Blankets, rags will replace sanitary pads, women say

Some women joined protestors in Homa Bay town over sanitary pads cost (James Omoro, Standard).

Women are accusing the government of taking them back to dark days of using blankets for menstrual hygiene.

The government initially proposed taxation on sanitary pads. However, the taxes were withdrawn due to public outcry.

Despite the cancellation of the proposed taxation, women are still unhappy with the Finance Bill, which President William Ruto declined to sign into law.

In Homa Bay County, women joined protestors to demonstrate against the Bill.

One of their key grievances is that the Bill will make it difficult for them to afford sanitary pads.

According to Caroline Adhiambo, the increased taxation on other items will escalate the cost of sanitary pads even though direct taxes were removed.

Adhiambo argued that high taxation on the cost of fuel will increase the cost the pads.

"This Bill has hefty taxation and its ramifications will be dire. We are worried sanitary pads will be affordable," Adhiambo said.

She argued that the situation will now make women to start using old blankets or clothes for menstrual hygiene.

"We are foreseeing a situation where we will be forced to use old blankets or clothes during menstruation due to inability to afford of sanitary pads," Adhiambo said.

Eunice Kasera said sanitary pads had made it easier for women to participate in nation building.

"Anything that escalates the cost of living works against the gains made on menstrual hygiene," she said.

Meresa Omondi said the high cost of living will impede education of girls.

"A family that has money that can buy food only will avoid buying sanitary pads for their daughters because food is a necessity," Omondi said.