Minister for Tourism, Culture, and Creative Arts, Hon. Dzifa Abla Gomashie, has commended the government for its decision to provide free sanitary pads to female students in primary and secondary schools.
During the presentation of the 2025 Budget and Economic Policy Statement, Finance Minister Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson announced that GH₵292 million has been allocated for the initiative, aimed at addressing period poverty and ensuring uninterrupted education for young girls.
Speaking at the induction ceremony for the new executives of the Ghana Girl Guides Association on Saturday, March 15, Hon. Gomashie, who is also the Member of Parliament for Ketu South celebrated the initiative as a landmark policy intervention.
“This is indeed a monumental step forward in the fight against period poverty,” she stated. “Coming from a rural area, I know firsthand how many young girls miss school every month simply because they cannot afford sanitary pads. In my constituency alone, I know of girls who stay home for an entire week every month due to this challenge. For me, this initiative is a really big deal.”
She praised President John Dramani Mahama and his administration for prioritizing the issue, emphasizing the transformative impact it will have on girls’ education and well-being.
“To President John Dramani Mahama, I acknowledge your commitment. This is a significant intervention for our girls, and I hope we can do even more to support them in the future.”
Hon. Gomashie further pledged her continuous support for the Ghana Girl Guides Association and urged its newly inducted executives to remain steadfast in their mission.
She also extended an invitation for the association to collaborate with the 40 women currently serving in Parliament to further champion initiatives that empower young girls.