World MHM Day 28^th May 2024 at Primary and UBE secondary School Tionsha: Together for a #PeriodFriendlyWorld

In collaboration with BENGONET HTG, AONN, CS-SUNN, and the Face of Tiv International, WOHEPI commemorated World Menstrual Hygiene Management (MHM) Day 2024 under the theme, “Together for a #PeriodFriendlyWorld.” The theme emphasizes creating a world where every menstruating girl or woman can access the products, education, and infrastructure needed for effective menstrual hygiene management.

Pre-Implementation Activities

A series of preparatory activities were undertaken to ensure the successful celebration of World MHM Day 2024:

1. Advocacy and Collaboration:
   • Advocacy visits were made to school authorities and the management of Harvest FM to solicit their support for the planned activities. Approvals were successfully obtained.
2. Capacity Building:
   • A capacity-building session was organized to enhance the knowledge and skills of members on menstrual hygiene management. A total of 36 participants were trained during the session held on May 25, 2024.
3. Radio Awareness Campaign:
   • A radio discussion and phone-in program was aired on Harvest FM, reaching over 1,000 individuals directly and indirectly. The program aimed to raise awareness and educate listeners on the importance of menstrual hygiene management.

Grand Finale Activities

The grand finale took place on May 28, 2024, with awareness creation and sensitization activities at LGA Primary and UBE Secondary Schools in Tionsha, Makurdi LGA. Key highlights included:

1. Awareness and Sensitization:
   • Students and teachers were educated on menstrual hygiene management, addressing myths and misconceptions, and promoting open discussions around menstruation.
2. Distribution of Menstrual Hygiene Products:
   • Reusable and disposable menstrual pads were distributed to 500 girls and teachers to ensure they have access to essential products.
3. Symbolic Bracelets:
   • Bracelets featuring 28 beads were distributed as a symbol of the menstrual cycle. The beads represent the 28 days of the cycle, including five bleeding days and preparatory days.

Outputs and Outcomes

1. Widespread Reach:
   • A total of 2,000 students and teachers (including both girls and boys) were reached with key messages on menstrual hygiene management.
2. Product Distribution:
   • 500 girls and teachers received reusable and disposable menstrual pads, ensuring access to essential menstrual hygiene products.
3. Awareness Tools:
   • The distribution of 28-bead bracelets served as an educational tool to promote understanding of the menstrual cycle.

The event successfully fostered a collaborative effort towards creating a #PeriodFriendlyWorld, reinforcing the importance of accessible education, products, and infrastructure for menstruating individuals.