The Minister of Government Communications, Felix Kwakye Ofosu, has raised concerns over the inadequate budgetary allocation to three key agencies under his ministry in the 2025 national budget.
The Ghana Broadcasting Corporation (GBC), the Information Services Department (ISD), and the Ghana News Agency (GNA) have collectively been allocated GH¢78 million for their operational needs, an amount the Minister described as “woefully inadequate” given the scope of their responsibilities.
Addressing Parliament on Wednesday, March 19, Kwakye Ofosu emphasized that the allocation falls far short of what is required to maintain and expand the critical functions of these agencies. He revealed that the agencies collectively employ 2,537 civil servants, who depend on these funds to deliver essential services to the public.
“The Ghana Broadcasting Corporation, the Information Services Department, and the Ghana News Agency are under my supervision. These three agencies together have 2,537 employees who require resources to function effectively,” he said. “The GH¢78 million allocated for both goods and services is grossly insufficient.”
The Minister highlighted the pressing needs of the GBC, which has been tasked with extending its broadcasting services to the six newly created regions, a mandate that requires significant financial investment.
“Mr. Speaker, the Ghana Broadcasting Corporation alone requires GH¢36 million to establish a presence in these six regions. This expansion is vital for equitable access to information across the country, yet the resources provided fall drastically short of what is needed,” he lamented.
Kwakye Ofosu called on Parliament and the Ministry of Finance to reconsider the allocation and provide additional funding to enable these agencies to meet their mandates. He stressed that the work of the GBC, ISD, and GNA is crucial to promoting transparency, public education, and national cohesion.
The Minister’s appeal underscores the broader challenges faced by state-owned institutions grappling with limited resources amidst growing demands.
Story by: Mercy Addai Turkson #ahotoronline.com
