Introduction and scope
 Silence on menstruation, taboos, beliefs and myths constitute a denial of freedom of
women and girls
 According to the situation analysis carried out by Ministry of Health (2016), 46% of the
respondents used disposable pads, with only 6% using reusable pads and 7% relying on
old cloths, pieces of blanket, chicken feathers, mud and even newspapers
With such and many more disturbing statistics, my work and involvement on matters Menstrual
Hygiene Management (MHM) is through education, sensitization and orientation sessions
engaging and facilitating breaking the silence sessions that target participation and inclusion of
men and boys in MHM.
Engaging in bold conversations that weigh in on the topic by demonstrating the various avenues
where men and boys can support menstruation including but not limited to:
 As ambassadors or change makers who challenge the status quo of myths,
misconceptions, taboos and cultural beliefs that promote; shame, fear, lack of dignity and
discomfort for women and girls during menstruation. Including advocating for best MHM
practices and spreading awareness.
 Psychosocial support, mostly, by understanding and appreciating vulnerabilities brought
about by hormonal imbalance during menstruation.
 Infrastructure/financial support through ensuring that women and girls have access to
safe spaces that provide privacy and security to enable them change menstrual
product/option during the entire period of menstruation as well as ensuring adequate
provision of water and soap to wash their bodies as required. Additionally, men and boys
can support women and girls in purchasing/making menstrual products.
 As researchers/entrepreneurs who can be part of environmentally friendly innovations on
safe and hygienic disposal/reuse of used menstrual product.
Therefore, it is a duty and responsibility for men and boys to be authors of strategies that will
enable women and girls find empowerment in menstruation or at least ensure dignity during
menstruation through Good Health and Well-Being (SGD 3), Quality Education (SDG4), Gender
Equality (SDG 5), Clean water and sanitation (SDG 6) Reduced Inequalities (SDG 10).
Attending the conference will ultimately promote exchange and experience sharing for learning
purpose in order to advance the MHM agenda within the broader WASH scope in Kenya and
beyond. 

Men and boys in good menstrual hygiene-experiences from rural settings in Kenya's North Rift region