To mark World Menstrual Hygiene Day on 28th May 2026, Governors’ Camp Collection partnered with PadMad Kenya, Mugie Conservancy, and Ekorian Camp to host an educational session focused on menstrual health awareness, confidence, and dignity for young girls. The main objective of this collaborative activity was to increase knowledge of proper menstrual hygiene management in the school environment, reduce stigma and misconceptions about menstruation, and support girls with essential hygiene supplies.
Students and teachers from two of our partner schools, Suguta Mugie Primary, and Louniek Secondary School participated enthusiastically. The session was led by Madhvi, the CEO and Founder of PadMad Kenya, alongside representatives from the partner organisations.
The day began with introductions, after which Madhvi led a discussion by asking learners what they understood about menstruation. She then guided the learners through understanding menstruation as a normal and healthy part of life for girls and women, highlighting the age at which girls typically begin menstruation and the physical and emotional changes that accompany this stage of development.
The students were taken through the entire menstrual cycle, including its different stages, how girls may feel emotionally and physically during their periods, and the normal amount of blood lost during menstruation. Discussions also focused on common menstrual discomforts, such as cramps and pain, with Madhvi sharing practical ways to manage them, including using a hot water bottle, walking, physical exercise, and seeking support when necessary.
This approach seamlessly connected to discussions on sustainable menstrual health management and the importance of reusable sanitary towels. The students were shocked to learn that a single disposable sanitary towel can take between 500 and 800 years to decompose, highlighting the severe environmental impact of disposable alternatives. Reusable pads were discussed as a sustainable alternative that plays a major role in reducing plastic waste and promoting environmentally friendly practices.
To enhance their understanding, Madhvi conducted a practical demonstration to show the students exactly how reusable sanitary towels are used, cleaned, dried, and safely maintained. The girls were encouraged to follow these practices to ensure the pads remain safe, comfortable, and reusable for a long time. This hands-on demonstration successfully helped break long-standing stigmas and built immense confidence among the learners.
To provide immediate, practical support, we were delighted to distribute deluxe reusable sanitary pad kits to 100 schoolgirls, to help maintain their health and dignity.
Madhvi also encouraged the girls to value and protect themselves by making positive choices in life. She shared that they all need Vitamin N, encouraging the girls to practice saying No to situations, influences, or requests that may negatively affect their wellbeing or future. Cherita, one of the students, shared that she learned about the importance of reusable sanitary towels and how they can help both girls and the environment.
The session also created an opportunity for boys and teachers to participate in conversations around menstrual health, helping promote understanding, empathy, and a supportive, inclusive school and home environment where menstruation can be discussed openly and respectfully. Malcom, another learner, added that as boys, they have learned why it is important to support girls.
The day served as an important reminder that menstrual health education is not only about hygiene but also about dignity, confidence, environmental awareness, and the creation of supportive communities where girls can thrive without shame or stigma.
Governors’ Camp Collection extends sincere thanks to Madhvi for giving her time to travel to Laikipia for the event as well as to the Mugie Conservancy community team for organising such a worthwhile event. We also wish to thank the participating schools, teachers, and students, whose active participation contributed to the event’s success.
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Words by Sharon Muthoni, CITW Community Coordinator. Photos by Tarryn Liddell, Ekorian Camp
