Tomato prices in Ghana surge as conflict disrupts imports from Burkina Faso

Tomato prices have soared in Ghana in recent weeks due to the difficulty of importing from neighbouring Burkina Faso, which has been disrupted by ongoing conflict. The National Tomato Transporters and Sellers Association has said that Ghana relies heavily on tomato imports to meet demand, especially during the December to May period when local production is low. The conflict in Burkina Faso has led to shortages, with traders facing dangers on their journeys to bring products back to Ghana. In addition to the conflict, the high exchange rate and transportation costs have contributed to the increase in tomato prices.

According to Otumfuor Charity, the Queen Mother of the Greater Accra Tomato Transporters and Sellers Association, every year Ghana imports tomatoes from Burkina Faso during the December to May period when local production is low. However, ongoing conflicts in Burkina Faso have made it increasingly difficult to enter the country and purchase tomatoes. The result has been a shortage of tomatoes in Ghana, causing prices to soar.

Bintu Mohammed, a tomato import trader, has described the dangers faced by traders during their trips to buy tomatoes in Burkina Faso. She explained that it takes three days to harvest and transport tomatoes to Ghana, and the conflicts in Burkina Faso make the journey even more hazardous. Some traders have witnessed human beings being beheaded before their eyes, but as Ghanaians, they are usually allowed to pass through checkpoints unharmed.

All in all, the tomato price surge in Ghana is mainly due to the difficulties of importing from Burkina Faso caused by the ongoing conflict. This has led to shortages and an increase in prices, which has affected both retailers and consumers. The situation highlights the need for Ghana to invest more in local tomato production to reduce its reliance on imports and improve its food security.