By Lancer Wao | Communication Manager
Dear Friend, Colleagues, and supporters
Despite many advances that have been made in the overall sexual reproductive health, information on reproductive health among female teenagers could be improved. According to the African traditional culture, educating girls on sexual and reproductive is considered women’s responsibilities. Yet, men play critical roles in the ability of women or young girls in seeking sex and reproductive health services. They make decisions whether and when teenage girls can seek healthcare services. The result of not involving men has led to challenges like high cases of early unwanted teenage pregnancies, increase in the prevalence of female genital mutilation, spread of sexually transmitted diseases and high levels of school drop-out. It is in this spirit that HFAW decided to mark the Zero Tolerance for FGM International Day by holding a school outreach at Menyenya Primary, Kijauri Town, Nyansiongo.
HFAW has done many school outreaches since 2015. However, this was like no other. On this day, we prioritized men talking to teenage girls on sexual and reproductive health. Admittedly, we knew that it was risky move from a cultural perspective. Nevertheless, the availability of willing and able male community health and human rights promoters (CRHPP) made the activity successful.
It was so pleasing to see how men took the initiative to lead the sessions. They educated the girls about the emotional, physical, and mental changes they will have to go through during adolescence.
“At some point in your growth and development, you will experience an increased sense of consciousness and need for independence. This is normal and should not stress nor pressure you to get engaged in early intimate relationships or consent to FGM. Stay assured of our support and get closer to your parents as well since their support is equally important in protecting you from the negative eventualities of the adolescence stage like unwanted teenage pregnancies”, said Yebesh Orina.
One girl asked, “I would like to know why girls experience monthly periods?”
Admittedly, prior to the event, few of them had knowledge regarding menstrual health. However, they were assured that it is a normal biological process that every girl experiences. They were assured that it is a sign of development and they should maintain high standards of hygiene during this period and avoid stress.
Another girl remarked, “Why is it that my grandmothers claims that if a girl is not circumcised, she cannot give birth?”
This question was a good sign that the girls were willing to open up to the CRRHPs. Topics related to sexual and reproductive health, especially FGM, are often expressed in low tones and secrecy. They were told, contrary to the information they had, FGM puts one at risk of numerous infections and health complications that will negatively affect one’s ability to give birth.
Not Just Girls alone…
The boys’ group was equally interactive. Just like the girl’s group, they were taught and given an opportunity to ask questions. The CRRHPs explained the changes they are likely to experience during adolescence. They were told that it is during such a time that they should take care of themselves and restrain from engaging in early intimate relationships that will distract them from their studies hence preventing them from achieving their life goals. Also, they were asked to take care of their female peers who are equally experiencing pressure because of the physical and emotional changes that occur during adolescence. Then, they were asked to be at the forefront in protecting their sisters and female classmates from being subjected to FGM.
Keeping girls safe is the priority of HFAW. Gladly, this event provided a platform for HFAW to continue showing its commitment in protecting girls in the country. To us, it is a calling and regardless of the challenges that may come with it, we are proud of the achievements we have made. We are humbled by the support we have received from you. We do not take your generosity and sense of good-will for granted. We ask you to continue sharing this information with friends and families so that they can see how you have impacted lives and encourage them to participate in the same.
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By Teresiah Gitau | HFAW, Project Manager
By Winnierose N. Sululu | HFAW Staff
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