GAYO Launches Sanitary Pads Bank in Navrongo to Restore Period Dignity and Keep Girls in School

The Green Africa Youth Organisation (GAYO), in partnership with the Ghana Education Service Bolga Directorate, the Ghana Health Service, traditional authorities, and the C. K. Tedam University of Technology and Applied Sciences, has launched a sanitary pads bank in Navrongo to support girls facing challenges in accessing menstrual hygiene products.

The initiative, unveiled as part of activities marking this year’s International Hygiene and Menstruation Day, seeks to promote inclusion, menstrual dignity, and uninterrupted education for young girls across the Upper East Region.

Speaking at the launch, GAYO’s Community Engagement Officer, Khadija Azumah Braimah, said the sanitary pads bank was established in response to the growing difficulties many schoolgirls encounter in accessing sanitary pads during their menstrual periods.

“The bank will provide both single-use sanitary pads and reusable pads produced by GAYO, ensuring sustainable and affordable menstrual hygiene options for girls in the community,” she stated.

According to her, the project is initially targeting girls in schools within Navrongo, with plans underway to expand the intervention to junior high schools across the Upper East Region through collaboration with the Ghana Education Service and other development partners.

She explained that this year’s GAYO campaign theme, “Period Dignity Through Climate Resilient Actions,” reflects the organisation’s broader commitment to combining menstrual health advocacy with environmental sustainability through the promotion of reusable sanitary products.

The launch event brought together stakeholders from the Ghana Health Service, the Ghana Education Service, and the Regional Girl Child Office for panel discussions focused on menstrual hygiene management, girls’ health, and inclusion.

Students and teachers from participating schools also engaged in interactive question-and-answer sessions aimed at deepening awareness and breaking stigma surrounding menstruation.

Organisers believe the sanitary pads bank will not only improve menstrual hygiene among girls but also help reduce absenteeism in schools and empower young girls to pursue their education with confidence and dignity.