Hertta-Maria Amutenja
POPULAR Democratic Movement (PDM) has challenged government to take comprehensive action to ensure that all girls have access to proper menstrual hygiene products, safeguarding their health, education, and dignity.
PDM says this move is a resolute push for social change and gender equality, the, is taking a stance to address menstrual hygiene for girls in rural Namibia.
“The lack of adequate menstrual hygiene solutions continues to be a pressing concern for numerous girls in rural Namibia. Many girls are forced to resort to using unsanitary material during menstruation, compromising their health and hindering their ability to fully engage in daily activities, including but not limited to going to school,” said PDM member of parliament, Yvette Araes.
She said menstrual hygiene has long been a hushed topic and that the absence of proper menstrual hygiene solutions is not a minor inconvenience.
Moreover, the official opposition party highlighted that while commendable strides have been made, such as the removal of taxes on menstrual hygiene products, it is evident that more needs to be done.
Araes said the financial burden associated with purchasing these essential items persists as an impossible challenge for many families in remote regions.
“PDM emphasises the importance of ensuring proper menstrual hygiene as a fundamental right for every girl. Menstruation is a natural process that should not be compromised due to financial constraints,” expressed Araes.
She suggested that government should team up with various stakeholders in creating and implementing comprehensive strategies with the aim of providing free menstrual hygiene products to girls in rural areas.
“By doing so government can play a pivotal role in breaking down barriers that have long hindered girls’ education and overall well-being,” she added.
Earlier this year, Health and Social Services Deputy Minister, Esther Muinjangue, stated that menstrual health is not only a health issue but is a human rights issue.
Muinjangue said this at the annual Menstrual Health and Hygiene Day celebration in Eenhana, Ohangwena region, which took place on May 28 under the theme, “Making menstruation a normal fact of life by 2030.”
Menstrual Hygiene Day is aimed at breaking taboos and ending the stigma surrounding menstruation and raising awareness about the challenges regarding access to menstrual products, education about menstruation and period-friendly sanitation facilities and mobilising the funding required for action.
