A high-profile scandal has emerged in Ghana involving Bernard Antwi Boasiako, also known as Chairman Wontumi, who allegedly orchestrated a scheme to siphon funds meant for non-existent farm workers. The Attorney-General revealed that Wontumi’s company, Wontumi Farms Limited, pressured Ghana Exim Bank to release GH¢400,000 in cash, claiming it was needed for salary payments to farmhands who didn’t exist.
The funds were part of a loan facility under the Mining Alternative Livelihoods Initiative, which aimed to support agricultural projects in the Ashanti Region. However, investigations found that no farming activities took place, and no workers were employed. Wontumi allegedly insisted on cash payment, citing the preference of youth involved in illegal mining.
The Attorney-General’s office has announced plans to prosecute Wontumi Farms and its directors for alleged fraud, forgery, and causing a financial loss of GH₵24,225,735. The investigation revealed that Wontumi Farms secured a GH₵4 million loan using forged documentation, including a falsified receipt for heavy-duty farming equipment.
The Economic and Organised Crime Office (EOCO) discovered that the receipt was a tampered proforma invoice, and the owner of Casama Enterprise confirmed that no payment had been made. The Attorney-General described the actions as “acts of criminality” and vowed to hold those responsible accountable.
The scandal has raised concerns about corruption and accountability in Ghana’s financial sector. The government has assured the public that it will pursue justice and recover the lost funds.
