The management of the Kumasi City Mall (KCM) has donated 30 boxes of sanitary pads valued at approximately GHS10,000 to the teachers of Anyinatiase-Abaase D/A Basic School in the Bosomtwe District of the Ashanti Region for distribution among the students.
The initiative aims to address the menstrual challenges faced by girl students at the school, with the ultimate goal of enhancing academic excellence.
Emmanuel Okoh, Manager of the KCM, highlighted that the donation was prompted by an appeal from the school authorities, who expressed concerns about how the lack of access to sanitary pads was hindering the academic pursuits of the female students.
Each of the 30 boxes contains 12 pieces of sanitary pads, which Mr. Okoh believes will significantly alleviate the plight of the girls at the school.
He emphasized the importance of supporting girls and women, stating that they play a crucial role in societal development.
In light of the global observance of Menstrual Hygiene Day, Mr. Okoh also called on the government to consider reducing import duties or taxes on sanitary pads to make them more affordable, especially for girls in underserved areas.
The Anyinatiase-Abaase D/A Basic School, with around 70 students, faces numerous challenges such as inadequate infrastructure and a poor road network.
Additionally, many young girls at the school frequently miss classes because they cannot afford sanitary pads and other necessary materials.
John Nana Badu-Bonsu, Head of Marketing at the KCM, stated that menstrual cycle is a natural occurrence and underscored the need to support girls through such challenges.
He mentioned that the organization has over the years undertaken various projects to support schools and communities in the Ashanti Region and beyond.
Mr. Bonsu also called upon other organizations to follow suit and prioritize supporting underprivileged communities since the government alone may not be sufficient to address all challenges in the country effectively.
Acknowledging the donation on behalf of the school, the Girls Coordinator of the school, Madam Akosua Dedaa Dankyi, expressed profound gratitude to the Kumasi City Mall for their support.
She emphasized that the provision of the sanitary pads would not only alleviate the challenge but also enhance the academic performance of the girls by ensuring they do not miss school due to lack of menstrual supplies.
The students at the school also expressed their appreciation for the donation, with Lovely Ohemaa Kwargo Senior noting that it would positively impact their school attendance and studies.
Kumasi City Mall, known as the first world-class shopping mall in the Northern Sector of Ghana, is located in Asokwa, Kumasi, in the Ashanti Region.
With over 60 retail brands, the mall serves as a premier trading destination offering a safe and welcoming environment.
