May 28, 2024
By Moki Edwin Kindzeka
By Moki Edwin Kindzeka
Girls walk on a road in Maroua, Cameroon
Cameroon’s government says 70% of menstruating women and girls lack access to regular basic sanitation products.
YAOUNDE —
Cameroon is observing World Menstrual Hygiene Day (May 28) with caravans visiting schools and public spaces to educate people about social taboos that women should not be seen in public during their menstrual periods. Organizations are also donating menstrual kits to girls displaced by terrorism and political tensions in the central African state.
Scores of youths, a majority of them girls, are told that menstruation is a natural part of the reproductive cycle.
Officials in Cameroon’s social affairs and health ministries say the monthly flows are not a curse and girls and women should never be isolated from markets, schools, churches and other public places because of their menstrual cycle.
The government of the central African state says it invited boys to menstrual health day activities because boys often mock girls in schools when they see blood dripping on their legs or skirts.
Tabe Edwan is the spokesperson of Haven of Rebirth Cameroon, an association that takes care of victims of sexual and gender-based violence. She says she participates in in activities to mark World Menstrual Health Day to battle taboos about menstruation that persist in Cameroon.
"We are looking at instances of stigmatization such as prohibition from cooking, prohibition from attending religious ceremonies or visiting such spaces," she said. "Most often a young girl who is having her menstrual flow is considered to be unclean and so anything that she touches becomes unclean or it also becomes contaminated."
Cameroon’s government says World Menstrual Day activities took place in many towns and villages, especially in the northwest and southwest regions, where a separatist conflict, now in its seventh year, has displaced about 750,000 people.
The country’s Social Affairs Ministry says displaced women and girls have lost nearly everything and lack even the $2 needed to buy sanitary pads each time they are on their monthly cycle.
Mirabelle Sonkey is founder of the Network for Solidarity Hope and Empowerment, a founding member of the International Menstrual Hygiene Coalition.
Sonkey says she is disheartened when women and girls use rags, papers and tree leaves or just anything unhealthy to stop blood flow because they cannot afford sanitary pads.
"We usually give about 1,000 dignity kits which include buckets, soap, pants and reusable, washable menstrual pads," she said. "We are still advocating for pads to be free. Our mission is to have an environment where pads will be accessible, that is why we are opening pad banks now where vulnerable women and girls can go there and have pads."
Sonkey pleaded with donors to provide sanitary pads to give to several thousand northern Cameroonian girls and women displaced by Boko Haram terrorism.
Cameroon’s government says 70% of menstruating women and girls lack access to regular basic sanitation products but it has not reacted to pleas from NGOs to distribute sanitary pads free of charge.
The central African state’s officials say families and communities should help put an end to stigmas by openly discussing menstrual flow and letting everyone know that menstruation is a normal and natural biological function.
YAOUNDE —
Cameroon is observing World Menstrual Hygiene Day (May 28) with caravans visiting schools and public spaces to educate people about social taboos that women should not be seen in public during their menstrual periods. Organizations are also donating menstrual kits to girls displaced by terrorism and political tensions in the central African state.
Scores of youths, a majority of them girls, are told that menstruation is a natural part of the reproductive cycle.
Officials in Cameroon’s social affairs and health ministries say the monthly flows are not a curse and girls and women should never be isolated from markets, schools, churches and other public places because of their menstrual cycle.
The government of the central African state says it invited boys to menstrual health day activities because boys often mock girls in schools when they see blood dripping on their legs or skirts.
Tabe Edwan is the spokesperson of Haven of Rebirth Cameroon, an association that takes care of victims of sexual and gender-based violence. She says she participates in in activities to mark World Menstrual Health Day to battle taboos about menstruation that persist in Cameroon.
"We are looking at instances of stigmatization such as prohibition from cooking, prohibition from attending religious ceremonies or visiting such spaces," she said. "Most often a young girl who is having her menstrual flow is considered to be unclean and so anything that she touches becomes unclean or it also becomes contaminated."
