Mangaliso Kabulika
GIRL child activist Tadiwanashe Nkwala has called for access to proper menstrual hygiene management for rural girls to help them pursue their education and realise their full potential. Tadiwanashe said many girls in rural areas miss school due to a lack of sanitary products, and some resort to using cow dung and unclean cloths, which exposes them to reproductive organ-related diseases.
She called on local organisations and stakeholders to collaborate and distribute sanitary products, build clean and private toilet facilities, and conduct workshops on menstrual health and hygiene. Tadiwanashe also stressed the need to sensitise the boy child on menstrual health, as many girls face stigma from boys when on their periods.
“In many remote areas, girls lack access to sanitary products, proper sanitation facilities and education about menstrual health.
“This creates a cycle of missed opportunities and perpetuates gender inequality. Due to lack of money to buy sanitary products, most girls end up absenting themselves from school and even in worse situations they miss their examinations.
“By empowering girls with knowledge and resources, we enable them to stay in school, pursue their dreams, and break free from the limitations imposed by their circumstances.
“I envision a world where every girl, regardless of her background, has equal opportunities to education, healthcare, and a dignified life.
“By investing in their well-being and education, we can unlock their immense potential and create positive change in their communities,” she said.