The Coalition of Non governmental Organizations (NGOs) and Stakeholders working to support improving menstrual hygiene practices and access in Bauchi State have advocated for the government to untax/subsidize sanitary pads for every woman and girl to access menstrual hygiene materials.
They made the call during advocacy and rally to the State Ministry of Women Affairs on Tuesday to commurate 2024 world menstrual hygiene Day on Tuesday in Bauchi
Mr Kingsley Yallings, Who speaks on behalf of the CSOs, calls on the government to untax/subsidize sanitary pads so that every woman and girl can easily access menstrual hygiene materials.
“We are also calling on the government to support the girl child, retain her self-confidence during and after menstrual periods,” he said
Mr Yallings said the coalition is committed to sensitization of rural and urban communities on the prevention of stigmatization of the girl child particularly during menstrual cycle or when abused.
It also supports and encourages survivors to ensure no girl misses school because of menstrual pain through capacity building and provision of first aid boxes in all schools.
“We also advocate to the ministry of education and Ministry of Health to ensure there is a policy on pad and free distribution for schools as a way of reducing the number of girls who miss school during their menstrual period.
“The Coalition also sensitize schools and community heads on the importance of a menstrual stigma free society,” he said
Yallings explained that Menstruation is a natural and essential part of life, yet it remains a topic considered a tabo in many cultures and societies.
“The silence and stigma surrounding menstruation have led to a lack of access to proper menstrual hygiene facilities, products, and education affecting women and girls.
“Therefore,It’s time to break the silence and advocate for menstrual hygiene and dignity.
He said the Coalition of NGOs, CBOs and Stakeholders working to support improving Menstrual Hygiene practices and access was funded by Women for Women international established by ASHHF, Child is Gold foundation Alwadata lifeline initiative among others.
Responding, Mrs Hajara Gidado Commissioner for Women Affairs, Child development and social welfare, represented by Permanent Secretary Alhaji Saleh Abdulmumini appreciated the coalition for engaging in such an awareness campaign.
“If government and CSOs come together they would make make a significant impact in reducing Menstrual Stigma, increasing access to affordable and sustainable menstrual products and facilities in our communities,”
He said the state government is always committed and supportive to any laudable initiative and program that would improve life’s of the citizens in the state.
