Tackling Period Poverty and Stigma Through Youth Mentorship

The consequences of poor MHM practices are far-reaching. They can lead to physical discomfort, infections, and embarrassment, causing girls to miss school. In our ongoing fight to empower girls and ensure their full potential, ROF recently participated in activities surrounding Menstrual Hygiene Day, which is internationally celebrated every May 28th.  We recognized the challenges faced by many girls, particularly in rural areas where most of our beneficiaries are located. These girls often lack access to resources and education on proper menstrual hygiene management (MHM)​

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The consequences of poor MHM practices are far-reaching. They can lead to physical discomfort, infections, and embarrassment, causing girls to miss school. This absenteeism can contribute to falling behind academically and even school dropout. Furthermore, a lack of awareness about menstruation can leave girls vulnerable to misinformation and unable to manage their periods safely. This can increase the risk of teenage pregnancy and even HIV/AIDS reinfection if girls are unable to negotiate safe sex practices due to menstrual shame.

ROF's approach centers on mentorship and open dialogue. We partner with other organizations to deliver educational programs and mentorship sessions for both girls and boys. By fostering a supportive environment and educating youth about MHM, sexual health, and gender equality, we aim to break the silence surrounding menstruation. This empowers young people to make informed choices and creates a more inclusive school environment, ultimately contributing to a reduction in school dropout rates, teenage pregnancy, and HIV/AIDS reinfections.
This year's theme for Menstrual Hygiene Day was #PERIODFRIENDLYWORLD. We aimed to raise awareness about the stigma and taboos surrounding menstruation. We strive to achieve a world where everyone can access the menstrual products, education, and facilities they need.

In the lead-up to Menstrual Hygiene Day, we partnered with other CSOs in Kisumu and reached over 100 adolescent girls with comprehensive MHM education through Nyalenda period festival. Additionally, on May 28th, we collaborated with Hope Rekindled Initiative and SPUR Afrika to conduct mentorship sessions at Sabembe Secondary School. Here, we engaged 272 students, including boys, in sessions focused on MHM, teen pregnancy prevention, and open dialogue.
In both activities, students learned about: health and menstruation-Students learned about the biological process behind menstruation, empowering them to manage their periods with confidence. They gained knowledge about hormonal changes, physical symptoms, and what to expect during their cycles. Potential risks of poor menstrual hygiene management, The sessions addressed the dangers of improper hygiene practices, such as UTIs, vaginal infections, and RTIs. This knowledge encouraged the students to prioritize good hygiene and seek help if needed. Health risks associated with sanitary products and materials used for menstruation How to stay healthy during their menstrual period;We emphasized the importance of maintaining good health during periods. This included maintaining a balanced diet, staying hydrated, getting enough sleep, and managing pain safely. Period stigma; We tackled the negative attitudes and social stigma surrounding menstruation. By addressing myths and misconceptions, we encourage open communication and foster a supportive environment for both girls and boys.
One of the most impactful aspects of the day was witnessing the students' willingness to engage in open dialogue and demos. By creating a safe space for discussion, we allowed students to share their thoughts, ask questions, and learn from one another. This open communication is crucial in breaking down the stigma and creating a supportive community where everyone feels valued and understood.
At the end, students were provided with menstrual products. We also issued a call to action for all stakeholders to participate in ending period stigma, period poverty, and period shame.
By including boys in the conversation, we aim to foster gender equity and create a more supportive environment. Our goal is to break the silence surrounding menstruation and empower young minds through education. With a blend of entertainment, open dialogue, and mentorship, we can work together to create a world where every individual has access to safe, dignified, and #PeriodPositive menstrual hygiene management.
Mentorship programs address the interconnected issues of HIV/AIDS, teenage pregnancy, and gender-based violence, all of which are exacerbated by period poverty. With a blend of entertainment, open dialogue, and mentorship, we can work together to create a world where everyone has access to safe, dignified, and #PeriodPositive menstrual hygiene management. This will empower girls to reach their full potential and ensure a brighter future for all

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