The late Madam Gertrude Essie Quashigah, former National Coordinator of the Ghana School Feeding Programme (GSFP)
The family of the late Madam Gertrude Essie Quashigah, former National Coordinator of the Ghana School Feeding Programme (GSFP), has strongly condemned recent allegations made by former Minister for Gender, Sarah Adwoa Safo, accusing her of mismanaging the initiative.
In a press statement signed by Isaac Aidoo, Esq. on behalf of the family, they expressed deep disappointment and sadness over Safo’s remarks, describing them as “unfounded and unfortunate.”
“Our mother, who served as National Coordinator of the GSFP from 2019 until her untimely passing in 2023, carried out her responsibilities with the highest levels of integrity, dedication, and selflessness,” the statement read.
According to the family, under Madam Quashigah’s leadership, the programme expanded significantly, positively impacting thousands of Ghanaian schoolchildren by improving nutrition and welfare standards.
herself, adding that the remarks had caused great distress to her children and those who respected her contributions to national development.
“It is deeply painful that such unfounded and unfortunate accusations are being levelled against our mother at a time when she is no longer present to speak for herself.”
The family has called on Adwoa Safo to immediately retract her comments and offer an unqualified apology.
“We respectfully call on Hon. Sarah Adwoa Safo to retract her statement, issue an unqualified apology, and refrain from further casting aspersions on the legacy of our late mother.”
They also noted the long-standing relationship between their late father, Major Courage Quashigah (Rtd), and Adwoa Safo’s father, Apostle Kwadwo Safo, expressing disappointment that such claims would come from someone with whom they share historical ties.
The statement further urged Ghanaians to honour the memory of Madam Gertrude Quashigah, highlighting her lifelong dedication to the welfare of Ghanaian children and national service.
Background
Madam Gertrude Quashigah was appointed National Coordinator of the Ghana School Feeding Programme in 2019. She played a key role in expanding the programme, which provides daily meals to schoolchildren to enhance education and nutrition.
Sarah Adwoa Safo, who previously served as Minister for Gender, Children, and Social Protection, recently made allegations suggesting that the GSFP suffered mismanagement under Madam Quashigah’s leadership.
Read the full statement below: