The government has begun constructing 250 boreholes across Ghana’s five northern regions to expand irrigation for vegetable farming, with a focus on tomatoes.
The initiative aims to ease supply constraints and strengthen domestic production, reducing the country’s dependence on imported tomatoes. Current yields average about eight metric tonnes per hectare—well below potential—highlighting the need for improved irrigation to boost productivity and stabilise market supply.
Speaking at a press briefing in Accra , the Minister for Food and Agriculture, Eric Opoku said the intervention is part of an urgent policy response following Burkina Faso’s decision to halt tomato exports to Ghana, a move expected to impact local markets.
“In the five northern regions, we are drilling 250 boreholes to provide irrigation for the production of vegetables, especially tomatoes,” he said, emphasizing government’s commitment to bridging the supply gap.
Mr. Opoku added that the Tono Irrigation Scheme has been fully refurbished, offering 2,400 hectares of land. After discussions with farmers, 500 hectares have been set aside immediately for tomato cultivation, reversing previous shifts to rice production due to market uncertainties.
The initiative is expected to significantly increase tomato output, stabilise prices, and strengthen Ghana’s domestic vegetable supply.
