Caterers under the School Feeding Programme in the Nkwanta North District of the Oti Region have given the government a one-week ultimatum to settle their outstanding arrears or face unspecified actions.
The caterers say they have not been paid for the second term of the 2024–2025 academic year despite repeated assurances from district authorities.
Out of 55 caterers, only 42 have received payment, leaving 13 still unpaid.
Speaking for the group, spokesperson Solomon Kakiba expressed disappointment over what he called the government’s neglect and unfulfilled promises.
“We worked for it, so the government must pay. If not, there will be consequences,” he warned.
Mr. Kakiba said several meetings with the District Chief Executive, Isaiah Dordoe, and other officials have failed to produce results.
He added that the payment delays have left many caterers struggling with debt and financial hardship.
“We’ve met the DCE multiple times, and each time we’re told the issue will soon be resolved, but nothing happens. Our debts are piling up, and we can’t continue feeding the children without payment,” he lamented.
Some affected caterers in an interview said that they may block access to schools if their arrears are not cleared within the one-week deadline.
The School Feeding Programme, which provides one hot meal daily for pupils in public basic schools, has faced recurring challenges with delayed payments in several districts.
The government has yet to respond to the caterers’ ultimatum.
