The Council for Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR), in collaboration with the Crop Research Institute (CRI), has introduced two new tomato varieties, designed to tackle climate change and improve agricultural productivity.
Under the Technologies for Africa Agriculture Transformation Phase 2 (TAAT 2) project, the newly developed tomatoes, named CRI-Kwabena-Kwabena and CRI-KOPIA, are part of a strategic effort to enhance vegetable farming in Ghana, Africa, and globally. These varieties mature early, have higher yields, and can withstand drought conditions, offering a promising solution to the challenges posed by climate change.
The Senior Research Scientist and Head of the Horticulture Division at CRI, Dr. Michael Kwabena Osei, emphasized the potential of these new varieties during a media tour of experimental farms in Kpetoe, Akatsi, and Adaklu in the Volta Region. He explained that the project, funded by the African Development Bank (AFDB), is currently being piloted in four regions: Upper East, Volta, Bono, and Eastern.
The initiative aims to improve vegetable production while addressing the rising threats of climate change on agriculture.
Dr. Osei highlighted the pressing need for Ghana to increase its domestic production of fresh tomatoes, noting that local farmers currently supply only 30 percent of the national demand, which stands at 1.2 million metric tons annually.
This shortfall has led to the importation of canned tomatoes, a practice that carries potential health risks. He urged for greater investment in irrigation farming to ensure the year-round cultivation of key vegetables such as tomatoes and okra.
The TAAT 2 project has garnered significant support from the World Vegetable Center, an agriculture-focused organization that is committed to bolstering Ghana’s vegetable production capabilities. Paul Alhassan Zaato, a Research Associate at the World Vegetable Center, reaffirmed his organization’s dedication to promoting sustainable vegetable farming practices through partnerships with institutions like the Crop Research Institute.
As the country faces increasing food security challenges, introducing these resilient tomato varieties signals a positive step towards enhancing agricultural output and reducing the country’s dependence on imports.
The success of the TAAT 2 project could have far-reaching implications not only for Ghana but for the rest of Africa, as the continent seeks innovative solutions to mitigate the impact of climate change on agriculture.
