‘Reduce $150 COVID-19 testing fee, make it free for Ghanaians’ – Minority

The Minority in Parliament has called for a downward review of the cost of the mandatory COVID-19 testing at the Kotoka International Airport.

Addressing the press on Tuesday, the Minority Leader, Haruna Iddrisu, complained that the pandemic was being used to unduly make money.

“For non-Ghanaians to be compelled to pay an amount of $150 in the name of COVID test in which its procurement is questionable, and raises eyebrows on the fact that Covid is being used as a caveat to make money instead of combating a pandemic, we do not think that persons travelling to Ghana from abroad be made to pay $150.”

He also maintained that the testing should be free for Ghanaians.

Mr. Iddrisu added that he would be a party to a motion demanding accountability from the company handling the testing.

“We consider this a rip-off and too high. Even $50 for Ghanaian citizens is too much. It should be free for Ghanaians. I would lead a motion very soon, supported by the Hon. Ablakwa and Hon. Akandoh to demand accountability from Frontiers, in order to account for all the $150 they charge travellers.”

The Minority has previously expressed concern that Ghana was short-changed in the deal with Frontiers Healthcare Solution Services Limited with regard to COVID-19 testing services at the Kotoka International Airport.

The government engaged Frontiers Healthcare Solution Services Limited to conduct the rapid COVID-19 tests at KIA following the reopening of the airport to international passenger flights in September 2020.

The 30-minute PCR COVID-19 test initially attracted a $150 fee but was subsequently reviewed.

While the amount was maintained for non-ECOWAS citizens, those from any of the West African countries were to pay $50 for such services at Kotoka International Airport.