A Dissertation Submitted in Partial Fulfillment of the Requirements for Award
of the Degree of Master of Science in Procurement and Supply Chain
Management (Msc-PSCM) of Mzumbe University
The purpose of this study was to carry out an economic analysis on the determinants
of post-harvest loss. General objective of this study was to analyze determinants on
the post-harvest loss of staples through distribution channel of maize crop. The study
analyzed the extent of post-harvest loss at different stages of maize distribution, also
study aimed to determine the influence of storage, transport and staff knowledge on
maize loss. This study was guided by theory of constraints. This study was carried
out at National Food Reserving Agency (NFRA) in Tanzania. The study adopted
mixed research design. The study targeted population were all staff involved in
distribution process of maize at NFRA in all selected area. Probability and non
probability sampling were used to draw a sample size of 80 respondents using 30%
rule. Questionnaires, interview and documentary review were used to gather data.
The study applied descriptive statistics, factor analysis, regression analysis and
correlation analysis to analyze data.
The study findings revealed that majority of respondents were in strong opinion that
to a great extent there is post-harvest loss at different stage of maize distribution. The
findings revealed that to great extent storage, transport and staff knowledge
influenced post-harvest loss of maize at different distribution stage. Multiple
regression analysis results revealed that 92.6% of variation on post-harvest loss of
maize at different distribution stage explained by storage, transport and staff
knowledge. The findings revealed that storage, transport and staff knowledge
positively and significantly influence on post-harvest loss of maize at different
distribution stage. Based on the findings, the study recommended that URT
government should develop post-harvest models handling system including staff
training, transportation system and storage facilities. The study recommended that
NFRA should bring more education to staff and farmers and provide marketing
information that would empower staff and farmers to adopt new technology.