Agric Minister’s posturing amid looming tomato shortage disappointing — Ahiagbah

The National Communications Director of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Richard Ahiagbah, has criticised the Minister for Food and Agriculture, Eric Opoku, over what he describes as a disappointing response to Ghana’s looming tomato shortage.

His comments come in the wake of increasing concerns over rising tomato prices following Burkina Faso’s decision to ban the export of fresh tomatoes effective March 16.

The directive is aimed at prioritising local supply for domestic processing and strengthening the country’s agro-processing industry.

Ghana is heavily dependent on imports from Burkina Faso, with analysts estimating that up to 90% of imported tomatoes come from the neighbouring country.

The restriction is therefore expected to trigger shortages and further price increases on the local market.

In a social media post on Monday, March 30, Ahiagbah said the Minister has failed to provide adequate leadership in addressing the emerging crisis.

“Tomato traders have warned of a tomato shortage due to Capt. Ibrahim Traoré’s ban on tomato exports. The Minister for Agriculture has offered no response other than promising future action, 13 months into the 48-month Feed Ghana Programme,” he stated.

He further questioned the pace of implementation of government’s agricultural interventions, arguing that progress under the Feed Ghana Programme has been slow despite its intended impact on food security.

“The Minister reports that the Feed Ghana Programme cultivated 1,000 acres of tomatoes in 2025. Yet, it plans to increase from 1,000 acres in 2025 to 40,000 acres in 2026 — a 97.5% jump. How realistic is that goal?” he asked.

Ahiagbah also called for greater transparency, urging the Ministry to publish details of communities involved in the 2025 tomato cultivation drive and those targeted for expansion in 2026.

The NPP spokesperson stressed that at the time when government continues to outline long-term plans, ordinary Ghanaians are already grappling with high food prices, particularly tomatoes, which remain a staple in most households.