The Minority in Parliament has urged the immediate arrest and prosecution of the Directors of Lamens Investment Africa Limited and the sanctioning of the National Food Buffer Stock Company’s (NAFCO) Board and Management. This follows allegations that 22,000 bags of expired and repackaged rice were distributed to Senior High Schools (SHS) across Ghana.
North Tongu MP, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, who raised the alarm, accused the two institutions of collaborating to supply the expired rice. Ablakwa revealed that Lamens Investment Africa Limited was previously cited in a 2021 Auditor-General’s report for supplying unwholesome food items to schools, but no government action was taken against the company.
During a press briefing on November 18, 2024, Ablakwa, speaking for the Minority, demanded swift punitive measures.
“The NDC Caucus also demands the immediate arrest and prosecution of the Directors of Lamens Investment Africa Limited. The Board and Management of NAFCO must be sanctioned for allowing their facilities to be used for such recklessness, sacrificing the health of our students for corrupt transactions,” Ablakwa declared.
The Minority further called for a mass health screening of SHS students who may have consumed the alleged contaminated rice.
“Public health officials must conduct urgent screening to assess any medium to long-term health implications. The Ministry of Education should facilitate this exercise to protect the health of students,” Ablakwa added.
This demand highlights rising concerns over food safety in schools and the alleged negligence of regulatory authorities tasked with ensuring the quality of food supplies for students.