Malawi: Local men champion menstrual hygiene with reusable sanitary pads

The article focuses on the involvement of men in promoting menstrual hygiene management in Dowa District, Malawi, through the production of reusable sanitary pads. It highlights the work of men such as Maxwell Mateyu and Frank Simeon, who joined a mother group at Nagwira Primary School to help address menstrual poverty affecting girls and women in their community. 
 
Supported by World Vision, the initiative trains community members to use locally available materials to produce reusable sanitary pads. Participants describe increased awareness among men about the impact of menstrual poverty, while women leaders explain how the initiative has reduced school absenteeism and supported girls’ education. 
 
The story underscores the importance of male engagement in challenging stigma around menstruation and promoting dignity, health and educational opportunities for girls. It demonstrates how community-based collaboration can contribute to gender equality and improved menstrual hygiene management. 

LINK TO PUBLISHED STORY:

https://atlasmalawi.com/local-men-champion-menstrual-hygiene-with-reusable-sanitary-pads/

Written by Meclina Chirwa. This article, first published by Atlas Media, is part of the Media Parity Capacity Building Programme and republished as part of the programme series.