NATPAN Advocates for Equipment, Improved Transport, and Processing Facilities to Boost Sector Growth

By DAYO ADESULU

The National Tomato Growers, Processors, and Marketers Association of Nigeria (NATPAN) has called on the Federal Government to address post-harvest losses affecting tomato farmers nationwide.

Details from NATPAN Chairman’s Appeal

During an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria in Lagos, Mr. Rabiu Zuntu, Chairman of NATPAN’s Kaduna State chapter, emphasized:

1. Government Assistance Needed:
   • Smallholder farmers, who dominate the tomato farming sector, lack access to affordable loans for essential equipment and facilities to mitigate losses.
   • Intervention programs could significantly enhance value addition and sector growth.
2. Improved Transportation:
   • Adoption of plastic crates for transporting tomatoes could reduce damages during transit, especially from northern farming regions to markets across the country.
3. Mechanisation and Partnerships:
   • NATPAN is collaborating with processing facilities to mechanize tomato processing, reducing waste during peak harvesting periods (January–February).
   • Partnerships also focus on promoting solar dryers for preserving tomatoes, though affordability remains a challenge for many farmers.
4. Cluster Initiatives:
   • Farmers are being organized into clusters to jointly acquire solar dryers and other value-enhancing tools.
5. Economic Impact:
   • Investments in post-harvest technology will boost farmers’ income, reduce seasonal gluts, and promote the growth of Nigeria’s tomato sector.

Challenges Highlighted by Zuntu

• High costs of solar dryers and other equipment.
• Inability of smallholder farmers to access affordable loans.
• Lack of modern infrastructure for tomato processing and preservation.

Potential Government Interventions Suggested by NATPAN

1. Provision of Grants or Subsidized Loans:
   • Help smallholder farmers acquire modern equipment.
2. Subsidized Plastic Crates:
   • Reduce damage during transportation.
3. Support for Local Processing Facilities:
   • Encourage mechanized processing to address tomato gluts.
4. Subsidized Solar Dryers:
   • Promote sustainable preservation methods.

Implications for Nigeria’s Agricultural Sector

Addressing post-harvest losses in the tomato value chain is critical for food security, economic growth, and reducing waste. Federal support could transform tomato farming into a more profitable and sustainable venture for smallholder farmers.