Murang'a: A section of leaders from the public and private sectors in Murang'a have challenged the government to come up with measures that will ensure girls from poor backgrounds don't miss classes due to menstruation. During an event to mark World Menstrual Hygiene Day that was organized by Murang'a Water and Sanitation Company (Muwasco) among other institutions, various leaders called upon relevant state agencies and ministries to ensure girls and especially those from poor backgrounds access sanitary pads for free.
According to Kenya News Agency, key speakers during the event held at Maragua town underscored a collective commitment to advancing menstrual health, breaking taboos, and ensuring that no girl is left behind due to period poverty. Muwasco Managing Director Eng. Daniel Ng'ang'a emphasized the importance of male involvement in menstrual hygiene conversations. "As men, we must break the stigma and support women and girls. Menstrual hygiene is not just a women's issue, it's a human dignity issue," he stated.
He also praised the efforts of Women in Water Association (WIWA) organization for spearheading initiatives that ensure no girl misses school due to lack of sanitary products and called for continued collaboration with the community. "The event has been organized by Muwasco and WIWA to help distribute sanitary pads to disadvantaged girls. The occasion also focused on dignity, awareness, and empowerment for girls and women," noted Ng'ang'a.
WIWA's Executive Officer, Margret Maina, highlighted the day's achievements, including the distribution of sanitary pads to school-going girls in underserved areas. "We believe that access to menstrual products is a basic right. Today we've not only distributed pads but also educated communities on how to support women and girls during their periods- with dignity and respect," she said.
A Murang'a MCA, Margret Wanjiku, called on both county and national governments to take deliberate action by allocating funds to menstrual health initiatives. "We need dedicated budgets to supply sanitary towels, improve sanitation facilities in schools, and offer menstrual health education. This is key to keeping our girls in school and protecting their health," Wanjiku urged.
Nominated MCA Gladys Wangui, popularly known as Mama Mazingira, lauded various organizations led by Muwasco for organizing the event and taking bold steps to educate young girls on menstrual health. "This initiative goes beyond just giving out pads, it teaches these girls how to maintain hygiene, and how to care for themselves, and most importantly, that there is no shame in being a woman. Muwasco has set a great example that others should follow," she remarked.
The leaders collectively called for increased public sensitization to eliminate myths and shame associated with menstruation. They stressed that education is critical in shifting societal attitudes and empowering both boys and girls with the knowledge to treat menstrual health with the respect it deserves. The event served not only as a celebration of progress but also a reminder that more needs to be done to ensure every girl and woman experiences her period safely, hygienically, and with pride.