Ghana launches plan to grow more tomatoes at home
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Eric Opoku, Ghana’s Minister of Food and Agriculture, introduced the Ghana Tomato Self-Sufficiency Initiative (GHATSI) in Anloga, Volta Region, to reduce the country’s reliance on imported tomatoes.
Opoku stated that money spent on tomato imports represents lost jobs within Ghana and that the country possesses the resources to grow enough tomatoes domestically. The Ministry of Food and Agriculture partnered with FarmMate Africa to create a consistent tomato supply chain, generate employment, and eventually export surplus produce.
The initiative will begin with a focus on 100,000 tonnes of tomatoes grown across 10,000 acres in 35 districts and 100 communities during the 2026/2027 production period, with plans to scale up to 400,000 tonnes annually. GHATSI intends to connect farmers with resources including land, irrigation, financing, insurance, and guaranteed markets. FarmMate Africa will act as a primary buyer, linking farmers to local and international markets.
Pan African Savings and Loans will provide financial support to farmers, while insurance will protect against crop failures. The program will provide approximately GH¢20,000 per acre to cover inputs, land preparation, and other necessities. A new packhouse facility will be built in Anloga to improve sorting, grading, and packaging. Officials estimate the initiative’s first phase will create over 150,000 jobs, including 50,000 year-round positions, but cautioned that success hinges on effective implementation and accountability.
