Harmony for Humanity Foundation has called for increased support towards menstrual hygiene for school girls in Monze District, citing lack of sanitary pads as one of the major challenges affecting girls’ education.
Speaking in an interview with the media today, Foundation Founder and Chief Executive Officer, Constantine Muchemwa said many families struggle to afford sanitary pads, especially in homes with several girl children, making it difficult for girls to manage menstruation with dignity.
Mr Muchemwa said limited menstrual health information, stigma surrounding periods, and lack of proper sanitation facilities in some schools have also worsened the situation.
He explained that some girls miss classes during their menstrual cycles due to lack of sanitary pads, which affects their academic performance and lowers their confidence in participating in school activities.
Mr Muchemwa noted that his organisation has been conducting awareness campaigns on menstrual hygiene and is working to partner with the Ministry of Education to expand outreach in schools and communities.
He disclosed that the foundation is preparing to launch reusable sanitary pads as a sustainable and affordable solution to help girls remain in school and reduce the burden on families.
Mr Muchemwa said the programme will involve training about 25 to 30 teachers in Monze District, who will later form menstrual hygiene clubs and train pupils in schools on how to make reusable pads.
He has since called on parents, schools and stakeholders to treat menstrual hygiene as a community responsibility and work together to create a period-friendly environment for every girl.
