The Chamber of Agribusiness Ghana is calling on the government to urgently strengthen the country’s irrigation systems as part of broader efforts to prevent a potential shortage of tomatoes on the local market.

The appeal comes in the wake of a recent policy decision by Burkina Faso, which on March 16 imposed a ban on the export of tomatoes.

The move sparked concern among consumers and industry players in Ghana, who fear that the restriction could disrupt supply chains and lead to price increases, given Ghana’s reliance on imports to supplement domestic production during certain periods of the year.

According to stakeholders in the agricultural sector, the situation highlights longstanding structural challenges in Ghana’s  food production systems, particularly the limited capacity for year-round cultivation due to inadequate irrigation infrastructure.

Many farmers depend heavily on seasonal rainfall, making production inconsistent and leaving the country vulnerable to external shocks such as export bans from neighbouring countries.

Speaking to Citi News, the Chief Executive Officer of the Chamber, Anthony Morrison, emphasised the urgent need for sustained investment in irrigation to support the continuous production of tomatoes and other essential crops.

He noted that without reliable water systems, efforts to achieve food security and stabilise prices would remain difficult.

“We also need to provide a quality irrigation system that supports our all-year-round production. And in that case, we should address the issues that we currently have. Now, for us at the private sector, we need to be holding government commitment. One is the financial commitment.

“And two is making sure that the challenge that we have with regards to importation is stopped so we can have a structured market and consistent investment from the private sector. And in that case, when these two are resolved at the level of government commitment, the private sector will be able to pay this up easily.”