Plan International Ghana has commended government for allocating GH₵292.4 million in the 2025 budget to provide free sanitary pads to female students in primary and secondary schools across the country.
The initiative, which was officially launched on April 25, is in fulfillment of President John Dramani Mahama’s manifesto promise, marking a significant milestone in addressing menstrual poverty and promoting gender equality.
The organization’s Country Director, Constant Tchona, praised government’s commitment, stating it will empower girls to manage their menstrual health with dignity and confidence.
“Menstrual poverty remains a critical barrier to the well-being, education, and development of women and girls, particularly in rural areas. Limited access to affordable menstrual hygiene products forces many girls to resort to unsafe and unhygienic alternatives, such as rags or leaves, which pose serious health risks and contribute to school absenteeism,” he stated.
“By ensuring access to free sanitary pads, the government is addressing a key driver of inequality and creating an enabling environment for girls to stay in school, focus on their education, and achieve their full potential. This initiative will significantly reduce school absenteeism, improve menstrual hygiene management, and contribute to breaking the cycle of poverty that disproportionately affects girls,” the Country Director added.
Plan International Ghana has long advocated for menstrual health and hygiene, distributing sanitary pads to over 150,000 vulnerable girls and promoting education to reduce school absenteeism.
The organization urges the government to ensure effective implementation, particularly in rural areas, and calls for sustained investment in menstrual health education and sanitation facilities.