Government to Boost School Feeding Allocation to GH₵2 per Child——–Government is set to increase the daily school feeding allocation per child from GH₵ 1.50 to GH₵ 2.00, representing a 33% hike. The move aims to counter the impact of inflation on the Ghana School Feeding Programme (GSFP), according to Finance Minister Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson.
The planned increment is expected to feature prominently in Dr. Forson’s maiden budget presentation to Parliament on March 11. Speaking during an X Space discussion with social media influencer Kalyjay, the minister acknowledged that the current allocation was inadequate for children’s nutritional needs.
“Today, unfortunately, we will agree that this amount is too small and can’t even buy one egg, We intend to increase that to a minimum of two cedis per child per day.” Dr. Forson stated.
The decision comes amid persistently high inflation, which has significantly reduced the purchasing power of government funds allocated to social programs. Dr. Forson described the adjustment as a necessary intervention to ensure the sustainability of the GSFP and improve meal quality for schoolchildren across the country.
This policy shift follows a series of public engagements, including consultations with traders in Accra‘s Central Business District on March 8. Addressing concerns about the effectiveness of these engagements, the minister dismissed suggestions that they were merely symbolic, emphasizing that public feedback would directly inform the upcoming budget statement.
As the government finalizes its 2025 fiscal policies, the school feeding allocation adjustment reflects broader efforts to manage economic challenges while prioritizing social welfare programs.
