Hon. Dr. Agnes Naa Momo Lartey, Minister of Gender, Children, and Social Protection, met for the first time with the new Ghana School Feeding Program (GSFP) leadership.
The purpose of the meeting was to discuss the program’s future with the MASLOC CEO, the two Deputy National Coordinators (Madam Felicia Mekpoi Bortey and Madam Faustina Lamptey), and the National Coordinator, Madam Hajia Fati Forgor.
The Minister underlined in her remarks the need for close cooperation between the Ministry and the GSFP, pointing out that good teamwork would assist in resolving issues that impact the program.
She emphasized that GSFP is still a top priority for President John Dramani Mahama and that all parties involved must cooperate to improve its quality and reach more people, especially in communities that are at risk.
The Minister also emphasized how crucial it is to have adequate oversight and monitoring to make sure caterers are providing schoolchildren with wholesome meals.
Dr. Afisah Zakariah, the Ministry’s Chief Director, used the occasion to introduce the new coordinators to the program’s structure, approval procedures, reporting channels, and payment methods.
She reaffirmed that the GSFP, which is overseen by the Ministry, is dedicated to fulfilling its primary goal of feeding students in Kindergarten through Primary Six one hot, wholesome meal every day.
The new National Coordinator, Madam Hajia Fati Forgor, thanked the Minister for the cordial welcome and promised to collaborate closely with her deputies to realize the President’s objective.
She praised the minister’s efforts to make the program stronger and promised the President and the Ministry that she would work to resolve any issues, including maintaining open communication with caterers to ensure seamless operations.
Abigail Akwambea Elorm Mensah, the CEO of the Microfinance and Small Loans Centre (MASLOC), attended the conference as well and discussed possible cooperation with GSFP to provide financial help to caterers while they wait for payments.
Restructuring the GSFP to improve sustainability and efficiency was another topic of discussion. The discussion concluded with a renewed dedication to enhancing the program’s efficacy and guaranteeing that schoolchildren across the country receive nutritious lunches.
Later, the Ghana School Feeding Program staff was introduced to Hajia Fati and the two deputies.
Source: newsthemegh.com