Ministry of Education (MoE) has launched an inquiry into claims that over 22,000 bags of expired rice were repackaged and supplied to senior high schools across the country.
The allegations, raised by opposition MP Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa on Wednesday, suggest that the National Food Buffer Stock Company collaborated with Lamens Investments Africa Limited to distribute the expired rice.
According to Mr. Ablakwa, the rice, imported from India, had expired in December 2023 but was repackaged at a facility in Kumasi, Ashanti Region. He claims the rice was placed in locally manufactured sacks labelled “ECOWAS” and “Made in Ghana rice,” with no expiry dates indicated.
In response, the Education Ministry issued a statement on Thursday expressing gratitude to Mr. Ablakwa for highlighting the issue. The ministry assured the public that it takes the allegations seriously and has initiated a comprehensive investigation in collaboration with the National Food Buffer Stock Company and the Ghana Commodity Exchange.
“We are committed to safeguarding the health and safety of students under our care,” the statement read, adding that updates will be provided as the investigation progresses.
The ministry also pledged to ensure accountability and called for calm among students, parents, and the public while the matter is being thoroughly examined.
Source:TheDotNews