A youth-led agricultural group is pushing for a nationwide shift toward self-sufficiency in food production, following the recent tomato export ban by Burkina Faso.
The Volta Youth in Agriculture says the development, though challenging, presents a critical opportunity for Ghana to reduce its dependence on imported vegetables and build a more resilient agricultural sector.
In a statement signed by its Public Relations Officer, Joy Fiamawle, the group described the situation as a turning point that should inspire young people to take a leading role in transforming local food production.
Rather than focusing solely on the disruption caused by the ban, the organisation is advocating for long-term solutions, including the establishment of vegetable farms in every district to ensure local demand is met through domestic production.
According to the group, decentralising vegetable farming would not only stabilise food supply but also create jobs for young people and strengthen local economies. They stressed that tomatoes are just one of several vegetables Ghana relies on imports for, warning that similar shocks could occur in the future if structural changes are not made.
The group is also calling for stronger collaboration between government agencies, Metropolitan, Municipal and District Assemblies, and agricultural-focused organisations to provide training, resources, and policy support for youth-led farming initiatives.
They argue that agriculture must be viewed as a key driver of economic growth and food security, particularly in addressing broader issues such as unemployment and poverty.
Ultimately, the organisation is urging citizens—especially the youth—to seize the moment and push for sustainable agricultural policies that prioritise local production and national resilience over reliance on external sources.
