Suppliers under Ghana's Free Senior High School programme have given the government two weeks to begin discussions about GH¢250 million in outstanding payments. The Controlled Food Suppliers Association says this move aims to get the government to provide clear timelines for settling debts owed to suppliers who provided food to SHSs during the 2024/2025 academic year. The suppliers have been owed for some time, and this ultimatum is a peaceful step to convey their concerns.
The Association's Secretary, Cornelius Koku Logo, disclosed that no government institution had contacted the suppliers following the ultimatum. He stated that despite the absence of engagement, the suppliers are hopeful that the government will use the two-week period to open discussions and work towards resolving the payment issue. The suppliers delivered food to schools through the National Food Buffer Stock Company and the Ghana Commodity Exchange.
According to Mr. Logo, the ultimatum is not meant to antagonize or threaten the government but is a legitimate option taken after earlier efforts failed to produce the desired outcome. The suppliers have tried various approaches to resolve the matter but have not seen results. They believe this peaceful approach will convey their concerns to the government.
The Controlled Food Suppliers Association is seeking a clear timeline for the government to settle its debts. The association believes that the government's inaction may disrupt the food supply chain to schools. The Free SHS programme is a flagship initiative of the Ghanaian government aimed at increasing access to education.
The issue has been ongoing, with some suppliers previously threatening to picket at the Education Ministry over a GH¢50m debt. However, the current ultimatum is focused on the larger GH¢250m debt. The suppliers are hopeful that the government will engage with them and work towards a resolution.
The Education Minister had previously assured Free SHS suppliers of payment within one week. However, it appears that this assurance has not been fulfilled, leading to the current ultimatum. The suppliers are eager to resolve the matter amicably and continue providing food to the schools.
The outcome of the ultimatum remains to be seen. The suppliers are waiting for the government to make contact and begin discussions. If the government fails to engage with the suppliers, it may lead to disruptions in the food supply chain to schools, potentially affecting the Free SHS programme.
Key points
- Suppliers under Ghana's Free SHS programme issue two-week ultimatum for gov't to discuss GH¢250m debt.
- The ultimatum aims to get the government to provide clear timelines for settling debts owed to suppliers.
- The suppliers delivered food to schools through the National Food Buffer Stock Company and the Ghana Commodity Exchange.
