The effects of unavailability of technical storage facilities to the marketing of fruits and vegatables for economic development in Morogoro rural and urbarn districts
Kasimila, B.J.|Wambura, R.M.|Nnko, S.A.M / 1999

Fruits and vegetables are basically horticultural products, which deteriorate fast after harvest. They are characterized by high moisture contents and tenderness. These fruits and vegetables had every low profile in Morogoro region in the past, but since 1998s they are increasingly becoming strategic products because they provide employment and contribute to family income. This paper is based on the others study in 1998 on “the effects of the unavailability of the technical storage facilities to the marketing of fruits and vegetables for economic development in the two districts”. The study focused on the major causes of fruits and vegetables losses and on determination of the trend and constraints pertaining to the fruits and vegetables production and marketing. Primary data were obtained through interviews with randomly selected fruits and vegetable farmers, wholesalers, retailers and consumers. Other data were obtained through group discussions with key informants and personal observations and notes. The data analysis employed the use of descriptive statistics. The main losses identified were both qualitative and quantitative resulting from damages occurring mainly during transportation and unavailability of technical storage facilities at the markets. The paper concludes that Morogoro rural and urban districts seriously lack transport and storage facilities for horticultural products. Intervention strategies that have to be taken to district are presented.