Coronavirus: Share food to poor families – Mahama urges government

Former President John Dramani Mahama has appealed to government to distribute food to deprived households in the lockdown communities in Ghana in the wake of the coronavirus pandemic.

According to him, there is the need for the trickle-down effect of the economic measures being broached by government in supporting citizens in the affected communities.

“We need a proper trickling down economics to alleviate the plight of Ghanaians: Direct distribution- Buffer stock must step in to distribute foodstuffs to deprived households in deprived communities, and Expand LEAP to cover many more poor households. Vitamin C, fruits and food supplements should also be distributed.

“Government through the Ministry of Health must target vulnerable groups such as people with Cancer, Diabetes, Asthma, pregnant women and extend support to them (Hospitals have some data on them).

“Reduce indirect taxes (zero rate tax on essential products such as sanitizers, wipes, toilet rolls, food for a while),” said in a live facebook address while donating PPEs to support the fight against the virus in Ghana.

He further challenged the governmnt to “Move the deadlines for businesses to submit their SSNIT, Tax returns a few months back, due to many factors including depletion of manpower and difficulties with modalities of payment.

“Negotiate with the Telcos to suppress their prices. Telcos can be assured of a free 6 months extension of licenses – some of which are to expire very soon)”.

He also challenged Ghanaians to stay home in order to control the spread of the virus.