The Ghanaian government plans to increase the School Feeding Programme meal cost from GH¢1.50 to GH¢2, a 33% rise meant to improve children’s nutrition. Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson, the Finance Minister, announced this on X Space, highlighting the ineffectiveness of the previous rate. Over 3.8 million children currently benefit from the programme, which aims to enhance enrollment and prevent starvation.
The Minister of Finance, Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson, has announced a forthcoming increase in the cost per meal for children enrolled in the School Feeding Programme. The rate will rise from GH¢1.50 to GH¢2. This adjustment indicates a 33% increase in the cost, a policy which originated from the previous administration led by former President Mahama.
During an interview on X Space, Dr. Forson remarked on the inadequacy of the current payment, saying, “Currently, the government of Ghana pays GH¢1.50 per child per day. Unfortunately, we all agree that this amount is too small and can’t even buy one egg.” He emphasized that this increment is a necessary improvement to support children’s nutritional needs, stating, “I believe this will be a significant improvement from where we are.”
The cost per meal was initially set at GH¢1 and had previously been increased by the last government to GH¢1.20. In 2023, approximately 3,801,491 children benefitted from this programme, which aims to provide healthy meals in schools, enhance enrollment rates, prevent hunger, and improve overall nutrition
Dr. Forson is also scheduled to present the 2025 budget in Parliament on March 11, 2025, where further details regarding this proposed increase will likely be discussed.
In summary, the government of Ghana will increase the meal cost for the School Feeding Programme from GH¢1.50 to GH¢2, marking a 33% rise intended to improve child nutrition. This adjustment is aimed at addressing the inadequacy of the current funding and enhancing the well-being of over 3.8 million children benefiting from the initiative. The budget proposal detailing these changes will be presented by the Minister of Finance in March 2025.
Original Source: www.ghanaweb.com
