Menstruation is shrouded by silence in Mehe village, Mayo Sava Division, Far North Region of Cameroon. This leaves girls unprepared for their periods and communities misinformed about menstrual health. Did you know that 39% of girls in Mehe had never heard of menstruation before their first period, and only 2% feel comfortable talking openly about it? Moreover, 59% of men and 44% of women lack awareness about menstruation, feeling stigma. 98% of girls and women in Mehe use unhygienic fabric to absorb menstrual blood, risking their health.
This comic book is part of our project entitled ‘Improving Menstrual Health Education for Women and Girls in Mehe’, implemented by Good Neighbors Cameroon in collaboration with Good Neighbours Canada and funded by Global Affairs Canada. The project aims to:
- Increase local knowledge on menstrual health and hygiene
- Improve access to reusable menstrual supplies and WASH Infrastructure
- Promote dignity and equality for women and girls
The stories and illustrations in this comic book cover topics such as menstrual health, puberty, menstrual hygiene management, breaking taboos, challenging stigma and harmful gender norms. We have also highlighted reusable pad benefits and promoted safe spaces in schools for menstrual hygiene. By empowering girls, boys and communities, we are paving the way for a future where menstruation is a normal fact of life by 2030.