Pre-mix fuel shortage hits Western Region

Citi News has learnt that premix fuel supply has run short in parts of the Western Region, causing distress to fishermen.

The Nzema areas are among some of the worst hit coastal areas. The Nzema East Municipal Chief Executive, Reverend James Ackah Cobbinah, told Citi News the landing beaches in his area need at least six tankers of the product per week to be distributed to the fishermen there.

According to him, the two landing beaches in his municipality collectively receive between 40 and 60 percent of that minimal optimal supply.

The MCE noted that Axim is the only coastal community with the highest number of canoes, yet they do not get the required quantity of premix that can satisfy the people.

This he believes could create problems for the fishermen and eventually the government if not resolved immediately.

He said on the average, Axim should have about six tankers a week, three for each of the two landing beaches. He said this could be managed in the meantime, until such a time that the supply of the product will flow constantly.

Meanwhile, the two premix committees in the Nzema East Municipality have been dissolved by the MCE.
This follows allegations that committee members were unfairly diverting the products and distributing them unfairly.

The committees which were introduced by the NDC government as part of measures to deal with bottlenecks in the distribution of premix fuel which was also a major campaign promise are tasked to monitor and distribute the product to fishermen in the area.

Each committee is chaired by the Chief fishermen of the area with representatives of canoe owners, fish mongers, a Representative of the MCE, as well as the Ministry of Food and Agriculture as members. Each Committee employs a pump attendant and a Secretary.

Some of the committee members are alleged to have embezzled funds whilst others were accused of being selective with the distribution.

The MCE told Citi News he dissolved the two committees to quell the allegations although no adverse findings had been made against any of the members.

According to him, the allegations could have smeared the image of government especially when some members of the committees, were said to be living lavish lives since their appointment.

Source: Citifm