The Florence Mensah Foundation has launched its menstrual hygiene initiative, “Helping 1000 Girls to Embrace Their Flow,” at Kedzi-Havedzi A.M.E Zion Basic School in the Volta Region of Ghana. The project began with a donation of a six-month supply of Reflo sanitary pads to 300 girls in Keta Kedzi.
The project’s inauguration featured a mini durbar attended by notable dignitaries. The Torgbui Joachim Acolatse V (Duffia of Kedzi and chairman of the Kedzi Traditional Authority) and the District Chief Executive. The event opened with a welcome speech from Mr. Hedzi, head of Kedzi-Havedzi A.M.E Zion Basic School.
The Managing Director of Reflo Company Ltd, Ms. Rebecca Osam emphasised the project’s significance, stating, “We are not just launching a program; we are igniting a movement that will spread awareness, foster understanding, and create lasting change in the lives of our girls. We are planting the seeds of confidence, self-worth, and empowerment that will grow and flourish in the hearts of our young women.” She emphasised that menstruation is a symbol of strength and womanhood, and should not be a barrier.
A health talk by Nurse Judith and the Reflo’s Ladies highlighted the importance of menstrual hygiene, encouraging girls to view menstruation as a transition to womanhood. They provided practical advice on proper hygiene practices, including handwashing and pad disposal.
The event also featured a student-led drama that illustrated the drawbacks of using cloth versus the benefits of sanitary pads, and a choreography performance. The Directorate of Education expressed gratitude for the foundation’s initiative and urged continued support for other communities.
The event concluded with the distribution of a six-month supply of Reflo’s sanitary pads to 300 menstruating girls. Over the next three months, the two organisations will revisit Keta to donate additional three months’ worth of pads, totaling a year’s supply of sanitary pads. This initiative aims to address and dismantle the barriers women and girls face due to a lack of access to sanitary products. Through such efforts, the foundation and Reflo hope to inspire others to contribute to community well-being, marking the beginning of a brighter, more inclusive future for all girls.
