Knowledge, Attitude and Practices of Households on Technology Adoption and Postharvest Management of Avocado, Mango and Tomato in Wondo Genet Woreda of Sidama Region

Abstract

Postharvest loss was one of the major problems in Ethiopia. Nearly about 25-45% of postharvest losses existed in Ethiopia. The magnitudes of losses were higher for perishable products like fruit and vegetables when compared from cereals and legumes. Postharvest losses for Tomato, Avocado and mango were also high in the study area. The aim of this study was to collect baseline information on knowledge, attitude and practices of households on technology adoption and postharvest management on Avocado, Mango and Tomato at Wendogent Wereda Sidama region, Ethiopia. This baseline information will be used for the purpose of intervention and evaluating the change on the farmer’s practice. The area was selected based on the potentiality of production of selected commodity. From the total area 4 kebeles were selected from 12 kebeles by using production potential of Tomato, avocado and mango and the samples were distribution to all direction of the woreda. From selected four kebeles 400 household were selected based on: Population number, Land size and gender (>30%). By using total land size and population number the 400HH were divided in to four kebeles by proportional and finally their average was used as sample size. The selected household was selected for the interview by using the standard questionnaire that was pre-tested before. Kobo tool was used for collecting the data. Purposive sampling method was used to select fruit production. Data analysis was analysed using statistical software (SPSS version 22). Descriptive data analysis was computed. Tables, graphs and charts were used to display results of the research findings. The result showed that the farmers do not have knowledge on different postharvest management technology such as maturity identification, harvesting techniques, cold storage facility, and transportation and distribution channels. They were based on their traditional practice. The cause of postharvest losses was improper handling   and storage. The farmers need training on different areas such as, Harvesting, Packaging, storage, transportation. the result indicated that the farmers were willing to pay for technologies to reduce postharvest lossess. These technologies were important for reduction of losses for fruit and vegetables. The finding indicated that further study was needed on the adoption and utilization of affordable postharvest technology for each selected commodity in the selected area. In addition to that the postharvest loss estimation for each commodity in the value chain was very important.