The Irrigation Company of Upper Region (ICOUR) has announced plans to cultivate 500 hectares of tomatoes as part of efforts to strengthen commercial agriculture and enhance agro-processing in northern Ghana.
The newly confirmed Managing Director of ICOUR, Dr Dominic Anarigide, disclosed that the company has already secured off-takers in southern Ghana to provide a ready market for the anticipated harvest. He said fertilisers and other essential logistics have been procured to support the farming season.
According to Dr Anarigide, the company is also preparing to undertake a study tour of Burkina Faso to learn modern tomato production techniques, including improved seed varieties and best farming practices.
He said the knowledge gained would help increase productivity and improve the quality of tomatoes produced under ICOUR’s irrigation schemes.
Dr Anarigide made the remarks during the inauguration of ICOUR’s nine-member Board of Directors, where management outlined plans to expand the company’s operations and strengthen its contribution to Ghana’s agricultural transformation agenda.
Representing the Minister for Food and Agriculture, Eric Opoku, the North East Regional Minister, Ibrahim Tia, urged the new board and management to prioritise the expansion of tomato and watermelon cultivation.
He stressed that increased production of the two crops would create jobs, stimulate agro-industrial development, and contribute significantly to local economic growth.
The Upper East Regional Minister, who chairs the newly inaugurated ICOUR Board, assured farmers of the board’s commitment to providing the necessary support to improve agricultural productivity across the region.
He noted that expanding irrigation farming and strengthening partnerships with farmers would enhance food security, increase household incomes, and position the Upper East Region as a major hub for commercial vegetable production.
The initiative forms part of broader efforts to modernise irrigation agriculture and create sustainable market opportunities for farmers in northern Ghana.
A1 Radio | 101.1 MHz | Moses Apiah | Bolgatanga
