In Gambia, reduced tax on sanitary pads has no effect
By the AFREEQUE newsroom, based on Malagen
In Gambia, the tax exemption introduced almost a year ago to lower the price of imported sanitary pads has had no effect on prices. According to a survey by Malagen, traders still charge the same prices, which weighs on women and young girls.
The reduced tax on imported sanitary pads has no effect on prices in Gambia, according to a survey by Malagen. During a price check carried out in half a dozen pharmacies and supermarkets, most traders said they were unaware of the exemption, and wholesale and retail prices have not changed. "We buy and sell at the same prices," said Pa Alieu, manager of Heewal Supermarket.
The exemption from import duties and VAT on sanitary pads was announced in December 2025 by Finance Minister Seedy Keita when presenting the 2026 national budget to the National Assembly. It was meant to reduce the cost of these products and tackle period poverty, which particularly affects schoolgirls in rural areas.
In Latrikunda, Maimuna Jallow, 48, a market trader and mother of four daughters aged 14 to 20, explains that her daily profits mainly cover rice and cooking oil, leaving almost nothing for sanitary pads. Isatou Jallow, 14, a Year 9 pupil, says she cannot buy them and stays at home during her period, which prevents her from keeping up with the school curriculum.
