In Ghana, the high cost of sanitary pads has become a significant concern, particularly for young girls in rural areas. With an estimated 95 percent of these girls unable to afford sanitary pads, the issue has far-reaching consequences, including hindering their education. This article explores the factors contributing to the high cost of sanitary pads in Ghana and the resulting impact on girls' access to education.

The Sanitary Pad Affordability Crisis:

Access to affordable sanitary pads is crucial for maintaining menstrual hygiene and overall well-being. Unfortunately, in many rural areas of Ghana, the cost of sanitary pads poses a significant challenge. The situation is so dire that a large majority of young girls, approximately 95 percent, are unable to afford these essential products.

Factors Influencing High Costs:

Several factors contribute to the exorbitant prices of sanitary pads in Ghana. One of the primary factors is taxation. Sanitary pads are classified as luxury items rather than essential hygiene products, attracting higher tax rates. This unjust classification makes sanitary pads unaffordable for many girls and women, perpetuating a cycle of limited access to menstrual hygiene products.

Additionally, the lack of local production and high import costs contribute to the high retail prices of sanitary pads. Limited competition and high distribution expenses further exacerbate the issue, making it difficult for the market to offer affordable options.

The Impact on Girls' Education:

The unaffordability of sanitary pads has severe consequences for girls' education in rural Ghana. When girls are unable to access or afford sanitary pads, they often miss school during their menstrual cycles. This absence from school can lead to a significant loss of learning opportunities and negatively impact academic performance.

The stigma and shame associated with menstruation exacerbate the problem. Inadequate access to menstrual hygiene products forces girls to resort to unhygienic alternatives such as old rags, leaves, or even staying at home, which further hampers their ability to attend school regularly.

Addressing the Issue:

It is crucial to address the issue of the high cost of sanitary pads in Ghana to ensure girls' access to education and promote gender equality. Several measures can be taken to alleviate the problem:

1. Taxation Reform: Advocacy efforts should focus on reclassifying sanitary pads as essential items, removing or reducing the taxes imposed on them. This change would significantly reduce the retail price, making them more affordable for girls and women.

2. Local Production and Subsidies: Encouraging local production of sanitary pads can decrease import costs and create employment opportunities. Moreover, government subsidies or partnerships with non-profit organizations can make sanitary pads more accessible and affordable for girls in rural areas.

3. Education and Awareness: Promoting menstrual health education and breaking the stigma around menstruation are crucial steps to address the issue. By raising awareness about menstrual hygiene management and providing girls with knowledge and resources, they can better manage their periods and stay in school.

The high cost of sanitary pads in Ghana poses a significant barrier to education and gender equality, particularly for girls in rural areas. Addressing this issue requires a multi-faceted approach, including taxation reforms, local production, subsidies, education, and public-private partnerships. By prioritizing menstrual hygiene management and ensuring affordable access to sanitary pads, Ghana can empower girls to stay in school, improve their overall well-being, and contribute to a more inclusive and equitable society.