In a significant step towards promoting women's health and empowerment, Ambassador Michael Oquaye Jnr., the New Patriotic Party (NPP) Parliamentary Candidate for Dome-Kwabenya Constituency, participated in the 2024 World Menstrual Hygiene Day celebration hosted by the Public Health Unit at Taifa Polyclinic on May 28, 2024.

The event, themed "Together for a Period-Friendly World," aimed to raise awareness and drive action towards improving menstrual hygiene globally.

During his address, Oquaye Jr. highlighted the pervasive issue of menstrual stigma and its profound impact on women and girls worldwide. He stated, "Millions of women and girls are prevented from reaching their full potential simply because they menstruate. On this day, we unite to change that. Together, we can increase awareness and action towards our common goal: a Period-Friendly World."

He emphasized the importance of breaking the taboos and stigma surrounding menstruation and ensuring universal access to quality menstrual products and medicines.

Oquaye Jr. underscored the critical importance of menstrual hygiene, noting that poor menstrual hygiene can lead to infections and other health issues, thereby impacting the overall well-being of women and girls.

He stressed that access to menstrual products, safe and private facilities, and accurate information about menstruation are essential for achieving gender equality and upholding human rights.

Highlighting the challenges faced, Oquaye Jnr. mentioned a lack of access to affordable and hygienic menstrual products, inadequate sanitation facilities, particularly in schools and workplaces, and persistent stigma and cultural taboos that hinder open discussions about menstruation.

"The impact on education and employment is profound," he explained. "Girls often miss school during their periods due to a lack of proper facilities or menstrual products, leading to higher dropout rates. Women may face difficulties in the workplace due to inadequate menstrual hygiene management options, affecting their productivity and career growth."

In his call to action, the NPP Member of Parliament aspirant urged all sectors of society to participate in Menstrual Hygiene Day. "Whether you're an NGO, a citizen, a company, or a government agency, we must all take part in Menstrual Hygiene Day," he said.

He called for collaboration among governments, NGOs, and private sector companies to ensure that menstrual hygiene products are accessible and affordable for all. He also highlighted the need for investment in education and infrastructure, such as clean and private toilets, and encouraged community-led initiatives to raise awareness and dispel myths about menstruation.

At the end of his speech, Ambassador Michael Oquaye Jnr. made a donation of 400 boxes of sanitary pads and emphasized the broader importance of Menstrual Hygiene Day.

"This day is not only about addressing a health issue; it's about guaranteeing dignity, equality, and human rights for all women and girls. Let us commit to taking action, raising awareness, and supporting each other in this vital cause. Together, we can continue this conversation and work towards sustainable solutions that empower women and girls everywhere."

Michael Oquaye Jr.'s participation and heartfelt commitment to this cause reflect his dedication to the well-being and empowerment of women and girls in the Dome-Kwabenya Constituency and beyond. His proactive stance on such critical issues underscores his vision of a society where all individuals can thrive with dignity and equality.