The Chief Executive Officer of the Presidential Initiative in Agriculture and Agribusiness (PIAA), Dr. Peter Boamah Otokunor, has announced a new government directive aimed at supporting local tomato farmers across the country.
According to Dr. Otokunor, President John Dramani Mahama has instructed all Senior High Schools in the Ashanti Region to prioritize purchasing tomatoes from local farmers.
The move comes after a viral video highlighted concerns raised by the Member of Parliament for Asante Akyem South, Hon. Yaw Frimpong.
The intervention seeks to protect farmers from losses during bumper harvests and provide a reliable market for their produce.
Dr. Otokunor noted that many tomato farmers struggle with gluts and market access, leading to the loss of capital and discouragement within the sector.
“This directive is part of government’s commitment to safeguarding the investments of our farmers and ensuring that no produce goes to waste,” he said.
He further revealed that government is working to introduce mobile processing plants in farming communities to help add value to tomatoes and reduce post-harvest losses.
Dr. Otokunor assured that similar interventions will be rolled out to boost farmers’ incomes and strengthen food security nationwide.
Source: Myxyzonline.com/Kofi Abrantie
