Post-Harvest Technology Adoption and Its Effect on Fish Quality in Kebbi State

This study investigated the adoption of post-harvest technologies and their effects on fish quality and economic returns among fish processors in Kebbi State, North West Nigeria. Kebbi State hosts one of the largest freshwater fishing operations in Nigeria, centred on the Kainji-Jebba reservoir system and the Rima River, yet high post-harvest losses constrain the sector's contribution to food security and income. The study covered 90 fish processors across the Yauri, Argungu, and Birnin Kebbi local government areas, using structured questionnaires and laboratory quality assessments. Post-harvest technologies examined included improved smoking kilns, solar tent dryers, hermetic storage bags, and iceblock use at landing sites. Quality indicators assessed included moisture content, microbial load, peroxide value, and organoleptic scores. Results showed that adoption rates for improved smoking kilns and solar drying were 38 and 12 percent, respectively, while traditional open-air sun drying remained dominant at 67 percent. Fish processed using improved kilns had significantly lower moisture content (below 10 percent) and reduced microbial contamination compared to traditionally processed products. Processors using improved technologies achieved price premiums of 20 to 35 percent per kilogram in urban markets due to superior product quality. Barriers to adoption included high upfront equipment costs, limited technical training, and inadequate access to after-sales support. The study recommends a targeted subsidy programme for improved post-harvest equipment, integrated with technical training delivery through the Kebbi State fisheries extension network. Keywords: post-harvest technology, fish quality, fish processing, adoption, Kebbi State