The National Service Personnel Association (NASPA) has announced a GH₵100 deduction from the February allowance of all national service personnel across Ghana. The deduction is intended to cover the cost of the National Service Cloth, which has already been distributed nationwide.
In a statement released on March 2, 2025, NASPA clarified that the deduction would be applied uniformly to all service personnel. The National Service Cloth, a uniform intended to promote unity and identity among service members, was distributed in advance, with the cost now being recouped from allowances.
In addition to the cloth deduction, NASPA revealed that personnel enrolled in the SIC insurance scheme would experience further deductions to clear four months of unpaid insurance contributions. This move is aimed at ensuring compliance with the contractual obligations of the insurance programme.
The SIC insurance scheme provides a safety net for service personnel, offering benefits such as life insurance, medical care in case of accidents, and other support services. The deductions will help regularize personnel contributions to maintain the viability of the insurance scheme.
The announcement has sparked mixed reactions among national service personnel. While some see the National Service Cloth as a useful initiative, others are concerned about the impact of the deductions on their already modest allowances. Many personnel rely on the allowance as their primary source of income, and any reduction could strain their financial stability.
NASPA has assured service personnel that additional updates on the deductions and other relevant matters will be communicated in due course. The association encouraged personnel to remain calm and reach out with any concerns regarding the deductions.
This development underscores the ongoing challenges faced by national service personnel, including the management of allowances and benefits. It also highlights the importance of transparent communication between NASPA and its members to ensure a clear understanding of policy decisions and their implications.