The government has announced a series of sanitation-focused initiatives in the 2025 budget aimed at improving public health and hygiene across the country.
Among the major highlights is the allocation of GHS 292.4 million to provide free sanitary pads to female students in primary and senior high schools, a move designed to improve menstrual hygiene and keep girls in school.
Finance Minister Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson, delivering the budget in Parliament on Tuesday, March 11, also outlined plans to review and consolidate the Sanitation and Pollution Levy under the Energy Sector Levies Act.
The government intends to merge the levy with other energy sector levies to streamline revenue collection and enhance accountability.
“Improving sanitation is crucial to public health and economic growth. The free sanitary pad initiative will help reduce period poverty, ensuring that no girl misses school due to a lack of basic hygiene products,” Dr. Forson stated.
Additionally, the government has reaffirmed its commitment to waste management and pollution control by increasing funding for sanitation projects.
The budget did not specify new waste management policies but hinted at broader reforms in the sector.
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