The Lower Eastern Women Cooperative Union (LEWOCO) continues to empower rural women farmers with practical knowledge that improves food security, reduces post-harvest losses, and increases household incomes. As part of these efforts, LEWOCO recently conducted a practical demonstration on post-harvest storage using hermetic bags for members of the Ikombe Weaving Women Group.

Post-harvest losses remain one of the greatest challenges facing smallholder farmers. Improper storage of grains such as maize, beans, green grams, pigeon peas, and cowpeas often leads to damage caused by insects, rodents, and mould, resulting in reduced food quality and financial losses. The training aimed to equip participants with affordable and effective storage techniques that preserve grain quality without relying on chemical pesticides.

During the demonstration, participants were taken through the correct use of hermetic bags, including proper grain drying before storage, careful filling and sealing of the bags, and safe handling practices to maintain the airtight environment required for effective preservation. Facilitators also explained how hermetic storage works by limiting oxygen inside the sealed bags, preventing insect pests from surviving and multiplying while maintaining the quality of stored produce.

The hands-on session allowed members of the Ikombe Weaving Women Group to practice the storage process, ask questions, and share their own experiences with post-harvest handling. Farmers also discussed the economic benefits of adopting hermetic storage technology, including reduced grain losses, improved food safety, better seed viability for the next planting season, and the ability to store produce for longer periods until market prices improve.

By promoting climate-smart and sustainable agricultural practices, LEWOCO continues to strengthen the resilience of women farmers across the Lower Eastern region. Through practical demonstrations such as this, the Union is helping farming communities reduce food losses, enhance household food security, and improve their livelihoods.

LEWOCO remains committed to supporting women-led groups with knowledge, skills, and innovative technologies that contribute to sustainable agriculture and stronger rural economies.