SATG-Presentation on Grain Storage

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Presented At: The Regional Workshop on Dryland FarmingPractices in Emergency and Post-Emergency Context

October 6th 7th , 2008, Nairobi, KENYA

Introduction and improvement of post- harvest and

grain storage systems in the Bay Region-Somalia



Introduction

Post-harvest losses

Grain storage systems

Experiences and lessons learned from other

regions within the country using improved storage

system

A proposed plan for improving post-harvest andstorage losses in the in the Bay Region

Overview





Post-harvest and storage grain losses are estimated as 20-30%

of the total production.

In Southern Somalia, this translates to economic lossesranging between 50,000 and 80,000 tones per year

Corresponding to an estimated value of US$ 15 and 25

million, respectively.

These losses are mainly due to lack of proper handling of the

crop soon after harvest and the use of the traditional storage

structures

Post-Harvest Losses



Grain Storage Systems

I- TraditionalUnderground pits (most common)

II- OthersSacks

Drums (metal and plastic)

Bags



Factors contributing to grain storage losses in

underground pits: Temperature

Humidity

*Higher temperature and higher humidity provide optimum conditions for

disease development and spread

Traditional Storage System




ProblemsMigration of moisture from the surrounding

soil walls

Exposed to heavy rains and floods

Development of fungi and insects

Conducive conditions for rodents

Multiplication of fungi called Aspergillus

(deadly to humans)



Grain discoloration

Loss of grain quantity and quality traits




Post-emergency study conducted in the Bay Region

by GTZ indicate that in all tested pits, moisture and

temperature were conducive for fungaldevelopment, therefore, grains had potential

aflatoxins contamination




How to improve the traditional system?

I. Improving post-harvest practices

II. Improving the storage system




I. Improving post-harvest practices Moulded and damaged grain should be separated

Improved sun drying

Rapid collection in case of excessive rain

Transportation (grain damage and spelling)

Packing, loading and handling





II. Improving the traditional

system

Coating pit wall with maize/sorghumsticks or plastic sheets

Digging drainage system around the

pits

Establishment of pits in elevated

position



Storage in drums and plastic containers

Gaining popularity in parts of southern Somalia and Somaliland)

Inaccessible to rodents, efficient against insects and sealed against entryof water

Grain conserve their market quality and value for up to 5 years

Significant reduction in post-harvest losses

In 2007, 78% of the beneficiary farmers in Somaliland were found utilizingthe new drum system

Experiences and Lessons Learned



Experiences and Lessons Learned

Disadvantages

Limited capacity (max. 200 kg)

In high agriculture potential areas like

the Bay region, bigger storage capacity

will be required



HouseholdMetal Silos

Proposed storage technology for the BayRegion

Similar in concept to the drum storage

Has been tested in many countries withmeasurable success

It has helped many African countriesreduce storage losses

It can be built locally with different sizes of storage capacity




Its simple, efficient and can store grain forlonger periods of time without alteringgrain quality

Helps farmers store grain for futureanticipation of higher market prices




Target groups The farmers within the project area

Artisans/craftsmen

Somali agriculture professionals and technicians involved in the

implementation of the action




Process Train master trainers on silos construction

Train artisans from different villages

Organize field tours and demonstrations

Train farmers on proper use of the silos

Establishment of artisan Centres

Promotion of the new technology through available media outlets



Summary

Improvement of post-harvest and storage facilities are cost effective and

contribute to food security

Improved storage will allow a continues supply of food throughout theyear either for domestic consumption or for trade

It will provide a reserve for contingencies such as drought

Allow the farmers to sell at a time when prices are favorable

Will reduce the exposure to aflatoxins



Documents

SATG-Presentation on Grain Storage