Menstruation management varies across cultural, social, and economic contexts. For young girls in marginalized rural areas, limited guidance on menstruation can make the experience overwhelming and isolating. As a significant stage in adolescence, it comes with new challenges and vulnerabilities. Unfortunately, many girls and women still face stigma, discrimination, and social isolation due to period poverty, a lack of access to menstrual hygiene products, education, and proper sanitation. This issue is especially severe in low-income and marginalized communities, where menstrual health is often overlooked and stigmatized.
This exclusion results in girls missing up to an average of four school days each month during their menstrual cycles due to a lack of sanitary towels among other essential hygiene products. Frequent absenteeism negatively impacts their academic performance and increases the likelihood of dropping out, pushing them toward early marriage and childbirth, which limits their future economic opportunities. Addressing this is essential for promoting gender equality, improving health outcomes and educational access for girls in vulnerable communities. By investing in menstrual health, it enables young girls to remain in school, preserve their dignity, and break the cycle of poverty.
To address these challenges, Nomadic Assistance for Peace and Development (NAPAD), with support from OXFAM, conducted menstrual hygiene management (MHM) awareness sessions in five primary schools in Mandera East. These sessions aimed to educate schoolgirls on menstruation, promote better health, and reduce stigma. Increased awareness of MHM also contributes to improved school attendance, ensuring that girls feel empowered and supported in managing their menstruation. Additionally, 800 households received dignity kits, providing essential resources for safe and dignified menstrual management. By promoting broader community understanding, the project created a safe and dignified environment where adolescent girls can manage their menstruation without it being a barrier to their education.
NAPAD also strengthened the capacity of teachers in Mandera East to become MHM champions in their schools. The teachers are equipped with the knowledge, skills, and attitudes needed to effectively support girls in managing their menstrual health with dignity and confidence.
“Before receiving support, I used to miss school regularly, and I felt left behind in my studies. Now, I can attend school without fear and focus on my dreams.” one of the students shared
By addressing these basic needs, we empower these resilient girls to focus on their education, break the cycle of poverty, and work towards building a brighter future for themselves and their communities.