Defence Ministry Faces GHS275 Million Debt Crisis with Food Suppliers
Accra, Ghana – March 21, 2025 – The Defence Ministry is grappling with a severe debt crisis, as food suppliers threaten to halt services due to unpaid arrears amounting to GHS275 million.
The debt, which has accumulated over 17 months (from August 2023 to December 2024), forms part of the Ministry’s total indebtedness of GHS3.7 billion. This includes outstanding payments for equipment supply, repairs, and provision of machinery.
Defence Minister Assures Payment Plan
Addressing Parliament during the 2025 Budget debate on Friday, March 21, Defence Minister Dr. Edward Omane Boamah acknowledged the urgent need to settle the debts, particularly those affecting food suppliers for the Ghana Armed Forces (GAF).
“Mr. Speaker, we all know soldiers should not and must not march on empty stomachs. However, food suppliers have threatened to withdraw their services because of government’s indebtedness, which has been outstanding since August 2023,” he stated.
Finance Ministry to Intervene
Dr. Boamah assured Parliament that the Finance Ministry is actively working on clearing the arrears, emphasizing that the government is committed to stabilizing the country’s fiscal space.
“With prudent financial management, the Finance Minister has pledged to be current on payments while taking creative steps to settle outstanding debts,” he added.
Implications for National Security
The situation has sparked concerns over operational efficiency and morale within the military, as delays in food supply and equipment maintenance could affect the readiness of the Ghana Armed Forces.
The Defence Ministry now faces mounting pressure to resolve the crisis swiftly, as stakeholders call for transparent financial planning to prevent similar issues in the future.
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