Campaign to Combat Menstruation Stigma in Kenya

Campaign to Combat Menstruation Stigma in Kenya.

The heartbreaking death of a 14-year-old schoolgirl in 2019 highlighted the harsh realities of period stigma in Kenya.

This young girl, a Standard 6 pupil from Kabiangek village in Bomet County, died by suicide after being humiliated by a teacher for soiling her dress during her first period.

Living with her grandparents, her story became a stark reminder of how menstrual stigma can devastate lives.

In response, a nationwide campaign titled Flow With Pride has been launched to tackle period stigma and promote menstrual health and dignity.

The initiative, spearheaded by the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) and the Embassy of Denmark in Kenya, aims to combat harmful stereotypes, misinformation, and the associated barriers that perpetuate gender inequality.

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Despite menstruation being a natural and healthy part of life, it remains shrouded in stigma, rooted in cultural taboos.

UNFPA Kenya Representative Anders Thomsen emphasized that stigma and shame prevent girls and women from achieving their academic, social, and economic goals. He urged society to embrace menstruation as normal and healthy, ensuring no girl is left behind.

Addressing Period Poverty and Raising Awareness

A significant component of the campaign includes community screenings of the film Impure. Inspired by the tragic 2019 incident, the coming-of-age story sheds light on the challenges faced by menstruating girls.

Screenings will take place in Nairobi, Bomet, West Pokot, Turkana, Garissa, and Kwale, accompanied by open dialogues designed to address harmful societal norms and create safe spaces for discussions on menstrual health.

Challenges in accessing menstrual health products, limited information, and inadequate care for complications continue to marginalize women and girls in Kenya. A 2016 study revealed that only 46% of Kenyan women had adequate feminine hygiene materials.

Moreover, a situational analysis by the Ministry of Health indicated that over half of Kenyan girls struggle to access menstrual hygiene products, resulting in some missing up to 20% of the academic year.

Advocating for Policy Change

In addition to community engagements, the campaign advocates for increased government action, improved menstrual health policies, and enhanced funding for initiatives.

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Danish Ambassador Stephan Schønemann stated that Denmark remains committed to empowering girls and women, highlighting that improved menstrual health boosts school attendance, work participation, and overall mental well-being.

The Flow With Pride campaign, running until December 2025, aims to unite civil society, grassroots organizations, government agencies, and private sector partners. Together, these entities will strive to ensure menstrual health is prioritized and dignity is restored to millions of Kenyan girls and women.

By addressing both stigma and accessibility challenges, this initiative seeks to create a future where menstruation no longer hinders education, work opportunities, or personal development for women and girls in Kenya.

Campaign to Combat Menstruation Stigma in Kenya.

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