Ugandan schools take on the taboo around periods
More than 20 schools in the Rwenzori region used drama and essays to talk openly about menstruation. A head teacher says silence leaves schools unprepared.
Kasese — Pupils from more than 20 schools in western Uganda have used plays, skits and essays to challenge the stigma around menstruation, The Independent reports.
The event, called "Undo the Taboo", was held on Friday at Kasese Secondary School in the Rwenzori region. It was organised by Reach A Hand Africa with Enable, and brought together learners, teachers, school leaders and community and cultural leaders, among them the prime minister of the Rwenzururu Kingdom, Benson Kule Baritazale.
"Menstruation is not a taboo," said Nathan Gonzaga, a regional manager at Reach A Hand Africa.
Why silence costs
The head teacher of the host school, Nzukwa Joseph, who chairs the Association of Secondary Schools in Uganda, said the problem starts with facilities, such as washrooms and the design of toilets.
"Because talking about menstruation looks like a taboo in our African society, that affects our planning," he said.
Maliba Secondary School won the essay competition and a prize of 1.5 million Ugandan shillings.
This report is based on reporting by The Independent, published by AllAfrica.
