By Joy Baba-Yesufu
Fòs Feminista, a global intersectional feminist organization has launched the Menstrual Dignity Project in Nigeria to address the pressing issue of menstrual health access.
Ms. Kemi Akinfaderin, of the Sang Pour Sang Project under Fòs Feminista, revealed during the launch that approximately 27 million women and girls in Nigeria are unable to access or afford basic menstrual products noting that this alarming figure highlights the need for sustainable solutions to menstrual stigma and access issues.
She said a recent survey shows that “57% of girls lack adequate knowledge about menstrual health, 25% of women experience insufficient privacy while managing their menstrual health, 24% of girls miss school due to the inability to afford sanitary products or essential sanitary facilities”
She further said Sang Pour Sang project, in collaboration with Equipop, PSI, and the Global South Coalition for Dignified Menstruation, aims to engage local communities, policymakers, and stakeholders.
“We also want integrate menstrual health into broader health and social programs and promote comprehensive menstrual health education and awareness.
Akinfaderin emphasized the urgent need to dismantle societal taboos surrounding menstruation. “Language matters. Euphemisms like ‘that time of the month’ perpetuate stigma. We must be direct about menstruation to break the silence and challenge stereotypes,” she stated.
The project positions menstruation as a fundamental human right and advocates for diverse menstrual product access, particularly in humanitarian settings.
She highlighted the importance of altering perceptions, stating, “Men and boys should feel comfortable discussing menstrual health and buying pads for their family members.” The project will focus initially on the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Benue, and Adamawa states.
She called on media partners to amplify awareness, break the silence on menstrual health, and challenge existing stereotypes. She underscored that menstrual health is a multifaceted issue requiring education, advocacy, and policy support.
Ms. Henriette Ceyrac, Sang Pour Sang Project Lead at PSI Europe, noted that the menstrual dignity project is a vital step towards combating menstrual discrimination saying that the initiative extends beyond Nigeria to eight other countries—including Benin, Cameroon, and Pakistan—each sharing similar challenges.
Ceyrac stated, “Through capacity building and collaboration with local experts, this project aims to empower women and girls by providing access to menstrual products, information, and supportive environments.”
The Menstrual Dignity Project by Fòs Feminista represents a significant move towards addressing menstrual health challenges in Nigeria. Through education, advocacy, and community engagement, the initiative aspires to ensure that all individuals can manage their menstrual health with dignity and without discrimination.
