Following a recent terrorist attack in Burkina Faso, tomato traders from the Ashanti Region have refused to resume cross-border purchases, citing serious safety concerns.
The suspension of travel has led to dwindling supplies in local markets, driving up tomato prices as consumers struggle to find available produce. The attack two weeks ago claimed the lives of eight Ghanaian traders and left several others injured, exposing the country’s dependence on imported tomatoes.
At the Racecourse Market, once-bustling stalls appeared largely empty, with tomato boxes left unfilled and traders standing idly. Retailers lamented the scarcity and the sharp price hikes for the few tomatoes still on sale.
Veteran trader Nana Akoma, who has worked in the business for over 40 years, criticized the government for not engaging the sector or providing a clear plan. She emphasized that fear continues to keep traders off the road.
“Everyone is scared after what happened to our colleagues,” Nana Akoma said. “We are waiting for instructions from the Minister of Food and Agriculture. Only then will we decide how to move forward.”