Menstruation is a natural and integral part of the female reproductive cycle, yet for countless women and girls around the world, it remains shrouded in silence, shame, and stigma.
Vcare for Development Foundation (VCDF), in collaboration with Sterling Oil Exploration & Energy Production Co. Ltd. (SEEPCO), has launched a program titled “Menstrual Hygiene Management (MHM)” with the tagline, “Break the Silence” to tackle menstrual poverty among adolescent in-school girls in District V of Lagos State and four local government areas (LGAs) in Akwa Ibom State which include Eastern Obolo, Onna, Ikot Abasi and Ekpat Enin.
The program, launched on November 19, 2023, aimed to educate 1,001 in-school girls in Lagos and 1,500 in Akwa Ibom States on the risks of poor menstrual hygiene management. It included education campaigns, access to affordable products, and capacity-building initiatives. The program aimed to promote menstrual hygiene practices, empower women and girls, and improve their overall quality of life.
Empowerment was a key focus, with the program aiming to instilling self-confidence among in-school adolescent girls, enabling them to navigate their menstrual cycles with confidence. Participants were taught proper handwashing techniques, contributing to overall hygiene and health. VCDF also addressed the issue of Sexual and Gender-Based Violence (SGBV), educating girls and teachers on reporting channels and providing support.
The program trained 1,001 girls and 60 teachers in Lagos and 1,500 girls and 80 teachers in Akwa Ibom on menstrual hygiene management. Dignity kits with essential items like sanitary pads, disinfectant soap, handkerchiefs, tote bags, and FAQ booklets were distributed to support menstrual hygiene practices.
To share the achievements, findings, challenges, and sustainability plan of the program, VCDF disseminated information on 6 March 2024 during a meeting attended by stakeholders including in-school adolescent girls, teachers, principals, and dignitaries from the State Ministry of Basic and Secondary Education. This gathering marked an important milestone in the program’s journey towards empowering women and girls and promoting menstrual hygiene in the community.
Breaking the silence is not just about managing periods; it’s about empowering women and girls, fostering confidence, and creating a future where menstruation is managed with dignity, not shame.
As we continue this journey, let us stand together in solidarity, knowing that our efforts are making a tangible difference in the lives of those we serve.