Introduction

Period Talk Uganda is committed to breaking barriers, addressing period poverty, and fighting menstrual stigma in Uganda. This mission led to an impactful outreach project in Kisenyi slum, Mbarara City. Conducted in partnership with Manchester United Fans in Mbarara, VIDEA Uganda, and Crooze FM, and held during World AIDS Day and the 16 Days of Activism, this initiative exemplified the power of community-driven solutions to address critical issues like menstrual health, stigma, and HIV awareness.

About the Project

Our project, funded through crowdfunding and collaboration with key partners, aimed to provide sustainable solutions to period poverty and stigma in Kisenyi slum. Kisenyi which is one of the largest slums in Mbarara district is significantly affected by social and economic challenges and is also a hotspot for HIV/AIDS.

Key Findings:
A pilot study revealed that transactional sex for pads was a troubling reality for many young girls and single mothers, highlighting the desperate need for menstrual health support.

Activities:

1. Stakeholder Engagement: Secured approvals from local leaders to host an educative and philanthropic outreach on December 1, 2024.

2. Awareness Campaigns: Partnered with Crooze FM for a radio talk show, discussing period poverty and stigma to reach a broader audience.

3. Education Sessions: Menstrual hygiene sensitization in line with the usage of hygienic alternatives which included demonstrations on the use, cleaning, and storage of reusable pads, emphasizing their cost-effectiveness and durability.

4. Inclusivity Efforts: Engaged men and boys in discussions about their role in combating period stigma and providing support to foster a period-friendly world.

5. Product Distribution: provided over 300 free reusable pads and hygiene products ensuring that they had access to reusable pads lasting up to two years.

Through these activities, we addressed transactional sex for pads, destigmatized menstruation, and empowered over 300 women and girls in Kisenyi to manage their periods with dignity.

Progress of Our Project

1. Creating Awareness:
Our consistent efforts through social media posts, community meetings, and radio talk shows have achieved a remarkable 90% awareness level within the targeted communities.

2. Providing Menstrual Hygiene Products:
With an 85% success rate in product distribution, this initiative continues to provide long-term solutions to period poverty, thanks to the collective efforts of our dedicated team and community partnerships

3. Research and Feedback:
Quarterly visits to Kisenyi are planned to gather feedback from women and girls on their experiences with the reusable pads, ensuring continuous improvement and sustainability of the project.

Conclusion

The Kisenyi Slum Outreach marks a significant milestone in our journey to combat period poverty and stigma. We have sown seeds of resilience and dignity by empowering the community with knowledge, products, and open conversations. Period Talk Uganda is committed to expanding this initiative to other underserved communities, fostering a future where menstruation is not a barrier to opportunity.