The government has intervened by purchasing 1,000 boxes of tomatoes and 2,000 bags of onions from farmers in the Asante Akim North District of the Ashanti Region. This initiative follows concerns that, despite a successful harvest under the Feed Ghana Programme, a lack of buyers was threatening to significantly decrease farmers’ earnings.
According to Frimpong Kwame Ohene Asante, the Member of Parliament for Asante Akim North, smallholder farmers in the region have successfully expanded their cultivation of tomatoes and onions through this initiative. However, they faced challenges in marketing their perishable produce. In response to the MP’s appeal, His Excellency instructed that senior high schools in the Asante Akim North area purchase all the tomatoes and onions produced. This decision ensures that farmers receive fair value for their crops while providing food for students.
Dr. Peter Boamah Otokunor, Director of Presidential Initiatives in Agriculture and Agribusiness at the Office of the President, confirmed at a press briefing that the entire consignment of tomatoes has already been sold. The briefing also served to launch the public registration portal for farmers as part of the government’s Three Million Coconut Seedlings initiative. He encouraged farmers interested in the coconut programme to secure land before applying.
“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 noted. “Beneficiaries must have prepared their land before receiving seedlings, to ensure timely planting and maximum success.”
The government’s dual initiative — addressing immediate market challenges while promoting long-term crop diversification — underscores its commitment to strengthening agribusiness and farmer livelihoods.
Source: Daniel Oduro-Mensah
