In a bid to combat menstrual poverty among young girls, the Children Empowerment Fund has launched the Red Bloom Box Project for Girls on Ogun State, an initiative aimed at ensuring every girl-child has access to sanitary pads.
Speaking at the launch event at Ajiboyede Comprehensive High School, Ibara Orile, in Abeokuta North Local Government Area of Ogun State, the Programme Manager, Mrs. Temitope Akinrotimi, decried the alarming state of menstrual health among schoolgirls, blaming poverty and ignorance for the unhygienic practices adopted by many.
“Some girls resort to using newspapers, cotton wool, and even Ankara wrappers during their periods because they cannot afford sanitary pads,” Akinrotimi revealed. “These practices are not only uncomfortable but also pose serious health risks to their reproductive organs.”
Five-Month Supply for 150 Girls in Ogun State
To address this challenge, the Red Bloom Box Project has provided a five-month supply of sanitary pads for 150 girls in the school. The girls will receive the products through designated teachers, ensuring continuity and ease of access.
“Our goal is to eliminate menstrual poverty. By the fourth month, we will return to supply the remaining products to cover a full year,” Akinrotimi added, urging support from corporate organisations, sanitary pad manufacturers, and government agencies to sustain the initiative.
Highlighting the impact of menstrual poverty on education, Akinrotimi noted that many girls miss school for several days each month due to a lack of menstrual hygiene products.
The Vice Principal of Ajiboyede Comprehensive High School, Mrs. Salmot Asekun, commended the initiative, confirming that many students lacked knowledge of sanitary pads and were forced to use makeshift alternatives.
“We truly appreciate this intervention. It is heartbreaking to see students use newspapers during their periods because their parents cannot afford sanitary pads. We hope more organisations will follow this example and support menstrual health among young girls.”
With menstrual hygiene being a critical aspect of girls’ health, education, and overall well-being, initiatives like the Red Bloom Box Project serve as a lifeline, ensuring that no girl misses out on opportunities due to a natural biological process.
