Assessment of Factors of Post-Harvest Fish Losses in the Gilgel Gibe Dam I Reservoir, Sokoru Woreda, Jimma Zone, Southwest Ethiopia

Abstract

Fish is a vital source of protein, essential fatty acids, and micronutrients, playing a crucial role in food security and economic stability in developing countries. However, post-harvest fish losses (PHFL) significantly affect both availability and profitability of fish in local markets, with global estimated loss of 10-12 million tons annually, accounting for 10% of total fish production. While small-scale fisheries in developing countries contribute nearly half of the world's total fish supply, they face challenges such as post-harvest losses, illegal fishing, and overfishing. This study aimed to assess factors contributing to post-harvest fish losses in Gilgel Gibe-I Reservoir in Jimma Zone, Sokoru Woreda, South West Ethiopia, using questionnaire, interview and field observations from cooperative fishermen. All the study participants were male, with 85.5% being single and 14.5% married; 73.5% were aged 18-25 years, 25% were 26-35, and 1.5% were 36-45 years old. In terms of education, 95% had only primary-level education, while 5% attended high school. Regarding occupation, 73% were fishermen, and 27% were fish traders, with 45.5% having two years of experience, 36% one year, 17% three years, and 1.5% four years. The estimated average weekly fishermen production was 250kg and 45kg weekly loss due to various factors. The study identified key factors contributing to post-harvest losses, including lack of market linkages between fishermen and traders, lack of storage materials, insufficient refrigeration, poor market accessibility, and inadequate transportations. About 53% of the respondents store fish for 1-2 days before selling, while 47% stored fish less than a day, and although all respondent washed fish after harvested, 56% had never received formal training on best fishing practices. Furthermore, 80% of fisherman at Gilgel Gibe reservoir, didn’t take immediate preservation measures at landing site, exacerbating post-harvest losses. These challenges highlight the urgent need for effective interventions by government authorities and stakeholders to improve market access, infrastructure, training, and preservation techniques, ensuring better economic outcomes and food security.Key supporting actors including the oromia Agricultural research institute, Sebeta fishery research institute, Gilgel Gibe hydroelectric power and Jimma University, all of which play vital roles in delivering these service.