In the crowded quarters of Old Town Bamenda, menstruation remains a silent struggle for many women and girls. With limited access to sanitary products, lack of education on menstrual hygiene, and entrenched cultural taboos, managing periods can be a monthly ordeal particularly for residents in this densely populated area marked by large household sizes and a significant Fulani presence, where traditional norms often inhibit open discussion.
It is against this backdrop that Strategic Humanitarian Services (SHUMAS) chose Old Town as the location for its 2025 World Menstrual Hygiene Day commemoration. Held on May 29th, the organisation convened a Focus Group Discussion with 18 women and girls to tackle menstrual health challenges head-on.
The session created a safe and confidential space for participants to discuss menstruation; an often stigmatised topic while providing crucial information on menstrual hygiene management. Emotional support and peer-to-peer learning also featured prominently in the gathering, empowering participants to speak openly about their experiences.
SHUMAS further distributed dignity kits to each participant, which included reusable sanitary pads and soap which are tools that go a long way in restoring confidence and promoting personal dignity during menstruation.
“This will help us manage our periods with more confidence and comfort,” said one participant, a testimony that reflects the practical and psychological value of such initiatives in underserved communities.
While the impact of the event was tangible, SHUMAS officials acknowledge that this is only a start.
“The need is far greater than what we can currently meet... Many more women and girls remain unreached, silently enduring the indignity and health risks of poor menstrual hygiene due to lack of education and essential supplies.” SHUMAS authorities say
To address this gap, SHUMAS is appealing for increased funding and strategic partnerships that would allow the programme to reach more communities across the North West Region and beyond.
By Bakah Derick with reports
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