Members of the Kenya Women Parliamentary Association (KEWOPA) today convened a high-level round-table discussion focused on advancing menstrual health and hygiene management practices in the country.
The engagement, held in partnership with the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA), JHPIEGO/Momentum, and representatives from the Ministry of Health, highlighted the pressing challenges faced by adolescent girls across Kenya, particularly in accessing sanitary products and menstrual health education.
Speaking at the event, KEWOPA Vice Chairperson and Dagoretti North MP Hon. Beatrice Elachi underscored the importance of using real-time data to identify and reach school-going girls in need.
“We must connect with actual data of schoolgirls to ensure no girl is left behind due to lack of sanitary products,” Elachi stated, emphasizing the role of accurate information in policymaking.
The legislators praised efforts to institutionalize menstrual health, notably commending Nominated Senator Gloria Orwoba for championing the Provision of Sanitary Towels Bill, 2024. The proposed legislation seeks to ensure the free and consistent distribution of quality sanitary towels in all public schools and health facilities nationwide.
Nairobi County MP Hon. Esther Passaris described the Bill as a potential “game changer” for menstrual justice in Kenya. “If passed, the Bill will institutionalize free and quality provision of sanitary towels in public schools and facilities nationwide,” she said, adding that the initiative would address inequality and uphold the dignity of girls and women.
The meeting also explored avenues for stronger collaboration between Parliament, development partners, and government agencies to promote menstrual health education, combat stigma, and create sustainable solutions for hygiene management across the country.
.
0 $type={facebook}:
Post a Comment
Note: Only a member of this blog may post a comment.