For many girls in Zambia, menstruation is met with fear, stigma, and misinformation. Without education or proper resources, they often feel alone and unprepared. The METRO project is changing this by providing reusable pads and menstrual health education, ensuring that girls can manage their periods safely and with dignity.
At Ng’ombe Primary School, four students shared their experiences with menstruation. Blessing, a sixth-grade student, had no prior knowledge about menstruation. When her period started, she spoke to her sister, who only advised her to avoid playing with boys. Bridget, also in sixth grade, thought she was dying and was too scared to speak to her parents. When Elizabeth’s period started, her mother made her inhale burning chicken feathers as part of a ritual. “I first noticed my period while I was bathing, I saw something red, and I thought I was dying,” said Monica. Afterward, she was asked if a boy had touched her. When she said no, she was simply told not to play with boys anymore.
These experiences highlight the deep-rooted stigma and misinformation surrounding menstruation, which often leads to fear, shame, and missed school days. All four girls had previously avoided attending school during their periods, relying on just one pack of disposable pads provided by their school each year. Now, thanks to the METRO project, they have reusable pads and feel empowered to continue their education.
By equipping girls with essential knowledge and sustainable menstrual products, the METRO project is breaking taboos and ensuring that young girls can embrace their futures with confidence.
Stories were shared by: Blessing Zimba, Elizabeth Banda, Bridget Hamayoba, and Monica Kabombo.
Thank you to our supporting partners: German Development Cooperation and Stiftung Kinderzukunft.
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