study investigated post-harvest fish losses experienced by women fish processors in selected fishing communities in Rivers State, South South Nigeria. Post-harvest losses remain a significant constraint to food security and income generation in Nigerian fisheries, particularly in coastal and estuarine communities where informal processing dominates. Structured interviews and observation checklists were administered to 110 women processors across five communities in the Degema and Bonny local government areas. Data on processing methods, storage duration, packaging materials, market access, and economic losses were collected and analysed using descriptive statistics. Results indicated that spoilage at the processing stage accounted for an average loss of 28 percent of total catch value per week. Sun drying and smoking were the predominant preservation methods, with solar tent drying used by only 9 percent of respondents. Inadequate storage facilities and irregular electricity supply were cited as the primary drivers of spoilage. Excessive moisture retention in smoked products was linked to premature mould growth during storage. Women who participated in cooperative marketing groups reported 22 percent lower average losses compared to individual processors. The study recommends investment in improved smoking kilns, solar drying technology, and cooperative storage infrastructure to reduce post-harvest losses and enhance income security for women in the fisheries value chain. Keywords: post-harvest losses, fish processing, women, artisanal fisheries, Rivers State