In a vibrant showcase of creativity and purpose, over 1,000 students from more than 20 schools across Uganda came together at London College of St. Lawrence in Maya for a groundbreaking menstrual health education event spearheaded by Reach A Hand Uganda. Themed “Youth Innovations for Sustainable Menstrual Health and Hygiene,” the initiative blended education and entertainment—widely known as edutainment—to tackle deep-rooted menstrual taboos.
The event, which falls under the organisation’s Undo The Taboo and GN Trybe projects, was a lively blend of expressive arts including poetry, debate, drama, visual art, fashion, and creative writing. These artistic forms were harnessed to promote open dialogue about menstruation and challenge the silence and stigma surrounding it in Ugandan communities.
Top Ugandan musicians Allan Toniks and Daxx Kartel inspired the young audience with powerful “Power Talks” on menstrual health, while student-led innovation took centre stage. Learners presented eco-friendly prototypes such as biodegradable incinerators and reusable sanitary pads, showcasing sustainable and locally adaptable menstrual hygiene solutions.
“Edutainment helps overcome the silence and shame around menstruation. It creates a safe space where learners feel free to share,” said Humphrey Nabimanya, CEO of Reach A Hand Uganda. He reiterated the organisation’s commitment to empowering youth through creative and inclusive platforms.
Government officials from the Ministries of Health and Education were also present. Agnes Ssebowa, Senior Technical Officer for Adolescent and School Health, commended the initiative, stating, “We integrate menstrual health into education because it is a matter of human rights and dignity.”
Students expressed joy at being able to freely discuss menstruation, a topic often considered taboo. “Talking about menstruation used to make us feel ashamed,” said Luke, a student participant. “But today, it felt normal.”
Certificates of participation were given to all schools involved, with trophies and cash prizes awarded to the top three most outstanding schools.
However, the event also shed light on a sobering reality. The 2023/24 Auditor General’s report reveals that 64% of Ugandan schoolgirls regularly miss school due to lack of menstrual products and poor WASH (Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene) infrastructure. It also found that nearly half of the 48 schools assessed lacked basic menstrual hygiene support, including access to clean water and emergency pads.
Reach A Hand Uganda’s approach is an urgent reminder that addressing menstrual health goes beyond providing products—it requires breaking cultural barriers, fostering dialogue, and creating inclusive environments where every girl can thrive.
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