Enhancing Indigenous Agricultural Management Techniques: A Framework to Minimize Post-harvest Losses in Potato Farming in Bui Division, North West Region of Cameroon
Louis Mosake Njomo1, Cecils Arnolds2, Shillie Peter Ngek3
1Dr. Louis Mosake Njomo, Department of Marketing, University of Douala (Essec), Douala, Cameroon.
2Prof. Cecils Arnolds, Graduate School of Business, Nelson Mandela Metropolitan University, Port Elizabeth, South Africa.
3Dr. Shillie Peter Ngek, Department of Agribusiness Technology, University of Bamenda.
Manuscript received on May 07, 2019. | Revised Manuscript received on May 14, 2019. | Manuscript published on May 15, 2019. | PP: 46-55 | Volume-3 Issue-9, May 2019. | Retrieval Number: I0268043919 /19©BEIESP
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© The Authors. Published By: Blue Eyes Intelligence Engineering and Sciences Publication (BEIESP). This is an open access article under the CC BY-NC-ND license (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0/)
Abstract: Global food security is continuously being challenged by postharvest losses. This study focuses on minimizing postharvest losses in potato farming in Bui Division through making use of indigenous knowledge techniques. The methodological framework utilized to realize the aim of this study began with a review of literature in the area of study. The literature reviewed looked at indigenous knowledge practices across the world and how they have helped in preventing postharvest losses. The case study design was used to explore the phenomenon in detail. Purposeful Sampling was used to select research participants that could provide information rich in detail about indigenous potato farming practices in the study area. Individual interviews and focused group discussions were conducted with farmers, agricultural official, traditional rulers and staff of institutions that support agriculture. Participant observations were also carried out by the researcher. Field notes were recorded each time the researcher visited the villages. In the analyses, the author used the Thematic Network Analysis method. The findings of this study show that there are many benefits from using indigenous knowledge in potato farming and that if enhanced, the indigenous knowledge practices of small holder farmers in Bui Division can results in some gains especially minimizing postharvest losses. The framework for minimizing post harvest losses as suggested by this study may enable policy makers and stakeholders to tailor efforts towards minimizing postharvest losses by enhancing the indigenous knowledge techniques of the farmers. This study will make a contribution in the enhancement of indigenous knowledge on the prevention of postharvest losses in potato farming. The study could also serve as a reference document for potato farmers and other stakeholders who may be interested in helping small holders farmers engaged in potato farming.
Keywords: Indigenous Knowledge, Agriculture, Postharvest Loss, Thematic Network Analysis, Potato Cultivation.