GOVERNMENT has reaffirmed its commitment to supporting girls' education by providing sanitary wear in schools.
Primary and Secondary Education permanent-secretary, Simon Mhike, said the ministry wanted to address challenges girls face in accessing education, particularly when it comes to menstrual health.
In 2020, the government passed the Education Amendment Act, which includes provision of free menstrual health kits in primary and secondary schools.
"We are committed to continuing our sustained programme of providing sanitary wear to all our girl children, recognising them as the most disadvantaged groups among our learners,” Mhike said during a recent strategic planning meeting in Kariba.
“Our goal is to ensure that no girl misses school due to lack of access to sanitary wear, a challenge that has long plagued their educational journey.
“By addressing this fundamental need, we aim to promote girls' education, empowerment and overall well-being.”
He added: “We recognise the difficulties that menstrual hygiene poses to girls' attendance and performance in school hence we continue supporting the girl child.”
Many girls in Zimbabwe cannot afford disposable sanitary pads, which can cost around US$4 for a one-month supply.
There have been reports of some schoolgirls being forced to use makeshift unhygienic materials such as old clothes, newspaper or even leaves.
In 2021, the Finance, Economic Development and Investment Promotion ministry allocated ZWL$500 million, approximately US$1,3 million, towards menstrual health for learners.
“We are working with various partners and private sector organisations to ensure that every girl child has access to sanitary wear and other educational resources,” Mhike said.
“This collaborative approach aims to create a sustainable framework that supports girls throughout their educational journey.”
According to estimates of the United Nations Children’s Fund, about one in every 10 school-age African girls does not attend school during menstruation or drops out at puberty.