The Development Bank Ghana (DBG) has distributed over 10,000 sanitary pads to three schools as part of a program to combat harmful menstrual myths. The initiative also provided essential education on menstrual health for students. The campaign specifically targeted Tepa Senior High School, Mabang Senior High School, and CMI Carmel School. Its primary aim was to dismantle the deeply rooted belief that menstruation renders women “unclean”.
This effort addresses a significant challenge faced by many girls in Ghana. For centuries, cultural and religious traditions have fueled period-related shame and discrimination. This stigma limits access to sanitation and education for girls and women. DBG's intervention seeks to clarify that menstruation is a natural biological process. This aligns with advocates’ push for menstrual justice.
The broader context for such initiatives lies in Ghana's ongoing efforts to improve educational access and gender equality. Financial barriers, like the cost of sanitary pads, can force girls to miss school. This negatively impacts their academic performance and future opportunities. Data often highlights the correlation between period poverty and increased absenteeism among female students. DBG’s program directly supports human capital development, a critical area for the nation's economic progress.
Barbara Anawonu Wricketts, Head of Corporate Social Responsibility at DBG, stated that menstruation is not a sign of being dirty or impure. She stressed that education and open conversations are vital. These activities promote menstrual hygiene and empower women. "Menstruation is a normal part of women’s lives, and the long-held misconception that it makes a woman ‘unclean’ must stop," Ms. Anawonu Wricketts said. She added that this belief often leads to stigma and isolation.
The implications for the recipient schools are significant. The donation of sanitary pads aims to reduce absenteeism and restore confidence for female students. This allows them to focus more fully on their studies. School authorities welcomed the initiative, recognizing the financial struggles many students face. The education component, targeted at both boys and girls, is crucial for shifting attitudes. It encourages a more supportive school environment where menstruation is normalized and treated with understanding, rather than stigma.