Mandela Washington Fellows Association of Ghana Holds Menstrual Hygiene Outreach in Celebration of Mandela Day, Emphasizing Climate Action

In commemoration of Mandela Day and in line with the theme of climate action, the Mandela Washington Fellows Association of Ghana, comprising dedicated alumni of the Mandela Washington Fellowship, organized a significant public health outreach program focusing on menstrual hygiene. Held on July 18th, 2023, the project united health experts and passionate volunteers to educate teenage girls from the Teshie RC Primary School on the importance of menstrual hygiene, while also highlighting the necessity for environmentally-friendly sanitary products and affordable sanitary pads.

The project was part of a series of activities organized by the Mandela Washington Fellows Association of Ghana to celebrate Mandela Day, paying tribute to the inspiring legacy of Nelson Mandela by promoting social change and community development and also celebrate the influence of Mandela on the raising of the next generation of African leaders.

Recognizing the link between menstrual hygiene and climate action, the initiative aimed to shed light on the environmental impact of traditional menstrual products while emphasizing the need for effective, eco-friendly alternatives. By educating the girls on sustainable menstrual hygiene practices, the project sought to empower them to make informed choices that contribute to environmental preservation.



The event brought together a diverse team of health experts and dedicated volunteers, all of whom were alumni of the Mandela Washington Fellowship. Their collective expertise and passion for empowering young girls made the outreach program impactful and engaging. Through interactive sessions, the girls were equipped with comprehensive knowledge on menstrual hygiene management, including proper hygiene practices, environmentally-friendly sanitary product options, and the importance of responsible disposal.



The climax of the day's activities was the generous donation of sanitary pads to 200 girls from the Teshie RC Primary School. This donation aimed to alleviate the financial burden associated with menstrual hygiene and ensure that girls could maintain their dignity and continue their education without interruption. By highlighting the importance of affordable sanitary pads, the Mandela Washington Fellows Association of Ghana underscored the need for increased accessibility to these essential products.



The project received commendation from the school administration, parents, and the local community for its comprehensive approach to menstrual hygiene education and its focus on climate action. The headmistress of Teshie RC Primary School, Mrs. Vivian Vera, expressed her gratitude, stating, "This initiative not only provided our girls with vital knowledge about menstrual hygiene but also emphasized the importance of environmentally-friendly options. It's a significant step towards creating a healthier and more sustainable future."



The Mandela Washington Fellowship for Young African Leaders is the flagship program of the U.S. Government’s Young African Leaders Initiative (YALI). YALI was created in 2010 and celebrated its 10th anniversary in 2020. Established in 2014, the Mandela Washington Fellowship has brought nearly 5,800 young leaders from every country in Sub-Saharan Africa to the United States for academic and leadership training. The Fellows, between the ages of 25 and 35, are accomplished innovators and leaders in their communities and countries.

The Mandela Washington Fellows Association of Ghana has demonstrated their commitment to advancing social and environmental causes through this successful public health outreach. By focusing on menstrual hygiene and its connection to climate action, they have contributed to raising awareness and empowering young girls to make informed choices that benefit both their personal well-being and the environment. The association's dedication to affordable sanitary pads and environmentally-friendly alternatives sets a commendable example for communities worldwide, highlighting the importance of sustainable practices and accessible menstrual hygiene products.

Date: July 18th, 2023 Location: Teshie RC Primary School, Ghana