As the government seeks to eliminate taxes on these necessary goods, Madam Agnes Naa Momo Lartey, the nominee for Minister of Gender, Children, and Social Protection, has revealed plans to supply sanitary pads to women in rural areas.
She underlined the significance of tackling the menstrual health issues that low-income households experience while speaking during her screening by Parliament’s Appointments Committee.
“Government can supply sanitary pads to young ladies in rural areas while working to remove taxes,” Madam Lartey stated.
“I agree that there must be a way out to provide affordable sanitary pads for vulnerable girls so that they don’t fall prey to men who buy pads for them.”
In Ghana, sanitary pad taxes have been a divisive topic, with numerous advocacy organizations advocating for their removal. Sanitary pads are currently subject to a 32.5% total tax, which includes a 20% import duty and a 12.5% Value Added Tax (VAT), since they are categorized as “Miscellaneous Manufactured Articles” under the Harmonized System Code 9619001000.
Many people cannot afford the high retail costs of sanitary pads, which vary from GHC 20 to GHC 40 per pack, as a result of these tariffs.
During her response, Madam Lartey covered topics outside menstruation health that affect women more broadly.
In order to assist women working in the unorganized sector, she suggested creating a Women Development Bank.
She clarified that in order to empower women and support their enterprises, the bank would offer low-interest loans.
Additionally, Madam Lartey promised to support the implementation of parental leave for fathers and longer maternity leave.
She suggested increasing the current three-month maternity leave to six months in order to give moms more time for recuperation and child care, emphasizing the necessity for family-friendly legislation.
“It is important for women to have a prolonged leave period, not only to take care of the children but also to properly heal, As an employer, I encourage you to grant six months of leave if possible.” she stated.
In order to advance gender equality in families, she also urged the implementation of parental leave, highlighting the significance of shared caregiving responsibilities.
In order to accomplish these reforms, Madam Lartey reaffirmed her dedication to working with non-governmental organizations (NGOs), civil society organizations (CSOs), and other female champions. She gave the committee her word that she would work with all parties involved to advance laws that serve Ghanaians’ interests.
“I will sit with all stakeholders and CSOs who are deep into these issues, and I will join the many advocates to look at what is best,” she stated. “If the people of Ghana agree to it, then I will be the number one champion.”
The ideas put out by Madam Lartey are part of a larger plan to advance women’s rights and gender equality in Ghana. A major change in tackling persistent problems impacting women, children, and families nationwide may result from her nomination and the policies that follow.
Source: newsthemegh.com