Assessment of Fish Post-Harvest Loss in Southern Gulf of Lake Tana, Ethiopia: Drivers, Impacts, and Mitigation Strategies

Document Type : Original Article

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Nanjing agricultural university

Abstract

Abstract: This study evaluates the magnitude, causes, and socioeconomic impacts of fish post-harvest losses (PHL) in the southern Gulf of Lake Tana, Ethiopia, based on a 2025 survey of 250 fishermen. Employing a cross-sectional, quantitative approach, data analyzed with SPSS revealed an average 22% average PHL (95% CI: 19.8–24.2%), peaking at 40% in April due to temperature-driven spoilage. Infrastructure gaps (β=0.45, p<0.001) and seasonal effects (β=0.30, p<0.001) drove 68% of PHL variance (R²=0.68). Economic losses totaled $6.48 million (2018–2023), disproportionately affecting women (3.6% of fishers). A multiple linear regression model (R² = 0.68) explained 68% of PHL variance, with infrastructure deficits, notably absent refrigeration, contributing most significantly (48%). This study provides a comprehensive regression analysis of PHL drivers in Lake Tana’s artisanal fisheries, recommending infrastructure and capacity-building interventions and also we recommend solar-powered cold storage (50% loss reduction potential) and gender-inclusive training, providing a model for Sub-Saharan African inland fisheries.

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