Beyond Pads: Global Advocates Call for Dignified Menstruation as a Human Right..

By Alain Kabinda

For millions of girls and women around the world, menstruation remains more than a monthly biological process. It is often accompanied by stigma, discrimination, poverty, and barriers that affect education, health, safety, and dignity.

As the world marked Menstrual Hygiene Day and the International Day of Action for Women’s Health, global advocates gathered to challenge conventional approaches to menstrual health, calling for a shift from simply providing menstrual products to recognizing menstruation as a fundamental human rights issue.

The discussions, held during the SHE & Rights session organized by the Women’s Global Network for Reproductive Rights (WGNRR) and its partners, brought together health experts, gender advocates, Media and policymakers from different parts of the world to examine the realities facing menstruators in an era marked by inflation, climate change, humanitarian crises, and growing inequalities.

At the centre of the conversation was Nepali nurse and activist Ms. Radha Paudel, who argued that dignified menstruation extends far beyond access to menstrual pads.

According to Ms. Paudel, stated that menstruation must be viewed through the lens of human rights, encompassing dignity, freedom, equality, and non-discrimination.

“Dignified menstruation is rooted in the right to dignity, the right to freedom, the right to equality, and the right to non-discrimination,” Ms. Paudel said.

Ms. Paudel emphasized that menstruators should be considered in all policy and emergency planning processes, including refugee camps, evacuation centres, disaster response programmes, and humanitarian interventions.

For Ms. Paudel, one of the biggest challenges is that menstrual discrimination remains deeply embedded in societies around the world.

She described menstrual discrimination as a complex issue that includes silence, stigma, harmful restrictions, exclusion, violence, deprivation of resources, and denial of services.

“These experiences reinforce unequal power relations and patriarchy,” Ms. Paudel said.

She further challenged the widespread use of the term “sanitary pads,” arguing that menstruation is natural and should not be associated with notions of impurity.

The dialogue also explored how global economic and environmental crises are worsening menstrual health challenges.

And Coordinator of the SHE & Rights campaign, Ms. Shobha Shukla, described the current global landscape as a “poly-crisis,” where inflation, climate-induced disasters, supply chain disruptions, and poverty are occurring simultaneously.

For an estimated 500 million people who experience period poverty worldwide, these overlapping crises have transformed menstrual hygiene from a basic health necessity into a difficult financial decision.

“Families are increasingly forced to prioritize food and fuel over menstrual products,” Ms. Shuka noted.

The impact is particularly severe in low-income communities, where rising prices have made menstrual products inaccessible for many households.

Climate change emerged as another major concern during the discussions.

Advocates highlighted how natural disasters frequently disrupt access to clean water, sanitation facilities, menstrual products, and safe spaces for women and girls.

In the Philippines, WGNRR Programme Officer Joie Cortina shared experiences from communities displaced by fires.

She recalled that among the most urgent needs identified by women and girls affected by disasters were underwear and menstrual products—items often overlooked in emergency relief efforts.

“When people lose everything, maintaining dignity becomes just as important as receiving food and water,” Ms. Paudel said.

Similarly, Indonesian gender and health advocate Rita Widiadana described how floods, earthquakes, and conflicts continue to expose women and girls to heightened menstrual health challenges.

She noted that women often lose access to safe sanitation facilities and menstrual supplies while living in evacuation centres.

“Menstrual products are not luxury items. They are essential for health and dignity,” she stressed.

The African perspective highlighted how economic pressures are forcing many girls and women into unsafe menstrual practices.

And Ms. Angel Babirye, speaking from Uganda, said rising inflation has significantly increased the cost of menstrual products across the continent.

As a result, many families are forced to make difficult choices between purchasing food and buying menstrual products.

Ms. Babirye explained that some girls are compelled to extend the use of menstrual products beyond recommended periods or resort to unsafe alternatives such as cloth, socks, or other improvised materials.

Health experts warn that such practices increase the risk of infections and other reproductive health complications.

And Many girls continue to miss school during menstruation because they lack access to menstrual products, clean water, and private sanitation facilities.

Throughout the discussions, speakers repeatedly emphasized the need to move beyond seeing menstruation solely as a hygiene issue.

Instead, they called for menstrual health to be integrated into broader conversations about education, healthcare, gender equality, climate resilience, and social justice.

Advocates stressed that governments, development partners, schools, healthcare institutions, and communities must work together to ensure that menstruators have access not only to products but also to information, healthcare services, privacy, and dignity.

They also highlighted the importance of including boys and men in menstrual health education to help dismantle harmful stereotypes and normalize conversations around menstruation.

As global efforts continue to promote menstrual health, campaigners say success will require addressing the root causes of menstrual discrimination and ensuring that the voices of menstruators themselves are placed at the centre of policy and programme design.

For many participants, the vision of a “period-friendly world” goes beyond access to pads and hygiene facilities.

It is about creating societies where no girl misses school because of her period, where no woman feels ashamed of a natural biological process, and where menstrual health is recognized as an essential component of human dignity and equality.

The message from advocates was clear: menstruation is not merely a health issue—it is a human rights issue, and achieving dignified menstruation is essential to building more inclusive, equitable, and resilient societies.

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 Stakeholders and Students Push for a Period-Friendly Zambia at Menstrual Health Dialogue

By Alain Kabinda

For generations, menstruation has been treated as a private matter, often hidden behind silence, stigma, and cultural misconceptions. Yet for millions of girls and women, the realities of menstrual health extend far beyond biology, affecting education, health, economic opportunities, and personal dignity.

