Deputy Agriculture Minister John Dumelo Urges Farmers to Ramp Up Dry-Season Tomato Production Amid Burkina Faso Export Ban
Deputy Minister for Food and Agriculture John Dumelo has called on Ghanaian farmers to intensify dry-season farming, particularly tomato cultivation, to strengthen local food production and reduce dependence on imports following Burkina Faso’s decision to suspend fresh tomato exports.
The ban, announced in a joint communiqué dated March 16, 2026, and signed by Burkina Faso’s Minister of Industry, Commerce and Artisanat Serge Gnaniodem Poda and Minister of State for Agriculture Ismaël Sombié, aims to protect the country’s domestic tomato processing industry from supply shortages.
Speaking on JoyNews’ Midday News on March 19, 2026, Mr. Dumelo said the ministry is still seeking full details and clarification on the policy and its potential impact on Ghana.
“We need to further interrogate this matter. I read a memo yesterday, and I need to ascertain whether it is accurate and understand why it was banned. After that, we will seek further clarification on the way forward,” he explained.
He stressed that the development underscores the urgency of boosting domestic production through dry-season farming. The minister highlighted recent visits to farming communities in the Upper East Region, including Garu and Talensi, where he had previously encouraged farmers to plant tomatoes during the off-season.
“Most of them had gone into tomato production, and some of them were doing quite well,” he noted, adding that many farmers expressed eagerness to expand their operations if provided with adequate support.
“I encouraged them to let me know the support they need to scale up, adding that the government is committed to helping them increase production,” Mr. Dumelo said.
While acknowledging that Ghana cannot immediately eliminate reliance on imports, the deputy minister expressed optimism that sustained investment and encouragement could achieve self-sufficiency in tomato production within three to four years.
“If farmers are properly supported and encouraged, within three to four years we should be self-sufficient when it comes to tomato production,” he stated.
The Burkina Faso ban has raised concerns about potential short-term supply gaps and price increases for fresh tomatoes in Ghana. The Ministry of Food and Agriculture is expected to engage regional partners and monitor market developments closely while accelerating efforts to support local farmers in scaling up dry-season cultivation.
