The Minister of Finance, Dr Cassiel Ato Forson, has announced that the government has allocated Gh¢292.4 million to begin the distribution of free sanitary pads to female students in primary and secondary schools. Presenting the 2025 Financial Budget to Parliament, he explained that the initiative is part of the “Free Sanitary Pads” programme, to cover financial relief for first-year students in public tertiary institutions.
“We have allocated Gh¢292.4 million to commence the distribution of free sanitary pads to female students in primary and secondary schools”, he stated. The distribution of free sanitary pads is a fulfilment of President John Dramani Mahama’s 2024 manifesto promise to support girls in basic and senior high schools. The initiative aims to address menstrual hygiene challenges and reduce school absenteeism among female students.
Mahama’s pledge came amid public calls for the removal of import duties on sanitary pads to make them more affordable. “To reduce absenteeism, free sanitary pads will be provided to female students from Primary 5 to SHS, starting in March 2025,” Mahama stated during his maiden State of the Nation Address. This initiative is part of broader efforts to alleviate the financial burden on Ghanaians amidst current economic challenges.
By: Jemima Okang Addae
