To mark World Menstrual Hygiene Day, AYGF partnered with Usave Foundation and The Nutritionist Community to visit two schools in Bwari Local Government Area Council, Federal Capital Territory, Abuja. Our team engaged with students to raise awareness about menstrual hygiene, empowering young girls with vital knowledge while fostering understanding and support among boys. This meaningful outreach is part of our continued commitment to breaking the silence, challenging stigma, and creating inclusive environments where menstrual health is openly discussed and respected.
Did you know that 1 in 10 girls in Sub-Saharan Africa miss school during their period due to lack of access to menstrual products? Or that 500 million people globally lack access to adequate menstrual hygiene facilities? Today, on World Menstrual Hygiene Day, AYGF is raising its voice to spotlight an often-ignored crisis—menstrual inequality.
Menstruation is natural, yet millions are forced to manage it in silence, shame, or unsanitary conditions. It’s time to break the stigma and build a world where menstruation is not a barrier to health, education, or dignity.
Celebrated every May 28, World Menstrual Hygiene Day was initiated to raise awareness and combat the taboos and stigma surrounding menstruation. The choice of 28/5 is symbolic, most menstrual cycles average 28 days, and the average duration of menstruation is 5 days.
This year’s global theme, “Together for a #PeriodFriendlyWorld,” encourages collective responsibility—governments, NGOs, schools, families, and individuals must work hand-in-hand to ensure menstrual equity for everyone, everywhere.
AYGF’s Commitment to Menstrual Health
At AYGF, we believe that menstrual health is a critical component of human dignity, public health, and gender equality. Our commitment goes beyond awareness; we advocate for systemic change that ensures every individual who menstruates can do so with safety, confidence, and without shame. We recognize that addressing menstrual health means confronting deep-rooted stigma, inequalities, and gaps in access to essential resources.
In many parts of the world, menstruation is treated as something shameful. Girls are told not to talk about it. Some are even excluded from school, religious activities, or household duties when menstruating. This stigma perpetuates ignorance and discrimination.
AYGF believes education is the most powerful tool to dismantle these harmful norms. By engaging both girls and boys, we create inclusive spaces where menstruation is seen for what it is—a normal, healthy part of life.
Change begins with awareness and action. Here’s how you can support the movement:
- Speak up about period stigma in your community and advocate for better school facilities and policies.
- Educate yourself and others about menstrual health to replace myths with facts.
- Partner with AYGF to sponsor hygiene education or supply drives in underserved communities.
