Vice President reaffirms commitment to menstrual health equity at premiere of “Barred by Blood” documentary

Ghana’s Vice President, Prof. Naana Jane Opoku-Agyemang, reaffirmed the government’s commitment to girls’ education. She aims to eliminate barriers caused by menstrual stigma and lack of support.

Madam Betty Mould-Iddrisu delivered this message at the documentary premiere. The film is titled “Barred by Blood – The Cultural Chains Holding Back Girls in Kyekyewere.” The event took place in Accra and attracted many dignitaries.

Attendees included the Minister for Gender, Children and Social Protection, H.E. Harriet Thompson, and the British High Commissioner. Traditional leaders, civil society groups, and health professionals were also present. Young boys and girls from various communities attended as well.

Madam Mould-Iddrisu described the film as a glimpse into girls' realities. These girls face social, cultural, and economic challenges due to menstruation. She stressed that these issues stem from silence, stigma, and neglect—not a lack of potential.

She highlighted the NDC government’s new Free Sanitary Pads Programme. This initiative is one of Ghana's largest menstrual health efforts ever launched. It aims to provide free sanitary pads to girls in basic and secondary schools.

The programme also focuses on education and improving menstrual hygiene facilities. According to her, it rests on three key pillars:

1. Access: Providing free sanitary pads removes financial barriers.
2. Awareness: Normalizing menstruation ends silence and shame.
3. Empowerment: Ensuring girls manage their periods with dignity helps them stay in school.

“When discussing education for girls, we must consider water and toilets,” she said. She urged stakeholders to move from sympathy to action.

Madam Mould-Iddrisu acknowledged traditional leaders' roles in challenging outdated practices. She thanked development partners for their technical and financial support as well.

“Menstruation is not a curse or taboo,” she declared firmly. “It is a natural part of life that deserves dignity.”

She concluded by calling for a collective effort towards a “Period-Friendly Ghana.” In this vision, no girl should be “barred by blood,” ensuring equal opportunities for all.

The event marked an important step toward gender equity in Ghana's menstrual health reform efforts. Stakeholders pledged ongoing support to remove barriers preventing girls from attending school.