For years, the conversation around menstrual health has largely been confined to women and girls. In Tanzania, cultural and societal norms have often cast menstruation as a taboo subject, leaving many girls and women without the support or understanding they need. However, a groundbreaking shift is underway in pastoralist communities, where men are increasingly stepping up to champion menstrual hygiene and address the challenges faced by girls and women.
In a remarkable turn of events, men, traditionally seen as distant from discussions about menstruation, are now playing pivotal roles in promoting menstrual hygiene awareness. This change is part of the broader Period Poverty Campaign, an initiative led by the Pastoral Women’s Council (PWC) and the Msichana Initiative Organization (MIO), which seeks to address menstrual health challenges and advocate for the removal of taxes on sanitary products.
A Shift in Perspective: The Role of Men in the Period Poverty Campaign
One of the most significant moments in this campaign occurred at a Parent-Teacher Association (PTA) meeting in Lake Natron on September 24, 2024. During the meeting, Hon. Sakai, the long-serving Engaresero Ward Councilor, broke tradition by addressing the importance of menstrual hygiene in front of a large crowd. For Maasai men, who typically hold the economic power in their households and communities, it is rare to hear open discussions about menstrual products and women’s health. Yet Hon. Sakai chose this platform to make a powerful statement.
He emphasized the health risks that women face when using unsafe menstrual products like rags or pieces of cloth. “Back in the day, women used unsafe sanitary pads like pieces of cloth, which can be dangerous to their health,” he said, holding a sanitary pad in front of the crowd. His bold move was met with approval and applause from the audience, which included over 300 participants, from traditional leaders and religious figures to local government officials.
Men Taking the Lead in Change
In Maasai culture, where the financial decisions are often made by men, Hon. Sakai’s appeal was particularly significant. He urged his fellow men to take responsibility for ensuring that their daughters and wives have access to safe, industrial sanitary pads. “In our community, men hold the economy of the family, thus, I urge my fellow men to ensure they allocate a budget for sanitary pads for our girls so they can have healthier menstruation and concentrate on their studies,” he said.
This moment marked a shift not only in the conversation but in who was driving it. Men, like Hon. Sakai, are starting to acknowledge the profound impact that access to menstrual hygiene products has on the health, education, and dignity of women and girls. His speech at the PTA meeting also demonstrated how community leaders can influence cultural change by encouraging open dialogue on issues that are often stigmatized.
The Power of Male Advocacy
This movement of male advocacy for menstrual hygiene has the potential to dismantle long-standing cultural taboos and transform the lives of many girls who struggle to manage their periods in a dignified way. By engaging men in this issue, the Period Poverty Campaign is not only helping to provide practical solutions, such as advocating for the elimination of taxes on menstrual products, but also fostering a supportive environment where men and women can work together to ensure girls’ access to education.
As Hon. Sakai’s speech resonated with many in attendance, the event set a precedent for further discussions in Maasai communities and beyond. His involvement shows that men can be strong allies in the fight against period poverty. And as more men become involved in these conversations, the movement is gaining momentum, breaking down stigmas, and creating a new narrative around menstrual health in Tanzania.
Conclusion: A New Era of Collaboration
The involvement of influential male figures like Hon. Sakai is a testament to the growing understanding that menstrual health is not just a women’s issue—it is a societal issue. When men take part in these conversations, it sends a strong message that the health and education of women and girls matter to everyone. This shift is not only empowering girls to stay in school and pursue their dreams, but it is also helping to create a culture where menstruation is no longer taboo but rather a normal part of life that deserves the attention and care of the entire community.
With more men like Hon. Sakai advocating for menstrual hygiene, the fight against period poverty in Tanzania is gaining strength. It’s a reminder that real change happens when everyone, regardless of gender, comes together to tackle important issues. By breaking down cultural barriers and encouraging open dialogue, men are helping to build a healthier, more inclusive future for girls and women across Tanzania.
