Africa-Press – Ghana. Plan International Ghana has commended the Government of Ghana for the allocation of Gh₵292.4 million in the 2025 financial budget to distribute free sanitary pads to female students in primary and secondary schools.
Mr Constant Tchona, Country Director, Plan International Ghana, in a statement said the transformative initiative, which was a 2024 manifesto promise, marked a significant milestone in the fight against menstrual poverty and the promotion of gender equality in Ghana.
He said menstrual poverty remained a critical barrier to the well-being, education, and development of women and girls, particularly in rural areas.
The Country Director said the limited access to affordable menstrual hygiene products forced many girls to resort to unsafe and unhygienic alternatives, such as rags or leaves, which posed serious health risks and contributed to school absenteeism.
He said the government’s commitment to providing free sanitary pads would not only alleviate these challenges but also empower girls to manage their menstrual health with dignity and confidence.
Mr Tchona said Plan International Ghana recognised the profound impact the initiative would have on the lives of girls, especially those in underserved rural communities.
“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.”
He said the initiative would significantly reduce school absenteeism, improve menstrual hygiene management, and contribute to breaking the cycle of poverty that disproportionately affects girls.
The Country Director said Plan International Ghana had long been at the forefront of efforts to address menstrual poverty and promote gender equality.
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