KYLA introduces pad banks to fight period poverty in Kpando

The Kpando Young Ladies Association (KYLA), in collaboration with the Kpando Municipal Directorate of the Ghana Education Service (GES), has indicated this year’s Menstrual Hygiene Day by donating sanitary pad banks and over 600 sanitary pads to schools in the municipality for distribution to female students.

The Association also issue a joint statement of action for stakeholders—from families to government officials—to stand together against period stigma and absenteeism, and to empower girls through education.

Jemima Osai, KYLA’s team lead said under the theme that “Together for a Period-Friendly Ghana,” the event brought together educators, students, government officials, and traditional leaders in a united effort to address menstrual health challenges and promote dignity for girls. “Menstrual health should never be a barrier to education or self-confidence.“ She noted that “Today, we proudly present six KYLA sanitary pad banks and 650 sanitary pads to schools across Kpando. These are more than just donations, they are tools of empowerment.”

Strengthening the slogan of the group, “Girls inspire girls: Girls aspire to be KYL,” Jemima Osai drew to attention to the organisation’s mission to mentor, motivate, and uplift young women through education and practical support.

KYLA organiser and guest speaker, Mary Buckner, drew to attention the global importance of Menstrual Hygiene Day and emphasized the need for sustained local action. She stated that “Menstruation is a natural part of life and should not come with shame.” She added that “But across Ghana, many girls still miss school due to stigma, lack of supplies, or inadequate sanitation facilities. Together — families, schools, boys, girls, leaders — we can change that.”

Referring to the President’s recent launch of the Free Sanitary Pad Initiative focusing on two million schoolgirls, Buckner encouraged the community to follow the spirit of that national policy by advocating for the pad banks. She charged that “Let every household be a donor not just the girls. Boys, parents, teachers, traders let’s stock these pad banks regularly so that no girl fears going to school because of her period.”

She also educated students during the occasion on the basics of menstrual hygiene and called for boys to stand in solidarity with, not mockers, in the raise awareness about menstrual health. “#NoShaming,” she repeated. “Support your friends. Respect your sisters. And help break the silence.”

Mr. Kylian Donkor, the Kpando Municipal Chief Executive, commended KYLA for promoting girls empowerment and bringing together policy and community action. Mr. Kylian Donkor said “This is a remarkable initiative that complements government efforts.” He added that “As MCE, I pledge my support to ensure that Kpando becomes a model municipality where no girl is left behind due to menstruation.”

Mr. Donkor gave an assurance that measure would be implemented to work with the Education Directorate to facilitate the local introduction of the Free Sanitary Pad Initiative.

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