GSA boss advocates investment in agriculture to reduce tomato imports

The head of the Ghana Standards Authority (GSA), Prof. Alexander N. K. Dodoo, is urging for increased investment in the country's agriculture sector to help curb the significant reliance on imported tomatoes. During a recent forum, he highlighted that Ghana imports around 60% of its tomato supply, which not only strains foreign exchange reserves but also impacts local farmers' livelihoods and food security.

Prof. Dodoo emphasized the importance of establishing robust standards and quality controls in agricultural production to improve local output and competitiveness. He noted that investing in modern farming techniques, infrastructure, and technology could enhance productivity and reduce dependency on imports.

Additionally, he called for collaboration between government agencies, private investors, and farmers to create a sustainable agricultural ecosystem that can meet local demand. By focusing on self-sufficiency in tomato production, Ghana can bolster its economy while supporting local farmers and enhancing national food security. The GSA’s advocacy reflects a broader initiative aimed at strengthening the agricultural sector amid growing concerns over import dependency.