Let’s picture a small family living in Southern Kwale. A single father John, and his little girl aged 10.John juggles between working in the field, and trying to make sure his little angel doesn’t feel the great absence of her mother.
When she starts her period, John is unprepared. Unaware of what to do, he sends her to school regardless.At the end of the day, his little angel runs to him in tears, embarrassed and sad.John’s face pales at the sight. He asks her what he needs to do. Pads, his little angel needs pads. So he runs to the shop, only for his jaw to drop at the price. He asks if there are any cheaper options,his heart sinking when he’s told that his only option costs Kshs. 90/=, the same amount as his wage for working in the fields. If he buys one packet, he’ll be unable to provide dinner.
He pictures his little angel’s face, the tears and pain on her innocent face. He thumbs through his empty pockets, nothing but a silly little coin that won’t help him. He steps away from the shop, and walks back home, resigned and defeated.
What a situation, having to choose between eating or buying sanitary towels for your loved ones. John’s story is but one of the millions of silent struggles many face with period poverty.
Ignoring calls for help only deepens the problem, furthering cycles of shame that make our young girls lose the confidence they so desperately need. Addressing period poverty involves not only the lack of resources, but the education and care that our young girls require. We need to take action, and ensure that none of our little angels across the country ever have to endure such struggles.
By Shamim Zuhura, RESPEKT Volunteer-Maseno University