As Zambia joined the global community in commemorating Menstrual Hygiene Day under the theme "Together for a Period-Friendly World," students and stakeholders gathered at UNICAF University for a dialogue that sought to reposition menstrual health from a personal issue to a national development priority.

Opening the dialogue, UNICAF Vice Chancellor Professor Douglas Kunda underscored the importance of addressing menstrual health as a national development issue requiring collective action from government, academia, civil society, and communities.

                                                             (Prof Douglas Kunda)

Welcoming participants to the Political Economy of Menstrual Health in Zambia dialogue hosted by UNICAF University, Professor Kunda said the commemoration of Menstrual Hygiene Day provided an opportunity to reflect on the broader implications of menstrual health beyond hygiene alone.

"As we commemorate Menstrual Hygiene Day under the global theme, 'Together for a Period-Friendly World,' we are reminded that menstrual health is not only a personal issue; it is a matter of dignity, education, health, gender equality, and socio-economic development," he said.

Professor Kunda noted that while awareness around menstrual health has increased over the years, significant challenges remain, including financing gaps, policy limitations, and barriers that continue to affect girls and women across the country.

He challenged students and participates to move beyond awareness campaigns and focus on practical, sustainable interventions that can improve menstrual health outcomes.

"Today's conversation challenges us to move beyond awareness and toward sustainable action. We must examine the policies we have, the financing gaps that remain, the barriers faced by girls and women, and the opportunities for innovation, investment, and collaboration," he said.

The Vice Chancellor further emphasized the role of higher learning institutions in generating evidence-based solutions and facilitating national dialogue on pressing social and health challenges.

"Universities have a responsibility to generate evidence, shape dialogue, and support solutions that respond to national and community realities. This gathering reflects our shared commitment to advancing menstrual health as a development priority in Zambia," he said.

Professor Kunda commended researchers, advocates, youth innovators, and development partners for contributing to the national conversation on menstrual health and expressed hope that the discussions would lead to stronger partnerships and meaningful action.

He said building a period-friendly Zambia would require coordinated efforts from all sectors to ensure that girls and women can manage menstruation safely, confidently, and with dignity.

"May today's discussions lead to meaningful recommendations, stronger partnerships, and practical action toward building a truly period-friendly Zambia," he said.

This section can be placed near the beginning of your feature story, immediately after the introduction, to provide context and set the tone for the discussions that followed.

The dialogue on the “Political Economy of Menstrual Health in Zambia” brought together researchers, health professionals, students, civil society organizations, youth advocates, and policymakers to examine how menstruation intersects with education, healthcare, gender equality, and economic development.

Opening the event, organizers emphasized that menstrual health is not only about access to sanitary products but also about creating policies, systems, and environments that allow girls and women to live with dignity and participate fully in society.

"Menstrual health is not only a personal issue; it is a matter of dignity, education, health, gender equality, and socio-economic development," participants heard during the opening session.

The gathering challenged attendees to move beyond awareness campaigns and focus on sustainable solutions, including policy reform, financing, research, and community engagement.

And one of the most compelling presentations came from Dr. Edith Nachizya Namukanga, an epidemiologist affiliated with Women in Global Health Zambia and UNICAF University.

                                                     (Dr. Edith Nachizya Namukanga)

Dr. Namukanga highlighted an often-overlooked challenge affecting adolescent girls: menstrual pain.

She revealed that research shows 78 percent of adolescent girls in Lusaka experience primary dysmenorrhea, commonly known as painful menstruation. Across Africa, a systematic review found a pooled prevalence of 62.3 percent.

Despite these high numbers, menstrual pain is frequently dismissed as a normal part of growing up.

"Menstrual pain is often treated as 'just period pain,' yet it affects school attendance, concentration, mental wellbeing, and overall quality of life," she said.

Dr. Namukanga called for menstrual pain to be integrated into Zambia's National Adolescent Health Strategy and urged health authorities to train healthcare workers in adolescent-friendly pain assessment and management.

Among her recommendations were the creation of Menstrual Health Corners in clinics, compassionate school absence policies for girls experiencing severe menstrual pain, and broader menstrual health education that includes pain management alongside hygiene information.

She also advocated for more inclusive research that captures the experiences of girls living in rural communities, girls with disabilities, and those who are out of school.

While discussions about menstrual health often focus on sanitary products, stakeholders at the dialogue stressed that the issue is far more complex.

Youth WASH Ambassador and WASH Consultant Nkosha Kachusha encouraged participants to examine menstrual health through a systems and policy perspective.

                                                                 (Ms.Nkosha Kachusha

She explained that meaningful progress requires understanding how education policies, healthcare systems, water and sanitation infrastructure, social norms, and governance structures interact to shape the experiences of girls and women.

According to Ms. Kachusha, addressing menstrual health effectively means asking difficult questions about accountability, community ownership, and access to services.

She noted that communities themselves must be involved in designing solutions rather than simply receiving interventions developed elsewhere.

"Community ownership is critical. Sustainable solutions come when people are involved in identifying their challenges and shaping responses," she said.

Her presentation highlighted the importance of partnerships among government institutions, researchers, civil society organizations, healthcare providers, and communities.

For many girls, menstruation remains associated with embarrassment, misinformation, and exclusion.

