The government has initiated the construction of 250 boreholes throughout Ghana’s five northern regions as part of a strategic effort to enhance irrigation for vegetable farming, particularly for tomatoes.
This initiative is expected to alleviate supply constraints and enhance domestic production capacity at a time when the nation seeks to reduce its reliance on imports.
This action is taken in light of persistently low tomato yields, which currently average approximately 8 metric tonnes per hectare, significantly below potential levels. Industry analysts suggest that improving access to dependable irrigation could greatly boost productivity and stabilize market supply.
Eric Opoku, the Minister for Food and Agriculture, addressed a press briefing in Accra on Wednesday, March 25, 2026, stating that this initiative is part of an urgent policy response to recent developments in the sub-region, particularly the decision by Burkina Faso to cease tomato exports to Ghana.
Historically, the neighboring country has been a vital supplier to Ghanaian markets.
“In the five northern regions, we are drilling 250 boreholes to facilitate irrigation for vegetable production, especially tomatoes,” he emphasized, highlighting the government’s commitment to bridging the supply gap.
He also disclosed that authorities have collaborated with operators of the Tono Irrigation Scheme to expedite tomato cultivation.
“We have communicated with the management of the Tono irrigation system, which has been completely refurbished. Currently, it is providing 2,400 hectares of land,” the minister stated.
He noted that a change in farmer preferences had previously restricted tomato production under the scheme. “Due to a lack of buyers for their tomatoes, farmers shifted to rice production. However, after discussions this morning, they have consented to allocate 500 hectares for immediate tomato cultivation,” he added.
