ANALYSIS OF TRANSPORT LOGISTICS AND POSTHARVEST LOSSES IN SOUTHERN KADUNA SENATORIAL DISTRICT, KADUNA STATE, NIGERIA

Abstract

Agriculture remains the backbone of rural livelihoods and food security in Nigeria, yet inefficiencies in transportation logistics continue to undermine agricultural productivity through significant postharvest losses. This study examined the influence of transport logistics on postharvest losses in agricultural product movement in Southern Kaduna Senatorial District, Kaduna State, Nigeria. A mixed-methods research design was adopted, involving 379 respondents comprising farmers, transporters, traders, agricultural officials, and development partners selected from the eight Local Government Areas of the senatorial district. Primary data were collected using structured questionnaires, key informant interviews, focus group discussions, and field observations. Quantitative data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and multiple regression analysis, while qualitative data were analyzed thematically. The findings revealed that poor rural road conditions (35.4%), high transportation costs (29.0%), inadequate transport vehicles (20.6%), and seasonal road inaccessibility (15.0%) were the principal transportation constraints contributing to postharvest losses. Approximately 70% of respondents reported losing between 10% and 30% of harvested produce during transportation, with ginger identified as the most vulnerable crop. Multiple regression analysis indicated that transportation variables significantly influenced postharvest losses (R² = 0.510, F (5,376) = 28.78, p < 0.001). Good road infrastructure and access to technological innovations significantly reduced postharvest losses, whereas long travel time, high transport costs, and poor logistics increased spoilage. The study concludes that improving rural transport infrastructure, promoting integrated logistics systems, strengthening farmer cooperatives, and adopting innovative transportation technologies will substantially reduce postharvest losses, improve farmers' incomes, strengthen food security, and accelerate sustainable rural development in Southern Kaduna.