The New Patriotic Party (NPP) Member of Parliament (MP) for Savelugu in the Northern Region, Hajia Fatahiya Abdul Aziz, has raised concerns about the Free Sanitary Pads initiative launched by President John Dramani Mahama.
While applauding the noble intentions behind the policy, she warned that poor implementation could lead to “bitter disappointment.”
“Good intentions, without careful execution, often pave the way to bitter disappointment,” Hajia Fatahiya stated in an article.
Approach
The Savelugu legislator, who also serves as the Deputy Ranking Member on the Gender, Children and Social Welfare Committee of Parliament, proposed a targeted approach—starting with the five northern regions (Northern, Upper East, Upper West, North East, and Savannah), which are among the most deprived and poverty-stricken—and improving hygiene facilities in schools.
Suggestions
The NPP MP highlighted several challenges, including a funding gap, geographic inequity, and inadequate infrastructure.
“Is this a genuine intervention or a political gimmick dressed in the cloth of compassion?” she questioned.
Hajia Fatahiya suggested local production of sanitary pads, tax exemptions for sanitary materials, and data-driven strategies to target vulnerable girls.
She further recommended improving school infrastructure, investing in gender-friendly toilets, and dedicating one per cent of VAT revenue to menstrual health.
The MP urged President Mahama to ensure a detailed implementation plan, introduce pilot phases in northern regions, and involve civil society organisations in the rollout.
“Our girls deserve more than promises — they deserve dignity,” she emphasised.
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