Ghana: plans to support tomato growers

Speaking during his examination by the Parliamentary Appointments Committee on January 23, 2025, Volta Region Minister-designate James Gunu outlined the difficulties faced by tomato growers, particularly during bumper harvests, when large quantities of tomatoes are lost due to lack of preservation facilities, processing tools or market access.

The strategy presented by Mr. Gunu includes working with district assemblies and the local MP to attract investors to establish tomato processing plants in key agricultural areas such as Agotime Ziope and other districts where tomatoes are grown in abundance. These processing facilities would not only preserve tomato surpluses, but also provide jobs for local young people.

 “In many areas like Agotime Ziope, farmers often sell their tomatoes at very low prices because there are no markets or processing plants. This means huge losses for them. By working with the assemblies and MPs, we hope to attract investors who can process these tomatoes and ensure that farmers get added value for their efforts,” explained Mr. Gunu.

The initiative is part of former President John Dramani Mahama's economic program. The proposed measures, Mr. Gunu stressed, would provide a long-term solution to the problem of post-harvest losses and improve the livelihoods of tomato growers in the region.

Source: gbcghanaonline.com