ColdHubs has made significant strides in the agricultural sector with its innovative 100-ton cold room located in Farin Gada, Jos Plateau State. This facility represents a crucial advancement in food preservation and waste reduction, tackling some of the most pressing challenges faced by local farmers and the surrounding community.
The need for effective cold storage solutions has never been more apparent. In many agricultural regions, inadequate storage facilities lead to extensive food losses. According to the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), nearly 30% of food produced globally is wasted, with a significant portion of this occurring due to insufficient storage. For communities like Farin Gada, where agriculture is a primary livelihood, this translates into both financial losses and heightened food insecurity.
The ColdHubs facility, with its impressive capacity of 100 tons, provides a vital solution to these issues. This cold room can accommodate a diverse array of perishable goods, including fruits, vegetables, and dairy products, allowing farmers to store approximately 10,000 kilograms of produce at any given time. Such capacity enables local farmers to extend the shelf life of their harvests, significantly reducing spoilage. The cold room is equipped with advanced cooling technology that maintains precise temperatures tailored to different types of produce, ensuring that freshness is preserved. Additionally, the facility employs renewable energy sources, enhancing sustainability while also lowering operating costs, making it accessible for local farmers.
Moreover, the cold room has created numerous job opportunities in the region, contributing significantly to local economic stability. A community report highlights that the facility has generated approximately 15 new jobs, providing a crucial boost for the local economy. These positions range from operational roles to maintenance and logistics, ensuring that the cold room runs efficiently while also offering employment opportunities to community members.
Data from a recent study conducted by the local agricultural extension office provides compelling evidence of the cold room's success. Farmers reported a 40% decrease in spoilage rates since the facility's inception, highlighting its effectiveness in preserving perishable goods. Furthermore, many farmers experienced an average income increase of 50% from the sale of stored produce. Community surveys reveal that over 80% of residents consider the cold room an essential asset for local agriculture, underscoring its importance in the region.