Duakwa: Nana Kweku Kumi I, the Sanaahemaa of Agona Duakwa, has called for sanitary pads to be made tax-free to alleviate the struggles faced by many schoolgirls in purchasing these essential products. She emphasized that sanitary pads should not be considered a luxury, as current tax laws suggest, but rather a necessary item for women. According to Ghana News Agency, Nana Kumi addressed school children, chiefs, teachers, and queen mothers during a breast cancer and menstrual hygiene awareness campaign held in Kenyakor, Agona East District, Central Region. She underscored the natural occurrence of menstruation and highlighted the challenges faced by schoolgirls due to high costs of sanitary products, which sometimes lead them to dangerous situations. The Sanaahemaa urged the government to consider the appeals from advocacy groups to remove taxes on sanitary pads. She also highlighted the global issue of breast cancer, noting that 2.3 million women are diagnosed annually, with many succumbing to complications due to late detection. Rev Victor K. Koblah, CEO of Compassion Outreach Organisation, supported the call for tax removal and advised girls to focus on their studies to avoid teenage pregnancy. He praised the Sanaahemaa's efforts and pledged continued support from his NGO, including providing sanitary pads to reach more schoolgirls in Agona East District. Mrs Irene Mensah, a public health nurse, advised women to regularly check their breasts for early detection of breast cancer and to avoid risk factors. She noted that while there is no cure for breast cancer, early treatment can manage the disease. The event concluded with the distribution of sanitary pads to over 200 girls, demonstrating the Sanaahemaa's commitment to supporting their needs. Nana Kweku Prah V, Nifahene of Duakwa, commended the Sanaahemaa and assured that local leaders would back her initiatives to promote girl-child education and development in the district.
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