PADS AND PANTS INITIATIVE, NYAMIRA COUNTY, KENYA

Dear Esteemed Supporters and Partners,

We are thrilled to share the outcomes of the comprehensive training program conducted for duty bearers from Mwongori Sub-location. This initiative is aimed at addressing critical issues such as teenage pregnancy, menstrual hygiene, and the protection of young girls from harmful cultural practices. The training brought together 25 participants, including educationists, parents, community leaders, health providers, children officers, religious leaders, security officers, youth representatives, social service officers, community health volunteers, and the area chief. Throughout the sessions, participants delved into various topics, including the challenges faced by young girls during menstruation, the importance of menstrual hygiene for their education and overall well-being, and strategies to protect them from exploitation and abuse.

The objectives of the training were multi-faceted, aiming to raise awareness, equip duty bearers with essential knowledge, sensitize them on legal and social consequences, and foster collaboration between parents, teachers, and their girls. Participants were empowered with practical skills to support and empower young girls in managing their menstrual hygiene effectively, including the provision of sanitary pads. They were also trained to identify signs of vulnerability and protect girls from potential predators, such as motorcycle riders, who often exploit them for sexual favours.

Throughout the training, poignant testimonies underscored the urgency of our mission. Damaris, a teacher, highlighted the plight of girls missing school due to the lack of sanitary towels, often driven by poverty and vulnerability to exploitation. “Most of these girls come from poor families, and they are compelled to go out of their way to meet their needs and fend for their families. The boda boda men take advantage of the situation because they can offer financial assistance in exchange for sex. Due to poverty, some girls engage in prostitution to meet their basic needs, exposing them to higher risks of contracting STIs and teenage pregnancies. Lack of information on their sexual and reproductive health also promotes early sex due to peer pressure and curiosity. I kindly urge parents to be present and guide their daughters and provide basic needs to avoid them being lured by men,” implored Damaris.

Mr Shikobe, a security officer, emphasized the legal consequences for perpetrators of sexual abuse, urging community vigilance and support for initiatives like ours to safeguard our daughters' future. “The people who are always admiring these girls, do not be tempted to touch them, because Kamiti prison will be your next stopover,” he emphasized. “Let us protect our daughters, and provide for them the sanitary towels so that we can reduce the risks of them engaging in unwanted sexual behaviours in search of sanitary towels and other needs. When we go out there, we will advocate for this great initiative, he added.”

As the day concluded, participants expressed deep appreciation for the training and renewed commitment to championing the cause of protecting young girls within their spheres of influence. Their dedication and support are pivotal in ensuring the success of girls in their education.

We extend our heartfelt gratitude to all our supporters for their unwavering commitment to creating a safer and more inclusive community for our young girls.

Sincerely,
Doris kananu,
Program Director.