Dr. Bosawai relinquished Sape Farm’s food supply contract to avoid conflict of interest – GFA took over from 1 June
The Ministry of Health and Medical Services (MHMS) announced that Dr. Paul Popora Bosawai, Managing Director of Sape Farm and the new Health Minister, has voluntarily suspended his company’s contract to supply root crops to the National Referral Hospital (NRH) kitchen. This step was taken to avoid any potential conflict of interest.
Sape Farm had been awarded a contract by the Central Tender Board (CTB) to supply root crops to NRH from January 1, 2024, to December 31, 2024. Following Dr. Bosawai’s election to Parliament and his appointment as Minister, he chose to terminate the contract.
The MHMS Ministerial Tender Board (MTB) has recommended GFA as the new supplier for the remaining contract period, starting June 1, 2024. Tavuli News understands that GFA is a private entity based in Totoba village, primarily representing farmers from North Guadalcanal.
The NRH kitchen acknowledged Sape Farm’s significant contributions in providing root crops like kumara, cassava, pana, and taro, and ensuring steady supplies during shortages.
The NRH kitchen operates on an annual budget of SBD 4.1 million, which has increased by 40% since 2018. Root crops account for about 13% of this budget, with vegetables and shop-purchased items making up the majority of food costs.
With MHMS
