Menstrual Health and Hygiene Management Day Seminar: A Celebration of Empowerment and Dignity
In a powerful celebration of dignity and empowerment, the annual Menstrual Health and Hygiene Management Day marked its fifth consecutive year with an impactful collaboration between Girl Puberty Initiative and Slum Girls Initiative. The event, themed “MY PERIOD, PERIOD!” brought together 153 bright young minds from six distinguished schools on October 19th, 2024, at the prestigious St. Johns Amphitheatre, Korogocho, Nairobi, Kenya.
Despite a slight delay with the schools’ arrival pushing the start time to 10:00 AM, the atmosphere remained charged with enthusiasm. The event commenced with a heartfelt prayer led by a pupil from Pricey Primary School, setting a reflective tone for the day.
Participating Schools
Our distinguished participants represented:
- New Starlight School
- Maranatha School
- Church Road Educational Centre
- Tortola School
- Emmaus Educational Centre
- Pricey Educational Centre
Each institution was accompanied by two dedicated guidance and counseling teachers, ensuring comprehensive support for their students.
Administrative Support & Compliance
The event received full backing from key community stakeholders:
- Sub County Children Office
- Area Chief
- OCS Korogocho Police Station
In alignment with best practices, comprehensive consent was obtained from all participating schools for:
- Student attendance
- Photography permissions
- Media usage rights (social media and sponsor platforms)
Welcoming Remarks and Acknowledgments
Janny Marangu, the esteemed Director of the Slum Girls Initiative, took the stage to extend a warm welcome to all attendees. Her words resonated with gratitude and recognition of the event’s profound impact on the lives of young girls. Janny eloquently addressed the theme, emphasizing the collective responsibility to ensure access to quality sanitary products and safe educational environments free from exploitation.
In a significant moment of partnership and solidarity, Janny introduced key figures from the Girl Puberty Initiative Madam Jane Wangari, Madam Mukiri Kiogora, and Madam Esther Ndekele. Their invaluable support and dedication to funding the event was highlighted, drawing applause and appreciation from the audience.
Event Highlights and Community Engagement
The seminar was not just an event but a beacon of hope and empowerment for teenage girls from the most underprivileged backgrounds. Each participant left with a Dignity Self-care Kit; a symbol of the knowledge and power gained through such enriching experiences. The involvement of local authorities and the consent for media sharing underscored the community’s support and commitment to raising awareness and fostering change.
As we reflect on this remarkable day, we are reminded of the strength and potential of young women when supported by their community and leaders. The Menstrual Health and Hygiene Management Day Seminars continue to be a cornerstone event, restoring dignity and confidence through essential training and empowerment.
Ø Mr. Harrison Mkeka – Area Chief
Ø Mrs. Alice Mukiri Kiogora – Girl Puberty Initiative
Ø Madam Esther Ndekele – Girl Puberty Initiative
Ø Miss. Bridgit Ngesa – Divah Girls
Ø Miss. Judith Ochieng – Women United for Social Transformation
Ø Mr. Elijah Kutai – Community Health Promoter
Ø Mrs. Ann Mbala – Community Health Promote
School Recognition Ceremony
The day began with Ms. Janny Marangu, who warmly welcomed the attendees and introduced Mrs. Alice Mukiri from the Girl Puberty Initiative. Mrs. Mukiri took the stage to recognize each school and opened the event with inspiring biblical verses, setting a tone of reverence and motivation.
Official Opening Address
The Area Chief delivered a compelling opening address, highlighting:
- The exemplary work of Slum Girls Initiative in Korogocho and collaborations such as with Girl Puberty Initiative.
- A call for increased community participation in youth development
- Priority focus areas:
- Educational advancement
- Menstrual hygiene initiatives
- Drug abuse prevention
- An urgent appeal for immediate community action
Featured Presentations
The Power of Speaking Up – Miss Bridgit Ngesa
In an interactive and dynamic session, Miss Ngesa encouraged the girls to express themselves and advocate for those less heard and explored:
- The transformative impact of vocal advocacy
- Balancing positive and challenging aspects of speaking out
- Understanding personal barriers to self-expression
- Engaging dialogue through thought-provoking questions
Self-Awareness & Peer Pressure – Miss Judith Ochieng
This energetic presentation highlighted the importance of self-awareness in making informed decisions and boosting confidence. The session featured:
- Interactive dance elements
- Youth-friendly communication in local slang, “sheng” dialect
- Key takeaways:
- Enhanced decision-making through self-awareness
- Building confidence and personal clarity
- Breaking free from biases and assumption
Menstrual Hygiene Management
Two powerful perspectives were shared:
Esther Ndekele’s Personal Journey:
- Shared authentic experiences from her youth
- Highlighted societal evolution in MHM discussions
- Reviewed the comprehensive Puberty Queen booklet
- Commended SGI’s impactful work in Korogocho
Mrs. Alice Mukiri’s Expert Insights:
- Delivered practical hygiene management strategies
- Integrated spiritual guidance
- Created an engaging, interactive learning environment
Substance Abuse Prevention – Ms. Janny Marangu
The SGI founder led an interactive session covering:
- Collaborative definition of key terms
- Community-specific substance challenges
- Brain development and substance use risks
- Prevention strategies for youth
Event Highlights
Dignity Kit Distribution
Each participant received a comprehensive care package including:
- Sanitary pads
- Two sets of underwear
- Personal hygiene essentials – soap, tissue paper, a small jar of petroleum jelly (Arimis brand)
- Puberty Queen educational booklet
Refreshments & Entertainment
The day was further enriched with performances from children from the schools attending, including poems and dances that echoed the theme of the event. Refreshments were provided, adding to the communal and celebratory atmosphere.
Support & Recognition
Special thanks were extended to the Girl Puberty Initiative, led by Madam Jane Wangari, whose generous sponsorship and unwavering support was crucial in making the event possible.
Challenges & Future Considerations
- Schedule conflicts with some regular participating schools
- Identified need for expanded partnerships
- Growing demand for similar engagement opportunities
Conclusion
The 2024 Day Seminar was a resounding success, concluding at 1:30 PM, leaving a lasting impression of empowerment and a call to action for continued collaboration to support menstrual hygiene management. This event not only addressed important health topics but also fostered a sense of community and support among the young participants, paving the way for future initiatives