By George M.O Williams
Freetown, June 1, 2025 – In honor of Menstrual Hygiene Day 2025, the Zonta Club of Freetown hosted an educational engagement on Saturday, May 31, at Vine Memorial Secondary School to promote healthy menstrual practices and raise awareness among pupils.
Menstrual Hygiene Day, observed globally on May 28, aims to break taboos, dispel myths, improve access to menstrual products, and empower girls to manage their periods with dignity and confidence.
Advancing Girls’ Empowerment and Gender Equality
Speaking at the event, District Governor of Zonta District 18, Opeibea Omaboe, emphasized that Zonta’s mission aligns with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, particularly Goals 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, and 10, which focus on eradicating poverty, ensuring quality education, achieving gender equality, and reducing inequalities.
Omaboe stressed the importance of providing menstrual hygiene products to schoolgirls, noting that access to such resources is crucial for their confidence and consistent school attendance.
“The journey of life is not easy, but your ability to focus is the key to success,” she advised students, encouraging them to prioritize their education.
Community Collaboration in Addressing Period Poverty
One of the facilitators, Baindu Taylor, shared essential information about menstruation and proper hygiene practices. Vice President of the Zonta Club of Freetown, Zon Sophie Johnson, highlighted the significance of collective community efforts in combating period poverty, particularly in the Murray Town area.
She called for collaboration among parents, teachers, boys, and organizations to foster a period-friendly Sierra Leone.
“Menstruation is a natural process that should be managed with dignity,” Johnson stated. “Let us work together to ensure no girl misses school due to her period.”
She also encouraged boys to be supportive allies and affirmed that the event marked the beginning of sustained advocacy for menstrual health and girls’ empowerment in the country.
Providing Practical Support and Education
As part of the initiative, participating students received menstrual hygiene products, reinforcing the commitment to both education and practical assistance.
The students actively engaged in interactive discussions and knowledge-building activities, making the event a meaningful step forward in promoting gender equality and educational opportunities in Sierra Leone.
The Zonta Club of Freetown’s efforts reflect a broader push to ensure that no girl is held back by her period, reaffirming the need for continued dialogue and action to support menstrual health and education.