Ablakwa Alleges Distribution of 22,000 Bags of Expired Rice to Senior High Schools Nationwide

Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, Member of Parliament for North Tongu, has alleged that 22,000 bags of expired rice were distributed to Senior High Schools (SHSs) across Ghana. Ablakwa claims the rice, imported from India and branded “Moshosho rice,” was initially stored at the National Food Buffer Stock Company’s facility in Kumasi, where it expired in December 2023. According to Ablakwa, the expired rice was repackaged in bags labeled “ECOWAS” and “Made in Ghana,” omitting expiry dates.

Ablakwa, who heads Parliament’s Assurances Committee, revealed that both the Ashanti Regional Police Command and the Food and Drugs Authority (FDA) initially intercepted the rice for investigation, but it was later cleared for distribution. Despite FDA tests confirming contamination with insects and high acidity, Ablakwa alleges that instructions “from above” expedited the rice’s distribution to SHSs before the FDA results were finalized.

Additionally, Ablakwa claimed that Lamens Investments Africa Limited, the company responsible, admitted wrongdoing and agreed to pay a GH₵100,000 fine but only paid half. The MP is calling for a comprehensive investigation and prosecution to hold those involved accountable.