COVID-19: In fifth broadcast, Ghana President announces pay rise, free water for all

The President of Ghana, Nana Akufo-Addo, has announced a three-month free provision of water for all Ghanaians.

This is part of his government’s efforts to cushion the effect of COVID-19.

Akufo-Addo announced this in a national broadcast, his fifth since the start of the outbreak.

“The Ghana Water Company and the Electricity Company of Ghana have been directed to ensure stable supply and electricity during this period. There will be no disconnection of supply”, he assured.
The president added that the government will absorb the water bills for April, May and June.
Akufo-Addo also said all frontline health workers treating COVID-19 patients will receive 50 per cent additional salary allowance.

Also, they would not pay taxes on their emoluments for the next 3 months.
“All water tankers, publicly and privately-owned are also going to be mobilised to ensure the supply of water to vulnerable communities.”
He added that his government will this week decide whether to extend the two-week restriction of movement in some parts of the country.

“Ghana Health Service is due to receive the results of some 15,384 out of 19,276 persons who have been reached through contact tracing. It is the results of these tests that will determine our future course of action”, Akufo-Addo noted.
The president disclosed that the government will decide whether or not to extend the duration of the two-week restriction on movement.
Ghana will assist local companies to produce protective equipment.
Also, 350,000 masks, 558,650 examination gloves, 1,000 reusable goggles, 20,000 cover-alls, 7,000 N-95 respirators, 500 waterproof gumboots, 2,000 reusable face shields, 2,000 gallons of hand sanitizers, 10,000 100ml pieces of hand sanitizers have been procured for the healthcare sector
In other news, the Nigerian government says it will give physical cash to citizens, a move that has been criticised by citizens.
There are also criticisms over government’s lack of transparency in the proposed disbursement, actual modalities for sharing, record of beneficiaries and the exact amount of funds approved for the purpose.
President Muhammadu Buhari had asked the National Assembly to approve a N500 Billion Intervention Fund to enable his administration fight COVID-19.
But Nigeria’s main opposition party, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), has urged the legislature to thoroughly scrutinise the proposal and monitor spending.