A Research Study to Determine if Solar Dryer Technology for Preservation of Agro-Produce is Needed in Botswana
High postharvest loss is a significant challenge to actors in the agro-produce value chain. The application of solar dryers for preservation of agro-produce has become an increasingly popular mitigation method for the high postharvest losses in sunny-belt countries. However, the adaptation of this technology is quite nascent in some of these countries. This study investigates if solar dryer technology is needed in Botswana. The methodology covered the assessment of the challenges faced by agro-dealers in Botswana and conducted a survey to determine the need for solar dryer technology for preservation of their agro-produce. Secondary and primary data were collected by means of literature and questionnaire administered using the opportunistic sampling method. The data was analysed using Statistics package for social scientists, SPSS computer program. The results established that there was need for solar dryer technology in Botswana for drying of produce to reduce postharvest losses.
