–First Lady takes menstrual hygiene initiative to Region 8

TO dispel myths surrounding menstrual hygiene and promote equitable access to sanitary products, Guyana’s First Lady, Arya Ali, on Thursday last, launched the Menstrual Hygiene Initiative in Kato, Region Eight (Potaro-Siparuni).

In her address at the Kato Secondary School, the First Lady emphasised the programme’s primary aim was to ensure that no girl in Guyana is hindered in her education due to period poverty.

“For me, this is more than just a project. It’s a promise, a promise I made a few years ago that no girl in Guyana should ever have to feel ashamed to miss school or suffer in silence simply because she has her period. I was once a girl just like you, so I know the challenges,” she said, adding, “Many of us weren’t allowed to speak about our periods, not at home, not at school, not at church, nor even in our communities; we have always been told that this is not ladylike and we have to keep it hidden away like something to be embarrassed about.”

She further noted that all too often, many girls are deprived of access to sanitary pads, either due to their unavailability at home or in local stores, or because the cost places them beyond reach.

The programme, which was initially launched in 2021, seeks to address long-standing challenges surrounding menstrual health management.

“We are dispelling the myths around menstruation and tackling the problem head-on by providing free sanitary pads to girls in high schools across Guyana.”

A 2021 study conducted by the Ministry of Education highlighted the gravity of the issue, revealing that approximately one-third of female students in secondary schools across the country struggle to access or afford sanitary pads.  These absences contribute to a broader pattern of educational disruption, further disadvantaging young girls in their academic and personal development.

By prioritising menstrual equity, the initiative serves to normalise conversations around menstruation, empower girls, and promote dignity. Importantly, it guarantees access to essential hygiene products for girls irrespective of their age, economic status, or geographic location.

“I want you to know this, having your period is not a weakness, it is not a burden, and it certainly should never be a barrier. It is a sign of life, of good health and of womanhood, and every girl deserves to feel clean, safe and confident every single day of the month.”

Since its inception, the Menstrual Hygiene Initiative has secured funding for the distribution of sanitary pads to approximately 3,200 schoolgirls across Guyana.

“I see you. I hear your stories, I understand your challenges, and I want you to know that as your First Lady, I will never stop fighting for your right to live with dignity, whether it’s through projects like this one or the many others to come. I am committed to lifting up our girls, our women and our communities, especially in places like Kato,” the First Lady said.

Meanwhile, Kato’s Toshao, Sandra Brazao, in brief remarks, expressed that the community looks forward to continued engagement and strengthened collaboration.

“Today, we are humbled to host an initiative that emphasises the health and wellbeing and empowerment of our young girls and women.”