3–5 Years of Strict AETA Execution Can Significantly Cut Tomato Imports – IMANI
Policy think tank IMANI Africa has projected that Ghana could substantially reduce its dependence on imported tomatoes within three to five years if the government rigorously implements the Agricultural for Economic Transformation Agenda (AETA).
The assertion comes amid renewed concerns about Ghana’s heavy reliance on tomato imports from Burkina Faso, particularly following a recent attack on Ghanaian tomato traders operating across the border. According to IMANI, the incident highlights the risks associated with overdependence on external supply sources and underscores long-standing structural weaknesses in Ghana’s agricultural value chain.
In its latest analysis, IMANI maintained that Ghana already has a clearly defined policy framework to address the issue, stressing that the challenge lies not in policy design but in execution. “If AETA maintains implementation momentum over the next three to five years, the current dependence may gradually decline,” the think tank stated.
The AETA, launched under the 2024 Budget, places agricultural commercialization and import substitution at the centre of Ghana’s growth strategy. A key component of the programme is the Vegetable Development Project, known as “Yɛredua,” which targets increased production of tomatoes, onions, and peppers.
IMANI noted that the policy correctly identifies critical constraints within the sector, including limited irrigation, weak value-chain integration, post-harvest losses, and inadequate commercialization. However, it emphasized that structural transformation requires sustained, disciplined implementation rather than short-term political commitments.
To reduce tomato imports, the think tank outlined a practical roadmap. Central to this is the expansion of irrigated farming zones in northern Ghana to enable year-round production. Currently, the country’s reliance on rain-fed agriculture creates seasonal supply gaps, which are filled by imports.
IMANI also stressed the need to strengthen aggregation centres to minimize post-harvest losses, which remain a significant challenge for farmers. In addition, it called for increased investment in processing facilities to absorb surplus production during peak harvest periods, preventing waste and stabilizing farmer incomes.
Efficient logistics systems were also highlighted as critical. The think tank noted that poor road networks and fragmented distribution channels continue to hinder the movement of produce from farming areas to major consumption centres such as Accra and Kumasi.
Furthermore, IMANI advocated for predictable pricing frameworks to support farmers in planning production and reducing market volatility.
While the recent security incident has heightened concerns, IMANI cautioned against viewing the situation as a policy failure. Instead, it described it as a reminder of Ghana’s vulnerability to external shocks.
The think tank concluded that consistent execution of AETA could deliver significant benefits, including reduced foreign exchange pressure, improved rural incomes, stronger local economies, and enhanced food security resilience.