Cameroon’s government says World Menstrual Day activities took place in many towns and villages, especially in the northwest and southwest regions, where a separatist conflict, now in its seventh year, has displaced about 750,000 people.
The country’s Social Affairs Ministry says displaced women and girls have lost nearly everything and lack even the $2 needed to buy sanitary pads each time they are on their monthly cycle.
Mirabelle Sonkey is founder of the Network for Solidarity Hope and Empowerment, a founding member of the International Menstrual Hygiene Coalition.
Sonkey says she is disheartened when women and girls use rags, papers and tree leaves or just anything unhealthy to stop blood flow because they cannot afford sanitary pads.
"We usually give about 1,000 dignity kits which include buckets, soap, pants and reusable, washable menstrual pads," she said. "We are still advocating for pads to be free. Our mission is to have an environment where pads will be accessible, that is why we are opening pad banks now where vulnerable women and girls can go there and have pads."
Sonkey pleaded with donors to provide sanitary pads to give to several thousand northern Cameroonian girls and women displaced by Boko Haram terrorism.
Cameroon’s government says 70% of menstruating women and girls lack access to regular basic sanitation products but it has not reacted to pleas from NGOs to distribute sanitary pads free of charge.
The central African state’s officials say families and communities should help put an end to stigmas by openly discussing menstrual flow and letting everyone know that menstruation is a normal and natural biological function.
Zimbabwe: Water Scarcity a Barrier to Menstrual Health and Dignity
Keïta/UNICEF/
"I used to miss class because I was on my period:: the teenagers who made their own pads (file photo).
28 MAY 2024
263Chat (Harare)
As the world observes Menstrual Hygiene Day, the Women4Water movement has called for the need to address water shortages, a critical issue profoundly affecting menstrual hygiene and the well-being of women and girls worldwide.
In a statement to mark the day, the movement said without reliable access to clean water, they face numerous challenges that compromise their health.
"Access to clean and sufficient water is essential for maintaining proper menstrual hygiene. Women and girls need water not only for drinking but also for washing and sanitation purposes during their menstrual cycles. Without reliable access to clean water, they face numerous challenges that compromise their health, privacy, and educational and economic opportunities.
"Water shortages exacerbate these difficulties, making it nearly impossible for women and girls to manage their menstruation safely and with dignity. The consequences are profound: Insufficient water for washing can lead to infections and other health issues. Poor menstrual hygiene management increases the risk of reproductive and urinary tract infections, which can have long-term health implications," said the movement
The consequences of water shortages are far-reaching, making it exceedingly difficult for females to manage menstruation safely and with dignity.
"Many girls are forced to miss school during their periods due to inadequate water and sanitation facilities. This absenteeism contributes to higher dropout rates and limits their future opportunities. The inability to manage menstrual hygiene effectively can prevent women from participating fully in the workforce and community activities, perpetuating cycles of poverty and gender inequality. The lack of water and sanitation facilities infringes on women's and girls' dignity, causing stress and embarrassment, and perpetuating stigma and discrimination related to menstruation
"By addressing water shortages and improving menstrual hygiene management, we can make significant strides toward gender equality, public health, and the empowerment of women and girls. Together, we can ensure that menstruation is no longer a barrier to a healthy, dignified, and fulfilling life. Women4Water stands committed to advocating for these changes and working towards a future where every woman and girl can manage her menstrual hygiene safely, comfortably, and with pride," added the movement
28 MAY 2024
UNFPA East and Southern Africa (Johannesburg)
Blog by Meron Negussie, UNFPA Regional Programme Specialist for Adolescents and Youth, to commemorate Menstrual Hygiene Day, 28 May 2024
Menstrual health is a non-negotiable human right in our urgent mission for universal access to sexual and reproductive health. Without access to menstrual education, information, products and services, we cannot meet UNFPA's transformative goals as a contribution to the SDGs, to enable millions on a journey towards equal opportunities and empowerment.
