Championing Menstrual Dignity: Initial Hygiene's Mandela Day Initiative in Qheberha

On Mandela Day, Initial Hygiene South Africa made a significant impact at a children’s home in Qheberha. Our dedicated team from Qheberha participated in this initiative, focusing on improving period dignity and addressing period poverty through the installation of sanitary bins and the delivery of essential sanitary products. The team also spent 67 minutes educating the children and staff about menstrual health and hygiene.

Our Commitment to Menstrual Dignity

Menstrual poverty remains a pressing issue in South Africa, affecting many individuals. According to a recent article by UNICEF, “less than 1 in 3 schools (or 31 per cent) globally have bins for menstrual waste in girls’ toilets. This drops to 1 in 5 schools in least developed countries (or 17 per cent), and only 1 in 10 schools (or 11 per cent) in sub-Saharan Africa.”

Period poverty can be defined as people who menstruate lacking access to menstrual products, education, hygiene facilities, waste management, or a combination of these. This topic is particularly important, as many women, girls, and people who menstruate in South Africa miss school or work every month due to being on their period. Up to 7 million girls do not have access to or can not afford sanitary products, and around 30% of South African girls do not attend school every month due to their period.

At Initial Hygiene, we are committed to addressing these challenges. We believe that menstrual dignity is crucial for empowering individuals and ensuring they can manage their menstrual health with confidence and comfort. Our goal is to reduce the barriers created by menstrual poverty and promote an environment where everyone can thrive.

Mandela Day: A Day of Service in Qheberha

Nelson Mandela International Day was launched in recognition of Nelson Mandela’s birthday on 18 July 2009 via unanimous decision of the UN General Assembly.

It was inspired by a call Nelson Mandela made a year earlier, for the next generation to take on the burden of leadership in addressing the world’s social injustices when he said that “it is in your hands now”.

In line with Nelson Mandela’s legacy of service and social justice, our Qheberha team spent their time and used their skills to make a difference at a local children’s home. The installation of sanitary bins was a key part of our initiative, designed to provide a hygienic and respectful solution for menstrual waste management.

Sanitary bins are critical in maintaining menstrual hygiene and preventing health issues. By installing these bins, we ensure that individuals have access to safe and compliant sanitary disposal options, supporting their overall health and well-being.

Educational Outreach for Empowerment

In addition to the installation, our team conducted educational sessions on menstrual health. We believe that knowledge is a powerful tool for breaking down stigma and empowering individuals to take charge of their menstrual health. These sessions aimed to provide accurate information and create a supportive environment where everyone feels confident and informed.

The stigma around period poverty can exacerbate mental health issues, leading to symptoms of anxiety and depression. When individuals lack access to menstrual products, they often experience embarrassment and shame, which can contribute to a sense of isolation and negatively impact their self-esteem. This stigma can prevent them from seeking help or discussing their needs openly, further perpetuating the cycle of poverty and mental health challenges. According to a study by Plan International, nearly half of the girls surveyed felt embarrassed by their periods, which can lead to increased stress and anxiety levels. By addressing these stigmas through education and providing necessary resources, we aim to create a more inclusive and supportive environment for everyone.

Join Us in the Fight Against Menstrual Poverty

Our Mandela Day initiative in Qheberha reaffirms our commitment to menstrual dignity and highlights the urgent need to address menstrual poverty. By sharing our efforts and engaging with our community, we hope to inspire collective action and drive positive change.

Together, we can ensure that everyone has the opportunity to manage their menstrual health with dignity and ease. Menstrual poverty is a challenge we can overcome, and through collaborative efforts, we can create a world where menstrual health is a priority for all.

Experts in Hygiene Services

Initial are experts in hygiene services. Our sanitary bins contain integral antibacterial technology and are a great hygienic solution for the disposal of sanitary waste. They help with preventing the spread of harmful germs in your facility.

Initial Hygiene's sanitary waste disposal service helps you dispose of sanitary waste in a safe, sensitive, and environmentally friendly manner. A waste disposal certificate is available, which is necessary for your business’s compliance with South African legislation. The sanitary waste disposal service offers peace of mind and ensures you are providing a professional feminine hygiene waste service for your visitors and staff.

Contact us for a solution catered to your business needs.