Advocacy groups are urging the government to provide subsidies and remove taxes from menstrual pads to improve menstrual hygiene for women and girls nationwide.
Concerns have been raised that using alternatives to menstrual pads could lead to preventable health issues for women and girls.
A movement known as “Untax My Menstrual Pad” has been formed by several non-profit organizations to draw attention to the risks associated with the high prices of menstrual pads.
Among the NGOs involved are Kairos Initiative, Al-Wadata Lifeline Initiative, Attah Sisters Helping Hands Foundation, and Child is Gold Foundation, among others.
Following a three-day stakeholders’ meeting, the coalition released a statement insisting on the need for subsidized and tax-free menstrual pads.
In their resolution, they highlighted the importance of educating rural and urban communities in Bauchi State on preventing the stigmatization of girls, especially during menstruation and instances of abuse.
Part of the statement emphasized the support for survivors to ensure that no girl misses school due to menstrual pain by providing capacity building and establishing pad banks in all schools.
Furthermore, they plan to advocate to both the Ministry of Education and Ministry of Health for policies on free pad distribution in schools to reduce absenteeism among girls during their menstrual periods. They also aim to educate schools and community leaders on creating a stigma-free environment around menstruation.