Unchaining the Girls: A Call to Action for Menstrual Hygiene -Dr Otiko Afisah Djaba
In Ghana, a pressing issue affects the lives of countless young girls: the struggle to access menstrual hygiene essentials. On Menstrual Hygiene Day, Dr. Otiko Afisah Djaba, Executive Director of the Henry Djaba Memorial Foundation, issued a pressing call to action to address this critical issue.
Dr. Djaba emphasized that menstruation is a natural part of life, and girls should be proud of their bodies, not ashamed. However, the reality is that many girls in Ghana are forced to exchange sex for menstrual essentials, a horrific reality that must be addressed.
The Henry Djaba Memorial Foundation is dedicated to supporting girls’ empowerment and well-being. Dr. Djaba urged the government, parents, and community leaders to take immediate action to provide affordable and sustainable menstrual hygiene solutions.
The proposed solutions include:
- Eliminating taxes on sanitary products
- Establishing factories to produce affordable pads
- Providing leadership and policy for menstrual hygiene management
- Setting up a Menstrual Hygiene Management Fund for corporate and individual contributions
- Distributing free sanitary essentials in schools
Dr. Djaba emphasized that this is not just a women’s issue but a national concern that requires collective action. She encouraged boys and men to understand the challenges girls face and to support them in breaking free from the shackles of shame and stigma.
Let us join forces to create a brighter future for Ghana’s girls, where they can thrive with dignity and pride. #girlsrock #dignityforthegirlchild #notoprostitution #zerotaxesonmenstrualitems
