Refrigeration Deficits and Mitigation Strategies in Fresh Milk and Meat Vendors: A Case Study of Qardho Central Market, Puntland, Somalia

Objective: This study aims to investigate the challenges related lack of storage and Solutions in Fresh Milk and Meat vendors in Qardho, Punt land Somalia. Methods: This study utilized a descriptive study design at Qardho Central Market, involving 127 vendors selected through a purposive sampling technique. Data collection was carried out by five trained university students, and analysis was performed using the Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS). Descriptive statistical methods, including frequencies and percentages were applied to summarize the findings in alignment with the study objectives. Results: The findings indicate that 96.1% of vendors have unsold products by the end of their operating hours, with milk vendors (54.1%) reporting higher unsold products than meat vendors (45.9%). Only 23.6% of vendors have access to storage facilities, leading to daily spoilage for 91.3% of respondents. Financially, 34.6% of vendors reported losing more than $20 per day due to spoilage. Other challenges include fluctuating livestock prices, lack of business premises, and low demand. Regarding solutions, 92.9% of vendors believe that a designated storage area and shared refrigeration could reduce spoilage and improve business operations. However, willingness to contribute to storage costs varies: 66.2% of meat vendors are willing to contribute, whereas only 33.8% of milk vendors agree. Additional suggested solutions include financial support, cooperative business models, and proper storage facilities. Conclusion: The lack of storage facilities significantly impacts the fresh milk and meat vendors in Qardho, leading to high spoilage rates and financial losses. Establishing shared refrigeration, financial support mechanisms, and business cooperatives could mitigate these challenges and enhance vendors’ profitability and market sustainability.