Ghana probes substandard sanitary pads in schoolgirls' free initiative
Ghana's Ministry of Education has launched an audit into the quality of sanitary pads supplied under the Free Sanitary Pad Initiative. The move follows complaints about substandard products reaching schoolgirls. Minister Haruna Iddrisu has called for a full review to ensure value for public funds.
The decision came after the Consumer Protection Agency flagged concerns over some pads failing to meet basic standards. While no official quality benchmarks exist for the programme, the ministry has assembled a team of auditors to inspect supplies distributed in 2026.
Iddrisu has warned companies involved to deliver products that justify government spending. He stressed the importance of safety and reliability, particularly for students relying on the initiative. The minister is currently examining the audit findings and will recommend further action to the government.
The audit seeks to confirm whether the pads meet essential safety and performance requirements. Its results will determine whether stricter controls or new guidelines are needed. The government aims to ensure schoolgirls receive dependable products under the programme.