Participants at the dialogue acknowledged that period poverty continues to affect thousands of girls across Zambia. Some miss classes because they cannot afford sanitary products, while others struggle to access safe sanitation facilities or accurate menstrual health information.

Educational performance, self-confidence, social participation, and even future economic opportunities can be affected when girls face barriers to managing their menstruation safely and comfortably.

Health experts argued that addressing menstrual health challenges is essential if Zambia is to achieve broader national goals related to education, gender equality, and public health.

Throughout the discussions, one message remained consistent: menstrual health should not be viewed as a niche issue affecting only women and girls.

Instead, it should be recognized as a development challenge requiring collective action.

Participants called for stronger investment in menstrual health programmes, improved policy implementation, greater community engagement, and increased research to guide evidence-based interventions.

They also emphasized the need to create safe spaces where girls can discuss menstrual health openly without fear of stigma or discrimination.

As the dialogue concluded, stakeholders expressed hope that the conversations would translate into practical action.

For many attendees, the commemoration was not simply about menstrual hygiene. It was about dignity, inclusion, health, and ensuring that every girl can reach her full potential without being limited by a natural biological process.

The challenge now, they said, is to transform awareness into action and ensure that menstrual health becomes an integral part of Zambia's development agenda.

 MTN MoMo Breaks Ground for Grand Prize House in Wina Nyumba Campaign

By Daily News Reporter

LUSAKA —MTN Mobile Money Zambia has officially broken ground for the construction of a grand prize house under its ongoing “Wina Nyumba na MoMo” promotion, marking a symbolic milestone in a nationwide campaign aimed at rewarding customer loyalty with life-changing prizes.

The groundbreaking ceremony took place at the designated site where the house will be constructed and later handed over to a lucky winner, reinforcing what the company describes as a commitment to turning digital transactions into tangible rewards.

The “Wina Nyumba na MoMo” campaign encourages customers to use MTN Mobile Money services in their daily transactions, including sending money, paying bills, buying airtime and bundles, and making merchant payments. Customers using the MoMo app also double their chances of winning.

Beyond the grand prize house, the promotion also offers monthly cash prizes totaling K5 million, alongside thousands of additional rewards distributed throughout the campaign period.

Speaking during the ceremony, MTN Mobile Money Zambia Chief Executive Officer Komba Malukutila said the initiative was designed to demonstrate real impact beyond advertising promises.

“When we launched Wina Nyumba na MoMo, we spoke about giving our customers a real foundation to change their lives. Today, we are standing on the actual ground where that vision will become reality for one lucky customer,” he said.

Mr. Malukutila added that the groundbreaking marked a shift from concept to reality, allowing customers to physically see the promise behind the campaign.

“We are not just starting construction, we are beginning a story that will end with someone walking into a home they can finally call their own,” he said.

The campaign has also attracted partnerships from key industry players, strengthening both its visibility and its delivery capacity. Construction materials supplier Chilanga Cement PLC has joined as a key partner, contributing 200 bags of cement toward the building of the house.

The initiative initially partnered with Micmar, which pledged K100,000 in cash support for the eventual winner of the house.

Chilanga Cement PLC its involvement reflects its commitment to building strong foundations not only in infrastructure but also in people’s lives.

As a company rooted in building strong foundations, this partnership resonates deeply. Supporting the construction of this home is about contributing to a lasting legacy for one fortunate customer.

The growing list of partners, according to MTN MoMo, reflects increasing confidence in the promotion and strengthens its promise of delivering meaningful, real-world rewards to customers across the country.

Industry observers say such initiatives also highlight the growing role of mobile money platforms in deepening financial inclusion while engaging customers through innovative reward systems.

For many participants, the campaign represents more than a prize draw—it is a chance to turn everyday transactions into a potential path toward home ownership and improved livelihoods.

As construction begins, anticipation is already building around the eventual handover of the house, which MTN says will stand as a physical symbol of customer loyalty, partnership, and possibility.

 

 World No Tobacco Day Sparks Fresh Calls for Tobacco Bill Assent in Zambia

By Alain Kabinda

As Zambia joins the rest of the world in commemorating World No Tobacco Day 2026, health advocates and researchers are raising alarm over the growing use of tobacco and nicotine products among young people, warning that the country faces a rising public health crisis if urgent action is not taken.

And this year’s global theme is “Unmasking the Appeal – Countering Nicotine and Tobacco Addiction,” this year’s commemoration has placed renewed focus on how the tobacco industry continues targeting children and adolescents through flavored nicotine products, attractive packaging, and aggressive social media marketing.

Tobacco advocators say products such as e-cigarettes, nicotine pouches, shisha, and synthetic nicotine devices are increasingly becoming popular among young people, exposing them to addiction and long-term health complications at an early age.

Speaking during the commemorations in Lusaka, Tobacco-Free Association of Zambia (TOFAZA) Executive Director Ms. Brenda Chitindi warned that Zambia is already witnessing a troubling increase in non-communicable diseases linked to tobacco and nicotine use.

                                                                  (Ms. Brenda Chitindi)

She said diseases such as hypertension, heart disease, stroke, cancers, and chronic respiratory illnesses are now increasingly affecting younger populations, including children and adolescents.

“We are calling on all sectors of society to confront the growing threat of nicotine and tobacco addiction among our young people,” Ms. Chitindi said.

According to public health advocates have noted that the tobacco industry has deliberately shifted its marketing strategies toward younger audiences by using colorful branding, sweet flavors, fashionable packaging, and digital advertising campaigns that make harmful products appear modern and harmless.

