Editorial
Elimination of tax on sanitary pads laudable
It is wonderful news and incredibly refreshing that the government is eliminating the tax on sanitary pads.
This will make the product more affordable for young adolescent girls and women, which will ultimately reduce menstruation poverty.
As part of the 2024 Budget Statement that was delivered in Parliament on Wednesday, Finance Minister Ken Ofori-Atta declared that sanitary pads will no longer be subject to tax.
“Mr. Speaker, “The implementation of the following reliefs has been prioritised, including Zero rate VAT on locally produced sanitary pads,” the Finance Minister announced.
According to him, “This decision to scrap taxes on sanitary pads reflects our commitment to addressing women’s health needs and promoting gender equality.”
The action is undoubtedly important in the fight for gender equality as it would better manage menstrual hygiene, meet the specific healthcare needs of women, and lessen the financial burden on women and girls,
Additionally, the decision to remove the tax on locally produced sanitary pads would undoubtedly spur producers to increase output, which will benefit the economy of the nation.
Women’s rights groups, health campaigners, and manufacturers who have long pushed for the exemption of sanitary pads from taxes applauded the news.
The Spectator also joined the advocacy demanding the government to waive the tax on sanitary pads and to help women and adolescent girls by lowering the cost and increasing the accessibility of sanitary pads.
We hope that the removal of tax on sanitary pads will open the door for other policies that put women’s health and wellbeing first.
The Spectator continues to urge individuals, women activists, institutions, Non-Governmental Organisations (NGOs), and other well-meaning Ghanaians to keep providing menstrual hygiene products to women and teenage girls across the country in order to improve their lives.
The Spectator calls on the Association of Ghana Industries (AGI) to ensure that producers of sanitary pads reduce the price of their goods as soon as the policy goes into effect in order to support the overall growth and development of the nation’s economy.
The government must also sustain the provision of water, sanitary facilities, and hygienic amenities (WASH) in order to retain girls in school.
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
