Editorial: Tomato, Onion Shortages Should Serve As A Wake-Up Call

Two major developments within West Africa’s agricultural trade space have exposed deep vulnerabilities in Ghana’s food system.

A fresh dispute between Ghanaian traders and Nigerian onion suppliers has resulted in a suspension of onion exports to Ghana. The decision, taken by the National Onion Producers, Processors and Marketers Association of Nigeria, follows reports of harassment and the alleged seizure of onion trucks in Accra. For a country that relies heavily on Nigeria for onion supply, this disruption is not just a trade issue, it is a direct threat to food availability and price stability.

At the same time, Burkina Faso moved decisively to protect its domestic interests by suspending the export of fresh tomatoes, after which the ban was lifted after a week. Under the leadership of Ibrahim Traoré, the policy is intended to ensure adequate supply for local processing factories and strengthen its agro-industrial base. It is a clear demonstration of a country prioritising value addition and food security over short-term export gains.

These two developments have significant implications for Ghana, particularly given our reliance on cross-border trade for essential food items. Indeed, Ghana recently had its own taste of this vulnerability. When a temporary restriction was placed on tomato imports, markets reacted almost immediately shortages emerged and prices surged within days. Although the ban has since been lifted, the episode exposed just how fragile the country’s food supply chain is.

This is where the real concern lies.

The Chronicle finds it deeply worrying that, in the 21st century, Ghana still depends so heavily on imports for basic commodities such as onions and tomatoes. With vast arable land, favourable climatic conditions and a large pool of young people who could be engaged in agriculture, this situation is both ironic and unacceptable.

While countries like Nigeria are building strong production bases and Burkina Faso is deliberately protecting its local industries, Ghana appears to be lagging behind. We have become a convenient market for others, rather than a competitive producer within the region.

The Chronicle acknowledges government’s recent announcement to establish Farmers Service Centres in 50 agricultural districts to support farmers with inputs and services. This is, without doubt, a step in the right direction. However, it also raises a critical question, why must we always wait for a crisis before taking action?

Agricultural policy in Ghana has too often been reactive rather than strategic. We respond when there is a shortage, when prices rise, or when external shocks hit. But by then, the damage is already done.

Food security must be treated as a matter of national urgency. It goes beyond feeding the population, it is about economic stability, job creation and national sovereignty. A country that cannot produce what it consumes places itself at the mercy of others.

Equally important is the need to reassess our approach to regional trade under the Economic Community of West African States. While the free movement of goods is beneficial, it should not become an excuse for neglecting domestic production. Trade should complement local capacity, not replace it.

The Chronicle is of the firm view that Ghana has what it takes to reverse this trend. What is required is deliberate investment in irrigation systems, modern farming techniques, storage facilities, and agro-processing industries. Farmers must be supported not just with promises, but with practical, sustained interventions that make agriculture profitable and attractive, especially to the youth.

Above all, there must be accountability and continuity in policy implementation. Too many good initiatives have been announced in the past, only to fade away without meaningful impact.

The recent developments in Nigeria and Burkina Faso should not be dismissed as isolated incidents. They are clear signals of a shifting regional dynamic, one where countries are beginning to prioritise self-sufficiency and value addition.

Ghana cannot afford to be left behind.

If the brief tomato shortage did not serve as a wake-up call, then perhaps the onion crisis will. But one thing is certain: we cannot continue on this path and expect different results.

The time to act is now.

 

 

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