Ghana Armed Forces issues ultimatum to defaulting suppliers

The Chief of the Defence Staff (CDS), Vice Admiral Mathew Quashie, has asked all companies who have defaulted in supplying cost insurance and freight (CIF) goods ordered by Ghanaian soldiers on international peacekeeping operations to supply the goods by April 30, 2014.

A directive issued by the Public Relations Directorate of the Armed Forces, signed by its Director, Col. M’bawine Atintande quoted the CDS as saying appropriate action would be taken to recover the monies paid by the soldiers with interest if necessary, if the suppliers default again by the deadline.

“These directives follow the CDS' consideration of the recommendations of a Board of Inquiry into reports that some of the mentioned companies have failed to deliver the goods ordered by the soldiers, some for years.

“CIF orders were instituted by the Military High Command with the support of government over four decades ago to assist troops on international peacekeeping operations procure personal household appliances for their personal use. While it is not intended to discontinue this welfare package for such troops, the CDS has directed a review of the scheme and especially contracts with the local companies involved to ensure substantial security guarantees for the soldier beneficiaries,” the statement explained.

The statement further advised contingents on peacekeeping operations not to place any new orders with the defaulting CIF companies until the conclusion of the review exercise and outstanding CIF items have been supplied.