Ghana Education Ministry Probes Allegations of Expired Rice Supply to Schools

Accra, Ghana - Nov 15, 2024 - The Ministry of Education in Ghana has launched a thorough investigation into disturbing allegations that approximately 22,000 bags of expired rice were secretly repackaged and distributed to senior high schools across the country.

This explosive claim was brought to light by Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa on November 13, who alleged that the National Food Buffer Stock Company and Lamens Investments Africa Limited collaborated to repackage and distribute the expired rice.

According to Ablakwa, the expired rice, originally imported from India, was cleverly disguised in locally produced sacks bearing "ECOWAS" and "Made in Ghana rice" labels, but conveniently omitting the expiry date. The rice in question allegedly expired in December 2023.

The Ministry of Education has swiftly responded in a statement released on Nov 15,  thanking Ablakwa for exposing this issue and assuring the public of their commitment to safeguarding the health and well-being of all students. 

“We take these allegations seriously and, as a matter of urgency, have commenced a full investigation.”

“Together, we have launched a thorough investigation into the issues raised by Hon. Ablakwa.''

“Rest assured, we will pursue this matter to the end, and provide updates to the public as our investigation progresses,” it added.

Source: Lead News Online