Page 146 - Agriculture_Form_3

Agriculture for Secondary Schools

Marketing pigeon peas
Pigeon peas are sold in two main forms: fresh green peas and dry grain. Fresh
peas are typically sold soon after harvest in local markets, while dry peas can be
stored and sold later to traders, processors or exporters. Delayed sales can often
fetch higher prices, but only if the produce has been properly stored. Collective
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marketing through groups or cooperatives, such as Agricultural Marketing
Cooperatives (AMCOS), can increase access to larger markets and strengthen
bargaining power. Value addition, such as processing pigeon peas into flour or
snacks, can also increase profit margins.
Marketing challenges of pigeon peas include unstable prices, limited market
access, and a lack of timely market information. These challenges can be
addressed by maintaining product quality, building and maintaining links with
reliable buyers, and actively monitoring market trends. Keeping accurate records
of harvests, handling, and sales, support better decisions in future seasons.

Activity 8.8
Under the guidance of your teacher, visit your school farm and carry out the
following tasks (Make sure you keep records of procedures, results, and lessons
learnt in your portfolio):

1. Assess signs of maturity for both vegetable and dry grain types pigeon peas.

2. Harvest according to type and maturity stage of the produce using the correct
methods.

3. Complete postharvest operations, including drying, threshing, cleaning, and
safe storage.
4. Review or prepare a marketing plan, considering current prices and storage
options.

5. Sell the harvested product based on the available traders and market prices.

Exercise 8.7
1. What steps will you take to ensure proper harvesting, handling, and storage
of pigeon peas?

2. You have noticed that, after drying and storing, some pigeon pea seeds show
small holes. What is likely to be the main cause, and how can it be prevented
in future storage?

Student’s Book Form Three 137

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AGRICULTURE F3.indd 137