Introducing Phase Change Materials (PCM) into the Gambia's cold chain to address post-harvest loss and other waste across the primary sector

The objective of this technical assistance is to strengthen the resilience of The Gambia’s food systems by introducing sustainable cooling technologies based on Phase Change Materials (PCM) to reduce post-harvest losses in agriculture, fisheries, and poultry sectors. The specific objectives are to: i) develop a feasibility study including technical assessments, cost-benefit analysis, and site selection for PCM deployment; ii) validate and pilot PCM-based cooling technologies in selected rural locations in close consultation with stakeholders; iii) build local capacity through targeted training programs and awareness campaigns, with a focus on empowering women and smallholder producers; iv) support policy development, standardization efforts, and identify financing mechanisms to facilitate broader adoption of PCM technologies; v) organize a closure workshop to disseminate lessons learned and propose strategies for scaling up the technology at the national level.