We honour all women, young and old: Minister Mutsvangwa
INFORMATION, Publicity and Broadcasting Services Minister Monica Mutsvangwa says the availability of affordable and hygienic sanitary wear for young girls is important to avoid health complications that arise from the use of unsafe materials during menstruation.
Minister Mutsvangwa was speaking at Gombakomba High School in Mutare where she donated 300 sanitary kits containing reusable sanitary pads, underwear and a sewing kit to young girls from both Gombakomba primary and high schools.
She also donated 140 pairs of school shoes which will be given to the less privileged students, a soccer kit, T-shirts and aprons.
The donation coincided with the commemoration of the International Women’s Day, which champions women’s rights.
“As we celebrate the International Women’s Day, we honour all women, from young girls to the old women. But I want to focus on the girl child. Most young girls do not have access to hygienic sanitary wear and this has put their health at immense risk. Let us focus on important issues,” she said.
Minister Mutsvangwa said parliamentarians and senators have always been raising the issue of unaffordable sanitary wear for young girls, especially those in rural areas.
“We have heard chiefs and MPs saying there are women and young girls who use cow dung or newspapers during their periods, but this is dangerous and we want to try and address this problem so that our children do not get infected with serious diseases at such an early age,” she said.
She said the sanitary kits were being supplied by a well-wisher, Ms Tsungi Chibvongodze, who is based in the United States.
“She realised the need back home and felt compelled to help out in a small way. We believe that this will go a long way in alleviating the plight of the girl child. These pads are clinically tested and will prevent all manner of disease associated with other material often used by girls who cannot afford sanitary pads,” she said.
She said the kit could be used for up to five years and urged teachers and parents to continuously monitor the girls to ensure they properly wash and dry the pads.
Minister Mutsvangwa said if all young girls have access to hygienic sanitary wear, it would boost their confidence and performance in school.
This year’s commemorations are being held under the theme, “Sustainable Infrastructure and Access to Public Services for Gender Equality and Empowerment of Women”, while the international theme is “Think equal, build smart, innovate for change”.