Tomato traders and transport operators in Kumasi have suspended all trips to Burkina Faso, citing escalating security concerns following the recent killing of eight Ghanaians in an attack.
The decision, which takes immediate effect, has sparked fears of a looming tomato shortage in Ghana, particularly during the current lean season when the country heavily depends on imports from Burkina Faso.
Transport operator Kwame Nyarko said drivers are unwilling to risk their lives under the prevailing conditions.
“We will not move unless we are assured of security,” he stated.
The Queenmother of tomato traders at the Race Course Market in Kumasi, Hajia Mansura, confirmed the directive, saying all drivers under their association have been instructed to suspend operations.
“We have instructed all our drivers not to go anywhere,” she emphasised.
For decades, Burkina Faso has served as a major source of tomatoes for Ghana, especially when local production declines due to reliance on rainfall. Traders warn that the current suspension could significantly disrupt supply chains and drive up prices if the situation persists.
Tomato trader and transport owner Nana Agyenim-Boateng explained that Ghana’s dependence on Burkina Faso is largely due to irrigation investments made by the neighbouring country.
“Most Ghanaian tomato farmers rely on rainfall and cannot produce all year round. But the Burkina Faso government has invested heavily in irrigation, which allows their farmers to grow tomatoes throughout the year. That is why we go there to buy,” he said.
While some traders are attempting to source tomatoes locally, they admit that domestic production is insufficient to meet national demand.
Traders are therefore calling on the government to invest in irrigation infrastructure to reduce reliance on imports.
“If we have dams, we won’t have to go to Burkina Faso for tomatoes. We will be able to source them locally,” trader Mary Agyekum said.
Market leaders are also urging the government and security agencies to collaborate with authorities in Burkina Faso to improve safety along key trade routes.
“If the government is not ready to construct dams, then it should at least liaise with the Burkina Faso authorities to guarantee security for transporters,” Nana Agyenim-Boateng added.
For now, cross-border transport of tomatoes from Burkina Faso to Ghana remains suspended, as uncertainty and fear continue to overshadow trade activities.
