Introduction
Period poverty, the lack of access to menstrual products and hygiene education, is a significant but often overlooked issue affecting women and girls worldwide. In The Gambia, this problem is particularly severe, especially in rural areas like Basse in the Upper River Region, where many women and girls cannot afford sanitary pads during their periods. This lack of access not only affects their health and dignity but also has broader social implications, particularly in education. Girls often miss school during their periods, leading to academic setbacks that can have long-lasting effects on their futures. Addressing period poverty in The Gambia is not just about providing sanitary pads—it’s about empowering women and girls, reducing stigma, and promoting gender equality.
The Background of Period Poverty in The Gambia
The Gambia, like many other countries in sub-Saharan Africa, faces significant challenges related to gender inequality and poverty. While progress has been made in some areas, the issue of menstrual hygiene remains a critical gap. For many women and girls in The Gambia, especially those living in rural areas, access to basic menstrual products is a luxury they cannot afford. This situation is compounded by cultural taboos and a lack of education around menstruation, which contribute to the stigma and shame associated with it.
In rural regions like Basse, period poverty is particularly acute. Here, traditional gender roles and economic hardship intersect to create a challenging environment for women and girls. Without access to sanitary pads, many girls resort to using unsafe alternatives like old cloth, leaves, or even sand, which can lead to infections and other health issues. The psychological impact is also profound, with many girls feeling embarrassed or ashamed during their periods, leading them to miss school and other important activities.
The Impact on Education
The educational impact of period poverty is one of the most significant consequences of this issue. In The Gambia, as in many other parts of the world, girls’ education is already fraught with challenges. The added burden of period poverty exacerbates these challenges, leading to higher absenteeism and dropout rates among girls. Studies have shown that when girls miss school due to their periods, they fall behind academically, which can lead to a loss of confidence and a reduced likelihood of continuing their education.
In Basse, for instance, it is common for girls to miss several days of school each month due to their periods. Over time, these absences accumulate, causing girls to lag behind their male peers. This not only affects their academic performance but also their future opportunities, as education is a key determinant of economic and social mobility. In a country where gender inequality is already pervasive, the impact of period poverty on girls’ education further entrenches these disparities.
UNFPA’s Intervention: A Holistic Approach
Recognizing the multifaceted nature of period poverty, the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) has taken a holistic approach to address this issue in The Gambia. Through a combination of product provision, education, and community engagement, UNFPA aims to tackle period poverty at its roots.
One of the key initiatives supported by UNFPA is the production and distribution of sanitary pads. In collaboration with local partners, UNFPA has established a production-support center where women, including those with disabilities, are employed to manufacture sanitary pads. This initiative not only provides much-needed menstrual products to women and girls across the country but also creates economic opportunities for those involved in the production process.
Fatoumatta Fatty, a woman working at the pad production-support center, is one of the many beneficiaries of this initiative. Despite facing numerous challenges due to her disabilities, Fatoumatta has found a sense of purpose and pride in her work. Through the skills she has acquired, she is not only able to support herself financially but also contribute to a cause that directly impacts the lives of other women and girls in her community. Her story is a testament to the empowering potential of such initiatives, which not only address immediate needs but also foster long-term social change.
In addition to producing and distributing sanitary pads, UNFPA also focuses on education and awareness-raising. The agency disseminates information on sexual and reproductive health, with a particular emphasis on menstrual hygiene. By working with schools, community leaders, and healthcare providers, UNFPA aims to break down the stigma associated with menstruation and encourage open conversations about menstrual health. This educational component is crucial for creating a supportive environment where women and girls can manage their periods with dignity and without fear of discrimination.
Community Engagement and the Fight Against Stigma
One of the most challenging aspects of addressing period poverty is overcoming the deep-rooted stigma and taboos surrounding menstruation. In many Gambian communities, menstruation is still seen as a taboo subject, something that should be hidden and not discussed openly. This stigma not only affects the mental health and well-being of women and girls but also hinders efforts to provide education and support around menstrual health.
UNFPA’s approach to community engagement involves working closely with local leaders, educators, and families to change attitudes towards menstruation. By promoting the idea that menstruation is a natural and normal part of life, UNFPA aims to reduce the shame and embarrassment that many girls feel during their periods. This, in turn, helps to create an environment where girls can attend school and participate in community activities without fear of judgment.
Community-based programs also play a crucial role in this effort. These programs often involve workshops, training sessions, and discussions that bring together different members of the community to talk about menstruation and its impact on women’s lives. By involving men and boys in these conversations, UNFPA seeks to create a more inclusive approach to menstrual health, one that recognizes the role of everyone in supporting women and girls.
The Broader Implications of Addressing Period Poverty
Addressing period poverty in The Gambia has broader implications beyond the immediate provision of sanitary pads and education. At its core, the fight against period poverty is a fight for gender equality and the empowerment of women and girls. By ensuring that women and girls have the resources and support they need to manage their periods, UNFPA and its partners are helping to create a more equal society where women can fully participate in all aspects of life.
Moreover, tackling period poverty has a ripple effect on other areas of development. When girls can stay in school, they are more likely to complete their education, which in turn increases their chances of finding employment and contributing to the economy. Educated women are also more likely to advocate for their rights and the rights of others, leading to broader social and political change.
Conclusion
Period poverty is a significant issue that affects the lives of many women and girls in The Gambia. However, through the efforts of organizations like UNFPA, there is hope for change. By providing sanitary pads, education, and community support, these initiatives are helping to empower women and girls, reduce stigma, and promote gender equality. The story of Fatoumatta Fatty and others like her demonstrates the transformative potential of these efforts, which are not only addressing immediate needs but also laying the foundation for a more just and equitable future.
