Menstrual hygiene critical aspect of healthcare – NGO reveals

The Youth Empowerment Foundation (YEF), an NGO says Menstrual hygiene is a critical aspect of healthcare, hence the need to create awareness and provide accessible solutions to attaining same is important and timely.

READ ALSO:FG, stakeholders collaborate to enhance menstrual hygiene

Mrs Iwalola Akin-Jimoh, Executive Secretary of YEF, made the assertion at a stakeholders meeting held at Gbaja Senior High School in Surulere, Lagos.

According to her, in a bid to promote Menstrual Hygiene Management among girls and women, the YEF is currently partnering the United States Agency for International Development (USAID), to develop “My Period App”.

She said the app would empower young women and girls through education and economic opportunities.

Akin-Jimoh said: ”Menstrual hygiene is a critical aspect of healthcare, and we are committed to creating awareness and providing accessible solutions.

“The knowledge, attitude, and practice gaps in menstrual hygiene among girls and young women must be addressed.

“Our objective is to improve access to safe water and sanitation, increase availability of affordable menstrual hygiene management commodities, enhance knowledge on MHM, and reduce hygiene-related health risks.”

According to her, training will commence on Oct. 4 for students in selected schools in District four, followed by nvestigations in schools, markets, churches, and mosques across the district.

Speaking also, Mr Tony Eleme of YEF, said the foundation’s collaboration with USAID demonstrated its commitment ro prioritising menstrual health in Nigeria.

“We believe that every girl and woman deserve access to quality menstrual health service”..

” Some of the stakeholders that will be part of this project include, school authorities, community leaders, and religious organisations.

“They have been tasked with roles and responsibilities to ensure the success of the project

“The “My Period App” initiative is expected to make a significant impact on the lives of young women and girls in urban communities, promoting a healthier and more empowered future, “Eleme said.

NAN/Wumi