Female inmates at the Kapsabet Correctional Facility have received sanitary towels from the County Government of Nandi.
Nandi Deputy Governor Dr. Yulita Mitei said the move is aimed at breaking the stigma surrounding menstruation and advancing proper menstrual health.
Speaking at the institution during the distribution exercise, Dr. Mitei stated that access to basic necessities like sanitary towels is a fundamental right that should be enjoyed even by those in prison.
She said lack of access to clean menstrual products and bad sanitation harm the education, health, and social status of women and girls.
“Our goal is to advocate for improved access to menstrual products, education, and sanitation facilities, enabling women and girls to manage their periods safely and uphold their dignity,” she said.
The deputy governor said the county government is collaborating with different stakeholders to sensitise the public to appreciate and normalize menstrual cycles by giving support to the girl child.
“An informed society will support girls to lead a normal life and eliminate the stigma surrounding the menstrual process because we understand that women and girls face barriers in managing their periods,” she said.
The inmates appreciated the gesture, reiterating their struggles due to the minimal resources behind bars and adding that women will have their periods. It does not matter whether they are in prison or not.
Towards ensuring good menstrual hygiene across Nandi County and especially for our school-going girls, Nandi Women representative Cynthia Muge said every grade 5, 6, 7, and 8 girl going forward will get at least 8 packets of quality sanitary pads.
She said many girls have fallen pregnant after being lured by men who buy them sanitary towels.
The Women Representative said the issue is not a concern for girls alone but also needs to engage boys to create a society that appreciates the whole concept of menstruation.
By Linet Wafula
