The Chief of Staff, Frema Osei Opare, has strongly dismissed allegations regarding the distribution of repackaged expired rice to Senior High Schools (SHSs), describing such claims as propaganda and an attempt to mislead the public.
Her remarks came in response to accusations made by North Tongu Member of Parliament, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, who asserted that approximately 22,000 bags of expired and repackaged rice were distributed to certain SHSs.
The allegations have sparked significant controversy, leading the Minority in Parliament to demand urgent action. On Monday, November 18, they called for the arrest and prosecution of the Directors of Lamens Investment Africa Limited, the company allegedly responsible for the rice distribution. They also urged the government to impose sanctions on the Board and Management of the National Food Buffer Stock Company (NAFCO) for their purported involvement in the matter.
Ablakwa has been vocal about his concerns, pointing to what he described as the government’s lack of accountability. He further alleged that Lamens Ventures, a company reportedly identified in a 2021 Auditor General’s report for supplying substandard food products, continues to operate unchecked. Ablakwa’s assertions have fueled criticism of government oversight in ensuring the safety and quality of food products distributed to educational institutions.
Despite the gravity of these allegations, the Chief of Staff has firmly rejected the claims, urging Ghanaians to focus on issues that promote national progress. Speaking during an interview with Joy News on Monday, November 18, Frema Osei Opare expressed her dismay at the spread of what she referred to as baseless accusations. She emphasized the importance of prioritizing education and improving the opportunities available to Ghanaian children.
“You know it is not true, so please let us focus on things that move this country forward,” she stated. “We have good things, we have to focus on how we advance the Ghanaian children, and how we improve their opportunities so that they become good citizens. Propaganda and rumour-mongering have no place in education.”
Her comments reflect a broader concern about the impact of such allegations on the educational sector. According to the Chief of Staff, spreading unverified information undermines efforts to build trust and confidence in the systems designed to support Ghana’s students. She called on stakeholders to channel their energies into initiatives that advance education and contribute to the country’s development.
In support of the Chief of Staff’s position, the Public Relations Officer of the Ministry of Education, Kwasi Kwarteng, also weighed in on the matter. Addressing the controversy, Mr. Kwarteng affirmed that the rice distributed to schools was certified as safe for consumption by the Food and Drugs Authority (FDA). He categorically denied claims that the rice was expired, stressing that such allegations were unfounded.
Mr. Kwarteng explained that the FDA’s certification process ensures that food products meet safety and quality standards before they are approved for distribution. He urged the public to trust the integrity of the institutions responsible for safeguarding the health and well-being of students. His statement sought to reassure parents, educators, and the wider community that the rice provided to schools posed no health risks.
Despite these clarifications, the controversy has continued to generate heated debate, with some members of the public expressing concern over the allegations. Critics argue that even the perception of distributing substandard food to schools could erode public confidence in government programs aimed at supporting education. They have called for a thorough investigation to ascertain the facts and hold any responsible parties accountable.
Meanwhile, supporters of the government have rallied behind the Chief of Staff and the Ministry of Education, defending their efforts to maintain high standards in the distribution of food products to schools. They argue that the allegations are politically motivated and aimed at discrediting the government’s achievements in the education sector.
The allegations have also drawn attention to the role of Lamens Investment Africa Limited, the company at the center of the controversy. Critics have questioned the government’s decision to continue engaging the company despite the concerns raised in the Auditor General’s report. This has led to calls for greater transparency and accountability in the procurement processes for food supplies to schools.
For her part, Frema Osei Opare has remained resolute in her stance, urging Ghanaians to reject divisive narratives and focus on collective efforts to improve the lives of students. She highlighted the government’s commitment to creating opportunities for young people and ensuring that they receive the support they need to succeed.
As the debate continues, the Chief of Staff’s remarks serve as a reminder of the need for constructive dialogue and collaboration in addressing challenges in the education sector. While the allegations have raised important questions about accountability and oversight, they also underscore the importance of verifying information and avoiding actions that could undermine public trust.
In the coming weeks, the government is expected to take further steps to address the concerns raised and reinforce its commitment to transparency and quality assurance. Whether through investigations, public engagement, or policy reforms, the outcome of this controversy will likely have lasting implications for the perception of governance and accountability in Ghana’s education system.
For now, the Chief of Staff’s message remains clear: education should be a unifying force for national development, not a platform for political propaganda. By focusing on solutions and working together, Ghanaians can build a brighter future for their children and ensure that the country’s educational institutions continue to thrive.
