We are struggling, we need our money – Chairman of Oyibi Covid-19 free water suppliers
The Chairman of the Oyibi Area Water and Sanitation Scheme in Accra, Samuel Joe Appiah Danquah, has appealed to the Public Accounts Committee of Parliament to intervene and ensure the government settles a debt exceeding GH₵300,000 owed to the scheme. The scheme, like numerous others, was contracted by the government to provide free water to the public during the COVID-19 pandemic, but post-pandemic, the government has failed to honor its financial obligations, causing significant financial strain on the scheme’s operations.
Mr. Danquah made the plea during his appearance before the Public Accounts Committee on February 5, emphasizing the dire situation faced by the Oyibi Area Water scheme. He stated, “We were one of the schemes that were asked to give free water during the COVID and GH₵300,000 plus as I speak has not been paid and we are struggling, so we need our money.”
Deputy Sanitation and Water Resources Minister, Amidu Issahaku Chinnia, present at the committee hearing, expressed unawareness of any funds being released by the Finance Ministry to settle the debt. However, he assured that he would investigate the matter and take appropriate action.
Chairman of the Public Accounts Committee, Dr. James Klutse Avedzi, urged the Ministry to promptly clear the debts owed to the water scheme.
The government’s initiatives to provide relief during the pandemic, including the provision of free electricity and the COVID-19 Health Levy to cover health expenditures, underline the significance of supporting essential services such as water supply to communities in need.
The plea from the Oyibi Area Water and Sanitation Scheme underscores the urgent need for government accountability and timely payment to service providers, ensuring the continued delivery of vital services to the public, especially during times of crisis.
About The Author
