A coalition of Civil Society Organizations (CSOs) gathered at Parliament to advocate for the elimination of taxes on sanitary pads by the government.

The CSOs argue that the imposition of a 12.5 percent Value Added Tax (VAT) and a 20 percent import tax on sanitary pads has significantly increased their prices. As a result, many women, who constitute 51 percent of Ghana’s population, are unable to afford them.

Despite the repeated calls from various groups to abolish these taxes, the Association of Ghana Industries (AGI) cautioned that such a move could have adverse effects on the economy. Instead, they suggested that the government should support local producers to manufacture sanitary pads at more affordable prices.

In a press conference, Ama Pratt, the spokesperson for the CSOs, emphasized their unwavering determination to continue pushing for the removal of taxes on sanitary pads. They believe that it is essential to ensure that these products are accessible and affordable to all women in Ghana.

The CSOs’ efforts reflect their commitment to advocating for the rights and well-being of women in the country. They are resolute in their campaign to have the government reconsider the taxes imposed on sanitary pads and make them more affordable for the benefit of women across Ghana.