We believe that every woman and girl deserve to live a life free from the challenges and limitations imposed by menstruation. Still, for many women around the world access to menstrual health products, education/information, supportive facilities and professional support remains a significant barrier. To address this issue head-on we are embarking on an extraordinary journey that combines adventures and advocacy: the Kilimanjaro Climb.
Periods are a natural body function. It is unacceptable that girls are stigmatized because they menstruate or miss school because they cannot afford menstrual health products. Over 70% of girls/women cannot afford menstrual products, resorting to unhygienic options such as mattress stuffing or dried leaves and grass. Furthermore, most youths are informed about puberty by adults in their communities; however, adults are often ill-informed, enabling the persistence of stigmas and taboos.
We recognize the importance of education in breaking the stigma and misconceptions surrounding menstruation. Through the Twaweza program, we aim to address the challenge and develop and implement comprehensive menstrual health education programs, reaching schools, community centres, and women's groups. These programs will empower individuals with knowledge about menstrual hygiene, reproductive health, and the importance of destigmatizing menstruation.
Investing in women's health is as important as addressing other health challenges. We believe in addressing systemic issues to support advocacy efforts focused on menstrual health. This will include collaborating with policymakers, local government leaders, engaging in awareness campaigns, and supporting organizations working to influence positive policy changes at local, national, and international levels.
