The government has moved to purchase 1,000 boxes of tomatoes and 2,000 bags of onions grown by farmers in the Asante Akim North District of the Ashanti Region.
The intervention comes after concerns that a lack of buyers could have caused significant losses for farmers despite a bumper harvest under the Feed Ghana Programme.
According to the Member of Parliament for Asante Akim North, Kwame Ohene Asante, small holder farmers in the area had scaled up tomato and onion production thanks to the programme, but struggled to sell their perishable crops.
“In response to the MP’s appeal, His Excellency directed that senior high schools in the Asante Akim North area procure all the tomatoes and onions produced, ensuring the farmers receive fair value for their crops while feeding students,” said Dr. Peter Boamah Otokunor, Director of Presidential Initiatives in Agriculture and Agribusiness at the Office of the President.
Dr. Otokunor confirmed at a press briefing that the entire tomato consignment had already been taken up.
The event also marked the launch of the public registration portal for the government’s Three Million Coconut Seedlings initiative.
“The process is simple and digital. With a mobile phone, tablet, or computer, farmers can complete registration in minutes using basic details such as name, contact, farm location, and acreage,” Dr. Otokunor explained.
“Beneficiaries must have prepared their land before receiving seedlings to ensure timely planting and maximum success.”
The dual initiative, securing market access for local produce and promoting crop diversification through coconut farming, highlights the government’s commitment to supporting agribusiness and improving farmer incomes.
Source: Adomonline