“The industry knows what it is doing. It continues to market its products in ways designed to appeal to adolescents. We must unmask this appeal and protect the next generation before addiction takes hold,” Ms. Chitindi said.

She further commended government for advancing the Tobacco Control Bill, describing the proposed legislation as one of the most significant public health interventions Zambia has seen in years.

Ms Chitindi also added that this Bill is expected to strengthen tobacco regulation by restricting youth access to tobacco products, regulating nicotine devices, reducing exposure to second-hand smoke, and limiting tobacco advertising targeted at young people.

The tobacco control movement has since appealed to the Republican President Mr. Hakainde Hichilema to assent to the Bill without delay.

“Your assent will demonstrate that Zambia values the health and lives of its citizens above industry interests,” Ms. Chitindi said.

Meanwhile, the Centre for Primary Care Research (CPCR) has also backed the Tobacco Control Bill, saying research conducted over the past 15 years consistently shows the urgent need for stronger tobacco regulation.

Speaking at the same commemoration CPCR Executive Director Professor Fastone Goma, said that the organization described tobacco use as one of the leading preventable causes of disease and death in Zambia.

He further noted that tobacco-related illnesses continue placing a heavy social and economic burden on families and the healthcare system.

Prof Goma also highlighted several research findings that informed recommendations within the Tobacco Control Bill, including evidence showing that late adolescents between 19 and 21 years are among the most vulnerable to developing smoking addictions.

He further raised concern over harmful additives such as menthol, which studies show increase addiction risks, particularly among youths and women.

Another major area highlighted by CPCR was the effectiveness of pictorial health warnings on cigarette packaging.

According to the organization, previous text-only health warnings introduced under older public health laws had limited impact because many smokers either ignored or failed to understand them.

“We showed that less than 22 percent of smokers noticed the text warning labels. Pictorial warnings are more effective in promoting smoking cessation,” Professor Goma said.

The new Tobacco Control Bill proposes that 75 percent of tobacco packaging surfaces should carry rotating pictorial health warnings designed to educate consumers about the dangers of tobacco use.

The legislation also proposes banning the sale of tobacco products to individuals below the age of 21, a move health advocates believe could significantly reduce youth addiction rates.

Tobacco Control Consortium of Zambia (TCCZ) Chairperson Mr. Muloboka Albert Phiri further called on the media, schools, parents, and communities to strengthen awareness campaigns and provide accurate information about the dangers of tobacco and nicotine products.

Mr. Phiri also emphasized that protecting children from tobacco addiction goes beyond awareness alone and requires dismantling the marketing strategies used by the industry to attract young consumers.

As Zambia continues debating the future of tobacco regulation, stakeholders say the country now faces a defining public health moment — one that could shape the health and wellbeing of future generations.

Advocates insist that stronger tobacco control measures will not only save lives, but also reduce healthcare costs, improve productivity, and protect communities from preventable diseases linked to nicotine addiction.

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 Breaking the Silence: Zambia Pushes for Menstrual Dignity in Schools

By Alain Kabinda

As Zambia joined the rest of the world in commemorating Menstrual Hygiene Day 2026, a strong message echoed through the gathering halls: menstruation should never be a source of shame, stigma, or a barrier to education.

Government officials, civil society organizations, educators, development partners, and learners gathered in Lusaka to call for urgent action to improve menstrual health and hygiene management across schools and communities.

The commemoration highlighted the daily struggles faced by many girls and women who continue to lack access to clean water, safe sanitation facilities, sanitary materials, and accurate menstrual health information.

Speakers warned that despite growing awareness, menstrual dignity remains out of reach for thousands of girls, particularly in vulnerable and underserved communities.

The Zambia NGO WASH Forum Coordinator Ms Bubala Muyovuwe Mumba emphasized that without proper water, sanitation, and hygiene systems, girls are often forced to manage menstruation in unsafe and undignified conditions.

                                   (Ms. Bubala Muyovuwe Mumba)

Ms Mumba stressed that many schools and communities still lack private toilets, clean water, proper disposal facilities, and hygiene education programmes necessary for safe Menstrual Health Management.

“Menstrual dignity remains out of reach for many girls and women. All WASH programmes must intentionally include menstrual health considerations in planning, budgeting, implementation, and monitoring,” Ms Mumba said.

Ms Mumba further argued that menstrual health is not merely a women’s issue but a national development issue linked to education, health, human rights, and gender equality.

For many girls, the monthly experience of menstruation continues to affect school attendance, concentration, confidence, and participation in class activities.

Speaking at the Menstrual Hygiene Management (MHM) Commemoration under the theme “Together for a period-friendly world” in Lusaka, Ministry of Education Assistance Director School Health and Nutrition Mr. Maybin Luulu acknowledged that many learners continue to face challenges caused by inadequate menstrual hygiene information, limited access to sanitary products, poor sanitation infrastructure, and deeply rooted myths surrounding menstruation.

Mr. lulu revealed that harmful misconceptions still exist in some communities and schools.

In one example shared during the event, girls at a certain school reportedly refused to dispose of used menstrual materials in an incinerator because they feared their blood could be used for witchcraft.

The revelation exposed the extent to which cultural myths and misinformation continue to affect menstrual hygiene practices among learners.

Mr. Luulu also described such misconceptions as barriers that must be addressed through open dialogue, education, and community sensitization.

