In a significant development, the National Investigation Bureau (NIB) in the Bono East Region of Ghana has intercepted a Kia-Rhino truck allegedly smuggling food items intended for the Ghana School Feeding Programme (GSFP). This incident raises serious concerns about the integrity of the distribution process for essential supplies meant to support students in the region.
The intercepted truck, bearing registration number AS 9584-14, was reportedly carrying 56 bags of 50-kilogram ‘Lucy’ branded rice. These supplies were designated for delivery to Jema Senior High School in the Kintampo South District and Kintampo Senior High School in the Kintampo North Municipality. However, instead of reaching their intended destinations, the items were allegedly diverted.
According to reliable sources within the NIB, the driver of the truck was arrested following the interception, and investigations are ongoing to uncover the full details of the incident. The Bureau confirmed that the truck had originally picked up the supplies from the stores of Techiman Senior High School (TESS), which serves as a designated distribution point for such items. The diversion reportedly occurred at Tuobodom, the capital of the Techiman North District.
Eyewitness accounts and preliminary investigations revealed that the driver allegedly offloaded the bags of rice onto two tricycles, commonly referred to as "Aboboyaa," at Tuobodom. This act of diversion has drawn attention to potential lapses in monitoring and accountability within the supply chain of the Ghana School Feeding Programme.
During a visit by Ghana News Agency (GNA) reporters to the Bono East Regional Command of the NIB in Techiman, the impounded Kia truck was observed as part of the ongoing investigation. Authorities are working to determine whether this was an isolated incident or part of a larger network of malpractices.
The Ghana School Feeding Programme is a critical initiative aimed at providing meals to schoolchildren across the country to enhance attendance, retention, and academic performance. Any attempts to undermine this programme not only jeopardize its effectiveness but also affect the welfare of countless students who rely on these meals as part of their daily sustenance.
This incident serves as a reminder of the importance of stringent oversight and accountability mechanisms in public service delivery. Authorities must ensure that those responsible for such diversions are held accountable while taking proactive measures to prevent similar occurrences in the future.
As investigations continue, stakeholders and citizens alike will be closely monitoring developments to ensure justice is served and trust in the Ghana School Feeding Programme is restored.
