Menstruation is an integral and normal part of human life, indeed of human existence, and menstrual hygiene is fundamental to the dignity and well being of women and girls and an important part of the basic hygiene, sanitation and reproductive health services to which every woman and girl has a right. Globally, approximately 52% of the female population 26% of the total population is of reproductive age. Most of these women and girls will menstruate each month for between two and seven days.
Women and girls in rural setting suffer from stigma and lack of services and facilities to help them cope with the physical and psychological pains they undergo during their menstrual periods; inadequate preparations for the young girls not yet experiencing menstrual hygiene, inadequate water to clean and wash the body, lack of materials managing menstrual hygiene, private space and wash rooms. 70% of the girl pupils report to miss 1-3 days of primary school per month
The organization proposes to build capacity of Girl schools and teachers in improving and upholding menstrual hygiene and sanitation in selected primary schools of Nyimba District. MDF will offer direct in-kind support to schools and selected girls, train them in menstrual hygiene and sanitation practices and encourage the replication of acquired knowledge at household levels. At the same time focus on increasing awareness and capacity of young girls to deal with menstrual hygiene.
Increased school completion rate among targeted girls supported by this project; Reduced stigma and isolation of girls from boys due to improved knowledge and understanding on menstrual hygiene; Reduced school absenteeism; and reduced cost of purchase of disposable sanitary pads
This project has provided additional documentation in a DOCX file (projdoc.docx).
