• Marks menstrual hygiene day with national call to action
ADDIS ABABA — The AIDS Healthcare Foundation (AHF)-Ethiopia has called on the government to eliminate the remaining VAT and import duties on menstrual hygiene products to improve affordability and ensure equitable access for girls and women across the country.
The appeal came during the commemoration of Menstrual Hygiene Day, which was observed in Addis Ababa with the participation of government officials, schoolgirls, and other stakeholders. The event featured a panel discussion centered on this year’s global theme: “Together for a Period-Friendly World.”
Speaking at the event, AHF-Ethiopia Country Program Director Mengistu Gebremichael (MD) emphasized that menstruation is a natural biological process and a sign of good health. He stressed the need for safe, hygienic, and affordable menstrual products, stating that the current high costs limit access for many girls and women.
“We advocate for the right of girls and women to access health and hygiene products,” said Mengistu. “Fighting period poverty is essential. These products remain unaffordable and inaccessible for many, especially schoolgirls.”
He highlighted that a significant number of girls miss school due to lack of access to menstrual health hygiene (MHH) products, while many women are also forced to miss work or underperform because of the same reason, compounded by poor sanitation facilities.
To address these challenges, Mengistu called for urgent policy action, including the removal of VAT and remaining import taxes, streamlined tax-free access to raw materials, support for local manufacturers, integration of MHH into national health and education strategies, and the expansion of water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH) facilities. He also urged for the amendment of Directive No. 1006/2024 to classify MHH products as essential and tax-exempt.
“Removing these financial barriers will not only make products more affordable but also encourage local production, potentially creating opportunities for unemployed women,” he added.
Representing the Ministry of Health, Alemu Kejela disclosed that only about 30% of Ethiopian women currently use modern menstrual hygiene products. He cited cultural stigma, inadequate WASH infrastructure particularly in schools and limited awareness as major obstacles. In many cases, women resort to using unhygienic alternatives such as rags and leaves, which pose serious health risks.
“Cultural taboos, limited supply, and affordability remain major barriers,” Alemu stated. “To close this gap, we need coordinated political leadership, strong stakeholder collaboration, and community engagement.”
Menstrual Hygiene Day, observed annually on May 28, is a global awareness event aimed at promoting the importance of proper menstrual hygiene management and breaking the stigma surrounding menstruation.
BY MISGANA ASNAKE
THE ETHIOPIAN HERALD SATURDAY 21 JUNE 2025
