On 6th June 2025, Upendo Foundation successfully carried out a menstrual health and hygiene project at Complexe Scolaire Bethel in Goma. The initiative focused on distributing reusable sanitary pads and providing menstrual hygiene management (MHM) training to adolescent girls. We reached over 200 girls who each received a sanitary kit and participated in an educational session designed to promote awareness, confidence, and healthy practices related to menstruation.
While the project was successfully implemented and appreciated by the school community, we observed that many girls were initially uncomfortable and hesitant to engage in open discussions about their menstrual health. This highlighted the existing stigma and lack of education surrounding the topic. However, as the session progressed, the girls gradually became more responsive and engaged. Based on this experience, we strongly recommend organizing follow-up sessions to build trust, reinforce knowledge, and create safe spaces where these important conversations can continue.
We are proud to have implemented this project in partnership with World House Project, who supported us as our main partner. We sincerely thank them for their kind support and generous donation, which made this activity possible. We are happy to see this initiative come to life and make a real difference.
This project has had a great impact on the community, especially in empowering girls with knowledge and resources they previously lacked. It directly contributes to our shared vision — to build a safe, informed, and self-reliant community where every individual, especially young girls, can thrive with dignity and confidence.
We believe this initiative is a vital step toward ensuring that girls in Goma manage their menstrual health with dignity and without shame. We look forward to continuing this work and reaching even more communities in need.