Linda Masarira commentary on 2025 National Budget – Eduzim News

By Linda Masarira

On addressing Period Poverty

The allocation of ZiG85 million (US$3.27 million) for girls’ sanitary wear in the 2025 National Budget is both disappointing and indicative of the government’s lack of commitment to addressing period poverty. This token allocation, coming at a time when Zimbabwe is enduring its worst drought in 40 years, shows a troubling disregard for the critical needs of vulnerable girls and women.

In previous years, when the country did not face such extreme conditions, the government made higher allocations for this essential need. The sharp decline in funding suggests that the current leadership views menstrual dignity as a dispensable priority. This paltry allocation is a slap in the face to millions of young girls, especially those in rural areas, who already struggle to access basic sanitary wear, leading to missed school days and compromised dignity.

LEAD’s Position

As Labour Economists and Afrikan Democrats, we strongly condemn this lack of seriousness in addressing period poverty. LEAD recognizes menstrual dignity as a fundamental right, central to achieving gender justice and socioeconomic equity. We advocate for free and accessible sanitary wear for all girls and women, particularly in rural and underprivileged areas, as part of our commitment to gender-sensitive budgeting.

Investing in menstrual hygiene is not a luxury but a necessity for fostering an equitable society. Period poverty deepens the cycle of poverty by limiting educational and economic opportunities for girls and women. LEAD calls on legislators and stakeholders to demand a significant increase in the allocation for sanitary wear to ensure no girl is left behind.

This is not just about money; it is about priorities. A government that claims to care about its people must invest in their dignity and well-being, especially during challenging times like these. The failure to prioritize ending period poverty reflects a lack of vision and empathy for Zimbabwe’s future generations. It’s time to act boldly to #EndPeriodPoverty once and for all.

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