Tomato farmers at Abansere in the Berekum West District are calling on the government to urgently intervene as large quantities of their produce rot on farms due to a lack of buyers. The farmers say the situation is devastating, leaving them unable to recover their investment costs.
They questioned why the local tomato factory, after directing them to cultivate specific varieties has failed to purchase their harvest. Farmers urged the government to create a reliable market, support the “Feed Ghana” initiative, and halt the importation of tomatoes from neighbouring countries at higher prices.
According to the chairman of the Berekum tomato farmers, Solomon Dwaase, many farmers have invested up to GHC 80,000 in cultivation but are now being offered only GHC 100 to GHC 150 per box, compared to GHC 1,500 previously.
Farmer Frimpong George reported that some farmers have fled the area due to loan defaults, with others expressing suicidal thoughts as financial pressures intensify.
A buyer, Madam Ama Serwaa, attributed the low prices to current market conditions, saying buyers themselves were operating on minimal profit margins.
The farmers insist the government must step in immediately to prevent further losses and stabilise the local tomato industry.