We can grow our own tomatoes – Eric Opoku pushes local farming agenda

The Minister for Food and Agriculture, Eric Opoku, announced a new initiative. The government will engage 5,000 unemployed graduates from agricultural and veterinary colleges. This is part of the Feed Ghana programme.

Mr. Opoku spoke on Citi FM on April 14, 2025. He said the goal is to support local farmers with modern techniques. The graduates will help farmers adopt these methods.

The Feed Ghana programme was launched by President John Dramani Mahama in Techiman. It aims to boost food production, create jobs, and reduce food imports in Ghana.

Mr. Opoku expressed concern about Ghana's reliance on imported produce, especially tomatoes. He questioned why Ghana cannot produce tomatoes like Burkina Faso does. He emphasized that Ghana has fertile soil and agricultural resources.

He also mentioned plans for regional agricultural centres to support farmers. These centres will be equipped with tractors, harvesters, seeds, fertilizers, extension officers, and water pumps. Farmers can access services even without money and repay after harvest.