Impact of Socio-Demographic Factors and Handling Practices on Post-Harvest Fish Losses in Kakamega County's Cultured Tilapia Value Chain

Post-harvest fish losses (PHFL) significantly impact the aquaculture sector in Kenya, undermining food security and economic growth. This study investigated socio-demographic factors and handling practices influencing PHFL in Kakamega County's cultured tilapia value chain. Data were collected from 94 value chain actors operating across multiple nodes, including farming, processing and retail stages from six sub-counties using surveys and observations. Results revealed that 64% of participants were female, and 40.3% had completed high school, with only 26.6% holding valid food handler certificates. Household sizes mostly ranged from 4 to 9 members, and experience in the value chain varied, with 33% having 5–10 years of experience and 17% had over 21 years of experience. PHFL were significant across nodes, with farm gate losses highest in Butere (32%) and lowest in Likuyani (8.42%). Wholesale and retail losses were also notable, with Mumias East showing the highest overall losses. Regression analysis identified key predictors of PHFL, including poor sanitary conditions, lack of training, inadequate water quality and cooling practices, explaining 87.2% of the variance in PHFL. Experience negatively correlated with PHFL (r = −0.354, p < 0.01), indicating that more experienced individuals incurred lower losses. Chi-square tests showed significant associations between PHFL and factors like household size, occupation, training and sanitation but not gender, education or age. The findings highlight the need for targeted interventions, including training programmes, infrastructure improvements and adherence to food safety standards, to minimise PHFL, improve fish quality and enhance food and nutrition security in Kakamega County.