Joel Ajayi
FAME Foundation joins the global community to commemorate World Menstrual Hygiene Day 2026, observed annually on May 28 to raise awareness on the importance of menstrual health, hygiene education, and access to safe menstrual products for women and girls around the world. The theme for this year, “Together for a #PeriodFriendlyWorld,” calls for collective action toward creating a society where menstruation is treated with dignity, openness, support, and equality.
The theme further emphasizes the importance of breaking the silence and stigma surrounding menstruation while encouraging stronger support systems, awareness, education, and access to menstrual hygiene resources for girls and women. It also highlights the need to create environments where menstruation does not limit confidence, participation, health, or opportunity.
Speaking to the press, issued on Thursday in Abuja, Arabinrin Aderonke Atoyebi, Executive Director, FAME Foundation, described menstrual health as a fundamental issue of dignity, health, education, and equality.
“Menstruation is a natural part of life, yet millions of girls and women continue to face shame, stigma, poor access to menstrual products, and limited information about menstrual hygiene. No girl should miss school, feel excluded, or be denied opportunities because of her period.”
She explained that period poverty continues to affect many girls, especially those in underserved communities, limiting their confidence, participation, education, and overall well-being.
“Many girls still struggle to access sanitary products and safe hygiene facilities. Lack of proper menstrual hygiene education also leaves young girls vulnerable to misinformation, embarrassment, and health risks. These challenges must be addressed collectively and intentionally.”
She further emphasized the importance of creating safe spaces where girls can openly discuss menstrual health without fear, shame, or discrimination.
“Ending menstrual stigma begins with education and open conversations. Girls deserve accurate information, support, and environments where menstruation is treated with dignity and understanding rather than silence or shame.”
FAME Foundation continues to advocate for menstrual health awareness through community outreaches, sensitization programs, and initiatives that support girls with menstrual hygiene education and access to sanitary products, particularly among vulnerable and underserved communities.
She stated;
“Access to menstrual hygiene products and education should not be considered a privilege. It is essential to the health, confidence, and development of every girl and woman.”
She also called on governments, schools, development organizations, private institutions, and community leaders to strengthen efforts to end period poverty and improve menstrual health support systems.
“Collective action is needed to ensure that girls and women can manage menstruation safely, confidently, and without barriers. Investing in menstrual health is an investment in education, equality, dignity, and the future of girls.”
She concluded by encouraging continued advocacy and awareness beyond the annual commemoration.
“World Menstrual Hygiene Day reminds us that menstrual health matters every day. Creating a world where no girl is held back because of menstruation requires continuous awareness, support, and action from all sectors of society.”
