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Impact of COVID-19 Lockdown on Tomatoes and Scotch Bonnet Losses among Farmers and Marketers in Southwest Nigeria
Abstract
The COVID-19 lockdown increased agricultural losses for farmers and marketers in Nigeria. This study assessed the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on post-harvest losses of tomatoes and scotch bonnet along post-harvest value chain. We conducted a cross-sectional study among 60 farmers and marketers all selected from Oyo, Osun, and Ekiti States using interviewer-administered questionnaires targeted towards post-harvest experiences. Data were analyzed using SPSS version 25.0. The median price of baskets of tomatoes and bags of scotch bonnet before, during, and after the COVID-19 lockdown were compared using Related samples Friedman's Two-Way Analysis of Variance by ranks. The median number of baskets of tomatoes harvested and quantity harvested during COVID-19 lockdown was compared using Related samples Wilcoxon sign rank test, the same was done for scotch bonnet. P-values less than 0.05 were considered statistically significant. The mean age of the 60 respondents was 48.7 ± 13.6 years, and 27.6% were aged 40-49 years. Before the COVID-19 lockdown, the median price of a basket of tomatoes was ₦6,000 during the lockdown and ₦8,000 after the lockdown. (p=<0.001) The price of a bag of scotch bonnet was ₦7,000 before the lock down, ₦8,500 during, and ₦8,000 after the lockdown. (p=0.027). To minimize farm losses, farmers should harvest tomatoes and scotch bonnet once ripe, not overripe. Tomatoes and scotch bonnets should be stored in a cool, dry place that is well-ventilated. The storage area should be free from pests and rodents that can cause damage to the farm produce.
