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Fathers largely excluded from menstrual hygiene conversation …Research reveals
When it comes to menstruation, most fathers remain silent, a recent study by SENDGhana, a non-governmental organisation has revealed.
It said only three out of every 15 fathers interviewed had ever talked to their daughters about menstruation.
“This speaks volumes about the discomfort, misinformation, and cultural silence surrounding menstrual health and the vulnerability or heavy burden this places on girls navigating puberty alone,” Latifa Abdul Hadi, a Research Assistant with SENDGhana, said during a training for journalists on menstruation in Accra.
Sharing findings of the research conducted in six districts across the country last year, Ms Hadi noted that despite growing awareness campaigns and menstrual hygiene drives, fathers are still largely excluded from the conversation.
“Culturally, menstruation is treated as a women’s issue but this thinking sidelines half of the household,” she said.
“In all of the districts we conducted the research only about 0.1 per cent, just three out of 15 fathers have actually opened their mouths to talk about menstruation and menstrual hygiene to their young girls.”
She encouraged parents, especially fathers to take the initiative to educate themselves on menstruation and menstrual hygiene.
“Social media is a good place to start. But beyond that, there are verified websites with accurate information. Men must make the effort,” she insists.
Ms Hadi also urged young girls not to shy away from speaking to their fathers on menstruation.
“He’s your father. There’s nothing wrong with asking questions; telling him what you’ve heard, what you’re experiencing, and asking how you can care for yourself,” she advised.
BY Abigail Annoh
Government has inaugurated a Technical Committee to drive the implementation of the Accra Marine Drive Tourism Investment Project, a key initiative aimed at transforming the capital’s waterfront into a world-class tourism and commercial hub.
Minister for Tourism, Culture and Creative Arts, Abla Dzifa Gomashie, described the move as a critical step to accelerate progress, stressing the need for efficiency, collaboration, and accountability.
The Committee, chaired by Deputy Minister Yussif Issaka Jajah, will coordinate stakeholders, address bottlenecks, and ensure timely delivery of the project.
The initiative is expected to boost tourism, create jobs, and stimulate economic growth, reinforcing Ghana’s commitment to sustainable development.
The Ghana National Fire Service (GNFS) has stepped up its fire safety education efforts in Suhum Municipality and Abetifi Odwenease as part of ongoing campaigns to prevent fire outbreaks and improve emergency readiness.
In Suhum, fire officers engaged traders and customers, educating them on handling LPG leakages, proper use of fire extinguishers, and general shop safety practices. Meanwhile, the Kwahu East Command extended outreach in Abetifi Odwenease, visiting homes, drinking spots, construction sites, and stores to promote safe handling of flammable materials, proper electrical usage, and correct gas cylinder placement.
Practical demonstrations on fire extinguisher use were conducted, and residents were encouraged to adopt good housekeeping habits and proactive safety measures to reduce fire risks and protect lives and property.
