The Chamber of Agribusiness Ghana (CAG) has issued a call to action for stakeholders, including the government, to prepare for the expected tomato bumper season. This preparation aims to address and mitigate post-harvest losses, a recurring issue within the sector. The CAG, along with affiliated farmer groups, highlights the critical need for enhancements in cold storage and transportation infrastructure to manage the anticipated increase in tomato production from late December through April and May 2025.
According to the CAG, the lack of investment in essential infrastructure has been a contributing factor to Ghana's reliance on tomato imports from countries like Burkina Faso and Morocco. The country faces substantial financial losses annually, with the agricultural sector, particularly tomatoes, losing approximately US$600million overall, of which US$60million is attributed to tomatoes alone.
Anthony Selorm Morrison, CEO of CAG, points to neglected rural infrastructure, inadequate cold chain and storage facilities, and limited research support as primary challenges. Morrison criticizes the government's lack of focus on developing rural infrastructure, which affects the efficient transport of tomatoes to markets and results in considerable losses due to the perishability of the fruit.
With the peak tomato harvest season nearing, the CAG is advocating for government intervention to support farmers in implementing measures to prevent potential losses. Morrison emphasizes the need for strategic interventions to overhaul the tomato industry in Ghana by addressing varietal suitability, infrastructure deficits, and market development.
Stakeholders argue that collaborative efforts from the government, private sector, and international partners could significantly improve Ghana's tomato production, potentially making the country self-sufficient and a net exporter, thereby enhancing food security and economic growth.
In 2022, the Vegetable Producers Association of Ghana reported that the country spends about US$400million annually on tomato imports, mainly from Burkina Faso, highlighting the urgency to boost local production.
Source: Peace FM Online