Deputy National Women’s Organizer of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Hajia Safia Mohammed

Background

Hajia Safia Mohammed, the Deputy National Women’s Organizer for the New Patriotic Party (NPP), has issued strong criticism regarding the recent decision by President John Dramani Mahama’s administration to terminate contracts with school feeding caterers just days prior to the reopening of schools.

Timing of Termination

During a discussion on Wontumi TV on May 20, 2025, Hajia Safia described the timing as “unfair and inconsiderate,” noting that many caterers, particularly women without political affiliations, were heavily impacted. With only three days’ notice before the school term began, caterers had already procured essential cooking supplies, including perishable goods.

“This is a clear case of injustice,” she stated, pointing out that the transition team had been informed that women’s contracts were still valid as the academic year was set to conclude in August.

Impact on Caterers

Hajia Safia highlighted the financial burden placed on over 34,000 women, including single mothers and widows, who had prepared extensively for the upcoming term. “These women went to the market, bought ingredients—only to be told they’ve been removed from the programme three days before reopening,” she lamented, indicating the substantial impact this abrupt decision has had on their livelihoods.

Comparison with Previous Administration

The Deputy National Women’s Organizer contrasted the current administration’s approach with that of the previous NPP government, led by former President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo. Under his leadership, she claimed that caterers were allowed to complete their contracts before any decisions about renewals or terminations were made.

“The NPP did not terminate contracts abruptly. We allowed caterers to finish their terms and settled all payments before making further decisions,” she explained.

Official Confirmation and Future Actions

The Ghana School Feeding Programme (GSFP) Secretariat later confirmed the contract terminations in a press release dated May 2, 2025, emphasizing that caterers were instructed to cease meal provisions immediately for the upcoming academic term.

The statement reassured caterers that outstanding payments for the previous term would be processed in due course. This decision is part of a restructuring effort aimed at improving the program’s overall efficiency.