Gov’t to launch free sanitary pads distribution initiative for female students

The Government of Ghana, through the Ministry of Gender, Children, and Social Protection in collaboration with the Ministry of Education, is set to officially launch the national distribution of free sanitary pads to female students in public basic and secondary schools tomorrow, April 24, 2025 Salvation Cluster of Schools at Mamprobi in Accra.

The move marks a significant step toward promoting menstrual health and hygiene and improving educational outcomes for adolescent girls across the country.

Speaking ahead of the launch, the Minister for Gender, Children, and Social Protection, Dr. Agnes Naa Momo Lartey, highlighted the initiative as a key fulfillment of both a campaign promise and the government’s broader commitment to gender equity in education.

“In the 2024 manifesto of the National Democratic Congress, under the ‘Resetting Ghana’ agenda, we pledged to ensure access to menstrual hygiene products for adolescent girls. This initiative is part of a broader strategy to promote menstrual health, improve school attendance, and ultimately enhance the academic performance of our girls,” Dr. Naa Momo Lartey stated.

She revealed that an amount of GH¢292.4 million was allocated in the 2024 budget for the supply and distribution of sanitary pads nationwide. The goal, she emphasized, is to significantly reduce absenteeism caused by lack of menstrual hygiene products, improve retention rates, and empower girls to reach higher levels of education.

“This is not just a health intervention; it’s an educational and developmental investment. By addressing menstrual challenges, we are bridging the gender gap in education and promoting long-term national development,” she added.

Deputy Minister for Education and Member of Parliament, Dr. Clement Abas Apaak, also spoke ahead of the event, describing the initiative as “historic.”

“This has never been done before in our country’s history,” Dr. Apaak said. “Tomorrow’s launch, to be held in Accra, will be graced by His Excellency President John Dramani Mahama, who will serve as the Guest of Honour. The event will also be chaired by His Royal Majesty King Tackie Teiko Tsuru II, the Ga Mantse.”

He announced that following the national launch, regional ministers and district chief executives will organize similar events in their respective jurisdictions to ensure a smooth rollout of the program.

“Regional and district directors of education are tasked to oversee the distribution, monitor the process, and report on progress. We count on the support of the Ghanaian media to serve as watchdogs and help us ensure the success of this life-changing initiative,” he added.