Ghana advances agricultural transformation and industrial growth through tomato production and AfCFTA initiatives

President John Dramani Mahama has unveiled a major agricultural initiative aimed at boosting tomato production and curbing post-harvest losses, as part of Ghana’s broader strategy to industrialize and leverage the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).

Speaking yesterday at the 2026 Kwahu Business Forum in Mpreaso, President Mahama announced the development of 60 hectares of irrigated farmlands dedicated to tomato cultivation. The move is designed to enable year-round farming, stabilize supply, and address the recurring challenge of tomato gluts through the establishment of processing facilities.

The President cautioned that increasing production alone is insufficient without corresponding investment in value addition. He noted that processing capacity is essential to sustaining agricultural growth and protecting farmers from significant post-harvest losses.

Strengthening Trade Under AfCFTA

Also addressing the forum, the Minister for Trade, Agribusiness and Industry, Hon. Lawyer Elizabeth Ofosu-Adjare, emphasized Ghana’s unique responsibility as host nation of the AfCFTA Secretariat to lead by example in promoting intra-African trade.

She disclosed that the government is actively equipping Ghanaian businesses with critical tools to enhance continental competitiveness, including rules of origin certification, tariff intelligence, and market linkages. The Minister stressed that meaningful results would require strong collaboration between the public and private sectors.

Focus on Local Enterprises

Under the forum’s theme, “The Future of Business: Scaling Up Local Enterprises,” Minister Ofosu-Adjare noted that Ghanaian entrepreneurs have demonstrated capacity to thrive across processing, manufacturing, services, and trade. She also revealed ongoing efforts to revitalize special economic zones, transforming them into industrial hubs focused on agro-processing and light manufacturing.

The event featured exhibitions and panel discussions centered on key economic sectors, reinforcing Ghana’s commitment to sustainable growth, industrial expansion, and regional trade leadership.