Sampson Ahi, the Deputy Minister-Designate for Trade, Agribusiness, and Industry, has underscored the need for a comprehensive strategy to revive the Pwalugu Tomato Factory, emphasizing that industrialization efforts must go hand in hand with agricultural productivity.
During his vetting by Parliament’s Appointments Committee on Monday, February 24, Ahi stressed the importance of close collaboration between the Ministry of Trade and the Ministry of Agriculture to ensure the sustainability of the factory. He pointed out that merely reopening the factory without ensuring a steady supply of raw materials—tomatoes—would not achieve the intended economic impact.
“Agribusiness requires synergy between production and processing. If we revive the Pwalugu Tomato Factory without sufficient tomato supply, the objective of industrialization will not be met,” Ahi explained.
To address this, he proposed the introduction of educational farming programs to equip local tomato farmers with modern techniques to boost production. This, he said, would create a steady supply chain for the factory, ensuring its long-term viability and contributing to job creation and economic revitalization in the region.
“Our goal is to support farmers through education and resources so they can increase tomato production, allowing the factory to function effectively and drive economic growth in the area,” he added.
Ahi’s remarks highlight the government’s broader vision of strengthening Ghana’s agribusiness sector by integrating farming and industrial processing to maximize economic benefits.
