Farmer perceptions of fungal spoilage and mycotoxin contamination in East and West Africa

This study investigates farmers’ perceptions, awareness, and management practices related to fungal spoilage and mycotoxin contamination in smallholder farming systems across six countries in East and West Africa: Burkina Faso, Ghana, Sierra Leone, Ethiopia, Kenya, and Tanzania. Based on a survey of 531 farmers, the research examines the extent of post-harvest losses, knowledge of food safety risks, and the adoption of grain storage technologies. Nearly half of the respondents reported losses caused by mould contamination, with higher prevalence observed in East Africa than in West Africa. Although most farmers avoided consuming visibly mouldy grains, a substantial proportion continued to do so, and the majority were unaware of the health risks associated with moulds and mycotoxins. Knowledge gaps were widespread, particularly regarding mycotoxins and safe grain moisture levels for storage. While storage technologies such as hermetic bags, hessian bags, and polypropylene sacks were commonly used, many farmers perceived them as only moderately effective. Statistical analyses revealed significant regional differences, with East African farmers generally demonstrating greater awareness of mycotoxin risks and safer storage practices. Gender, age, and access to technical information were important determinants of awareness, with women, older farmers, and those receiving technical support exhibiting higher knowledge levels. The findings highlight the need for targeted training, improved extension services, and wider dissemination of effective post-harvest technologies to reduce food losses, protect health, and strengthen food security across African smallholder farming systems.

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