Ghana Orders Complete Audit of Free School Sanitary Pads Over Safety Concerns
Accra, 12 February 2026
Ghana’s Education Minister has launched a comprehensive investigation into the quality of sanitary pads distributed through the government’s free programme after the Consumer Protection Agency raised serious concerns about substandard products. The audit will assess whether menstrual hygiene products supplied to schools across the country meet minimum safety standards, with the Minister warning of zero tolerance for poor quality supplies that could embarrass students and government alike.
Minister Orders Comprehensive Quality Assessment
Education Minister Haruna Iddrisu announced on Wednesday that he has instructed a team of auditors to conduct a comprehensive review of sanitary pads distributed under the Free Sanitary Pad Initiative during 2025 [1]. The decision followed direct concerns raised by the Consumer Protection Agency of Ghana regarding the poor quality of some products supplied to schools nationwide [1]. The Minister stated he is currently evaluating the assessment report and will advise the government on appropriate future actions based on the findings [1].
Zero Tolerance Policy for Substandard Products
The Education Ministry has established strict quality expectations for companies participating in the sanitary pad distribution programme [1]. Minister Iddrisu emphasised that any company winning procurement contracts must adhere to minimum standards and deliver quality products that do not embarrass the government, users, or students [1]. The Ministry has declared zero tolerance for poor quality sanitary pads, signalling a firm stance on ensuring value for money and student welfare [1]. This policy shift reflects growing concerns about the effectiveness of the free distribution scheme in supporting girls’ educational attendance during menstruation [GPT].
Programme’s Critical Role in Girls’ Education
The Free Sanitary Pad Initiative represents a crucial government intervention designed to address barriers preventing girls from attending school during their menstrual cycles [GPT]. Access to proper menstrual hygiene products is essential for maintaining educational continuity, as inadequate or unsafe products can lead to health complications and increased school absenteeism [GPT]. The quality concerns highlighted by the audit underscore the importance of rigorous procurement standards in programmes supporting gender equality in education [GPT].
Implementation and Next Steps
The audit process involves teams visiting schools across Ghana to assess the quality of sanitary pads already distributed through the programme [1]. Minister Iddrisu indicated that the government will take decisive action based on the assessment findings, with particular focus on ensuring future procurement meets established safety and quality benchmarks [1]. The initiative’s success depends on delivering products that meet health and safety standards whilst providing reliable support for schoolgirls’ educational participation [GPT]. The Minister’s commitment to addressing quality concerns demonstrates the government’s recognition of the programme’s vital role in promoting educational equality and girls’ health [GPT].