The essential role of pre- and post-harvest loss control strategies in crop yield improvement in Ethiopia

Purpose The objective of this study is to examine the efficiency of the measures used to reduce pre- and post-harvest losses (PHLs) in crop production in Ethiopia, using a 10-year panel dataset. Design/methodology/approach Employing a pseudo-panel dataset from the Ethiopian Living Standards Measurement Study Integrated Surveys (2011–2021), the study estimates the impacts of pre- and post-harvest factors, climate, transport and institutional support on yields through the dynamic system generalised method of moments (GMMs). Findings Yield gains based on past per-unit output: A 1% rise in yields in the previous period means yields in the current yield period increased by 0.196%. In pre-harvest practices, crop rotation and improved seeds reduce loss but increase yields by 8.85 and 0.149%, respectively, but excessive rainfall reduces output by 0.318%. On the other hand, post-harvest measures such as protective storage, raised platforms and bag storage reduce loss and increase yields by 6.15%, 13.07% and 21.79%, respectively. Yield is also improved by more than 244% by transport through oxcarts, while both manual transport and long distances to markets have reduced outcomes. In contrast to expectations, only institutional support from commercial banks increases yields by 16%, while cooperative membership and credit access decrease them. Research limitations/implications Productivity can be enhanced through targeted pre- and post-harvest interventions, including efficient transport systems as well as support from context-specific institutions. Originality/value The research offers novel findings based on the context in Ethiopia on loss control alternatives. This information is therefore suitable to be used by policymakers in the country and in sub-Saharan Africa.