Online Reporter
Lucia Mazhou
FOR many girls at Mukamba Primary and Secondary Schools, the arrival of their monthly period has often meant shame, discomfort and even missing out on class time.
But, on Friday, hope walked back into the classrooms in the form of pads and toiletries, which were given by philanthropist Sheilla Muzambe.
Muzambe, who is the founder of Flame of Life Foundation, mobilised resources along with Lutgardis and visited the schools in Mutungagore area under Makoni South constituency Ward 28.
The kind gesture saw 50 primary girls and 72 secondary girls benefiting.
A former Mukamba student herself, Muzambe said her motivation came from lived experience and an understanding of the challenges faced by young girls in rural schools.
“As someone who attended this school during earlier years, I know the plight of the girls here.
“Young girls need to be taught that monthly periods are not a dirty thing, and that is why I am here to show these young girls the light.
“My worst nightmare is seeing a girl miss class because she is on her period and does not have sanitary wear.
“This is about restoring dignity and showing our girls that they matter,” she said.
Muzambe also used the opportunity to educate the students on menstrual hygiene management, emphasising that pads were not only a symbol of dignity but also a tool for better health.
“Failure to practice proper hygiene standards will result in rashes, foul smells, and other health problems, and you do not want that for yourself.
“Change your pad frequently to avoid that.”
Mathew Masinge