Editorial
Reduce taxes on sanitary products
Dear Editor,
Some Civil Society Organisations (CSOs) recently called on the Ministry of Finance to scrap taxes on sanitary pads as the taxes have made the product very “expensive and inaccessible to many low-income households.”
They further indicated that the high prices could in the long run have dire consequences on girls, especially those in schools and, therefore, maintained that the finance minister should factor the removal of the taxes in the 2021 budget.
But these appeals seem to have fallen on deaf ears as the budget presented to Parliament last month was silent on the removal of taxes. It is unfortunate that the prices of sanitary products keep increasing and I wonder if there would soon be any form of intervention.
The Population and Housing Census revealed that women constituted about 49 per cent of the country’s population so I thought the government would listen and take action on issues affecting women.
Although the budget could not capture this important concern, I want to urge stakeholders to keep pushing for a reduction in the prices of sanitary products and possibly stage a demonstration if the taxes on the product become unbearable.
The Gender Ministry, should among other things, lead this cause to help bring some relief to women who continue to battle other social and economic challenges.
Priscilla Efriyie Ankapong,
Cape Coast.
Editorial
Concern over mentally ill persons roaming Kwame Nkrumah Circle Interchange
Dear Sir
I write to express my concern over the growing number of mentally ill individuals roaming the Kwame Nkrumah Circle Interchange in Accra.
This area, a vital transportation hub and commercial centre, has increasingly become home to several persons visibly suffering from mental health issues, often without adequate care or supervision.
This situation poses risks both to the affected individuals and the general public. Some of these individuals are exposed to traffic hazards, unsanitary conditions, and in some cases, hostile treatment from passersby.
There have also been reports of occasional erratic behaviour, which causes fear and discomfort among commuters and vendors.
Mental health is a public health issue, and these individuals deserve compassion, medical attention, and a safe environment.
I urge the Ministry of Health, the Accra Metropolitan Assembly, and relevant NGOs to collaborate on a sustainable solution including mental health outreach programmes, rehabilitation, and safe housing.
Kwame Nkrumah Circle should be a symbol of progress, not a place where the vulnerable are left to struggle. Let us act with urgency and humanity.
From John Boateng
Kwame Nkrumah Circle
Editorial
Parents should encourage their wards writing BECE
Dear Editor,
AS the 2025 Basic Education Certificate Examination (BECE) takes off across the country starting Wednesday, I write to encourage all candidates taking part in this important step in their academic journey.
Out of a total of 603,328 candidates taking the examination this year, 306,078 are females, whiles the rest 297,250 are males.
Over the years, the examination begins on Monday and ended on Friday but per the timetable, this year’s candidates started on Wednesday and will end next week.
The BECE is not just an exam, it is a milestone from one stage to another. It represents years of hardwork, dedication and the dreams of countless students who hope to continue their education and build a brighter future.
This is where the role of parents, teachers and society become beneficial. Let us offer not only academic support but emotional encouragement to them.
I also appeal to educational authorities to ensure fairness, proper supervision and transparency throughout the examination period.
The journey may be challenging, but with time, focus and discipline they can make it.
I wish to use this platform to wish all of them well.
Naa Koshie, Teshie
