North West, South Africa – As South Africa struggles with widespread lack of access to sanitary pads, girls and young women—especially in rural areas—are being stripped of basic dignity, forced to resort to unsafe alternatives like toilet paper and newspapers during their menstrual cycles.
The issue has sparked calls for urgent government intervention, with the North West Legislature demanding an intensified, large-scale distribution of free sanitary towels, similar to existing condom distribution programs.
A Crisis of Dignity
For many young women in underprivileged communities, menstruation remains a monthly struggle. Without access to affordable sanitary products, some skip school, risking their education, while others resort to unhygienic materials that can lead to infections.
“We cannot ignore this any longer,” said a spokesperson for the North West Legislature. “If the government can distribute condoms for free to promote public health, why can’t we do the same for sanitary pads? This is a matter of dignity, health, and gender equality.”
A Call for Policy Change
Activists have long argued that sanitary products should be classified as essential items, exempt from VAT, and made freely available in schools and clinics. While some progress has been made—including limited free pad distribution in schools—the reach remains inconsistent, leaving rural communities most affected.
“We need a nationwide program that ensures no girl has to miss school or risk her health because she can’t afford pads,” said Thandi Mokoena, a gender rights activist. “This is not just a women’s issue—it’s a national crisis.”
Government Response Awaited
The North West Legislature’s appeal puts pressure on national authorities to prioritize menstrual health in public health policies. With growing advocacy from civil society and lawmakers, hopes are rising for a sustainable solution.
For now, thousands of girls continue to face indignity each month—a stark reminder of the inequalities that persist in access to basic necessities.