Abstract:
The inclusion of rural smallholder farmers in the export of horticultural products has two major
implications: increased household income through access to a promising global market and
enhanced productivity, cumulatively contributing to the growth of Gross Domestic Product
(GDP) and foreign exchange. Currently, there are an estimated 2,500 smallholder farmers
participating in horticultural exports South Rift of Kenya. Consequently, this study aimed to
investigate the relationship between post-harvest handling practices by smallholder farmers and
the growth of the horticultural export market. Quantitative data were collected using a structured
questionnaire from a sample of 334 small-scale horticultural farmers, randomly selected for the
study. Validity and reliability tests were conducted prior to the main study. Descriptive statistics
and simple linear regression were employed to analyze the data. Post-harvest handling practices
were assessed through the utilization of packaging materials, storage facilities, energy supply,
hygiene, and transportation facilities. The findings indicated a statistically significant relationship between post-harvest handling practices and the growth of horticultural export
markets. However, deficiencies were observed among small-scale farmers in South Rift, Kenya,
in managing horticultural products after harvest. The study recommended for strategic
interventions for the adoption of modern technologies in every stage of the supply chain and
establishes collaborations with key stakeholders in order to minimize cost of investment per
farmer and ultimately enhancing market standards compliance and competitiveness in the fruit
and vegetable export market.
