Free SHS food suppliers threaten demonstration over outstanding payments

The Controlled Food Suppliers Association (CFSA) has announced a five-day peaceful protest to pressure the government into promptly paying outstanding arrears from the Free Senior High School (Free SHS) food program. The CFSA has informed state authorities of its plans to stage a demonstration at the Ghana Commodity Exchange (GCX) in Accra.

A press release stated that the protest will run from November 16th to 20th, targeting government agencies responsible for managing the food supply chain. This comes after the CFSA issued a two-week ultimatum on October 7th, which expired without any satisfactory resolution or payment offer from the government. The association's leadership claims that members are collectively owed about GH¢250 million for non-perishable food items supplied through the National Food Buffer Stock Company (NAFCO) and the Ghana Commodity Exchange during the 2024/2025 academic year.

The CFSA asserts that the transaction amounts are verified and undisputed, but the state has repeatedly failed to meet its 90-day payment deadlines, causing significant financial strain on local businesses. CFSA President, Mr. Danso Twumasi, emphasized during a press conference that members are facing severe financial hardship, emotional distress, and potential asset seizures from commercial banks.

Many suppliers had to rely on high-interest loans from banks, anticipating timely reimbursement from the state. However, nearly two years of delayed payments have left businesses grappling with aggressive debt recovery efforts. The association claims that previous attempts at administrative follow-ups since April 2026 have been unsuccessful, prompting the decision to resort to street protests.

Civil society groups and parent organizations are closely monitoring the situation, as a prolonged standoff or full-scale supplier strike could potentially disrupt food supplies to thousands of students attending public senior high schools nationwide.