Polycom Girls, in Kibera, joined the rest of the world in commemorating International period Hygiene Day on Thursday, May 28th, by calling on the government to provide long-term financing for period products in public schools.
This year’s theme was “Together for a Period Friendly World,” and the organisation urged everyone to take action to ensure that menstruation does not hinder girls’ access to education, health, or opportunity.
Polycom Girls brought this global theme to life through a community campaign held at AIC Church Grounds, inviting media, community leaders, male champions, and youth to engage in open dialogue and demand dignity, equity, and access for all menstruating individuals.
Breaking the Silence, Building a Movement Polycom Girls, known for its grassroots-led, girl-centered approach, rolled out a two- pronged campaign combining media engagement and girl-led dialogue.
The initiative aims to normalize conversations around menstruation and break the deeply rooted stigma that continues to affect millions of Kenyan girls and women.
“This is not just about hygiene. It’s about dignity, education, and breaking taboos,”said Wendy Aura, Programs Manager,
She emphasized the need for safe, stigma-free spaces for girls and women. She urged the Government of Kenya to uphold its commitments made at the 2021 Generation Equality Forum in Paris, particularly those focused on ending gender-based violence and enhancing access to menstrual health.
The event highlighted data from WHO and UNICEF, showing that only 2 in 5 schools worldwide provide menstrual health education, and just 1 in 3 have proper bins for menstrual waste.
In Sub-Saharan Africa, menstrual-related absenteeism reaches upto 31%, underscoring the urgent need for systemic change.
Voices from the Frontline Key speakers at the event included adolescent leaders, male champions, teachers, and mentors—all united by a shared belief: menstrual health is everyone’s issue.
Brenda Kalekye, Board Member at Polycom Girls, called for pride and confidence in managing periods.
“Gone are the days we purchase pads inshame. Let’s normalize ‘My Period, My Pride.’” Mugeni Baraza, mentor and beneficiary, highlighted how youth are reclaiming power by openly discussing menstruation.
“This day is symbolic. It Breaks taboos and fosters empowerment.” Kefa Dickson and Kimani Mwangi, both male champions and mental health advocates, called for greater inclusion of boys in menstrual health conversations from a young age.
“We must raise boys who are allies, not bystanders,” said Dickson. Lydia Achieng, Youth Advisor to UNFPA, stressed the importance of dignity during menstruation and praised Polycom’s girl-led initiatives.
“Polycomnot only distributes locally produced G-Pende sanitary pads but also brings vital health information directly to girls in informal settlements.”
Patricia Makokha, a teacher from Ayany Primary School, called on the government to increase funding for menstrual supplies and emphasized the need for inclusive WASH facilities, especially for girls with disabilities.
This year’s event builds on the success of past initiatives like the “Siri Ya Mwezi”comic book launched in partnership with Womankind Worldwide.
The comic continues to serve as a tool for dialogue, education, and empowerment on issues of menstrual hygiene.
The event also showcased Polycom’s Talking Boxes—a safe, anonymous platform where girls share concerns around their health and bodies.
The initiative has already gained support from female Members of Parliament and demonstrates the importance of intergenerational dialogue and mentorship in challenging myths and creating lasting change.
PolycomGirls called on Communities to normalize open conversations about menstruation across all generations,the Media to lead the charge in dismantling myths and period stigma through both traditional and digital platforms,Development partners and donors to invest in inclusive, youth-led menstrual health initiatives.
“Creating a Period Friendly World means leaving no one behind—regardless of age, gender, or ability,” concluded Wendy Aura. “This is not just a girl’s issue; it’s a human rights issue.”
