Traders, farmers, and consumers in the Tongu enclaves are appealing for urgent government intervention as tomato prices soar, fueled by supply disruptions and rising operational costs.
A Ghana News Agency (GNA) visit to markets in South Tongu revealed dwindling stock levels and lower customer turnout, as households reduced tomato purchases due to the sharp price increases. Traders attributed the situation to limited supply, rising transportation costs, and higher input expenses.
Madam Akosua Nunya, a Dabala market trader, said the price spike had forced customers to buy smaller quantities, affecting her sales volume. Similarly, Mr Kwame Soglo of Sokpoe highlighted the strain on traders’ profit margins caused by the supply challenges.
Farmers in Central Tongu, including Mr Kofi Amenyedua from Mafi Dekpoe, pointed to high input costs and inadequate irrigation support as key constraints limiting production, especially during dry seasons. They called for government support in the form of affordable farm inputs, extension services, and irrigation infrastructure to boost local production.
Residents expressed concern about the impact of rising tomato prices on household budgets, emphasizing the need for price stabilization and stronger monitoring of the market.
Many traders and farmers also linked the price surge to disruptions in cross-border trade following a deadly attack in Titao, northern Burkina Faso, where several Ghanaian tomato traders were killed in February. The incident has heightened security concerns and interrupted traditional supply routes, directly contributing to volatility in Ghanaian tomato markets.
Stakeholders are urging authorities to act swiftly to restore supply chains, support domestic production, and safeguard food security amid regional instability.
