Lesotho Times
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Moroke Sekoboto
World Vision International Lesotho (WVIL) National Director James Chifwelu has emphasised the importance of promoting menstrual hygiene and raising awareness about it.
Addressing a gathering to mark Menstrual Hygiene Day at Pitseng, in Leribe, he said as the World Vision they believed that “all women and girls have the right to menstruate with confidence, with dignity and with support”.
Commemorated annually on 28 May, this year’s Menstrual Hygiene Day was graced by Her Majesty Queen ‘Masenate Mohato Seeiso, EU Head of Delegation Paola Amadei and Minister in the Prime Minister’s Office Limpho Tau.
“Our programmes address all aspects of menstrual health and hygiene including policy and advocacy, timely and accurate knowledge about menstruation, social norms around menstruation, access to safe and affordable menstrual hygiene materials, and access to sanitation and washing facilities,” Mr Chifwelu said.
“I stand before you representing a united front that includes our esteemed government, development partners, private organizations, the community, schools and children. Together, we have embarked on a journey of empowerment, education, and advocacy, ensuring that menstruation is no longer a source of shame or stigma but a catalyst for positive change.
“I would like to express our gratitude to Her Majesty Queen ‘Masenate Mohato Seeiso, our child protection champion, who has been steadfast in her unwavering support and advocacy efforts in the promotion of the rights of children especially the girl child and raising her voice on behalf of Basotho children in ensuring women and girls live in an environment that values and supports their ability to manage their menstruation with dignity.”
Mr Chifwelu reaffirmed WVIL’s continued support in provision of access to clean water, dignified sanitation to learners in schools across 7 districts in the 11 Area Programmes in which World Vision works. Through their WASH programme, he said, World Vision had been drilling new boreholes, establishing grid and solar powered piped water projects; and ensuring the rehabilitation of non-functional water sources for girls to have access to water during their menses.
“That includes setting up menstrual hygiene and gender segregated friendly latrines in schools including those of people with disabilities. This year we have already supported 6 school with access to safe drinking water supply, reaching 2770 children in schools. We are also constructing latrines in 17 schools that will benefit over 7000 learners,” he said.
