Intermediaries ‘role in Provisions of Storage Services for Urban Fresh Fruits and Vegetables Supply Chain.

Abstract

The overall aim of this research was to explore the intermediaries’ role in provision of storage services for urban fresh fruits and vegetables supply chain in Dar es Salaam-urban setting with the view to recommend strategies for improving the intermediaries’ role. Specifically, the work ascertained the intermediaries’ role in provision of storage services and examined factors constraining the role of intermediaries in provision of storage services for fruits and vegetables supply chain. Finally, the research recommended measures for improving the intermediaries’ role in provision of storage services for urban fruits and vegetables supply chain. A Qualitative approach was adopted and a sample size of 37 obtained purposively from among traders, intermediaries and market officials. Data were collected through documentary review; interviews, focus group discussions and non-participant observation. Data were analyzed qualitatively with the use of Qualitative Content Analysis strategy aided by MAXQDA 2020 software. Findings revealed that, intermediaries play the role of provision storage methods, provision of packaging and packing facilities, assembling and collection of fruits and vegetables as well as facilitating preservation and conservation of fruits and vegetables. However, intermediaries could not perform these roles based on a number of constraints. Constraints to the intermediary’s roles were based on technology, funds to invest in modern storage facilities, knowledge and awareness, temperature as well as atmospheric conditions. The study recommends a number of strategies for controlling inhibiting factors. These include, investment in advanced technology and installation of modern storage facilities, sensitizing on proper knowledge, provision of fund to intermediaries to improve packaging and storage facilities as well as improving market infrastructures for fruits and vegetable storage.