Felix Gyamfi, Director-General of the Ghana National Service Authority (NSA), has revealed that the authority is in advanced talks with the government to increase the monthly allowance from its current GHC715.
This development comes as a response to mounting pressure from service personnel who have been struggling with the rising cost of living and inadequate financial support.
Speaking on 3FM Sunrise, Gyamfi candidly acknowledged the inadequacy of the current allowance, stating, “Everybody admits that the current allowance is a bit too small for the circumstances.”
This admission reflects a widespread sentiment among service personnel who often find themselves relying on family support to make ends meet.
When pressed for specifics on the proposed increase, Gyamfi remained cautious, choosing not to disclose a precise percentage.
He said “oh no would not. I would not state a range but of course we’ve presented several letters to the ministry of finance and then proposed several scenario”.
However, he confirmed that several scenarios have been presented to the Ministry of Finance, including the possibility of doubling the allowance.
“several scenarios and then maybe even doubling is that a possibility. I think it’s also multifaceted the reason why people are not going to
work every day”.
Gyamfi painted a vivid picture of the daily struggles faced by service personnel. For instance, those stationed in distant locations like Ada often find their entire allowance consumed by transportation costs alone.
He emphasized “if you’re taking Ghc715 and you lived in Ada and you work at a ministry I mean l’m sure your lorry fare for transportation alone is going to be consumed by the Ghc715 that’s right your parents have to help you out and all that so and this is a fact that everybody knows”.
Gyamfi expressed optimism about the ongoing discussions, noting that these talks began early in their term.
He hinted that a positive announcement could be expected in the coming days, bringing much-needed relief to service personnel who have been advocating for change.
“So it’s a conversation that we began quite early in our term so know in the days ahead we’ll hear something positive”
Source: www.kumasimail.com Kwadwo Owusu
