By Sukuoluhle Ndlovu
Sanitary wear has become the greatest challenge which most girls are facing in Zimbabwe especially in the remote areas.
Pahukama a civil society organization which advocates for youths’ rights has come to girls’ rescue and is targeting a batch of 800 pads to be distributed next month an official said.
Pahukama Youth Oryxes Foundation is a youth organization which has the youth at heart and is calling partners and well wishers to join them help their campaign to meet their first target batch of 800 pads which they intend to distribute. The Covid -19 pandemic has not spared the girl child and there is need to help the marginalized communities as they advocate for the promotion of health and hygiene.
In an interview with Bustop TV Pahukama programs manager, Belinda Mukwakwami, said most girls cannot afford sanitary wear as the price had gone beyond the reach of many.
“Many women in Zimbabwe especially those in remote areas are too poor to buy sanitary pads due to the price rising with the exchange rate of foreign currency. Girls now use pieces of rags as sanitary wear, they have to cope with rags that they pick up or torn clothes. This campaign will have an impact on the health status of the girls,’ she said.
The Foundations target areas are Mtunzi, Umbowe, Ngundu, and Shamva. These areas were handpicked after interaction with the girls from the mentioned areas.
“While doing other campaigns and having interactions with the girls in the areas we realized the need for sanitary wear for girls which was worsened with the Covid -19 pandemic, most families have lost their sources of income hence we have to come up with this campaign to assist where we can,” said Mukwakwami.
The foundation is targeting a smaller area because of the restrains of the pandemic but it hoped to extend in the second phase and reach at least double the target in areas like Chirisa and Nenyunga in Gokwe among others.
The issue of sanitary wear has become a challenge for not only Zimbabwe but globally, and it needs to be addressed with various organizations advocating for government to provide free sanitary wear.
There is a call for people to join in the campaign and help the marginalized girls in the communities during the Covid -19 pandemic.
Contacts :Belinda Mukwakwami (Programs Manager) 0719 906 164
Endridge Chapani (President) 0777 668 879
1 comment
This is a very noble idea. Keep it up guys
Comments are closed.