There is currently no major breaking news regarding a “sanitary pad scandal” in Senegal as of February 2026. However, public concern in Senegal and across the region often centers on the following issues related to menstrual hygiene products:
Periodic alarms are raised regarding the influx of low-quality or counterfeit sanitary pads that lack proper safety certifications.
Ongoing “period poverty” remains a significant social issue, with many citizens advocating for tax exemptions or government subsidies to make pads more affordable.
To address safety and cost concerns, the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) has recently held talks with the Senegalese Ministry for the Family to establish a domestic sanitary napkin factory.
While there isn’t a pad-specific scandal currently dominating headlines, Senegal has faced significant civil unrest and protests related to governance and economic transparency, which often amplifies public anger toward any perceived government failure in public health.
By Anthony Solly
