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Polycom Girls Lead Menstrual Health Campaign
Polycom Girls Lead Menstrual Health Campaign For a Period Friendly World
On May 28, the world commemorates International Menstrual Hygiene Day, a global movement that continues to grow since its inception over a decade ago.
This year’s theme, “Together for a #PeriodFriendlyWorld,” emphasizes the need for collective action to ensure menstruation does not limit access to education, health, or opportunity.
In Kibera, Polycom Girls https://polycomgirls.or.ke/ brought this theme to life through a vibrant community campaign at AIC Church Grounds. The event drew media, community leaders, male champions, and youth into open conversations that demanded dignity, equity, and access for all menstruating individuals.
Breaking the Silence, Building a Movement
Polycom Girls, a grassroots, girl-centered organization, launched a dual campaign that combined media engagement with girl-led discussions. The goal? To normalize menstrual conversations and dismantle the stigma that still affects millions of Kenyan girls and women.
“This is not just about hygiene. It’s about dignity, education, and breaking taboos,” said Wendy Aura, Programs Manager at Polycom Girls. She called on the Government of Kenya to uphold its 2021 Generation Equality Forum commitments—especially those aimed at ending gender-based violence and improving menstrual health access.
Supporting her message were sobering statistics from WHO and UNICEF: only 2 in 5 schools globally offer menstrual health education, and just 1 in 3 provide proper disposal bins. In Sub-Saharan Africa, menstrual-related absenteeism affects up to 31% of schoolgirls. These figures highlight the urgent need for systemic change.
Polycom Girls Lead Menstrual Health Campaign
Voices from the Frontline
Speakers from diverse backgrounds reinforced the idea that menstrual health is everyone’s issue. They included adolescent leaders, male champions, teachers, and mentors.
Brenda Kalekye, a Board Member at Polycom Girls, urged girls to take pride in their periods. “Gone are the days we purchase pads in shame. Let’s normalize ‘My Period, My Pride.’”
Mugeni Baraza, a mentor and program beneficiary, emphasized the growing power of youth to shift norms. “This day is symbolic. It breaks taboos and fosters empowerment.”
Male allies like Kefa Dickson and Kimani Mwangi also spoke out. As mental health advocates, they stressed the importance of including boys in menstrual health conversations from an early age. “We must raise boys who are allies, not bystanders,” said Dickson.
Lydia Achieng, Youth Advisor to UNFPA, praised Polycom’s girl-led model. “Polycom not only distributes G-Pende sanitary pads—they also provide vital health information directly to girls in informal settlements.”
Patricia Makokha, a teacher from Ayany Primary School, called on the government to increase funding for menstrual supplies. She also emphasized the urgent need for inclusive WASH (Water, Sanitation and Hygiene) facilities—especially for girls with disabilities.
Innovative, Youth-Led Solutions
This year’s event built on the momentum of past initiatives, including the “Siri Ya Mwezi” comic book created in partnership with Womankind Worldwide. The comic continues to serve as a powerful tool for education, dialogue, and empowerment.
Also featured were Polycom’s Talking Boxes—safe, anonymous platforms where girls can share personal health concerns. Already supported by female Members of Parliament, these boxes demonstrate the value of intergenerational mentorship in creating lasting change.
A Call to Action
As the world observes International Menstrual Hygiene Day, Polycom Girls urges:
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The Government of Kenya to provide sustainable funding for menstrual products in public schools and fulfill its Generation Equality promises.
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Communities to embrace open conversations about menstruation across all ages and genders.
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The Media to challenge stigma and myths—both online and offline—by giving menstrual health the visibility it deserves.
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