By Fanuel Chinowaita
MUTARE– Mutare City Council has donated sanitary pads to the Junior Council as part of efforts to promote menstrual hygiene and ensure that no girl misses school because of her period.
The donation was handed over during the 1337th Full Council meeting on Thursday as the local authority joined the global commemoration of Menstrual Hygiene Day, observed annually on May 28.
The donation was a collective effort by councillors, council management and employees, demonstrating the local authority’s commitment to supporting the welfare and education of the girl child.
The Junior Council delegation was led by Junior Mayor Nokutenda Chitsamatanga, Deputy Junior Mayor Prisca Kanjana and Junior Town Clerk Lowis Nyadzayo.
Speaking during the handover ceremony, Councillor Chirara said the initiative was aimed at restoring dignity to girls and supporting their education.
“As women councillors, we want to make sure that we donate sanitary pads. Gone are the days when the girl child had to rely on pieces of cloth during her menstrual period. Every girl deserves access to proper sanitary wear and the confidence to attend school without interruption,” she said.
Councillor Chirara said access to menstrual hygiene products remains critical in ensuring that girls stay in school and participate fully in educational and community activities.
The donation comes as communities and organisations continue to advocate for improved menstrual health and access to sanitary products. Menstrual Hygiene Day was established in 2014 to break taboos surrounding menstruation, raise awareness about menstrual health and promote access to hygiene products and education.
Receiving the donation on behalf of the Junior Council, Junior Mayor Nokutenda Chitsamatanga thanked the City of Mutare for the gesture.
“We are grateful to the councillors, management and employees of the City of Mutare for remembering the needs of young girls. This donation will help many girls maintain their dignity and remain focused on their education. No girl should miss school because of her period,” she said.
Globally, menstrual health advocates continue to stress that access to sanitary products is essential in keeping girls in school. Lack of access to menstrual hygiene products remains a challenge for many vulnerable girls, often resulting in absenteeism and reduced participation in school activities.
Mutare City Council said the donation reflects its commitment to supporting the health, dignity and educational development of young people in the city while raising awareness on the importance of menstrual hygiene.