“As a ministry responsible for the wellbeing and education of our learners, we recognize that these barriers negatively affect school attendance, participation, confidence, and academic performance,” Mr. Luulu said.

He further reaffirmed that the ministry is committed to create safe, inclusive, and supportive learning environments where every learner, especially girls, can thrive with dignity and confidence.

Mr. Luulu added that empowering girls with accurate information and access to proper menstrual hygiene resources contributes directly to better education outcomes and greater gender equality.

Stakeholders and schools have called for stronger partnerships among government institutions, schools, communities, parents, civil society organizations, and cooperating partners to advance menstrual health programmes nationwide.

They also emphasized the need for increased investment in school sanitation infrastructure, affordable sanitary products, awareness campaigns, and policies that protect the dignity of girls and women.

There were also renewed calls to integrate menstrual health into all Water, Sanitation and Hygiene (WASH) programmes to ensure that menstrual management becomes a shared national responsibility.

The event further challenged society to normalize conversations around menstruation and break the silence that has for years fueled stigma and discrimination.

“The time for silence has passed. The time for action is now,”

Advocators in Menstrual Health have called for menstrual pain management to be fully integrated into Zambia’s National Adolescent Health Strategy, warning that thousands of girls continue to suffer silently from severe menstrual pain that affects their education, wellbeing, and daily lives.

Speaking during a menstrual health presentation, Dr Nachizya Edith Namukanga said menstrual pain, commonly dismissed as “just period pain,” must be treated as a serious adolescent health issue requiring policy attention and healthcare support.

Dr. Namukanga, who is affiliated with Women in Global Health Zambia (WGHZ) and UNICAF, highlighted findings showing that 78 percent of adolescent girls in Lusaka experience primary dysmenorrhea, while a systematic review across Africa places the pooled prevalence at 62.3 percent.

She said the statistics demonstrate the urgent need for Zambia to strengthen menstrual health policies and ensure adolescent girls receive adequate medical attention and support.

Among the recommendations presented were integrating menstrual pain into the National Adolescent Health Strategy, allowing compassionate school absences for girls experiencing severe dysmenorrhea, and training healthcare workers in adolescent-friendly pain assessment and management.

Dr. Namukanga also called for the establishment of safe Menstrual Health Corners in clinics to provide young girls with information, counselling, and support services related to menstrual health.

She stressed that menstrual health education should go beyond hygiene kits and awareness posters to include practical pain management information and emotional support.

Dr. Namukanga further emphasized the importance of conducting more longitudinal research on menstrual health while ensuring inclusion of out-of-school girls, girls living with disabilities, and adolescents in rural communities who are often excluded from health discussions and interventions.

Then she advocates addressing menstrual pain and stigma remains critical to improving school attendance, mental wellbeing, and reproductive health outcomes among girls and young women in Zambia.

As Zambia continues its efforts toward achieving gender equality and quality education for all, stakeholders say addressing menstrual health challenges is essential in ensuring that no girl is left behind.

For many participants, the commemoration was not just about hygiene — it was about restoring dignity, protecting the future of girls, and building a society where menstruation is managed safely, confidently, and without shame.

And one of the school girls attended the commemoration by the name of Grace (Name withheld for confidential Purposes) Shared her painful experience in an interview to Daily News of struggling to manage menstruation while attending school.

The learner explained that when she first started her menstrual cycle, she felt scared and ashamed because she did not fully understand what was happening to her body. She said the lack of information and fear of being laughed at by classmates made the experience even more difficult.

She revealed that there were times when she missed classes because she did not have access to sanitary pads and feared staining her school uniform in front of other pupils.

“Sometimes I would stay home because I was afraid other learners would laugh at me if my uniform became stained. It affected my confidence and my school performance,” Grace said.

The girl also described how severe menstrual pain made it difficult for her to concentrate during lessons, adding that many girls suffer silently because menstruation is still considered a taboo subject in some communities.

She called for greater support for girls in schools, including access to sanitary products, menstrual health education, and safe spaces where learners can openly discuss menstrual health challenges without shame.

Her testimony reflected the experiences of many adolescent girls who continue to face stigma, period poverty, and limited menstrual health support, especially in vulnerable communities.

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 Pupils Use Debate Platforms to Raise Awareness on Menstrual Hygiene Management

By Alain Kabinda,

School pupils are increasingly using debate platforms to raise awareness on the importance of Menstrual Hygiene Management (MHM), helping to break long-standing silence and stigma surrounding menstruation in schools and communities.

Through inter-school debates between Chakunkula Secondary School and Chestone Secondary School in Lusaka, spoke openly about challenges girls face during menstruation, including limited access to sanitary products, inadequate sanitation facilities, teasing, and lack of proper menstrual health education.

                                       (Chakukula Secondary School Debating)

One of the recent debate motions that attracted attention among learners stated: “Menstrual Hygiene Management should be integrated into the general school health curriculum for all learners rather than taught to girls only.”

                                   (Chestone Secondary School Debating)

The motion sparked meaningful discussions among pupils, with many arguing that educating both boys and girls about menstruation would help reduce stigma, discrimination, and misinformation in schools.

Participants noted that many girls continue missing classes during their menstrual periods due to fear of embarrassment or lack of support from peers. Learners emphasized that involving boys in menstrual health education could help create understanding, empathy, and respect among pupils.

During the debates, pupils highlighted that menstruation is a natural biological process and should not be treated as a taboo subject. They argued that schools have a responsibility to provide accurate information and create safe environments where girls can manage menstruation with dignity and confidence.

