UNFPA The Gambia marked Menstrual Health and Hygiene Day by distributing menstrual pads and conducting enlightening conversations with members of a local female football team in Sabi, Basse, Upper River Region. The initiative aimed to raise awareness about menstrual health and hygiene, emphasizing the importance of proper menstrual care and its impact on the lives of women and girls.

UNFPA The Gambia visited Sabi Upper Basic School where an engagement on menstrual health and hygiene was held. Later that evening, the team met and engaged with the energetic members of a female football team of Sabi. As part of the Menstrual Health and Hygiene Day celebrations, UNFPA distributed menstrual pads to the team and engaged them in an open discussion about menstrual health. This initiative is part of a broader effort to destigmatize menstruation and ensure that young women have the resources and knowledge they need to manage their periods safely and with dignity.

During the visit, team members shared their personal experiences and insights on what menstrual health and hygiene mean to them. Nyima Sumbulou, a member of the team, highlighted the importance of access to menstrual products.

"Having access to pads means we can go to school and play football without worrying about stains or discomfort. It allows us to focus on our goals and perform our best," she said.

Another team member, Awa Sumbulou, spoke about the need for education on menstrual health saying not much about the subject is discussed in school.

"Many girls don't know how to manage their periods properly because there's not enough information.  Programs like this help break the silence and educate us on how to take care of ourselves. I believe that menstruation is a normal part of life, and I am not ashamed of it”

UNFPA The Gambia's initiative aligns with ongoing efforts to promote reproductive health and rights, particularly for women and girls. By providing menstrual products and fostering open conversations about menstrual health, UNFPA aims to create an environment where menstruation is not a barrier to education, sports, or any aspect of life.

The celebration of Menstrual Health and Hygiene Day by UNFPA The Gambia underscores the organization's commitment to addressing menstrual health challenges and supporting women and girls in their communities. As the team members expressed their gratitude and newfound confidence, it was clear that initiatives like these are vital in creating a supportive and informed society where no girl is held back by her period.

Media contact: Fatoumatta Cham-Program Analyst,Communications (fcham@unfpa.org)