In a heartwarming gesture , the Mountain View Women Network, led by its chairperson Lorna Achieng-Mungai, alongside members Sylvia Inyambula, Tim Sande, and Viorin Ouya, extended a helping hand to 25 primary school girls at Morning Star Informal School in Kangemi slums.
The donation, which took place on Thursday, March 14, 2024, included essential items such as sanitary pads, washing soap, and body oil, aiming to address menstrual hygiene challenges faced by young girls in the community.
Expressing gratitude on behalf of the school, Headteacher Kinnsman commended the Mountain View Women Network for their thoughtful initiative, emphasizing the importance of such support for the well-being of their students.
Teacher Turffin echoed these sentiments, underscoring the significance of the network’s previous contributions and reiterating the value they bring to the school community.
Chairperson Lorna Achieng-Mungai conveyed the network’s joy in revisiting the institution, highlighting their commitment to supporting girls, women, and families within the community.
Viorin Ouya, a volunteer and trained social worker with the network, engaged the girls in an informative session about menstruation, ensuring they understand the proper usage of sanitary pads and encouraging open communication with parents regarding menstrual health needs.
Sylvia Inyambula addressed the girls on the importance of safeguarding their well-being, emphasizing the sanctity of their bodies and empowering them to speak up against any form of abuse.
She encouraged the girls to seek inspiration from female role models and to embrace their periods without shame, advocating for proper disposal of used pads and seeking assistance from trusted adults when needed.
Lorna reiterated the network’s dedication to providing girls with the necessary resources to pursue their education without interruption, cautioning against potential pitfalls such as early pregnancy and the risks associated with engaging in transactional relationships for sanitary supplies.
In addition to providing menstrual hygiene support, the Mountain View Women Network Chairperson stressed the importance of cleanliness during menstruation, urging the girls to utilize the washing soap provided to maintain personal hygiene and prevent infections.
Blessy Mwendwa, the school’s head girl and president, expressed appreciation on behalf of her peers, noting the positive impact of the donations and extending an invitation for future collaborations with the Mountain View Women Network.
Established in 2018, the Mountain View Women Network operates as a Community Based Organization serving the Kangemi informal settlement. Beyond economic empowerment initiatives, the network actively supports over 100 girls in informal primary and secondary schools, offering access to sanitary pads, menstrual hygiene education, and related cleaning supplies, exemplifying their unwavering commitment to uplifting the community’s most vulnerable members.