Also, pupils called for improved water, sanitation, and hygiene facilities in schools, stressing that access to clean toilets, water, and proper disposal systems remains critical in promoting menstrual hygiene.

Teachers and education stakeholders have praised debate platforms for empowering young people to discuss sensitive health issues confidently while developing leadership and communication skills. Educators say debates are helping learners become advocates for positive social change within their schools and communities.

Health advocates believe youth-led conversations are essential in addressing harmful myths and cultural misconceptions surrounding menstruation. They say allowing pupils to engage openly in discussions promotes awareness and helps normalize menstrual health conversations among young people.

The Competition between Chakunkula Secondary and Chestone Secondary Schools through the debate was a draw.

As menstrual hygiene awareness continues gaining attention nationally and globally, pupils are proving that debate platforms can serve as powerful tools for advocacy, education, and empowerment.

For many learners, these discussions are not simply classroom activities but opportunities to champion dignity, equality, and better health outcomes for girls in schools.

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 Scholarship Students Urged to Embrace Personal and Professional Development

By Daily News Reporter

Students under the Justina Mutale Foundation Scholarship Programme have been encouraged to work hard, believe in themselves, and invest in personal and professional development as they prepare for future careers and leadership roles.

Speaking during the Scholarship Student Academic and Professional Development Workshop, r Justina Mutale Foundation Board member Dr. David Mwambazi urged students to dream big and remain focused on their goals despite challenges.

Dr. Mwambazi said success begins with belief, discipline, and determination rather than financial background or current circumstances.

“The truth is this: you can become anything you choose to become,” he said.

He encouraged students not to underestimate small beginnings, noting that many successful businesses and entrepreneurs started with simple ideas and limited resources.

Dr. Mwambazi also reminded participants that failure is part of growth and should motivate them to keep trying rather than give up.

He further advised students to develop important life skills such as communication, leadership, teamwork, creativity, confidence, problem-solving, and financial discipline.

Meanwhile, Press Officer for Justina Mutale Foundation Mr. Moses Walubita emphasized the importance of continuous personal and professional development.

Mr. Walubita said academic qualifications alone are not enough for long-term success, stressing that employers also value attitude, adaptability, discipline, and communication skills.

He encouraged students to build confidence, seek mentorship, improve digital skills, and participate in networking opportunities while still pursuing their studies.

Mr. Walubita further urged the students to remain resilient during difficult moments, saying setbacks should be viewed as opportunities for growth and learning.

The workshop brought together scholarship beneficiaries and facilitators to discuss leadership, career preparation, and the importance of lifelong learning.

Organisers said the programme is aimed at equipping students with practical skills and knowledge needed to succeed both academically and professionally.

 Zambia Pushes to Turn Critical Minerals Wealth into Jobs and Industrial Growth

By Alain Kabinda

Zambia is intensifying efforts to ensure that the country’s growing critical minerals sector delivers meaningful benefits to local communities, businesses, and the wider economy as global demand for minerals used in clean energy technologies continues to rise.

This emerged during the Multi-Stakeholder Dialogue on Zambia’s National Critical Minerals Strategy (2024–2028), where government officials, civil society organisations, industry players, academics, and development partners gathered to discuss how the country can transform mineral wealth into long-term economic growth and industrial development.

The Stakeholders meeting focused on strengthening implementation of Zambia’s Critical Minerals Strategy and ensuring that the country moves beyond simply exporting raw minerals.

Global demand for minerals such as copper, cobalt, lithium, manganese, and nickel has increased significantly due to the transition toward renewable energy, electric vehicles, and digital technologies. Zambia, one of Africa’s major copper producers, is now being viewed as strategically important in the global energy transition.

However, stakeholders at the dialogue stressed that mineral wealth alone does not guarantee national development.

Speaking during the meeting, Centre for Trade Policy and Development (CTPD) Executive Director Mr. Isaac Mwaipopo called for stronger mechanisms to ensure ordinary Zambians directly benefit from the critical minerals boom.

Mr. Mwaipopo emphasized the need for increased transparency in mining contracts, stronger community participation, and clear targets for local procurement and skills transfer.

“This is about ensuring Zambians benefit directly from the critical minerals boom, not just multinational companies,” Mr. Mwaipopo said.

He further noted that momentum is building around the need for faster implementation of policies that promote local content and value addition within Zambia’s mining sector.

The discussions centered on four major pillars under the National Critical Minerals Strategy (NCMS):

* Geological Mapping and Resource Development;

* Value Addition;

* Public-Private Partnerships; and

* Research and Innovation.

And speaking during the meeting Ms. Nafi Quarshie, Africa Director for the Natural Resource Governance Institute (NRGI), described the dialogue as taking place at a critical moment in global economic transformation.

                                                      (Ms. Nafi Quarshie, Africa Director for NRGI) 

She said minerals that were once treated simply as export commodities are now strategic resources driving industrial competitiveness and geopolitical priorities worldwide.

“Copper, cobalt, manganese, nickel and lithium are no longer simply commodities. They are now strategic assets shaping economic futures,” Said Quarshie.

Ms. Quarshie warned that Africa has historically exported raw materials while other regions captured most of the economic value through manufacturing and industrialization.

She further stressed that Zambia now has an opportunity to avoid repeating that pattern by using its mineral resources to support industrialisation, job creation, innovation, and economic diversification.

