To reduce the effects of COVID-19 on vulnerable girls including kayayei, Plan International Ghana, has distributed reusable sanitary pads, face masks and hand sanitizers to more than 800 needy females in Accra.

In collaboration with Days for Girls, and Zongo Girls for Education, both Non-Governmental Organisations (NGOs), it trained the beneficiaries to sew the reusable sanitary pads, face masks and backpacks to enable them to support their communities and earn extra income.

It also educated them on menstrual hygiene and sexual and reproductive health rights.
Beneficiaries were girls and young ladies from deprived homes living in Accra Tema station, Mamobi, Nima, Alajo, Abelemkpe, Dzorwulu, and surrounding communities.

Ms Abigail Nana Ama Sogah, a fellow of Plan International Ghana Alumni Network, said the exercise was part of the efforts put in place by Plan International Ghana to support government in the prevention of the COVID-19 pandemic.

With basic necessities like sanitary pads, face masks and hand sanitizers, she said, the beneficiaries could fall victims in the hands of people with ill motives, hence the intervention.

"At the end of the exercise, we want to make sure that all needy girls, especially the kayaye are safe from COVID-19, and that they are free from any form of abuse due to their needs," she said.

Plan International Ghana, as other measures to help in the management of COVID-19, also donated GH¢70,000.00 to the National COVID-19 Trust Fund and to the Gender Ministry to aid in the support of needy people especially during the partial lockdown period.

Ms Isabella Akwaboah, an Advocate and Enterprise Leader at Days for Girls, advised the beneficiaries to practice good menstrual hygiene and work hard in order not to depend on men for petty necessities, as that could negatively affect their lives.

"Fortunately these sanitary pads you've been given can last for four years. Try to wash it well after every use, if you can afford, apply some disinfectant when washing, and iron before reusing," she advised.

Plan International Ghana is a nongovernmental organisation that advocates child rights and development in areas like politics, education, health and economic empowerment.

Days for Girls, is also a nongovernmental organisation that promotes the welfare of girls, especially on menstrual hygiene and sexual and reproductive rights.

Zongo Girls for Education, on the other hand, advocates adolescent and female education and health in zongo and deprived communities.