- Caterers deny preparing unwholesome food and receiving overpayments.
- Auditor-General's report claims GH¢2.3 million overpayment and unwholesome food.
- Caterers argue report is inaccurate and they provide healthy food despite low pay.
- Caterers demand investigation, claiming underpayment and owed arrears.
Caterers under the government’s School Feeding Programme in the Ashanti region have vehemently denied allegations made in the recent Auditor-General’s report. The report claimed that caterers were overpaid by GH¢2.3 million between 2017 and 2022 and that they prepared unwholesome food for pupils using rotten ingredients.
At a news conference in Kumasi, the caterers strongly disputed the accuracy of the report. They argued that despite the insufficient amount they are paid per child, they strive to ensure that the food prepared is healthy and nutritious.
The caterers admitted that the quantity of food might not be enough, but attributed this to the meagre amount paid per child. They expressed disappointment that their efforts to provide nutritious food are unappreciated rather than applauded.
The caterers urged the Auditor-General to conduct another investigation, claiming that they are underpaid and have not received any overpayments. They noted that the secretariat owes some caterers arrears dating back to 2017.
Dorothy Ofori Sarpong, the Secretary of the Progressive School Feeding Caterers Association of Ghana, echoed these concerns. She emphasized that the caterers are committed to providing quality food to pupils despite the challenges they face.
The caterers argued that the report’s findings are misleading and do not reflect the reality on the ground. They called for a thorough investigation into the allegations to clear their names.
The School Feeding Programme is a government initiative aimed at providing nutritious meals to pupils in public schools. The programme is designed to improve enrollment, attendance, and retention rates in schools.
However, the programme has faced challenges, including funding constraints and allegations of mismanagement. The Auditor-General’s report highlighted some of these challenges, but the caterers argue that the report is inaccurate.
The caterers’ denial of the allegations raises questions about the credibility of the Auditor-General’s report. It also highlights the need for a thorough investigation into the matter to ensure that the truth is revealed.
The dispute between the caterers and the Auditor-General’s office highlights the challenges facing the School Feeding Programme. It is essential to resolve this dispute to ensure that pupils receive the nutritious food they deserve.
