MAKUENI MARKS WORLD MENSTRUAL HYGIENE DAY WITH CALL TO EMPOWER GIRLS.

The Department of Health Services on Thursday joined the rest of the world in commemorating World Menstrual Hygiene Day through an awareness and empowerment event held at Nziu Primary School grounds under the theme, “Together for a #PeriodFriendlyWorld.”

County Executive Committee Member (CECM) for Health Services Joyce Mutua called on society to create a supportive environment for girls free from stigma and discrimination associated with menstruation.

Speaking during the event, Mutua led county health officials in distributing dignity packs to learners from Nziu Primary School, Nziu Vocational Training Centre and neighbouring schools.

She lauded the government for supporting menstrual hygiene programmes aimed at improving the welfare and dignity of school-going girls.

The CECM further urged girls to remain focused on their education and seek proper guidance to avoid early pregnancies, noting that some cases result in childbirth complications and premature births.

She also called on chiefs and local administrators to take firm action against individuals involved in defiling and impregnating school-going girls.

Makueni Sub-County Deputy County Commissioner Paul Langat called for increased support for school-going girls, urging schools and stakeholders to improve sanitation and hygiene facilities to enable girls to learn comfortably and confidently during their menstrual cycle.

The event featured health talks, menstrual hygiene awareness sessions and the issuance of dignity packs.

It brought together county officials, education stakeholders, health officers and community leaders in promoting dignity, health and equal opportunities for girls.