There is never going to be a right time to talk about this so let’s talk about it. It’s  something that’s been ignored for centuries but is finally getting the spotlight it deserves. Menstrual hygiene in Africa. Yes, I know, it’s not the most friendly topic, but  it’s more relatable than you would think. So, grab your reusable water bottle, throw on your favorite jacket and let’s dive in.

Imagine you’re a 14 year old girl in rural Uganda. It’s the first day of your period. You have no idea what’s happening and neither does anyone else. Your school doesn’t have a single toilet with a door, let alone a private space to change. You can’t afford pads, so you use old cloths that you have to wash and dry in secret. And when you finally get to school, you’re too embarrassed to ask for help, so you just sit there, hoping no one notices.

This isn’t just an imaginary bad day,  it’s the reality for millions of girls across Africa. In fact, many girls miss school during their periods because they don’t have access to menstrual products or private spaces to manage their hygiene. It’s called period poverty and it’s a big deal. According to UNICEF, nearly half of the countries in sub-Saharan Africa lack national data on menstrual health and hygiene indicators, making it hard to address the issue effectively.

But it’s not just about missing school. It’s about dignity, health and opportunity. Without proper menstrual hygiene management, girls are more likely to experience infections, drop out of school and face stigma that affects their self esteem and future prospects. For that reason, we need to talk solutions. Because, as the younger generation knows, it’s not enough to just point out problems, we need to fix them. Or at least  find a temporary solution.

One innovative solution comes from Uganda, where a company has developed the Makapad, a sanitary pad made from locally sourced papyrus. It’s affordable, biodegradable, and provides a sustainable alternative to traditional pads. This initiative not only addresses period poverty but also creates local jobs and promotes environmental sustainability. 

In Kenya, the government has taken steps to address the issue by providing free sanitary pads to girls in public schools. While this is a positive move, challenges remain in ensuring consistent distribution and access, especially in remote areas. 

But the kicker is these solutions aren’t just about giving out pads. They’re about changing the narrative. They’re about making periods something we talk about openly without shame. They’re about empowering girls to take control of their health and futures.

So, whether you’re a teenager in Kampala or a grandmother in Cape Town, it’s time to start the conversation. Talk to your friends and let’s make sure that no girl has to choose between her education and her dignity. Because when we lift each other up, we all rise. And that’s the kind of viral movement we need.