We are pleased to share heartwarming news from the Gfoundation Ethiopia branch.
Ethiopia is one of the most populous countries in the world. It has a population of approximately 120 million people. However, due to financial constraints, only
20% of schools in Ethiopia (as of 2022, according to UN data) provide basic hygiene services. This means that a large portion of schools still lack essential
facilities such as toilets and handwashing areas.
Through interviews conducted in previous postings, we learned about the various challenges faced by young women and adolescent girls during their menstrual
cycles. They must walk alone for more than ten minutes through dark and dense forests just to reach a restroom that lacks proper security doors. Also, due to
the high cost of sanitary pads, many female students are forced to use old rags or straws as makeshift alternatives. Despite menstruation being a natural
experience for all women, negative perceptions, difficulties in accessing restrooms, and the absence of facilities with safe drinking water led to a significant
number of female students being absent from school during their menstrual cycle. The frequent absences cause many girls to drop out of school.
Gfoundation Ethiopia branch has provided health and hygiene education, as well as four months’ supply of sanitary pads, to over 250 adolescent girls in the
Sebeta, a region of Ethiopia. We want young women to not worry about their menstrual cycle.
During menstruation, the immune system tends to be weakened so it leads individuals more vulnerable to bacterial infections. However, due to a lack of proper
hygiene education and awareness, young women are at a higher risk of diseases and infections.
It is crucial to provide comprehensive health education and resources to empower these young women with the necessary knowledge and access to proper
hygiene products during their menstrual cycle. Gfoundation Ethiopia branch conducted health and hygiene education, covering topics such as menstrual
hygiene management, proper use of sanitary facilities. The female students were actively engaged in the session. They diligently took notes, asked questions,
and actively participated, showing their dedication and focus on the education provided. The student representative of the girl’s club expressed their gratitude
and shared their hope that girls from other schools can receive health and hygiene education as well. They recognized the importance of spreading this
knowledge and empowering more young women to take care of their health and well-being.
It is indeed important that menstruation is no longer considered a shameful or embarrassing topic for young women in Ethiopia. It is essential to promote a positive
and supportive environment where young women feel comfortable and confident during their menstrual cycle.
Gfoundation is committed to providing comprehensive education and support to empower young women in Ethiopia.
