KANYAMA MP CALLS FOR ACTION TO END MENSTRUAL HYGIENE STIGMA

Lusaka, Saturday (June 1, 2024)

MEDIA STATEMENT 

Kanyama Member of Parliament Monty Chinkuli has called on Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs) to intensify efforts in sensitizing citizens about menstrual hygiene. He was speaking during the Menstrual Hygiene Day event held in Lusaka sponsored by the Water Voices United project.

The Water Voices United is a transformative four-year project, co-funded by the European Union and Danish People’s Aid and spearheaded by SNV in partnership with the NGO WASH Forum. This initiative aims to enhance the capabilities and synergies among WASH Civil Society Organisations (CSOs) in Zambia. By fostering the CSOs role in WASH governance, the project supports the Zambian Government’s efforts towards the progressive realization of the Human Right to Water and Sanitation. Together, we are not just aiming for change; we are ensuring a sustainable and equitable future where access to clean water and safe sanitation becomes a reality for all.

And Mr Chinkuli emphasized the need to eradicate the stigma associated with menstruation.

Mr Chinkuli commended NGOs for heeding President Hakainde Hichilema’s call to embrace the 8th National Development Plan. He said the President had urged all stakeholders to take ownership of the plan to ensure its successful implementation. Mr Chinkuli emphasized that NGOs play a crucial role in achieving this goal. The Lawmaker highlighted the importance of holding the government accountable for menstrual hygiene management. 

He expressed concern about the prevalence of non-biodegradable menstrual hygiene products, which harm the environment. During his recent inspection of Constituency Development Fund (CDF) projects, Mr Chinkuli encountered an NGO distributing menstrual hygiene pads to beneficiaries, particularly pupils. 

He, however, revealed that women approached him with complaints that the distributed pads were non-biodegradable. The MP said the pads, when discarded, pose challenges for water well digging due to their environmental impact. Mr Chinkuli urged collaboration between NGOs and manufacturers to address this issue. 

“We need to engage those producing these items. By working together, stakeholders can explore eco-friendly alternatives and promote sustainable menstrual hygiene practices,” he asserted. 

This is contained in a statement issued by Zambia NGO WASH Forum National Coordinator Bubala Muyovwe-Mumba.

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