Empowering Girls to Overcome Menstrual Hygiene Challenges in Marsabit County
Supporting girls during menstruation
Life in the remote village of Ndikir in Marsabit County has been a constant struggle for 14-year-old Nancy Leitana. As a Grade 7 learner at Ndikir Primary School, she has faced numerous challenges to remain in school, including the harsh realities of her arid environment and the lack of basic resources.
Beyond the challenges of menstrual hygiene, girls like Leitana are exposed to other risks, such as early marriage, teenage pregnancy, and the devastating effects of prolonged droughts and recent floods.
"My parents couldn't afford sanitary pads," Leitana recalls. "But when I came to school, my teachers provided me not only with pads but also a bucket and soap for my menstrual needs. This has made a huge difference. I no longer feel embarrassed or ashamed during my periods, and I can continue my education without interruption."
Leitana is one of the many girls who have benefited from hygiene promotion programmes in Marsabit County. In addition to menstrual hygiene kits, she has received books and other stationery to support her studies.
With funding from CERF (Central Emergency Response Fund), UNICEF Kenya has been able to implement menstrual hygiene management, Hygiene promotion and water supply programmes in vulnerable communities, schools and Health Care facilities across Marsabit and Mandera Counties. "For girls in need, we provide essential supplies like sanitary pads, buckets, and soap to help them stay in school and live with dignity," explains Agnes Makanyi, WASH Specialist at UNICEF Kenya.
"We prioritize gender sensitive sanitation facilities in schools, ensuring privacy and a hygienic environment for girls during menstruation," says Agnes Makanyi. "These programmes have significantly improved school retention rates, particularly for adolescent girls in these marginalized communities."
"Our goal is to empower every woman and girl in these regions to practice their menstruation with dignity," Makanyi adds.
Leitana is among over 12,850 girls from 51 schools in Marsabit and Mandera Counties who have been supported through these programmes funded by CERF to continue their education. "When I grow up, I want to become a health worker and help children and women in my community," she says with determination.
