Sanitary pad taxation: School girls anticipate positive response from Health Ministry

Some schoolgirls eagerly await a favorable response from the Health Ministry regarding the elimination of all taxes on sanitary napkins.

The girls told JoyNews during a peaceful march through the streets of Accra, the nation's capital, that they are sometimes forced to miss class during their period because they do not have enough pads to keep changing.

They are confident that the elimination of the tax would assist them in remaining in education and enhance their confidence.

Schoolgirls expect a favorable response from the Health Ministry regarding the taxation of sanitary pads.
One of the girls, Nima Mohammed, described how unpleasant it is for her to remain at home and use rags when she runs out of sanitary napkins.

In addition to the discomfort associated with her monthly period, she must also miss her favorite class period.


"When I am without a pad, I keep at home and use cloths. Science is my strongest subject, so it has influenced me," she sobbed.

Another girl, Fidel Yakubu, wants the taxes to be eliminated entirely or the product to be made free so that she and her companions do not have to fret when their period is due.

She also disclosed that she remains at home during her period and cannot go out due to humiliation.

"Last month, when I was on my period, my mother was unable to buy me a tampon, so I stayed at home and was unable to leave because of shame."


She said, "I'm begging the government to reduce the tax on sanitary pads."

After the group marched from Efua Sutherland Children's Park to Parliament House, student Latifa Abdul read a petition on their behalf.

Schoolgirls expect a favorable response from the Health Ministry regarding the taxation of sanitary pads.
Kenya eliminated sanitary pad taxes in 2004 and has invested in the distribution of free sanitary pads to low-income communities. Additionally, Rwanda and South Africa have eliminated duties on sanitary napkins."

"Now is the time for Ghana to join its peers in protecting, guaranteeing, and upholding the fundamental rights of adolescent young women and girls," she declared.


Schoolgirls expect a favorable response from the Health Ministry regarding the taxation of sanitary pads.
The petition was received by the head of communications for the Ministry of Health, Isaac Offebah, who assured the girls that the Gender and Finance Ministries will discuss the issues raised and address their concerns.

"Management of the Ministry of Health will expedite consideration into this, and we will report back to you as soon as possible," he said.