The Ministry of Gender, Children and Social Protection (MoGCSP), through its Department of Gender, has commemorated the 2026 Menstrual Health and Hygiene Day with a renewed call for inclusive interventions that uphold the dignity, wellbeing, and rights of women and girls with disabilities.
The event, held under the global theme “Together for a #PeriodFriendlyWorld” and the national sub-theme “Breaking Barriers – Menstrual Hygiene for Women and Girls with Disabilities,” brought together government officials, development partners, disability advocacy groups, health professionals, caregivers, and beneficiaries.
Delivering the keynote address, the Minister for Gender, Children and Social Protection, Hon. Dr. Agnes Naa Momo Lartey, emphasized that while menstruation is a natural part of life, many women and girls continue to face stigma, misinformation, and barriers that undermine their ability to manage their menstrual health safely and confidently. She noted that these challenges are often more pronounced for women and girls with disabilities, who face limited access to information, appropriate sanitation facilities, and support systems.
Dr. Lartey stressed the need for sustained efforts to make menstrual health services more accessible and disability-friendly. She called for greater investment in inclusive sanitation facilities, menstrual health education, and support systems that promote dignity and participation. “Ensuring that women and girls with disabilities can manage menstruation safely is not only a health issue but also a matter of equality, participation, and social justice,” she stated.
Highlighting government’s commitment, the Minister pointed to the Free Sanitary Pad Distribution Programme introduced by President John Dramani Mahama under his 120-Day Social Contract Commitment. She explained that the initiative is removing barriers to education by providing sanitary pads to girls nationwide, including those in special schools and inclusive learning environments.
The Chief Director of the Ministry, Dr. Marian W. A. Kpakpah, reaffirmed MoGCSP’s dedication to promoting menstrual health for all women and girls, particularly those living with disabilities. She underscored the importance of collective action, noting that the day’s activities were designed to raise awareness and provide practical support.
Representatives from the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA), the Ghana Federation of Disability Organisations, FlowWellness Ghana, and Jasper Wellness Health Organisation Ghana pledged continued support for initiatives advancing menstrual health, inclusion, and gender equality.
As part of the programme, officials from the Ghana Health Service delivered an educational session on menstrual hygiene management, encouraging open dialogue and dispelling harmful stereotypes. A major highlight was the distribution of sanitary pads to women and girls with disabilities and other vulnerable beneficiaries, symbolizing a shared commitment to ensuring menstruation does not become a barrier to dignity or opportunity.
The commemoration concluded with a pledge by stakeholders to strengthen collaboration, challenge stigma, and advance inclusive menstrual health interventions nationwide.
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