Ghana’s Defence Minister, Dr. Edward Omane Boamah, has revealed that the previous government left a staggering Ghc270 million debt in unpaid food bills for the Ghana Armed Forces. This shocking disclosure has brought to light the dire food supply situation facing the military.
According to Dr. Boamah, the Akufo-Addo Bawumia government failed to prioritize food provision for the Ghana Armed Forces, leaving the military to struggle with sustenance. The Defence Minister emphasized that soldiers cannot march on empty stomachs, highlighting the urgency of addressing this crisis.
The huge debt, accrued between August 2023 and December 2024, has put a significant strain on food suppliers. However, Finance Minister Ato Forson has assured that the government will pay current bills while working towards settling the outstanding debt.
To tackle this avoidable food supply problem, the government has vowed to provide short-term and medium-term solutions. Dr. Boamah announced that the journey to finding sustainable food supply solutions will commence next week.
This development comes at a time when the Ghana Armed Forces play a critical role in maintaining national security and stability. Ensuring the military’s basic needs, including food, is essential to their effectiveness and morale.
Ruth Abla ADJORLOLO
