North Tongu MP Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa has called on President Nana Akufo-Addo to prioritize the health of senior high school students following allegations of expired rice being distributed to schools. Speaking on TV3’s Key Points program on November 23, Ablakwa criticized the government’s handling of the issue and urged immediate health screenings for affected students.
He stated that medical professionals warn that consuming infested rice could lead to severe health risks, including liver cancer. "If we had a president who genuinely cared, he would have directed a national health screening for these students. This is a critical public health matter," Ablakwa said.
The controversy began when Ablakwa alleged that Moshosho Rice, originally labeled with a 2023 expiration date, was repackaged and distributed to schools under questionable circumstances. He dismissed claims by Chief of Staff Frema Osei Opare, who labeled the allegations as “propaganda.”
Government’s Response
Frema Osei Opare denied the allegations, asserting that they were unfounded and detracted from meaningful discussions on improving education. Speaking during the National Education Book launch on November 18, she said, “These claims are baseless and only serve to distract from advancing the Ghanaian child’s opportunities.”
Similarly, Kwasi Kwarteng, Public Relations Officer for the Ministry of Education, defended the rice’s safety, citing certification by the Food and Drugs Authority (FDA). However, he admitted that Lamens Investments, the company responsible for distributing the rice, violated regulatory procedures by re-bagging the product without prior FDA approval.
The FDA confirmed imposing a fine of GH₵100,000 on Lamens Investments for breaches including re-bagging the rice in an unlicensed facility and failing to include vital labeling information. The FDA clarified that laboratory analyses conducted in both Ghana and India confirmed the rice’s safety for consumption but emphasized that the company’s actions were against regulatory standards.
Broader Implications
Despite assurances about the rice’s safety, Ablakwa insists that the repackaging and distribution process compromised public trust and called for greater accountability. He urged the Ghana Health Service and Ministry of Health to act swiftly, advocating for a nationwide medical screening to address potential health risks.
This incident has sparked debate about regulatory oversight in Ghana’s food supply chain. Critics argue that the government must enforce stricter compliance measures to safeguard public health and restore confidence in the education system.
Meanwhile, the FDA recently approved an extension of the rice’s best-before date to April 2024, citing scientific evaluations. However, it declined a further extension request, highlighting insufficient stability data.
The situation underscores the need for stronger governance and transparency to prevent future lapses that could jeopardize public health.
Source: TV3’s Key Points and official statements from the Food and Drugs Authority (FDA).
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