NWASCO donates menstrual hygiene materials to over 400 girls in Chongwe

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The National Water Supply and Sanitation Council (NWASCO) has donated reusable menstrual hygiene materials valued at K110,000 to more than 400 girls at Mulalika Primary and Secondary School in Chongwe District, Lusaka Province.

NWASCO Secretary Andrew Mwansa says the council is committed to creating an enabling environment that promotes the health and well-being of girls, allowing them to pursue their education with dignity and without unnecessary barriers.

Speaking at the handover ceremony on behalf of NWASCO Director Kelvin Chitumbo, Mr. Mwansa said challenges in managing menstruation with dignity contribute significantly to school absenteeism among girls.

He said studies indicate that some girls miss as many as 36 school days annually due to menstrual health-related challenges.

Mr. Mwansa described the situation as more than a personal challenge, saying it is a barrier to national development and can negatively affect the educational and career prospects of the girl child.

He said NWASCO recognises that access to water and sanitation cannot be considered complete without addressing hygiene needs, particularly those affecting girls.

Mr. Mwansa noted that many girls struggle to access affordable menstrual hygiene products and also face stigma and shame associated with menstruation.

He said the donation complements efforts by the Ministry of Education to ensure that girls have consistent access to menstrual hygiene products.

According to Mr. Mwansa, empowering girls to manage their menstrual health confidently and without disrupting their education will enable them to realise their full potential and contribute meaningfully to Zambia's development.

He described the donation as an important step towards breaking the silence surrounding menstrual health and promoting dignity among school-going girls.

Mr. Mwansa also thanked WaterAid for supporting the initiative, saying the partnership demonstrates NWASCO's continued commitment to the health, well-being and empowerment of learners, particularly those in underserved communities.

Meanwhile, Education Standards Officer for Open and Distance Learning Magdalene Chabu said access to sanitary pads goes beyond basic hygiene.

Ms. Chabu said many girls in Zambia continue to face difficulties accessing sanitary pads, resulting in missed school days and causing some learners to fall behind in their studies.

Ends

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