By OLIVER MUSEMBI
Kenyans have been urged to discard societal taboos surrounding menstrual health and create supportive environments for girls.
Parents and teachers were identified as key players in breaking the stigma often associated with menstruation and emotional well-being.
The call was made during the commemoration of World Menstrual Health Day 2026, when students at Kaharo Girls High School in Murang’a County participated in a comprehensive menstrual health and period safety awareness session.
The community engagement and mentorship programme was organised by alumni, staff and students from Mount Kenya University (MKU)’s College of Health Sciences, who visited the school.
The students were encouraged to view menstruation as a normal and healthy part of life and to practise proper hygiene, nutrition and self-care.
Medical student Kahagi Morris challenged the girls to become champions of menstrual health within their communities.
“We discussed menstrual health, menstrual hygiene, periods, period shame and all the conversations that are often whispered about. We addressed them openly, without fear or shame,” he said.
“I wanted the girls to see a future where they understand their bodies, embrace their periods with confidence, and protect both their menstrual health and mental well-being. When you educate one girl, she goes on to educate her sister, her friend and eventually her entire community,” Kahagi added.
The facilitators emphasised the importance of proper hygiene practices, good nutrition and self-care during menstruation.
During the session, all 700 students received two packets of sanitary towels each. The donation was received by the school principal, Mrs Veronica Kihonge, who lauded the university for investing in the future of young women through mentorship and education.
“This contribution will go a long way in supporting menstrual hygiene management and ensuring that the girls can continue their education with confidence and dignity,” said Kihonge.
She encouraged the students to embrace their menstrual cycles with confidence and dignity, free from shame, while recognising that menstrual health is a normal and important aspect of overall well-being.
The principal also urged the learners to take full advantage of the opportunity to learn from the professionals and university students present.
“We highly appreciate this initiative and its significance in shaping the academic and career aspirations of our learners,” she added.
The initiative brought together professionals, university students and educators with a common goal of empowering young girls to pursue their dreams while promoting health, dignity and confidence.
In her keynote address, MKU Director of Alumni Relations, Ms Virginiah Kinankau, challenged the students to pursue their dreams with determination and purpose.
Using the acronym “DREAM”, she encouraged the learners to be diligent and disciplined, reach for excellence, embrace opportunities, adopt a positive attitude and make a difference in their schools and communities.
She emphasised that success is achieved through hard work, resilience and a commitment to continuous learning and growth.
“Your dreams are valid, but they require commitment, discipline and action. Every great achievement begins with a decision to believe in yourself and pursue your goals relentlessly,” Ms Kinankau told the students.
The learners also participated in an intensive career guidance session, where they received valuable insights into various professions, academic requirements and career pathways.
The interaction offered students a unique opportunity to explore different career options and gain a clearer understanding of the educational requirements needed to achieve their aspirations.
Through mentorship, health education and meaningful community partnerships, MKU continues to empower the next generation—one student, one dream and one community at a time.
