By Abdullahi Tukur
UNICEF and its international development partners, in collaboration with the Sokoto State Government, have commemorated the 2026 World Menstrual Hygiene Day with activities aimed at promoting menstrual health awareness and addressing challenges faced by women and girls during menstruation.
The event, themed “Together for a Period-Friendly World”, highlighted the need to eliminate stigma, myths, and discrimination associated with menstruation while encouraging safe menstrual hygiene practices among girls and women.
Importance of Menstrual Hygiene Awareness
Speaking during the commemoration, development partners stressed that menstruation is a natural part of life and should not be surrounded by shame or social taboos.
According to UNICEF, thousands of women and girls across communities continue to face stigma, exclusion, and discrimination because of menstruation, making awareness campaigns essential for improving health outcomes and social inclusion.
The organisation noted that many young girls are not adequately educated about menstruation before reaching puberty, leaving them unprepared to manage their periods safely and hygienically.
Health Risks of Poor Menstrual Hygiene
Development partners warned that the repeated use of dirty or unhygienic materials during menstruation could expose girls and women to reproductive health complications.
They explained that poor menstrual hygiene practices may contribute to infections such as urinary tract infections (UTIs), bacterial vaginosis, and other reproductive health conditions.
Participants were encouraged to maintain proper hygiene throughout their menstrual cycle and use safe sanitary products to protect their health and wellbeing.
Distribution of Menstrual Hygiene Materials
Activities marking the 2026 World Menstrual Hygiene Day were held at Anguwar Talakawa community and Government Girls Day Secondary School, Kofar Marke, in partnership with the Sokoto State Ministry of Women and Children Affairs, INGOs, CSOs, and other stakeholders.
As part of the intervention, AGILE distributed 450 reusable sanitary pads, 250 school bags, and 250 notebooks to beneficiaries.
Action Against Hunger also donated 10 cartons of soap to support hygiene promotion among schoolgirls.
Stakeholders Advocate Continued Support
The event attracted out-of-school girls, women, students, teachers, community members, government officials, development partners, civil society organisations, and WASH sector stakeholders.
Participants called for sustained investment in menstrual hygiene education, improved access to sanitary products, and stronger community awareness programmes to ensure girls can manage menstruation with dignity.
The Bureau Journal reports that stakeholders also urged parents, schools, and community leaders to support efforts aimed at creating a more inclusive and period-friendly environment for girls and women across Sokoto State.
Get breaking news and latest updates directly on WhatsApp
