Caterers participating in the government’s school feeding programme in the Ashanti region are on the brink of striking for the upcoming academic year if outstanding arrears owed to them are not settled promptly.

The caterers are demanding payment of GH¢1.50 per child, as agreed upon, citing that they have only received payment for one academic term instead of the expected three, and at a lower rate of GH¢1.15 per pupil, contrary to the agreed GH¢1.50.

Accusing Gender Minister Darkoa Newman of unfair treatment and unexplained deductions, the caterers emphasized their expectation of complete and accurate payment as promised.

Dorothy Ofori Sarpong, the Ashanti regional Secretary for Progressive School Feeding Caterers Association of Ghana, expressed frustration with overpayment discrepancies and urged swift resolution before the start of the next academic term.

She referenced previous public commitments by government officials regarding payment rates and timelines, underscoring the disparity between promises and actual disbursements.

In an appeal directed at Vice President and NPP flagbearer Dr Mahamudu Bawumia, Sarpong called for immediate intervention to prevent disruptions to the school feeding programme, especially during an election year.

“We don’t want a situation whereby the Gender Ministry is going to do worse things for him,” Sarpong emphasized, urging proactive measures to address the grievances promptly.

The caterers have vowed only to provide their services for the upcoming academic year if their demands are met, highlighting the urgency of resolving the payment issues to ensure the programme’s continuation without disruptions.