🩸 Hedhi Salama Ni Jukumu Letu
📍 Introduction
The Hedhi Salama Ni Jukumu Letu program seeks to improve the health, wellbeing, and dignity of adolescent girls and women in Tanzania by providing them with the resources and support they need to manage their menstrual cycles safely and hygienically.
Empower Youth Prosperity (EYP) implemented this initiative across six public secondary schools — Bujela, Msasani, Masukulu, Mberya, Loleza Legico, and Samora — reaching 8,760 girls and 2,250 boys.
The program aims to promote menstrual hygiene, raise awareness among students and teachers, and encourage open dialogue about menstruation to eliminate stigma and ensure girls stay in school.
🌸 Program Achievements
1️⃣ Improved Menstrual Hygiene Management
Girls who received reusable sanitary pads are now able to manage their menstrual hygiene more safely, eliminating the need to use unsafe and unhygienic materials such as rags or leaves. This has contributed to better health outcomes and reduced infection risks.
2️⃣ Increased School Attendance
With consistent access to sanitary pads, many girls are now attending school regularly, even during their menstrual periods. This improvement has led to higher class participation, better academic performance, and improved graduation rates.
3️⃣ Empowerment and Confidence
The program has boosted self-esteem among adolescent girls, helping them feel more confident, dignified, and empowered to pursue their goals. This sense of empowerment also strengthens their voice within their families and communities.
4️⃣ Economic Relief for Families
By using reusable sanitary pads, families save money that would otherwise be spent on disposable products. These savings can now be redirected to other household needs or educational expenses.
🌍 Overall Impact
The Hedhi Salama Ni Jukumu Letu program has made a significant impact in the lives of girls and their families, especially in rural areas of Rungwe District Council.
By addressing menstrual hygiene management, EYP has promoted gender equality, school retention, and overall community development, ensuring that no girl’s education is interrupted by a natural biological process.
💬 Testimony
“I used to miss school every month during my period because I didn’t have access to sanitary pads. But now, thanks to EYP and their reusable sanitary pads, I can attend school even during my period. I feel more confident and comfortable, and I can focus on my studies without worrying. EYP has made a big difference in my life, and I am grateful for their support.”
— C. Mwigamba, Masukulu Secondary School
