Theatre play tackles menstrual health issues

Challenges that young girls face in terms of menstrual health were under the spotlight yesterday, at a theatre play dubbed Periodically Correct, which was showcased at the Jason Mphepo Little Theatre in Harare.

Organised by a non-profit making institution Kunashe Foundation, the play outlined the predicament faced by girls, largely in rural areas, during their menstrual period.

It was written by Ms Nokuthula Chari and directed by Mr Jasen Mphepo.

In an interview, Ms Chari expressed hope that the play would be effective in highlighting challenges that young girls face.

“Girls from rural areas and low-income families face anguish over this matter. They cannot afford sanitary pads and they will be desperate. The play had two characters, the girl child who has attention in the urban areas and the forgotten one who suffers alone in the rural area.”

“lt was easy to connect to the character given that she is also a woman that feels the effects of poverty.”

 Kunashe Foundation executive director, Ms Ratidzo Njagu, said the play seeks to raise public awareness on challenges that girls face.

“We are working towards ensuring the girl child is heard and supported and this is being done through training communities across Zimbabwe on this essential topic of menstrual health by the foundation.

“To date, Kunashe has trained communities across Zimbabwe on this essential topic of menstrual health and hygiene. This education is vital to ending period poverty, ensuring girls have all they need to menstruate with dignity and safeguard their future.

“The Periodically Correct play allows us to reach many more communities as we seek to leave no one behind,” she added.

Radio personality Becky K who was the play’s star actor said she was thrilled to be part of a production that will impact lives of women and girls across Zimbabwe.