The Effect of Irish Potato (<i>Solanum Tuberosum</i>) Postharvest Handling Technologies on Reducing Post-Harvest Losses and Improving Food Security in Chahafi Town Council, Kisoro District

The study focused on investigating effect of Irish potato post-harvest handling technologies on reducing losses and improving food security in Chahafi Town council, Kisoro district. It was limited to; identifying the factors influencing the use of post-harvest handling technologies by Irish potato farmers. The study employed a cross-sectional research design and primary data was collected from 231 respondents through use of questionnaire and interview guide. The data was analysed using SPSS version 22.0. The study concludes that factors influence the adoption and use of post-harvest handling technologies among Irish potato farmers. These include; <i>Government policy</i> (p = 0.012), <i>extension training services</i> (p = 0.001), <i>Market Access</i> (p = 0.018), <i>level of education</i> (p = 0.045) <i>access to advanced technology</i> (p = 0.001), <i>access to credit facilities</i> (p = 0.003), <i>farmers’ attitude and perception</i> (p = 0.004), <i>knowledge and awareness</i> (, p = 0.000). The study recommends that; <i>there is a need increase the presence of well-trained extension agents</i> in Chahafi Town Council to provide regular technical support and demonstrations. <i>There is a need to strengthen local farmer cooperatives and SACCOs</i> to offer affordable credit tailored for post-harvest investments. There is a need to ensure <i>support access to proper packaging materials</i> like ventilated crates and durable bags.