Samfya District Commissioner (DC) Nason Bwalya says the silence about menstruation and limited access to information results in many girls missing lessons when they are menstruating.
Mr. Bwalya said many girls in rural areas miss classes because schools do not have facilities where they can change and dispose their menstrual waste.
He explained that poor access to affordable sanitary materials is also a challenge for girls in schools to manage their periods effectively.
Mr. Bwalya added that, these problems are more worsened by inadequate access to safe and private toilets.
ZANIS in Samfya reports that Mr. Bwalya was speaking yesterday at Chibolya Secondary School during the commemoration of Menstrual Hygiene Day.
He explained that Menstrual Hygiene Day was created to publicly recognize the right of women to hygienically manage their periods wherever they are.
Mr. Bwalya added that, this day confronts the stigma attached to menstruation with collective advocacy, education and action aimed at breaking the silence.
He has since assured the pupils that government will continue to support such initiatives both at district and community level.
And Water Aid Zambia Program Officer Jameson Lubingo said the organization is fully committed to support the provision of adequate water and hygiene facilities in schools.
Mr. Lubingo has since urged pupils to support discussions that will help break the silence and stigma about menstruation.
Genuine concern! The NGOs responsible should take heed and distribute the sanitary pads to the girls and sensitize them not to allow boys access to sensitive installations.