Promoting Feminine Period Hygiene
Irina Project Initiative organized a meaningful outreach event in Bamenda in the Northwest Region of Cameroon to promote Sustainable Development Goal 6, which focuses on clean water and sanitation for all. The event centered on menstrual hygiene management, an essential but often overlooked aspect of sanitation and public health. During the program, 25 bails of feminine hygiene pads were distributed to over 200 high school girls who attended the event.
The initiative was designed not only to provide sanitary materials but also to address the deeper challenges surrounding menstrual health, including stigma, lack of education, and school absenteeism caused by the unaffordability of sanitary pads. In many communities across Africa, girls miss school during their menstrual cycles because they lack access to safe and reliable menstrual products. Others resort to unsafe alternatives, which can lead to infections and emotional distress. By organizing this event, Irina Project Initiative responded directly to a pressing need within the Bamenda community.
Background and Rationale
Menstrual hygiene remains a significant challenge in many parts of Africa, particularly in economically vulnerable and crisis-affected regions. The Northwest Region of Cameroon has faced socio-economic difficulties that have further strained household incomes, making sanitary products unaffordable for many families. For adolescent girls, this often results in embarrassment, anxiety, and school absenteeism.
Across Africa, governments and civil society organizations have increasingly recognized menstrual hygiene as central to achieving SDG 6. Successful initiatives across the continent demonstrate that providing sanitary materials alongside education significantly improves health outcomes and school attendance. Irina Project Initiative’s outreach in Bamenda was informed by these broader efforts and aimed to deliver both practical support and knowledge.
Planning and Preparation
Preparations for the outreach began weeks before the event. The organization collaborated closely with school administrators and community representatives to coordinate logistics and ensure smooth implementation. Accurate attendance estimates were gathered to guide the procurement and allocation of sanitary pads.
The 25 bails of feminine hygiene pads were secured through donor support and careful planning. Volunteers received orientation prior to the event, focusing on respectful communication, privacy considerations, and key menstrual hygiene messages. This preparation ensured that the distribution would be carried out with dignity, sensitivity, and professionalism.
Educational Session and Community Engagement
On the day of the event, the atmosphere was welcoming and organized. Over 200 high school girls gathered to participate in the program. The event opened with an introduction to Irina Project Initiative and an explanation of the purpose of the outreach.
An educational session followed, addressing menstrual hygiene practices, the importance of sanitation in preventing infections, and the connection between menstrual health and Sustainable Development Goal 6. Facilitators discussed proper use and disposal of sanitary materials and emphasized maintaining personal hygiene during menstruation, particularly in areas where water access may be limited.
The discussion created a safe and supportive environment. Many girls asked questions about menstrual pain management, irregular cycles, and how to maintain hygiene discreetly at school. The interactive nature of the session helped reduce stigma and encouraged openness. By the end of the session, the participants appeared more confident and informed, demonstrating the value of combining education with material support.
Distribution of Sanitary Pads
Following the educational session, the distribution of the 25 bails of sanitary pads commenced in an orderly manner. The process was carefully structured to avoid congestion and to maintain privacy for the girls. Participants were organized into manageable groups, and each girl received sanitary products discreetly.
Volunteers ensured that every attendee received adequate supplies. Guidance was provided on proper storage, regular changing of pads to prevent infections, and safe disposal methods. The distribution was conducted efficiently, reflecting the thorough planning that had preceded the event.
Impact and Immediate Outcomes
The immediate impact of the outreach was evident in the reactions of the girls and school staff. Many participants expressed relief and gratitude, sharing that the cost of sanitary pads can be a financial burden on their families. Teachers present at the event confirmed that menstrual-related absenteeism has affected student attendance and academic performance.
By providing sanitary pads and education, the initiative contributed to improved school attendance, increased self-confidence among adolescent girls, and reduced health risks associated with unsafe menstrual practices. The event also strengthened trust between Irina Project Initiative and the local community.
Alignment with Sustainable Development Goal 6
Sustainable Development Goal 6 seeks to ensure the availability and sustainable management of water and sanitation for all. While commonly associated with clean water and toilet facilities, the goal also encompasses hygiene promotion. Menstrual hygiene management is directly linked to sanitation and public health.
Without access to sanitary products and proper hygiene education, girls face preventable infections, discomfort, and social exclusion. By addressing menstrual hygiene, Irina Project Initiative contributed meaningfully to advancing SDG 6 within the Bamenda community. The outreach demonstrated how localized action can support global development objectives.
Lessons Learned and Future Outlook
The event highlighted the continued need for menstrual hygiene education and support in schools. It reinforced the importance of pairing product distribution with awareness training to achieve lasting impact. The collaboration with school authorities proved essential in ensuring effective reach and accountability.
Looking ahead, Irina Project Initiative aims to expand menstrual hygiene promotion to more schools across the Northwest Region. Future initiatives may include periodic distribution drives, ongoing educational workshops, and partnerships that promote sustainable menstrual health solutions.
Conclusion
The SDG 6 promotion event held on 14 February 2026 in Bamenda was more than a distribution exercise; it was an empowerment initiative. Through the distribution of 25 bails of feminine hygiene pads to over 200 high school girls, Irina Project Initiative provided immediate relief while promoting long-term awareness and dignity.
The outreach reaffirmed the organization’s commitment to sanitation, health, and equal opportunity for young girls. By addressing menstrual hygiene as a critical development issue, Irina Project Initiative continues to make meaningful contributions toward achieving clean water, sanitation, and improved well-being for all.