A pivotal moment in this vital journey occurred six years ago this month when UNFPA in East and Southern Africa held the inaugural Africa Menstrual Health Symposium. The resulting movement created a groundswell of support for improving menstrual health on the African continent.
For the first time, menstruation was embraced as integral to sexual and reproductive health. This movement was the first of its kind on the continent, marking a significant shift in the resolve for promotion of menstrual health as a human right.
The Johannesburg Call to Action: Improving Menstrual Health Management in Africa committed to ensuring menstrual health across the life cycle using a multisectoral approach. The birth of the African Coalition for Menstrual Health provided a much-needed compass to steer the menstrual health movement on the continent. It has emerged as the convener of choice for a dynamic community of menstrual health practitioners, advocates and experts across the private and public sectors.
Paving the way
Over the years, I have observed the strides made by the coalition in shaping a brighter future for menstrual health. The organization has driven significant changes across the region - such as the development of policies and strategies, the creation of regional and national standards for menstrual products, and the implementation of comprehensive processes. The coalition has supported and guided countries and regional partners in menstrual health programming and policy, ensuring that these issues are addressed with the seriousness they deserve.
I have witnessed the coalition leading joint advocacy and partnerships, to tackle key issues such as tax exemptions on menstrual health products. They have been at the forefront of driving evidence generation, bridging research and measurement gaps that have long hindered progress in this field.
At the country level, I have seen the impact of the coalition's work in East and Southern Africa. Menstrual health is gaining momentum, with education and awareness on the rise. School health clubs in Ethiopia and Uganda are leading the charge, empowering young people with knowledge and resources. Kenya and Tanzania are reaching youth through innovative programmes like Twaweza, while traditional and digital media ensure broader audiences understand the importance of menstrual health.
Access to menstrual health products is improving, with countries like Kenya and Zambia allocating national budgets to provide sanitary products in schools. Distribution drives in South Africa ensure that free products reach girls from low-income families, highlighting a commitment to access and affordability. The removal of taxes on menstrual health products is becoming more common, with Kenya, South Africa, Ethiopia, Lesotho and Rwanda eliminating import and sales duties on these essential items.
Inspirational grassroots initiatives are flourishing. Girls' homegrown production of sanitary products is gaining traction in Ethiopia, Rwanda, Uganda, Mozambique and Zambia, empowering communities and promoting sustainability. South Africa champions the procurement of sanitary products and related services from women-owned suppliers, fostering economic empowerment.
Even in the face of humanitarian and post-crisis settings, efforts to ensure dignity kits and access to safe sanitation facilities are making a difference in Ethiopia and Mozambique. These initiatives not only address basic human needs but uphold the dignity and well-being of people who experience trauma and displacement.
The coalition's dedication to menstrual health is truly transforming lives, creating a future where menstrual health is universally supported and celebrated, from pre-menarche to menopause.
On this wonderful journey, I pay tribute to UNFPA's former and current leadership, and colleagues in the ESA region, who have blazed the trail for menstrual health across Africa. Equally, I acknowledge the efforts of the MH Day team at Wash United and the Africa Coalition on Menstrual Health leadership for their relentless technical contributions, without which the story cannot be told.
A world reimagined
Imagine a world where every person can manage their menstrual health with dignity and ease. To turn this vision into reality, we must join forces to achieve a shared goal - as the United Nations, governments, donors, civil society organizations, academic institutions, schools, health-care providers, the private sector, traditional leaders, and community activists. We all need to work together to address menstrual health across a person's life course, not just during their reproductive years.
Consider the millions left behind simply because menstrual products are too expensive. Imagine if subsidies and local social entrepreneurs could lower production and delivery costs without compromising quality. Picture the impact of removing taxes on menstrual health products, as has been done in Kenya, Lesotho, Ethiopia, Rwanda, and Zimbabwe - it's a game-changer. We need to explore every avenue, including innovative financing, to ensure that everyone who menstruates has access to what they need.
