Maphlix Farms to Supply 3,000 Tonnes to Help Bridge Tomato Deficit

Dawhenya: Maphlix Farms at Dawhenya in the Greater Accra Region is to supply 3,000 tonnes of tomatoes to the domestic market to help address Ghana's production shortfall. The move is part of ongoing measures to reduce the country's tomato deficit and stabilise supply following recent import constraints from neighbouring countries. According to Ghana News Agency, a statement issued by the Ministry of Food and Agriculture revealed that Mr. Eric Opoku, the sector minister, disclosed this during a working visit to Maphlix Farms. During the visit, he assessed production activities and discussed strategies to scale up output. The farm is expected to produce 3,000 tonnes by year-end, with additional output from expanded open-field cultivation. The statement highlighted that harvesting had begun, with produce picked every three days to ensure a steady supply. The combination of greenhouse and open-field systems is anticipated to support year-round production and reduce seasonal shortages that often drive price incr eases. The Ministry is collaborating with research institutions, including the Council for Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR), to improve seed quality and develop climate-resilient varieties to enhance yields and shelf-life. These measures aim to address concerns among traders and consumers about the durability and quality of locally produced tomatoes. Increased private sector participation, such as Maphlix Farms' operations, is deemed critical to closing the supply gap and reducing dependence on imports. The Ministry assured the public of continued efforts to boost local production and urged traders and consumers to remain calm as interventions take effect. Furthermore, Maphlix Farms plans to expand production and explore processing options to reduce post-harvest losses and support value addition in the tomato value chain.