Decoding the K168 Million UK Trip: Vice President Ansah’s Journey Explained

The upcoming private trip to the United Kingdom by State Vice-President Jane Ansah has stirred significant public interest, particularly concerning its associated costs. Scheduled for tomorrow, the government has officially announced a total budget of K168,028,400 for the journey.

Understanding the Delegation and Budget

Accompanying Vice-President Ansah will be a lean team of five government officials. This announcement, made by Government spokesperson and Information Minister Shadric Namalomba, aims to provide clarity and transparency regarding the expenditure. Minister Namalomba shared these details in a statement, following earlier discussions on Times Radio’s popular “Kulinji” program.

According to the Minister, the K168 million budget comprehensively covers all international travel expenses, including airfare and allowances for the entire delegation.

Austerity Measures in Play: Cost Reduction

Interestingly, the initially estimated cost for this trip was significantly higher, at K298,719,200. However, in a move reflective of the nation’s current economic climate and the austerity measures put in place in October 2025, the budget was substantially reduced to its current figure. This reduction highlights the government’s efforts to align expenditure with fiscal responsibility.

Setting the Record Straight: Debunking Misinformation

The disclosure from the government also serves to directly refute earlier circulating reports that suggested the trip would cost an exorbitant K1.9 billion for the Vice President and a much larger delegation of 15 officials. Minister Namalomba emphatically clarified that these figures were inaccurate.

Constitutional Mandate and Cost-Saving Practices

Speaking on ‘Kulinji’, the minister underscored that the Vice President’s trip is proceeding under constitutional provisions, specifically provided for under the President’s Salaries and Benefits Act. Furthermore, he emphasized the current travel plan as a model for cost-saving:

Only five people are travelling alongside the Vice President.
All accompanying officials will be flying economy class.
The Vice President will travel in a class permitted by the Republican Constitution, being the sole exception.

This detailed explanation from the government aims to provide a clear picture of Vice-President Ansah’s UK trip, addressing public concerns about expenditure while affirming adherence to constitutional provisions and cost-saving protocols.

Source: Original Article