To achieve our menstrual health goals, we must supercharge innovative solutions to reach more people. Envision embracing digital technology and non-tech approaches to accelerate progress. Solid research is crucial to discovering what works best and guiding our actions to achieve menstrual health for everyone, no matter their age. By examining the evidence, we will understand where we are falling short and how to improve the menstrual experience for all.
We cannot ignore the devastating impact of humanitarian crises on women, girls, and all those who menstruate. When disaster strikes, managing periods safely and with dignity becomes even harder. In these moments, we must act swiftly to ensure everyone has access to the menstrual products they need.
By addressing these challenges head-on and working together, we can create a #PeriodFriendlyWorld where menstrual health is universally supported and celebrated.
Keïta/UNICEF/
"I used to miss class because I was on my period:: the teenagers who made their own pads (file photo).
28 MAY 2024
263Chat (Harare)
As the world observes Menstrual Hygiene Day, the Women4Water movement has called for the need to address water shortages, a critical issue profoundly affecting menstrual hygiene and the well-being of women and girls worldwide.
In a statement to mark the day, the movement said without reliable access to clean water, they face numerous challenges that compromise their health.
"Access to clean and sufficient water is essential for maintaining proper menstrual hygiene. Women and girls need water not only for drinking but also for washing and sanitation purposes during their menstrual cycles. Without reliable access to clean water, they face numerous challenges that compromise their health, privacy, and educational and economic opportunities.
"Water shortages exacerbate these difficulties, making it nearly impossible for women and girls to manage their menstruation safely and with dignity. The consequences are profound: Insufficient water for washing can lead to infections and other health issues. Poor menstrual hygiene management increases the risk of reproductive and urinary tract infections, which can have long-term health implications," said the movement
The consequences of water shortages are far-reaching, making it exceedingly difficult for females to manage menstruation safely and with dignity.
"Many girls are forced to miss school during their periods due to inadequate water and sanitation facilities. This absenteeism contributes to higher dropout rates and limits their future opportunities. The inability to manage menstrual hygiene effectively can prevent women from participating fully in the workforce and community activities, perpetuating cycles of poverty and gender inequality. The lack of water and sanitation facilities infringes on women's and girls' dignity, causing stress and embarrassment, and perpetuating stigma and discrimination related to menstruation
"By addressing water shortages and improving menstrual hygiene management, we can make significant strides toward gender equality, public health, and the empowerment of women and girls. Together, we can ensure that menstruation is no longer a barrier to a healthy, dignified, and fulfilling life. Women4Water stands committed to advocating for these changes and working towards a future where every woman and girl can manage her menstrual hygiene safely, comfortably, and with pride," added the movement
Africa: Menstrual Equity Is the Key to a Healthier and More Equitable World
28 MAY 2024
UNFPA East and Southern Africa (Johannesburg)
Blog by Meron Negussie, UNFPA Regional Programme Specialist for Adolescents and Youth, to commemorate Menstrual Hygiene Day, 28 May 2024
Menstrual health is a non-negotiable human right in our urgent mission for universal access to sexual and reproductive health. Without access to menstrual education, information, products and services, we cannot meet UNFPA's transformative goals as a contribution to the SDGs, to enable millions on a journey towards equal opportunities and empowerment.
A pivotal moment in this vital journey occurred six years ago this month when UNFPA in East and Southern Africa held the inaugural Africa Menstrual Health Symposium. The resulting movement created a groundswell of support for improving menstrual health on the African continent.
For the first time, menstruation was embraced as integral to sexual and reproductive health. This movement was the first of its kind on the continent, marking a significant shift in the resolve for promotion of menstrual health as a human right.
The Johannesburg Call to Action: Improving Menstrual Health Management in Africa committed to ensuring menstrual health across the life cycle using a multisectoral approach. The birth of the African Coalition for Menstrual Health provided a much-needed compass to steer the menstrual health movement on the continent. It has emerged as the convener of choice for a dynamic community of menstrual health practitioners, advocates and experts across the private and public sectors.
