Policy Brief: Enhancing Food Safety in Abuja (Federal Capital Territory)
DOWNLOADDecember 4, 2024 - Professor Obadina Adewale, Professor Lenis Saweda O. Liverpool-Tasie, Ms. Itohan Ebunoluwa Martins
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EmailThis policy brief evaluates food safety in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) markets for fish, tomatoes, and green leafy vegetables (GLVs), based on research from July 2023 to February 2024 under the RSM2SNF project. With ten markets assessed, findings highlight both strengths and areas for improvement.
Key Findings:
- Sanitation: All markets have functional toilets, but the trader-to-toilet ratio exceeds 200, leading to unhygienic practices.
- Water Access: 40% of markets have pipe-borne water, while boreholes (60%) and water delivered in jerricans (20%) are the main sources; only 20% of water is treated.
- Waste Disposal: Poor waste management creates risks of contamination by pathogens like E. coli and Vibrio cholerae.
- Awareness: No food safety posters, regulations, or training programs exist for traders in the markets.
Recommendations:
- Build additional toilets and improve waste management systems.
- Introduce borehole water treatment systems in markets.
- Launch food safety training programs for traders and consumers.
- Integrate food safety education into school curricula.
- Employ and train more Environmental Health Officers to enforce hygiene standards.
- Strengthen public-private partnerships for coordinated food safety efforts.
- Invest in research for innovative food safety solutions.
Conclusion:
Improving food safety in FCT requires investments in infrastructure, education, and enforcement. By addressing these challenges, stakeholders can reduce foodborne illnesses and enhance the food sector’s economic vitality.
