An Assembly Member for Zaare West and tomato farmer, Atogutue Ayoroko Sulemana, is calling on the government to subsidise fertiliser to boost agricultural productivity and support farmers’ livelihoods.
His call follows Burkina Faso’s recent ban on fresh tomato exports to Ghana, a move expected to disrupt supply and affect prices.
Mr. Sulemana argued that “subsidizing fertilizer would motivate more people to engage in large-scale commercial tomato farming in Ghana.”
He described the measure as a strategic response to the trade disruption, noting that increasing local production would help reduce Ghana’s dependence on imports and strengthen the domestic agriculture sector.
While the government has indicated plans to engage authorities in Burkina Faso over the export ban, Mr. Sulemana and other stakeholders believe immediate support for farmers is critical.
As a tomato farmer, he further “appealed to the government to provide tomato farmers with ready markets. This appeal emphasizes the need for the government not only to support farmers with inputs like subsidized fertilizer but also to ensure that there are stable and accessible markets for their produce.”
He noted that access to ready markets would enable farmers to sell their produce efficiently, reduce post-harvest losses, and improve incomes, thereby encouraging more investment in commercial farming.
Mr. Sulemana stressed that a combined approach—input subsidies and guaranteed market access—would help build a more resilient and profitable tomato sector, especially in the face of regional trade challenges.
The Assembly Member, who was adjudged the 2025 Bolgatanga Municipal Best Farmer, has also been advocating for increased youth participation in agriculture, highlighting its importance for local development and food security.
His recognition as Best Farmer underscores his leadership in promoting commercial and sustainable farming practices within the municipality.
A1 Radio | 101.1 Mhz | Joseph Napoleon Anaaya | Bolgatanga
