The Green Africa Youth Organization (GAYO) has called for increased awareness and support for menstrual health, stressing that menstruation is a natural biological process that should not be treated as a taboo.
Speaking on Bolga FM’s Tinmaalgo Sanga programme, panelists speaking on behalf of the oragnisation urged society to promote open discussions on menstruation and address the challenges many girls face in accessing menstrual hygiene products and education.
The group noted that girls, particularly those in rural communities, continue to face barriers to managing their menstrual health with dignity due to poverty, limited access to sanitary products, and inadequate information.
Dora Kulariba, a health professional with the Ghana Health Service, called on parents, communities, and stakeholders to provide greater support for girls during menstruation.
“Menstruation is part of us. It is not something you can buy in the market easily every time,” she said.
According to her, many schoolgirls struggle during their menstrual periods because they cannot afford sanitary pads and often receive little support from their families and communities.
Khadijah Azumah Braimah, Community Engagement Officer under the Adaptation and Resilience Project, appealed to government institutions, non-governmental organizations, philanthropists, and community leaders to intensify efforts to provide sanitary pads and menstrual hygiene education.
She said some girls continue to miss school during their menstrual periods because they cannot afford sanitary products, a situation that affects both their confidence and academic performance.
James Twene, Upper East Regional Coordinator of the Department of Gender, emphasized the need to break the silence surrounding menstruation and promote dignity, education, and equal opportunities for girls and women.
Participants in the discussion also called on parents, schools, religious leaders, and community members to create safe and supportive environments where girls can openly discuss menstrual health issues without fear, stigma, or embarrassment.
GAYO further urged development partners and stakeholders to strengthen menstrual health education and support initiatives aimed at empowering girls and young women.
According to the organization, ending stigma around menstruation will help promote gender equality, improve girls’ confidence, and ensure that no girl is left behind because of her menstrual cycle.
A1 Radio | 101.1 MHz | Moses Anaba Azubire | Bolgatanga
