A local government expert, Andrews Bediako, has expressed reservations about President John Mahama’s decision to release food items intended for drought-affected farmers to address food shortages in Senior High Schools (SHSs).

Speaking on JoyNews’ News Desk, Mr Bediako cautioned that the decision, though aimed at addressing an urgent crisis in schools, could have far-reaching implications.

This, according to him, is because the food items were part of a World Bank-funded project specifically for farmers.

“These food items were meant for farmers in eight regions who faced significant challenges due to last year’s drought. The government entered into a contract with the World Bank for this initiative, and the farmers have already registered online to receive these supplies,” he explained.

The eight regions in question include the five northern regions, Bono East, and Ahafo. According to Mr Bediako, diverting the food to SHSs could violate the terms of the agreement with the World Bank. “World Bank projects are not like government of Ghana projects. When handling such matters, we must be very careful,” he added.

• Read also: Food items imported to deal with drought situation to be used by SHSs – Mahama

President Mahama, during a National Prayer and Thanksgiving Service on January 12, announced that food items imported by the previous government to address the drought situation would be used to feed SHS students amid reported food shortages. The president directed his Chief of Staff to ccoperate with the Ghana Education Service (GES) to ensure the evacuation and distribution of the food items from Tema Port.

This directive comes amidst a crisis in SHSs, with the Conference of Heads of Assisted Senior High Schools (CHASS) recently urging parents to assist with feeding their children due to the ongoing shortages.

• Read also: Free SHS: Let your wards come to school with food – CHASS tells parents

Mr Bediako, however, warned that any misstep in handling the situation could lead to consequences.

“If this directive goes against the terms of the World Bank agreement, it could create challenges in the future. My caution is that we ensure proper communication and alignment with the World Bank before proceeding,” he advised.