Okro farmers in Asuano, a farming community near Nkoranza in the Bono East Region, are facing financial hardships due to low prices offered by local market women.
Despite growing okro year-round using irrigation from the Pru River, the farmers are struggling financially because some buyers are exploiting them by setting prices well below what they expect.
Asuano is known for its large-scale okro production, but the surplus of the crop has created market challenges. The high costs of inputs like fertilizers and pesticides are leading to heavy losses, making it difficult for farmers to break even.
Isaac Boakye, a spokesperson for the farmers, told Adom News that the lack of market competition has led to a few buyers taking advantage of the farmers. He also mentioned the challenges of farming on hard soil, which requires expensive manual irrigation, and noted that many farmers are burdened by unpaid loans due to their low earnings.
Over 100 farmers are cultivating around 500 acres of okro, but the lack of fair pricing and market competition is pushing them into financial distress. Many farmers have expressed frustration, blaming the situation on the lack of competitive buyers who set their own prices.
The farmers are calling for government, stakeholders, and traders to step in and create better market linkages, ensuring fair pricing.
As the crisis persists, the farmers remain hopeful for prompt action to protect their livelihoods and prevent further losses.
