RISE-Ghana Advocates for Tax Waiver on Sanitary Pads in 2024 Budget

Accra – RISE-Ghana, a human rights and sustainable development organization, has urged the government to waive the tax on sanitary pads in the 2024 Budget Statement. Mr Awal Ahmed Kariama, the Executive Director of RISE-Ghana, emphasized that this move would significantly alleviate menstrual poverty and reduce the cost of sanitary pads for young adolescent girls. This statement was made in an interview with the Ghana News Agency, as part of the organization’s expectations for the upcoming budget announcement on November 15.

According to Ghana News Agency, the 2024 Budget should also focus on improving water, sanitation, and hygiene facilities in schools to ensure that girls can remain in class. He stressed the importance of government investment in these areas for the betterment of young students’ education. Additionally, Mr Kariama advocated for the allocation of funds to establish play centers at regional and district levels, enhancing recreational opportunities for children.

A significant concern raised by Mr Kariama is the lack of new-born units in most health facilities, which are essential for providing specialized care to preterm babies and new-borns. He called for budget provisions to address this gap in healthcare. Furthermore, he suggested that District Assemblies should be mandated to establish Child Panels, as required by the Children’s Act, to safeguard children’s rights and welfare.

Another key aspect of RISE-Ghana’s budget expectations is the allocation and timely release of funds for the National Health Insurance Scheme, which is crucial for addressing the shortage of drugs. Mr Kariama also highlighted the need for dedicated budgeting to prevent vaccine shortages and reduce disease rates among children.

Lastly, Mr Kariama proposed that the Livelihood Empowerment Against Poverty (LEAP) cash amount be increased and linked to household capabilities to improve livelihoods. This suggestion aims to strengthen the impact of LEAP in supporting vulnerable families in Ghana.