Ministry of Food and Agriculture is urging citizens to start backyard tomato gardens to help bridge the country's tomato supply gap. The call comes after Burkina Faso announced an export ban, exacerbating Ghana's shortage.

Minister Eric Opoku says the country needs 805,000 metric tonnes of tomatoes but currently produces only 510,000 metric tonnes. He suggests even small home gardens can make a big difference.

The ministry is promoting a high-yield tomato variety from Burkina Faso that produces up to 18 metric tonnes per hectare. Opoku assured the public that measures are in place to boost production and prevent shortages.

The government is also working with 81 communities and plans to scale up tomato cultivation to 40,000 acres. Plus, 413 schools will grow tomatoes as part of the FEED Ghana program to supplement local supply and teach kids about agriculture.

Opoku emphasised that citizen involvement is key to stabilising tomato supply and ensuring food security.