Tax expert Mr. Geoffrey Kabutey Ocansey has commended the government for the 2025 judgement presented before parliament on Tuesday, March 11, 2025.
He was particularly excited about the decision by the government to roll out the distribution of free sanitary pads for students from the basic to the secondary level.
The Fellow of Africa Education Watch said he was one of the advocates who proposed removing the taxes on locally made sanitary pads to make them more affordable.
Speaking on Nyankonton Mu Nsem on Rainbow Radio 87.5FM, he said the allocation made the initiative good, but it must be targeted so the poor and deprived persons are the ones to benefit.
“One of the areas I was enthusiastic about was the allocation made for the distribution of the free sanitary pad. I was one of the advocates who proposed for the taxes on locally made pads to be scrapped. The previous administration did so well in scrapping taxes on locally made sanitary pads. Going forward, this government has promised to distribute free sanitary pads. I am excited about this.
However, I must emphasise that this distribution should be targeted and directed towards the poor and those in genuine need. We have identified households and communities where individuals are unable to afford sanitary pads for their children. Even in Accra, there are numerous individuals who also face difficulties purchasing sanitary pads. If we fail to target and distribute these pads to those who require them, it may create additional challenges.”
Background
The Minister of Finance, Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson, announced on Tuesday, March 11, 2025, that the government has allocated Gh¢292.4 million to begin the distribution of free sanitary pads to female students in primary and secondary schools.
Presenting the 2025 Financial Budget to Parliament, he disclosed that the initiative is part of the “Free Sanitary Pads” programme, to cover financial relief for first-year students in public tertiary institutions.
“We have allocated Gh¢292.4 million to commence the distribution of free sanitary pads to female students in primary and secondary schools,” he stated.
The distribution of the free sanitary pads is in fulfillment of President John Dramani Mahama’s 2024 manifesto promise.
The move is expected to support girls in basic and senior high schools and to address menstrual hygiene challenges and reduce school absenteeism among female students.
By: Rainbowradioonline.com/Ghana
