EMPOWERING MENSTRUAL DIGNITY:GIRLS WITH DISABILITY

Dear Friends, Supporters, and Cheerleaders,

Thanks to your continued generosity and belief in our mission, we were able to hold a special and inclusive sporting event for children with disabilities in Nakeel on 21st March, 2024. This event brought together 65 girls and 45 boys living with disabilities, along with 10 dedicated teachers.

The day was filled with joy, laughter, and movement as the children engaged in various fun and inclusive games including tug of war, balloon bursting, and races. The activities were designed to build confidence, encourage teamwork, and most importantly, create a space of dignity and inclusion for girls and boys with disabilities.

We were thrilled to award trophies, books, and pens to the winners of the sporting competitions. Each child's smile was a beautiful reminder of how much these moments matter. To further our commitment to menstrual and personal hygiene, we provided sanitary pads to all the girls and boxers to the boys a gesture that brought comfort, excitement, and relief to many.

The event was honored by the presence of several esteemed guests: the Assistant County Commissioner, members of the Community Policing Unit, the Social Services Officer, the Officer Commanding Station - Gender Office, the Deputy Commanding Officer, and the Youth Representative. These leaders gave brief yet powerful speeches that touched on:

• Disability awareness and the rights of children with disabilities

• Menstrual health and hygiene management

• Gender-Based Violence (GBV) prevention

They commended HFAW for organizing such a meaningful event and expressed their willingness to support more of these initiatives in the future.

The impact of the event extended beyond the games. One of the girls told us, “I felt happy to be here today. I liked the races and also the pads you gave us.” A boy remarked, “Thank you for the boxers and games. I want to come again.” Teachers also shared how the event opened up conversations around dignity, disability, and protection in a safe and engaging way.

This was more than just a fun day. It was a day of empowerment, inclusion, and dignity for children who are too often left behind. The smiles, the cheers, the speeches, and the gratitude made it a day to remember for all.

To everyone who made this possible: thank you. Your support means everything to us and to the children we serve. Please continue sharing our mission with your networks. Together, we can create a world where no child is left behind, no matter their ability.

With gratitude,

Sincerely,

Doris Kananu Muthengi

Program Director, HFAW.