World Menstrual Hygiene Day: ofi distributes reusable sanitary pads with impactful celebrations at Konongo-Odumase SHS

Olam Food Ingredients (ofi) Ghana Limited celebrated World Menstrual Hygiene Day in Konongo. The event aimed to raise awareness about menstruation and its impact on education and health.

This year, 638 schoolchildren attended the celebration. Among them were 68 boys and 570 girls from 23 schools, including Junior High Schools, primary schools, and one secondary school. Educators, health professionals, and traditional leaders also participated under the theme “Together for a #PeriodFriendlyWorld.”

The program began with a lively float in the morning. Over 350 students paraded through Konongo–Odumase township with placards and music to promote menstrual health.

The main event took place at Konongo Odumase Senior High School. Health professionals led educational sessions that included poetry, drama, and musical performances focused on menstrual hygiene.

Ms. Delphine Gborgblorvor, the Asante Akim Central Municipal Health Director, spoke about menstrual hygiene management. She emphasized using clean products, changing them regularly, and maintaining proper hygiene to prevent infections.

Ms. Gborgblorvor addressed common challenges faced by adolescent girls during menstruation. She provided tips for managing period pain and safely disposing of sanitary products. A live demonstration showed how to use a sanitary pad properly.

She urged both girls and boys to join the conversation about menstruation stigma. “Menstruation is not a taboo; it is a sign of health,” she said.

Nana Yaa Koah III, the Paramount Queen Mother of Odumase, attended with her elders. She discussed the evolution of menstrual care and the need for ongoing education.

Nana Anthony Seber, Nifahene of Konongo, also graced the occasion along with his elders. Dr. Agyapong from Asante-Akim Central Municipal Hospital spoke about tracking cycles and preventing infections.

A highlight of the program was distributing reusable sanitary pads to 570 girls present at the event. Sylvia Amo-Asare led this initiative as president of the ofi Women’s Network.

Additionally, three boxes of disposable pads were given to adolescent clubs in Nkawkaw, Assin Fosu, and Twifo Praso—reaching 20 clubs total. Another 30 boxes were donated to support Menstrual Hygiene Day celebrations by Asokwa Municipal Assembly.

The event was attended by Vice Presidents from procurement and sustainability businesses along with 87 employees. Representatives from Ghana Education Service (GES) and National Commission for Civic Education (NCCE) were also present.

Mr. Benjamin Kwaku Baah, Headmaster of Konongo Odumase Senior High School expressed gratitude to ofi's leadership for their support in educating students about menstrual hygiene.

Reflecting on the event's success, Mr. Eric Botwe stated that menstrual health is crucial for gender equality. He emphasized creating environments where women can thrive without shame or limitations through empathy and education.