Empowering Girls and Women Through Untold Period Stories: The Journey of #Hike4GirlsUg

The stigma and taboos surrounding menstruation and periods continue to hinder the empowerment of young girls and women in many communities. Lack of education and awareness about menstrual hygiene often leads to discrimination and perpetuates harmful beliefs about menstruating individuals.

Recently, l joined a team of hikers embarked on a mission to raise awareness and empower young girls through the #Hike4GirlsUg initiative in Terego District, West Nile, Uganda. As we trekked up Mt. Wati, and in our community and school engagement we encountered the harsh reality that some young girls had never even seen a pad, highlighting the urgent need for education and access to menstrual hygiene products.

The journey was not just about climbing a mountain, but it was about breaking down barriers and challenging societal norms that contribute to the stigma surrounding menstruation. It was about opening up conversations and sharing untold stories to empower young girls and women to take control of their bodies and their futures.

Through moments of reflection and connection with nature, l realized that not all disabilities are visible and that showing patience, kindness, and understanding to each other is crucial in creating a more inclusive and supportive society. The return journey from Terego was filled with mixed emotions – a sense of accomplishment for having successfully completed the hike, but also a heavy heart knowing that so many young girls in that community still lack basic menstrual hygiene resources.

As we descended the mountain and made our way back to the village,  l reflected on the urgent need for education and access to menstrual hygiene products for young girls. I realized that the work was far from over and that we must continue to advocate for change and empower these girls to break free from the shackles of stigma and discrimination.

The pain and hardships faced by these young girls served as a stark reminder of the importance of organizations like Raising Teenagers Uganda, who are dedicated to providing support and resources to empower girls and women in communities like Terego.

The #Hike4GirlsUg initiative was not just a one-time event, but a call to action for all of us to stand up and make a difference in the lives of young girls and women everywhere. It was a reminder that together, we can break down barriers, challenge taboos, and create a more inclusive and equitable world for all.

BRAVO To all the 2024 HIKERS. We are making a DIFFERENCE.

Tyson Shanda: Health Promotion and Rights Watch Uganda.