CAGEAD Takes Another Step in Improving Girls’ Menstrual Hygiene in Boy
CAGEAD hosted an inspiring celebration for World Menstrual Hygiene Day 2026 in Njinikom, Boyo Division. under the theme "Together for a #PeriodFriendlyWorld,” the event brought together over 88 Adolescent girls and young women, boys and men, all driven by a shared mission which is to challenge myths, break stigma, and promote dignity around menstruation.
This initiative is part of CAGEAD’s ongoing efforts to strengthen community resilience and organizational capacity for sustainable development, with a focus on breaking taboos, dispelling myths, and fostering a supportive environment for girls and women to manage menstruation safely and with confidence.
CAGEAD’s celebration in Boyo (Njinikom-Fuanatui) was distinguished by a highly participatory and interactive picnic format, designed to educate, empower, and promote community ownership of menstrual health.
Participants engaged in an informative session, covering key topics such as understanding menstruation, the menstrual cycle, hygiene practices, pain management, and common menstrual disorders. The discussion aimed to dispel myths and misconceptions, encourage open dialogue, and empower individuals with knowledge on when to seek medical care, ultimately promoting healthier practices and reducing stigma.
Participants visited diverse educational booths showcasing menstrual hygiene materials and products developed through the MHM Lab. These booths demonstrated disposable sanitary pads, reusable pads, menstrual cups, and hygiene kits. Participants learned about the advantages and disadvantages of each product, proper use, disposal, cleaning, storage, and how to track menstrual periods equipping them with practical knowledge to make informed choices.
During the event, many girls shared their personal experiences, highlighting the importance of education and support. One girl recounted her journey, saying, “Before I learned about menstruation, I used to be afraid and ashamed. But now I know it’s natural, and I want every girl to feel confident and loved during this time.” Her story resonated with many others, inspiring a collective desire to break taboos and promote open conversations about menstrual health. The celebration emphasized that by working together, communities can foster an environment where menstruation is no longer a source of shame but a natural part of life to be embraced with dignity.
An interactive quiz session challenged participants to answer questions on the menstrual cycle, hygiene practices, myths versus facts, and sustainable menstrual products. Participants competed individually and in teams, and prizes awarded. This engaging activity aimed to dispel misconceptions and reinforce practical knowledge for improved menstrual experiences.
In order to give participants a visual and practical tool to understand cycle phases and track menstruation, participants learned how to make menstrual cycle beads. Each girl crafted her own beaded bracelet, empowering her to monitor her health and recognize cycle patterns effectively.
A key highlight was the distribution of menstrual kits containing 2 disposable pads, 4 cotton underwear, buckets, 2 bars of washable soaps, 2 Omo powder, and towels. Providing these essential resources aimed to reduce stigma, promote hygienic practices, and support girls in attending school comfortably during their periods, reinforcing the community’s commitment to menstrual dignity and health, increasing access to menstrual products.
Throughout the event, community men and boys were encouraged to participate actively, understanding their vital role in supporting girls and women during menstruation. The activities fostered open conversations, challenged harmful myths, and promoted a culture of acceptance and support.
CAGEAD’s celebration of world menstrual hygiene day in Boyo not only increased awareness and knowledge but also equipped girls with practical skills and resources essential for menstrual hygiene management. It demonstrated the power of community-driven initiatives in reducing stigma, enhancing health, and empowering girls to lead confident, stigma-free lives.
As CAGEAD continues its work to promote gender equality and community resilience, this event marks another significant step in improving menstrual hygiene management in Boyo. The organization remains committed to creating a #PeriodFriendlyWorld where menstruation is understood, respected, and managed with dignity by all.
Together, we can build a future where every girl manages her menstruation without shame and barriers because every girl deserves support, understanding, and dignity.
“Together for a #PeriodFriendlyWorld”
By Muh Yvonne Nchim