According to NRGI, the dialogue was designed not merely as a discussion forum but as a working platform to strengthen implementation of the Critical Minerals Strategy.

Participants explored ways of improving coordination among institutions, strengthening transparency and accountability, and ensuring communities and citizens play a greater role in mineral governance.

The dialogue also highlighted the importance of monitoring progress and ensuring that implementation remains measurable and accountable.

Opening the session on behalf of the Ministry of Mines and Minerals Development Minister Mr. Paul Kabuswe, Permanent Secretary Dr. Hapenga Kabeta said Zambia’s success would depend on whether mineral resources are transformed into tangible benefits for citizens.

                                                (Permanent Secretary Dr. Hapenga Kabeta)

“Zambia holds some of the world’s most sought-after minerals for the energy transition. The challenge now is to ensure those resources translate into jobs, value addition, and stronger communities,” Dr. Kabeta said.

The Ministry also presented updates on progress made under the strategy, including work on geological mapping and investor engagement, while acknowledging areas where implementation still requires acceleration.

Stakeholders agreed that collaboration between government, civil society, the private sector, and development partners will be essential if Zambia is to build a mining sector that promotes transparency, industrial growth, and inclusive development.

As global competition for critical minerals intensifies, many participants said Zambia has an opportunity not only to supply the world with minerals, but also to shape a mineral future that creates jobs, strengthens industries, and delivers lasting benefits for local communities.

NRGI Decision being made today about critical minerals will shape the global economy for generations to come. Demand for copper lithium, Nickel, Cobalt and rare earths is projected to nearly triple by 2030m requiring close to $600 billion in new mining investment by 2040.

And the countries holding the largest reserved are often among the world’s most resource department and many have historically struggled to fully leverage resources.

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 Dr. Rasha Kelej Champions Feminine Leadership and Impact Across Africa

By Alain Kabinda

An inspiring feature in Vogue India has spotlighted Dr. Rasha Kelej, Chief Executive Officer of the Merck Foundation, highlighting her leadership philosophy that women do not need to abandon their individuality or femininity in order to lead effectively.

Instead, Dr. Kelej emphasizes that both leadership and femininity can coexist seamlessly — a message that continues to shape conversations around women’s empowerment, confidence, and representation in leadership spaces across Africa and beyond.

The feature presents her as a leader who embodies discipline and balance, maintaining a structured approach to both her professional responsibilities and personal life. It also reflects on how this balance has contributed to her effectiveness in driving large-scale health and social development programmes.

Under her leadership, the Merck Foundation has expanded its footprint across Africa and other regions, focusing on critical issues such as women’s empowerment, health capacity building, infertility stigma reduction, and support for underserved communities.

The foundation’s programmes have also supported scholarships for doctors, media training on health awareness, and initiatives aimed at breaking social stigma around infertility and other health challenges that disproportionately affect women and families.

Dr. Kelej’s message in the feature reinforces a growing global narrative: that modern leadership does not require women to suppress identity, culture, or femininity, but rather to embrace them as strengths.

Her philosophy has resonated with many young women in leadership and development sectors who are seeking role models that reflect authenticity, balance, and impact.

As highlighted in the Vogue India feature, her journey continues to demonstrate how leadership rooted in empathy, discipline, and inclusivity can drive meaningful change across communities.

Through her work with the Merck Foundation, Dr. Kelej remains a prominent voice in advancing health equity and empowering women to lead with confidence while staying true to themselves.

 

Young Women Use Pageant to Fight Menstrual Stigma and Period Poverty

By Alain Kabinda

Lusaka…In a society where conversations about menstruation are often buried under silence and stigma, Miss Menstrual Health Zambia 2026 is redefining what a beauty pageant can represent. Beyond crowns and catwalks, it is emerging as a growing platform for advocacy, education, confidence, and empowerment for young women across Zambia.

Held in a vibrant pink-themed atmosphere, the event brought together youths, health advocates, performers, and community leaders to celebrate not only beauty, but also the urgent need for menstrual health awareness and open dialogue around women’s health.

From fashion showcases and poetry to music performances and inspirational speeches, the programme reflected a clear message: menstrual health is not a private burden to be hidden, but a public issue that affects dignity, education, and equality.

The event was officially opened with guest arrivals and remarks before Guest of Honour Catherine Kapyanga addressed participants. She called for stronger community support systems that ensure girls and women have access to sanitary products, reproductive health education, and safe spaces where they can speak freely without shame.

Ms. Kapyanga noted that for many girls in Zambia, menstruation remains a difficult experience shaped by poverty, misinformation, and cultural taboos. Some miss school due to lack of sanitary materials, while others struggle silently with stigma and low self-confidence.

She said initiatives like Miss Menstrual Health Zambia are important because they challenge these realities and help create young ambassadors who can drive menstrual health awareness in their communities.

Unlike traditional beauty contests, this pageant integrates advocacy into every stage of competition. Contestants participated in “Beauty with a Purpose,” national costume presentations, sports challenges, career showcases, and evening gown segments — all designed to highlight leadership, intelligence, creativity, and community impact.

Entertainment added colour and energy to the evening, with performances by Kay Songs, Mesty, and Chewe Superstar.

A particularly powerful moment came through spoken word poetry by Juanita Zimba, who highlighted the emotional and social struggles many girls face during menstruation, including its impact on education, mental health, and self-worth.

A fashion showcase led by Martha Kokwa also captured attention, blending creativity with messages of confidence and self-expression.

