Identification and Management of Postharvest Pathogens in Tomato (Solanum lycopersicum) Using Low-Cost Botanical Treatments and Affordable Storage Solutions in Sub-Saharan Africa
Funchious Paul Mensah
Agrobiotechnology, Institute of Agriculture, RUDN University, 117198 Moscow, Russia and Department of Agricultural and Biosystems Engineering, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, PMB, Kumasi AK-039-5028, Ghana.
Benjamin Yennuna Konyannik
*
Agrobiotechnology, Institute of Agriculture, RUDN University, 117198 Moscow, Russia and Department of Agricultural and Biosystems Engineering, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, PMB, Kumasi AK-039-5028, Ghana.
Monic Semanu
Agrobiotechnology, Institute of Agriculture, RUDN University, 117198 Moscow, Russia.
Ernest Kwesi Aboagye
Agrobiotechnology, Institute of Agriculture, RUDN University, 117198 Moscow, Russia.
Nathaniel Kwawu
Agrobiotechnology, Institute of Agriculture, RUDN University, 117198 Moscow, Russia.
Kugbe Patricia
Agrobiotechnology, Institute of Agriculture, RUDN University, 117198 Moscow, Russia.
David Konadu Kesse
Agrobiotechnology, Institute of Agriculture, RUDN University, 117198 Moscow, Russia.
Ntow Prosper
Agrobiotechnology, Institute of Agriculture, RUDN University, 117198 Moscow, Russia.
Akwasi Agyapong Oppong-Agyemang
Agrobiotechnology, Institute of Agriculture, RUDN University, 117198 Moscow, Russia and Department of Agricultural and Biosystems Engineering, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, PMB, Kumasi AK-039-5028, Ghana.
Justice Osei Marfo
Agrobiotechnology, Institute of Agriculture, RUDN University, 117198 Moscow, Russia.
Gyamfi Charles Yaw
Agrobiotechnology, Institute of Agriculture, RUDN University, 117198 Moscow, Russia.
Abdul – Jalil Salifu
Agrobiotechnology, Institute of Agriculture, RUDN University, 117198 Moscow, Russia.
*Author to whom correspondence should be addressed.
Abstract
Problem Statement: Postharvest losses of tomatoes in Sub-Saharan Africa (SSA) remain alarmingly high, reaching up to 50% in some regions, due to fungal and bacterial pathogens, poor handling practices, and inadequate storage infrastructure.
Aims: This review aims to synthesize current knowledge on major tomato postharvest pathogens, evaluate conventional and emerging control strategies, and highlight the potential of integrating locally available botanicals with low-cost storage solutions to reduce postharvest losses.
Methodology: The review evaluates major tomato postharvest pathogens, conventional and emerging control strategies, and the potential of integrating botanicals (such as neem, garlic, ginger, clove, and African basil) with low-cost storage solutions (like evaporative coolers, hermetic storage, and solar-powered cold chains).
Results: Evidence suggests that botanicals possess strong antifungal properties, while innovations in storage technologies can extend shelf life under SSA's challenging climatic conditions. However, critical gaps remain in region-specific pathogen profiling, socio-economic adoption studies, and integrated field validation of combined botanical–storage systems.
Conclusion: An integrated, farmer-oriented framework that combines botanicals and low-cost storage solutions holds promise for reducing postharvest tomato losses, enhancing food security, improving farmer income, and promoting sustainable, climate-resilient postharvest management in SSA.
Keywords: Tomato postharvest losses, Sub-Saharan Africa, botanical antifungals, affordable storage solutions, sustainable postharvest management