MOLO—Deputy County Commissioner Ngura Mwamachi has called for increased education of the boy child on menstrual hygiene to support their female peers and combat stigma. During a sanitary pad distribution event in Molo, Mwamachi emphasized the importance of boys understanding and empathizing with the physiological changes girls experience during menstruation.
According to Kenya News Agency, the initiative aims to prevent girls from avoiding social and educational activities due to fear of embarrassment or teasing from boys. He pointed out that many girls opt to miss school during their periods, which affects their academic participation and social interaction. The Deputy County Commissioner stressed that boys should be allies, helping to create an environment where girls feel comfortable and supported during their menstrual cycle.
The event saw the distribution of 68,536 sanitary pads to 56 schools within the sub-county, as part of a broader national effort supported by the State Department for Gender and Affirmative Action. Each student is expected to receive eight packets of sanitary pads, ensuring they are well-equipped for several months.
Sylvester Musikoye, the area’s Sub-County Director of Education, also spoke at the function, urging girls to openly communicate their needs during menstruation to teachers or parents to receive necessary support. He reinforced that there should be no shame associated with attending school during their periods.
This educational and support initiative has been funded with Sh876 million to benefit over two million girls in public primary, junior, and special schools across the country, highlighting a significant move towards gender-sensitive educational policies.