Meanwhile, special guest Naomi brought humour and encouragement, reminding young women that confidence begins with self-acceptance and the courage to use their voices.

Founder of the Donate a Pad campaign and Ku’wala Skills Academy, Sabeta Zulu, emphasized that the pageant is more than entertainment. She said it is a platform designed to break stigma and give young women space to express themselves while advocating for menstrual health awareness.

One of the strongest components of the event was the “Beauty with a Purpose” segment, where contestants presented projects aimed at addressing menstrual health challenges in schools and communities. These included awareness campaigns, mentorship initiatives, and proposals to distribute reusable sanitary products to vulnerable girls affected by period poverty.

The pageant reflects a growing shift in Zambia and across Africa, where young women are using platforms traditionally associated with entertainment to confront serious social issues. Organisers say this approach helps reach wider audiences, particularly young people who may not engage with formal health campaigns.

As the evening progressed, it became clear that Miss Menstrual Health Zambia 2026 represents more than a competition. It symbolizes leadership, responsibility, and the courage to speak openly about issues that affect millions of girls and women every month.

During the Menstrual Hygiene Day-linked discussions, Nkosha Kachusha stressed that menstrual hygiene awareness is about dignity, empowerment, and confidence — not shame.

She noted that stigma and silence have long prevented girls from accessing information and support, often leaving them to manage menstruation in isolation.

The event also recognized Sabeta Zulu for her continued work in creating platforms that empower young women to speak openly and confidently about menstrual health.

Health advocates further highlighted the persistent challenge of period poverty, which continues to limit access to sanitary products and affects school attendance and participation among girls.

Medical professionals, including Dr Natasha, also provided guidance on intimate hygiene and women’s health, emphasizing practices that support wellbeing, confidence, and dignity.

Speakers at the event called for stronger collaboration between government, schools, healthcare providers, and communities to ensure menstrual health education and sanitary products are more widely accessible across Zambia.

As the ceremony concluded with the crowning of winners, the results reflected both talent and advocacy. Doreen Kandafula was crowned overall winner, alongside Namakau Silumbu Ikachana, Jackline Kashweka, Natasha Chileshe, and Brenda Banda.

Ultimately, the event sent a powerful message: menstrual health is not merely a women’s issue, but a matter of dignity, education, equality, and human rights — and through platforms like Miss Menstrual Health Zambia 2026, silence is steadily being replaced with empowerment and hope.

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 PSI Backs Registration of Community Health Workers Association in Zambia

By Alain Kabinda

LUSAKA — Nearly 1,000 community health workers across Zambia have mobilised in support of the registration of the Community Health Workers Association of Zambia, in what stakeholders describe as a significant step toward strengthening the country’s health system and improving working conditions for frontline health workers.

The initiative is being spearheaded by the National Coordinating Committee (NCC) of PSI affiliates in Zambia with support from Public Services International (PSI), a global federation representing public service workers worldwide.

Community health workers play a vital role in Zambia’s primary healthcare system, particularly in maternal and child health, disease prevention, and community-based care services.

Despite their contribution, many continue to work under informal or semi-formal arrangements with low or irregular stipends, limited job security, and restricted access to training and resources.

Stakeholders say the formation and registration of the Community Health Workers Association of Zambia would help strengthen representation, improve dialogue within the health sector, and promote better working conditions.

Speaking on the development, Interim President Ndimba Cyprian Moonga said the association reflects the commitment of community health workers to contribute more effectively to the country’s healthcare system.

Mr. Moonga said official registration would allow community health workers to engage constructively with stakeholders while supporting national health priorities.

Meanwhile, National Coordination Committee (NCC) Mr. Charles Malema, who chairs the NCC and is also a leader of the Zambia National Union of Health and Allied Workers, said recognising the association presents an opportunity to strengthen social dialogue and workforce governance in the health sector.

Mr. Malema added that supporting community health workers is key to building a stronger and more resilient healthcare system.

PSI and its affiliates are also planning a multi-stakeholder dialogue expected to bring together government officials, unions, community health workers, and development partners to discuss pathways toward formalisation and improved support for CHWs.

Stakeholders have said that the dialogue could also serve as a platform for the official launch of the Community Health Workers Association of Zambia.

PSI has reaffirmed its commitment to working with government and stakeholders to advance the recognition, organisation, and formalisation of community health workers in Zambia.

And CHWAZ has also called for strengthened collaboration between government, health sector actors, and development partners in advancing the recognition and formalisation of community health workers in Zambia.

The appeal comes as discussions intensify around improving the working conditions, organisation, and professional recognition of community health workers who play a critical role in delivering primary healthcare services across the country.

CHWAZ urged the Ministry of Health and other relevant stakeholders to actively participate in the engagement process, which is expected to focus on practical and visible steps to strengthen both the health workforce and service delivery.

They emphasised that when community health workers are properly recognised and supported, they are better able to serve their communities effectively. They further noted that organised and empowered health workers can contribute meaningfully to shaping solutions within the health system.

Stakeholders have described the recognition of community health workers as a shared priority and a strategic opportunity to improve healthcare delivery, particularly in underserved communities.

Public Services International (PSI) has reaffirmed its commitment to working in partnership with government institutions and other stakeholders to advance the recognition, organisation, and formalisation of community health workers in Zambia.

The organisation says sustained collaboration is key to building a stronger, more resilient health workforce capable of meeting the country’s growing healthcare needs.