Tomato shortage is feared in Ghana after traders and transport operators have suspended trips to Burkina Faso over growing security concerns.
The decision follows reports that eight Ghanaians were killed in a recent attack in Burkina Faso.
Traders say they can no longer risk their lives to travel and bring tomatoes into the country.
“We will not move unless we are assured of security,” transport operator Kwame Nyarko said.
The Queenmother of tomato traders at the Race Course Market, Hajia Mansura, also confirmed the boycott.
“We have instructed all our drivers not to go anywhere,” she stated.
For decades, Burkina Faso has been a major source of tomatoes for Ghana, especially during the lean season. However, the suspension of trips is already raising fears of reduced supply and possible price increases if the situation persists.
Tomato trader and transport owner Nana Agyenim-Boateng explained the dependence on Burkina Faso.
“Most Ghanaian tomato farmers rely on rainfall and cannot produce all year round. But the Burkina Faso government has invested heavily in irrigation, which allows their farmers to grow tomatoes throughout the year. That is why we go there to buy,” he said.
Some traders are now turning to local farmers, but they say domestic production is still not enough to meet demand.
The trucks have been grounded
They are therefore calling on the government to invest in irrigation infrastructure.
“If we have dams, we won’t have to go to Burkina Faso for tomatoes. We will be able to source them locally,” trader Mary Agyekum said.
Market leaders are also urging government and security agencies to engage their counterparts in Burkina Faso to improve safety along the trade routes.
“If the government is not ready to construct dams, then it should at least liaise with the Burkina Faso authorities to guarantee security for transporters,” Nana Agyenim-Boateng added.
For now, the transport of tomatoes from Burkina Faso to Ghana remains suspended, as fear continues to overshadow cross-border trade.
Source: Abubakar Mohammed
