170 girls receive sanitary towels in empowerment efforts

Mukothima Girls Secondary School students showcase gift hampers donated by Zana Africa and Bank of Africa on July 22, 2016 during the launch of the six-month initiative. PHOTO | OLIVIA MURITHI | NATION MEDIA GROUP

What you need to know:

  • During the sex education programme, several myths about menstruation were busted and the girls empowered with knowledge to make informed decisions about their lives.

Students of Mukothima Girls Secondary School received sanitary towels through an initiative meant to enable girls complete their studies.

The six-month sanitary towel donation programme was borne out of a partnership between Bank of Africa and Zana Africa to empower girls from poor families.

One hundred and seventy girls benefitted from the programme launched in Tharaka Nithi County on Friday. The school also received 30 extra kits for any rising needs.

The firms also conducted sex education.

“I am a man and I am not ashamed to talk about menstruation. I want to ensure that no girl receives sanitary towels in exchange for sex,” said Mr Joseph Heho, Zana Africa project manager.

During the sex education programme, myths about menstruation were busted and the girls empowered with knowledge to make informed decisions about their lives.

“This education and donation will empower you to make informed decisions about your life and sexuality,” said Faith Wanjoki of Zana Africa.

Bank of Africa public relations and events officer Mumbi Karanja said the initiative will cover the 47 counties within the next seven years.

“I am happy with the success of this launch and I look forward to taking the initiative to the remaining 46 counties. It may take up to seven years to cover them because of logistics but we want the girl child to feel valued,” she said.

Editing by Philip Momanyi