'Menstruation is not a taboo': North Tongu DCE champions dignity and access for girls

The District Chief Executive (DCE) for North Tongu, Victoria Amefadzi Yawa Doe, led a special event. This event aimed to break the silence around menstruation. It took place during this year’s Menstrual Hygiene Day celebration.

Madam Yawa Doe spoke warmly and purposefully. She dismissed myths about menstruation and encouraged open dialogue. She called for respect and support for girls.

“Menstruation is not a curse or taboo,” she said. “It is a natural phenomenon that every girl experiences.” Her words received loud applause from students and teachers.

She announced an important initiative to help schoolgirls. Under the National Democratic Congress (NDC) program, every basic schoolgirl will receive free sanitary pads. This aims to ensure no girl misses school because of her period.

“This is more than a promise—it is a commitment,” she stated. “We want our girls to be in class, confident and unashamed.”

The DCE encouraged students to share this vision with their families. “Keep faith with the NDC government,” she urged them. “Tell your parents we are working to ensure no girl is left behind.”

Health professionals were also present at the event. Nurses from the district health service provided education on menstrual hygiene. They offered hands-on demonstrations and answered questions from the girls.

Their presence highlighted the need for safe environments for adolescent girls. For many students, it was their first time hearing such affirming messages about menstruation.

Menstrual Hygiene Day raises awareness of challenges girls face during their periods. In North Tongu, this year’s observance reminded everyone that leadership and empathy can create change. Every girl deserves to experience menstruation with dignity, not shame.