The Safe Menstruation Movement (SAMMO), a local non-profit organization advocating for Menstrual Health Rights in the Upper East Region, has commended the National Democratic Congress (NDC) and its flagbearer, John Mahama, for his promise to distribute free sanitary pads to schoolgirls if elected on December 7th.
Jennifer Agamolga Anapoka, Vice President of SAMMO, expressed enthusiasm about the pledge, stating that it would greatly benefit young girls in school. However, she also called on Mahama to go a step further by abolishing Value-Added Tax (VAT) and taxation on sanitary products to benefit women outside of the school system.
Speaking to A1 Radio on News Link, Ms. Anapoka emphasized that while the free pads initiative is a step in the right direction, it is crucial to address the broader issue of affordability and accessibility of menstrual products for all women. She urged Mr. Mahama to consider the long-term impact of taxation on sanitary products and its effects on women’s health and economic empowerment.
“It was exciting news considering how menstrual issues can be very disturbing in the schools we have visited so far. So, when the NDC flagbearer mentioned this pledge, it was indeed exciting. However, we believe something more can be done beyond distributing pads to students, particularly regarding the VAT and other taxes on sanitary products,” she said.
“In our visits to many schools, we found that most girls miss school for about 3 to 5 days each month because they cannot afford pads. This is a serious issue. It is important that these taxes be abolished so that women outside of school can also afford sanitary pads,” she added.
SAMMO’s call to action highlights the need for comprehensive solutions to address menstrual health issues in Ghana. By abolishing VAT and taxation on sanitary products, the government can help make these essential items more affordable and accessible to women across the country.
Source: A1Radioonline.Com | 101.1 MHz | David Azure | Bolgatanga
