Effectiveness of Cooperative Marketing Strategies in Reducing Post-Harvest Losses among Catfish Farmers in Delta State, Nigeria

Abstract

Background of the Study: Group or cooperative operations in agricultural activities especially in marketing holds the potential to improve sales and reduce post-harvest losses of agricultural products usually for small scale farmers.

Objectives of the Study:  The study sought to ascertain whether the strategies of cooperative marketing can reduce post-harvest losses among catfish farmers in Delta State, Nigeria.

Methodology: The study made use of the descriptive survey research design. A structured questionnaire was used to collect data from 385 respondents, and data were analysed with both descriptive and inferential statistics, including multiple regression analysis. Results were presented in tables.

Results: The findings revealed that market information sharing (β = -0.213, p = 0.000), joint marketing (β = -0.184, p = 0.000), price negotiation (β = -0.267, p = 0.000), provision of storage facilities (β = -0.089, p = 0.030), and transportation assistance (β = -0.198, p = 0.000) significantly reduced post-harvest losses. The model had a strong explanatory power (R² = 0.731, F = 73.509, p < 0.01), confirming that cooperative marketing strategies effectively mitigated post-harvest losses. Price negotiation emerged as the most influential factor, ensuring that farmers received fair compensation and minimised losses due to distress sales. However, inadequate storage facilities were identified as a critical challenge.

Unique Contribution: This study has provided data for understanding the impact of cooperative in promoting effective marketing in agriculture and addressing the perennial problem of post-harvest losses.

Conclusion: Cooperative marketing are helpful in lowering post-harvest. 

Key Recommendation: The study recommended strengthening cooperative societies, improving market information systems, investing in storage infrastructure, and enhancing extension services to maximise the benefits of cooperative marketing strategies.