The Defence Ministry is grappling with a significant financial burden, with its total debt reaching GHS3.7 billion, according to Defence Minister Dr. Edward Omane Boamah.

The outstanding arrears cover various expenses, including equipment supply, repairs, and machinery procurement.

A pressing concern among these debts is the government’s failure to pay food suppliers, who are owed GHS275 million for services rendered over the past 17 months. The suppliers have threatened to suspend food deliveries to the Ghana Armed Forces if the situation is not resolved.

Speaking in Parliament on Friday, March 21, 2025, during a debate on the 2025 Budget, Dr. Omane Boamah highlighted the urgency of the matter, stating that the Finance Ministry is working to settle the arrears.

“It must be placed on record that the outstanding indebtedness in terms of claims is almost GHS3,700,000,000 and Mr. Speaker, this includes indebtedness to food suppliers, supply and repair of equipment, provision of machinery, and equipment.

“Mr. Speaker, we all know soldiers should not and must not march on empty stomachs. However, Mr. Speaker, food suppliers have even threatened to hold supplies to the Ghana Armed Forces. This is because government’s indebtedness to them dates back from August 2023 up to December, and that is like 17 months.

“This indebtedness is GHS275,000,000 and over. I’m glad to report that with prudence and the unfolding visible competent management of the fiscal space, the Minister for Finance has promised to be current on current claims as he takes steps to creatively settle the huge arrears,” Dr. Boamah stated.

The Defence Ministry’s financial woes highlight the broader challenges facing the government in managing its obligations to essential service providers, raising concerns about the sustainability of operations within the security sector.