Wajir First Lady, woman rep call for more resources for menstrual health

Wajir First Lady Mama Rukia Abdinasir and Woman Representative Fatuma Jehow Menstrual Hygiene Day at Hon Khalif Secondary School in Griftu, Wajir County on May 28, 2024. [Mohamed Saman, Standard]

Wajir First Lady Mama Rukia Abdinasir in collaboration with Woman Representative Fatuma Jehow has called for more resource allocation to deal with menstrual health.

Speaking today during the commemoration of World Menstrual Hygiene Day in Griftu, the duo said a time has come to raise awareness, break the stigma surrounding menstruation, and ensure that all women and girls have access to essential menstrual hygiene resources.

While emphasizing the importance of menstrual hygiene and its impact on women's health and dignity, they highlighted the need for continuous education and resource allocation to support menstrual health.

"Menstrual hygiene is a vital aspect of women's health that must be addressed with urgency and sensitivity," said Mama Rukia Abdinasir adding, “We are committed to ensuring that no woman or girl in Wajir County is left behind in this important cause."

The event held at Hon Khalif Secondary School saw the duo distribute sanitary products to women and girls in the community.

Woman Rep Jehow said the kind gesture was aimed at providing immediate relief and support to those who struggle to access these essential items.

“Access to sanitary products is a basic necessity, not a luxury. By providing these resources, we are taking a crucial step toward empowering our women and girls," said Jehow.

The event also featured interactive sessions where community members could share their experiences and challenges related to menstrual hygiene.

Health experts provided valuable information on managing menstrual health and debunked common myths and misconceptions.

The discussions fostered a supportive environment and encouraged open dialogue about menstruation, aiming to eliminate the stigma associated with it.

Jehow said celebrating the day in Griftu marked a significant milestone in the ongoing efforts to promote menstrual health and hygiene within the county.

“It is worth noting the importance of addressing menstrual hygiene as a critical aspect of women's health and empowerment. As these initiatives continue to gain momentum, the future looks promising for the women and girls,” she said.

She said with collaborative efforts, the county will embark on more extensive educational campaigns and the establishment of menstrual hygiene management programs in schools and community centers.

This she said will create a sustainable and inclusive approach to menstrual health that benefits all women and girls in the region.