After noticing how menstrual health issues significantly affected girls and young women in farming communities, one man decided to become a champion of reason.
He decided to help ease the burden of those less privileged, so that they access one of the most important health needs of women and girls. Today he is a menstrual health champion, something he has dedicated his life to.
To know more about his cause, our reporter MUNYARADZI BLESSING DOMA (MBD) had a chat with TATENDA COLE CHIGWADA (TCC), National Projects Coordinator at Next Generation Capacity Building Space.
MBD: What made you decide to be a menstrual health champion, and why this cause in particular?
TCC: Growing up in a farming and rural area, I witnessed first hand how limited access to information around menstrual health affected many young girls and women. Poverty was a significant barrier, and the spiritual beliefs from apostolic sects often exacerbated the stigma and misinformation surrounding menstruation. I chose this cause because menstrual health is fundamental to the dignity, health, and empowerment of women and girls. Addressing this issue can lead to broader societal changes, including improved education and economic opportunities.
MBD: Being a man, some would also want to know why you embarked on this journey.
TCC: As a man, I recognize that menstrual health is not just a women’s issue but a societal one. I embarked on this journey because I believe men have a crucial role to play in breaking the taboos and supporting the women in our lives. My experiences growing up in a community where this topic was shrouded in silence, motivated me to become an advocate for change and ensure that no girl or woman has to suffer in silence or miss opportunities because of a natural biological process.
MBD: What do you hope to achieve and how many people do you aim to reach?
TCC: I hope to achieve a community where menstrual health is openly discussed and supported, and where girls and women have access to the products and information they need. My goal is to reach as many individuals as possible, starting with hundreds in Mashonaland Central and expanding to thousands across other rural areas. I aim to empower both men and women to be advocates for menstrual health in their communities.
MBD: Why did you choose Mash Central?
TCC: I chose Mash Central because it’s a community close to my heart, with many facing the same challenges I observed growing up. The lack of resources and information there, is particularly acute, and I believe that by starting in Mash Central, I can make a significant impact and create a model that can be replicated in other similar communities.
MBD: Is this a once-off thing or an ongoing project?
TCC: This initiative is an ongoing project. I plan to continuously engage with the community, provide education, distribute menstrual products, and advocate for systemic changes that support menstrual health. My long-term vision is to establish sustainable programs that empower local leaders and educators to continue this important work.
MBD: Anything else you may share?
TCC: I would like to emphasize the importance of community involvement and education in breaking down the myths and stigmas associated with menstruation. I am also working on partnering with local and international organizations to amplify our efforts and bring more resources to the communities in need. Menstrual health is just the beginning; I hope this initiative will pave the way for broader health and educational improvements in rural areas. At Next Generation Capacity Building Space we aim to create a world where every young person thrives mentally, socially, economically, empowered with the knowledge and resources to overcome challenges and build a sustainable future.
MBD: Thank you for time Tatenda.
TCC: You are welcome and I thank you for giving me space to share my vision on this worthy cause.
