Caterers operating within the government’s School Feeding Programme in Ghana’s Ashanti region have vehemently refuted claims from a recent Auditor-General’s report, asserting they do not prepare unwholesome food for pupils and denying allegations of overpayment.
The Auditor-General’s latest performance report cited overpayments totalling GH¢2.3 million made to caterers between 2017 and 2022. Additionally, it raised concerns about food quality, accusing some caterers of using rotten ingredients.
In a press conference held in Kumasi, the caterers challenged the accuracy of these claims, emphasizing their commitment to providing healthy and nutritious meals despite their financial constraints.
“We categorically deny the allegations of preparing unwholesome food. The food we prepare for the children is of utmost importance to us, as many of us are mothers ourselves,” stated Dorothy Ofori Sarpong, Secretary of the Progressive School Feeding Caterers Association of Ghana.
Addressing the overpayment issue, the caterers clarified that they had yet to receive excess payments and highlighted outstanding arrears owed to some caterers from 2017.
“It is disheartening that our efforts are being misconstrued. We are not adequately compensated per child, which affects the quantity we can provide,” added Sarpong.
The caterers stressed that despite financial challenges, they ensure each school’s food is inspected and tasted regularly by coordinators appointed by the School Feeding Secretariat under the Ministry of Gender. They also clarified that the government does not directly supply food items for cooking but provides termly payments to cover costs incurred.
In light of these challenges, the caterers called for a fair reassessment by the Auditor-General. They appealed for increased support from NGOs and philanthropic organizations to enhance the quality of the School Feeding Programme.
“We appeal to benevolent individuals and organizations worldwide to assist the government in improving this vital programme. Together, we can ensure that every child receives nutritious meals while attending school,” concluded Sarpong.
The School Feeding Programme remains a critical initiative to enhance educational outcomes by ensuring that children receive regular meals, alleviating hunger and promoting attendance in schools across Ghana.