Paving the way
Over the years, I have observed the strides made by the coalition in shaping a brighter future for menstrual health. The organization has driven significant changes across the region - such as the development of policies and strategies, the creation of regional and national standards for menstrual products, and the implementation of comprehensive processes. The coalition has supported and guided countries and regional partners in menstrual health programming and policy, ensuring that these issues are addressed with the seriousness they deserve.
I have witnessed the coalition leading joint advocacy and partnerships, to tackle key issues such as tax exemptions on menstrual health products. They have been at the forefront of driving evidence generation, bridging research and measurement gaps that have long hindered progress in this field.
At the country level, I have seen the impact of the coalition's work in East and Southern Africa. Menstrual health is gaining momentum, with education and awareness on the rise. School health clubs in Ethiopia and Uganda are leading the charge, empowering young people with knowledge and resources. Kenya and Tanzania are reaching youth through innovative programmes like Twaweza, while traditional and digital media ensure broader audiences understand the importance of menstrual health.
Access to menstrual health products is improving, with countries like Kenya and Zambia allocating national budgets to provide sanitary products in schools. Distribution drives in South Africa ensure that free products reach girls from low-income families, highlighting a commitment to access and affordability. The removal of taxes on menstrual health products is becoming more common, with Kenya, South Africa, Ethiopia, Lesotho and Rwanda eliminating import and sales duties on these essential items.
Inspirational grassroots initiatives are flourishing. Girls' homegrown production of sanitary products is gaining traction in Ethiopia, Rwanda, Uganda, Mozambique and Zambia, empowering communities and promoting sustainability. South Africa champions the procurement of sanitary products and related services from women-owned suppliers, fostering economic empowerment.
Even in the face of humanitarian and post-crisis settings, efforts to ensure dignity kits and access to safe sanitation facilities are making a difference in Ethiopia and Mozambique. These initiatives not only address basic human needs but uphold the dignity and well-being of people who experience trauma and displacement.
The coalition's dedication to menstrual health is truly transforming lives, creating a future where menstrual health is universally supported and celebrated, from pre-menarche to menopause.
On this wonderful journey, I pay tribute to UNFPA's former and current leadership, and colleagues in the ESA region, who have blazed the trail for menstrual health across Africa. Equally, I acknowledge the efforts of the MH Day team at Wash United and the Africa Coalition on Menstrual Health leadership for their relentless technical contributions, without which the story cannot be told.
A world reimagined
Imagine a world where every person can manage their menstrual health with dignity and ease. To turn this vision into reality, we must join forces to achieve a shared goal - as the United Nations, governments, donors, civil society organizations, academic institutions, schools, health-care providers, the private sector, traditional leaders, and community activists. We all need to work together to address menstrual health across a person's life course, not just during their reproductive years.
Consider the millions left behind simply because menstrual products are too expensive. Imagine if subsidies and local social entrepreneurs could lower production and delivery costs without compromising quality. Picture the impact of removing taxes on menstrual health products, as has been done in Kenya, Lesotho, Ethiopia, Rwanda, and Zimbabwe - it's a game-changer. We need to explore every avenue, including innovative financing, to ensure that everyone who menstruates has access to what they need.
To achieve our menstrual health goals, we must supercharge innovative solutions to reach more people. Envision embracing digital technology and non-tech approaches to accelerate progress. Solid research is crucial to discovering what works best and guiding our actions to achieve menstrual health for everyone, no matter their age. By examining the evidence, we will understand where we are falling short and how to improve the menstrual experience for all.
We cannot ignore the devastating impact of humanitarian crises on women, girls, and all those who menstruate. When disaster strikes, managing periods safely and with dignity becomes even harder. In these moments, we must act swiftly to ensure everyone has access to the menstrual products they need.
By addressing these challenges head-on and working together, we can create a #PeriodFriendlyWorld where menstrual health is universally supported and celebrated.
No comments:
Post a Comment