Defence Minister donates food items to Ghana Armed Forces to help address food crisis

The Minister for Defence, Dr. Edward Omane Boamah, will donate food items to the Ghana Armed Forces (GAF). This donation aims to address a food supply crisis.

The donation is scheduled for this morning. It includes 1,000 bags of rice and thousands of tins of mackerel. Also included are tomato paste and cooking oil.

Dr. Boamah stated that this intervention is part of a larger strategy. The goal is to resolve acute food shortages in the military. He mentioned that the government inherited a GH¢275 million debt to food suppliers.

This debt has contributed to the current crisis. Beyond the donation, Dr. Boamah assured that the government will clear outstanding debts. Once Parliament approves the 2025 budget, a payment plan will be implemented.

The Finance Minister will ensure timely payments for future obligations as well. The government also plans to work with the private sector on mechanized agriculture initiatives. These initiatives aim to boost local food production.

Dr. Boamah emphasized that this long-term approach will help self-sufficiency in the Armed Forces. It will also reduce government food expenses and stabilize food prices.

"We are resetting the Ghana Armed Forces," he declared, reaffirming commitment to improving conditions for military personnel.