On May 24th, the Yeewi association, in collaboration with Weerwi, GiZ and the Consortium Jeunesse Sénégal, celebrated the 10th anniversary of Menstrual Hygiene Day (MHDay). This event brought together nearly 100 participants, including young people aged 12 to 26, for an empowering day filled with activities, sharing, and learning.
The day featured several engaging and educational workshops. One of the core workshops focused on menstrual hygiene management. Young girls had the opportunity to learn how to better manage their periods, gain deeper knowledge about their bodies, and find answers to their many questions on a topic that remains shrouded in taboo.
Another workshop was dedicated to sign-making. During this session, participants expressed powerful messages directed at policymakers, demanding bold action to end period poverty in schools. Bearing passionate slogans, these signs reflected their fierce determination to make their voices heard and demand concrete change.
Alongside the educational workshops, the day featured obstacle courses and team games, giving young participants a chance to have fun while building strong community bonds. A washable pad-making workshop was also held, empowering participants to craft practical, sustainable solutions for their menstrual health.
The feedback from the young girls who took part was profoundly illuminating: many shared how uncomfortable they feel talking about their periods with their families, emphasizing how vital it is to be better informed to truly understand their bodies. The day not only shattered menstrual taboos, but also provided a safe, supportive space where girls could freely share their experiences and ask their questions without fear.
Among the key concerns raised, the urgent need for separate toilets for girls and boys was widely addressed. Participants highlighted that they feel far more comfortable, secure, and dignified when they have dedicated private spaces to change.
Yeewi association remains steadfast in this fight, continually driving grassroots initiatives and rallying key stakeholders to achieve lasting, systemic change.