“Menstrual hygiene advocacy is everybody’s responsibility” — Marigold Assan

The Founder of the Marigold Foundation, Hon. Mrs. Justina Marigold Assan, has called on civil society to intensify menstrual hygiene advocacy to help reduce the number of girls who drop out of school due to challenges associated with menstruation.

She stressed that no child should ever leave school because she cannot afford sanitary pads, adding that the lack of basic menstrual hygiene materials must not discourage girls from pursuing their education.

Hon. Mrs. Assan made the remarks when the Marigold Foundation, in partnership with Healing Hearts and Hand, distributed 1,500 sanitary pads to girls in selected schools across the Agona East District of the Central Region last Friday.

“I am delighted to state that through the Marigold Foundation’s Annual Menstrual Hygiene Advocacy and Free Sanitary Pad Distribution Drive, we successfully distributed sanitary pads to 1,500 schoolgirls across the Agona East District.

“Beyond the donation, we engaged the girls in meaningful discussions on menstrual health, personal hygiene, self-esteem, and the importance of staying focused on their education and future aspirations.

“It was encouraging to see their level of awareness. We reminded them that menstruation is a natural part of life, and that maintaining good hygiene, making responsible choices, and prioritising their education are essential to achieving their dreams,” she stated.

She noted, however, that while the initiative marks a significant milestone, more work remains to be done.

“Menstrual health advocacy must go beyond the distribution of sanitary pads. We need stronger mentorship programmes, girls’ empowerment initiatives, and safe spaces where young girls can receive guidance and support as they navigate adolescence,” she stressed.

Hon. Mrs. Assan therefore appealed to parents, teachers, faith-based organisations, traditional authorities, community leaders, and all well‑meaning individuals to help create a supportive environment for girls.

“Together, we can break the stigma surrounding menstruation and empower every girl to thrive with confidence and dignity. My sincere appreciation goes to our partners, volunteers, educators, community leaders, and everyone who contributed to the success of this initiative,” she intimated.

Beneficiary schools included clusters in Agona Mensakrom, Agona Duakwa, Agona Nsaba, Agona Seth Okai, Agona Ninta‑Ofoase, and Agona Kwesi Paintsil.

The Assembly Member for the Salem Electoral Area in Agona Nsaba, Madam Comfort Kwansa, commended the Marigold Foundation for the support, noting that the free sanitary pads have eased the financial burden on parents and teachers.