Social economic impact of charcoal-based evaporative coolers in reducing post-harvest losses and enhancing food security in Rwanda”

Post-harvest losses of perishable horticultural crops remain a major challenge for smallholder farmers in Rwanda, reducing household food security, income, and livelihoods. This study investigates the socio-economic impact of charcoal-based evaporative coolers on reducing post-harvest losses and enhancing food security among smallholder farmers in Nyagatare, Nyanza, and Musanze districts. A mixed-methods approach was applied, combining surveys of 343 farmers with qualitative data from focus group discussions and key informant interviews. Descriptive and inferential analyses including t-tests, ANOVA, correlation, and multiple regression were used alongside thematic analysis. Key outcomes were assessed using farmer perceptions supplemented by observational data. Results indicate that charcoal-based evaporative coolers significantly reduce post-harvest losses (mean before = 3.12, mean after = 1.74; t = 18.63, p < 0.001), maintain crop quality longer (mean = 4.42), and extend shelf life by 3–7 days. Adoption was associated with improvements in household income (mean = 4.11), enhanced market access (mean = 4.09), and promoted cost-effective storage. Socially, coolers reduced labor requirements (mean = 3.89), improved gender equity (mean = 4.12), and increased youth participation (mean = 4.06). Barriers included limited training (mean = 2.88) and inconsistent charcoal supply (mean = 3.02). These findings demonstrate that low-cost, locally adaptable cooling technologies can substantially improve food security, income, and social inclusion. Findings offer insights for similar agro-ecological contexts in Sub-Saharan Africa. Recommendations include targeted training, cooperative strengthening, improved input access, and integration of low-cost post-harvest technologies into rural development strategies.