Government to roll-out sanitary pads

Zambia’s Parliament has unanimously adopted a motion to roll out the free distribution of sanitary pads in schools. Although the motion has not been legislated, it means government must provide funds for the distribution of the pads in the next budget. BBC News reports that the decision was taken after lawmaker Sebastian Kopulande noted that the products are costly and that many pupils cannot afford them. He also urged the Finance Ministry to consider removing customs duty and VAT on the products.