May 28 marks Menstrual Hygiene Day, an international observance that highlights the importance of menstrual care and raises awareness of the social issues women face during and due to menstruation. This year's theme is 'To create a world where no woman or girl is held back because they menstruate, by 2030.'
Kenya has made some progress in addressing menstrual poverty, including the removal of tax on period products in 2004 and the introduction of a law requiring schools to provide free sanitary napkins to female students in 2017. However, the implementation of this law has been marred by theft and poor distribution.
Studies have shown that 65% of Kenyan women and girls cannot afford basic sanitary pads, leading to a vicious cycle of perpetuated patriarchy, dependence, and exploitation. Many girls miss school, averaging 4-5 days per month, due to lack of sanitary pads and inadequate sanitary facilities in schools.
Factors such as gender inequality, discriminatory social norms, cultural taboos, poverty, and lack of basic services exacerbate the vulnerability of girls and women. The menstrual predicament has also led to physical violence against women and girls.
Increased access to sexual and reproductive health products can be attained through the mapping out of poor families in marginalized areas, informal settlements, and rural areas. A public-private partnership can expand the financial and sanitary towel base, reducing the prices of towels to beat high inflation.
Providing pragmatic and factual menstrual information to girls and young women can empower them to manage the process without embarrassment or stigma. Awareness and openness about menstrual health and hygiene are key to supporting SDG 5 and achieving a more gender-equal society.
