By Linus Flomo
The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) launched an impactful initiative earlier this week in Liberia aimed at creating awareness on sexual and reproductive health and promoting menstrual hygiene management.
The project, titled “Creating Awareness of Sexual and Reproductive Health and the Distribution of Sanitary Pads in Liberia”, is set to kick off today, with key stakeholders from the ECOWAS Commission, local NGOs, government ministries, and the media in attendance.
In her opening remarks, ECOWAS Resident Representative to Liberia, Josephine Nkrumah, emphasized the importance of the initiative, which is supported by the West African Health Organization (WAHO).
Nkrumah explained that the project’s primary goal is to raise awareness about menstrual health while distributing essential sanitary products to schools across Liberia.
“We are focused on addressing a key health challenge that young girls and women face, which is the lack of access to menstrual health products. This affects their hygiene and well-being,” Nkrumah said.
She noted that although sanitary pads are critical in managing menstrual health hygienically, a significant gap exists in both access to and proper use of these products, particularly among adolescents in Liberia.
The project will provide both the physical products and the necessary educational resources to address this gap.
In a bid to mitigate environmental concerns, Nkrumah highlighted the two-fold approach of the project, with a particular emphasis on sustainability.
“We are concerned about the environment,” she said, announcing plans to introduce reusable sanitary pads as part of the program. “These pads not only offer a sustainable alternative to single-use products but also provide an opportunity to educate young women on the benefits of using eco-friendly sanitary products. This is crucial in a country like Liberia, where waste management remains a challenge.”
Nkrumah pointed out that non-biodegradable sanitary products, when improperly disposed of, pose significant environmental risks, particularly to water bodies that serve as vital sources of drinking water. Such waste disposal contributes to pollution, which can lead to the spread of diseases.
“We are excited about this collaboration with WAHO and other partners, and we are optimistic that it will help improve the well-being of young women in our society,” Nkrumah concluded.
Dr. Nuntia Gbanlon-Nuahn, WAHO’s Liaison Officer, also spoke at the event, expressing gratitude for the initiative’s support. “From a sub-regional perspective, we are working to secure additional funding to extend the impact of this project, not only for Liberian girls but for girls across the region,” she said.
Dr. Gbanlon-Nuahn emphasized the importance of returning girls to school and noted that the project would directly benefit around 10,000 young girls.
“This project is not just about providing sanitary pads; it’s about ensuring that girls stay in school, which is essential for their future,” she said.
She also highlighted the project’s low-cost sustainability, which will ensure its long-term success.
Joetta Constance, Managing Director of SafePad Inc., a key partner in the initiative, also shared her support for the project.
“SafePad is eco-friendly and climate-conscious,” she said, noting that the reusable sanitary pads being distributed will not only be beneficial to young girls but will also provide economic relief amid the country’s ongoing economic challenges. Constance expressed her appreciation for the opportunity to collaborate with ECOWAS, stating, “We are excited to share our knowledge and contribute our products to this initiative. Not only are these pads valuable to our girls, but they will also help create a sustainable solution to menstrual health management.”
Constance further emphasized the importance of education in ensuring that girls can sustain the use of the pads over time, thereby maximizing their benefits. “We are honored to be a part of this initiative and look forward to working together to empower young girls in Liberia.”
The launch of the event marked the beginning of effort to address menstrual health, raise awareness about sexual and reproductive rights, and promote sustainable practices that will benefit both young girls and women and the environment in Liberia.
The project is expected to have a lasting impact, improving access to hygiene products and contributing to the broader goal of gender equality and education across the country.
