Post-harvest management refers to the set of practices and processes taking place after crops are harvested and before they reach the consumer or market. Farmers in Ethiopia lack storing, handling, packaging and processing technologies, which puts them at the mercy of traders by limiting their bargaining power. Empowering stakeholders throughout the value chain with agtech solutions to manage picked produce and to prevent crop loss would enhance food security and revenue in the sector. Moreover, preserving the quality and shelf life of produce may unlock additional export avenues, which offers a great opportunity as agricultural produce already accounts for 90% of export in Ethiopia.

Given that the Government of Ethiopia puts great emphasis on enhancing the value of the agricultural produce in the country through its connection to industrial activity and processing, post harvest plays a major role in the plan. The government works to support these efforts by improving the agricultural sector infrastructure and connectedness, among other things, developing roads, water, energy and logistic systems to support production and access to markets; creating a legal framework for crop insurance, streamlining the business licensing requirements, and removing tariff barriers to international trade. Although most of this is still in progress, the plan shows the general intent and emphasis the sector receives in the overall government strategy.