Period poverty is a pressing concern in Liberia, with significant numbers of women and girls lacking access to affordable menstrual hygiene products. The United Nations (U.N.) found in 2019 that approximately 30% of Liberian girls and women cannot consistently afford menstrual pads or tampons. Inadequate sanitation facilities compound the issue, leaving many without the means to manage their menstruation hygienically. As a result, girls often miss school due to the unavailability of proper menstrual products and facilities, impacting their educational opportunities. The cultural stigma surrounding menstruation further exacerbates the problem, perpetuating a lack of awareness and open discussion on this critical issue.

Period Struggles and Poverty

Period poverty in Liberia is intricately linked to the issue of widespread poverty, with a significant portion of the population unable to afford menstrual hygiene products. UNICEF found that approximately 64% of Liberians live below the national poverty line. The financial burden of purchasing menstrual supplies exacerbates the economic challenges that women and girls in the country face. Furthermore, missed school or work days due to period-related issues directly impact their educational and income-generating opportunities, reinforcing the cycle of poverty. In addition, the lack of proper sanitation facilities further compounds the problem of period poverty in Liberia, affecting the overall health and dignity of women and girls.

Legal Reforms

Liberia is taking optimistic strides to address period poverty through specific legal reforms. Recently, the Liberian government eliminated import taxes on menstrual hygiene products, making them more affordable and accessible. The Ministry of Education has also introduced policies aimed at ensuring schools provide adequate sanitation facilities and promote menstrual hygiene education. These reforms are part of broader gender equality initiatives in Liberia, emphasizing the importance of menstrual health and dignity. By enacting these legal changes, the government aims to reduce the financial burden on women and girls and improve overall well-being.

Days for Girls Liberia

Days For Girls Liberia is an organization dedicated to tackling period poverty in Liberia with optimism. This organization is actively working to provide reusable menstrual hygiene kits and menstrual health education to underserved communities. By distributing these kits, Days for Girls Liberia empowers women and girls to manage their periods hygienically and with dignity. Moreover, the organization conducts workshops to raise awareness about menstrual health and break down the societal stigmas surrounding menstruation. The organization’s tireless efforts are contributing to improved menstrual health and overall well-being for Liberian women and girls.

Dr. Maymunah Kadree and Girls Empowerment Initiative Liberia

Dr. Maymunah Kadree, the founder of Girls Empowerment Initiative Liberia, is a driving force in the fight against period poverty in Liberia. Through her organization, Dr. Kadree has been providing menstrual hygiene education and distributing reusable menstrual products to girls in underserved communities. She hopes to empower girls to manage their periods confidently and continue their education without interruption through her efforts. Dr. Kadree’s work also aims to break down cultural taboos surrounding menstruation, promoting open dialogue and awareness about menstrual health. Her dedication and optimism have made a significant impact on improving the lives of young girls by addressing period poverty in Liberia.

– Nathaniel George
Photo: Flickr