Introduction:

In a remarkable display of compassion and commitment to community welfare, Mental Recovery International (MRI) recently conducted an impactful event at Olkaria Schools, situated in the picturesque Olulunga Ward of Narok South Constituency. Led by the Executive Director Bett Elijah, the event was a true testament to the power of a unified community working together to address the most pressing issues faced by young individuals. As Corretta Scott King once said, “The greatness of a community is most accurately measured by the compassionate actions of its members.” The generosity of the MRI team and the participation of the Olkaria Schools community ensured the event’s resounding success, focusing on health, education, empowerment, and environmental conservation.

Menstrual Health and Challenges Faced by Young Girls

Here are some statistics data on menstrual health and challenges facing Kenyan girl child:

1. 7 out of 10 girls miss up to a week of schooling every month due to their inability to access sanitary pads. This is a major barrier to education for girls, and it can have a lasting impact on their academic achievement and future prospects.
2.  Many girls in Kenya use cloths, leaves, or even mud to manage their menstrual bleeding. These materials are not sanitary and can lead to infections. They can also be embarrassing and uncomfortable to use, which can make girls feel ashamed of their periods.
3. There is a lack of awareness about menstrual health and hygiene in Kenya. Many girls do not know about the importance of good menstrual hygiene, and they may not have access to accurate information about menstruation. This can lead to health problems and stigma.
4.  Menstruation is often stigmatized in Kenya. Girls may be told that they are unclean or impure during their periods, and they may be prohibited from attending school or participating in religious activities. This stigma can make it difficult for girls to manage their periods and can lead to feelings of shame and isolation.

The good news is that there are many organizations working to improve menstrual health and hygiene for girls in Kenya. Mental Recovery International is one such organization, and their work at Olkaria Schools is a great example of the positive impact that can be made.

Reusable Sanitary Pads Facility

Mental Recovery International intends to put up a facility to manufacture reusable sanitary pads, and this would be a valuable addition to the Kenyan girl child. Reusable pads are a more sustainable and affordable option than disposable pads, and they can help to reduce the stigma associated with menstruation.
This is a vital project that will make a real difference in the lives of girls in Kenya.
The facility will provide a safe and hygienic space for girls to manufacture reusable sanitary pads. This will help to reduce the stigma associated with menstruation and ensure that girls have access to affordable and sustainable menstrual products.
The facility will also provide training for girls on how to manufacture reusable sanitary pads. This will give them the skills they need to start their own businesses or to find employment in the manufacturing sector.
We are appealing to donors and well-wishers to help us make this project a reality. Your donation will help to provide girls with the tools they need to manage their menstrual health with dignity and confidence.

A Multi-Faceted Approach to Empowerment:

The event, spearheaded by MRI, adopted a holistic approach to empowerment by addressing five essential aspects of personal development: health and hygiene, mental health, education, empowerment, and environmental conservation. The team recognized that nurturing young minds requires fostering a harmonious balance between personal well-being and environmental stewardship.

Promoting Health, Hygiene, and Mental Wellness:

One of the primary concerns facing young students is access to proper health and hygiene facilities, which can directly impact their education and overall well-being. MRI stepped forward to bridge this gap by donating sanitary towels to girls, ensuring that they can comfortably continue their education without facing unnecessary barriers. Additionally, crucial training sessions were conducted on health, hygiene, and mental wellness, equipping both girls and boys with essential knowledge for maintaining a healthy lifestyle and a positive mindset.

The Power of Education and Empowerment:

Recognizing the potential for transformative change through education, the event focused on empowering the students of Olkaria Schools with knowledge and life skills. Various interactive sessions were held, encouraging the students to explore their passions and talents while also instilling a sense of self-belief and determination. By promoting education and empowerment, the event aimed to ignite a flame of ambition and resilience in every young heart.

Embracing Environmental Conservation:

A defining feature of the event was the profound commitment to environmental conservation. In collaboration with their partner, Eden Reforestation Project, MRI facilitated the planting of trees, aligning with H.E President William Ruto’s visionary goal of reaching 15 Billion Trees by 2032. By encouraging students to actively participate in tree planting, the event instilled a sense of environmental responsibility and nurtured a love for nature, paving the way for a greener and more sustainable future.

The Gratitude for Warm Hospitality:

• Special thanks to our partner, Eden Reforestation Project, for the tree seedlings donations. Your generous donation of tree seedlings will help to restore the environment and create a more sustainable future for the Olkaria Schools community. We are grateful for your partnership and commitment to environmental conservation.
• Special thanks to the school led by the Headteacher Mr Langat for their warm reception. Your hospitality was truly heartwarming, and we appreciate your willingness to host our event. We are grateful for your support of our work, and we look forward to continuing our partnership in the future.

Conclusion:

The event at Olkaria Schools, led by Mental Recovery International, left an indelible mark on the hearts of all participants. By addressing essential aspects of personal development and environmental conservation, the event succeeded in empowering young minds and nurturing nature simultaneously. Through their compassion and dedication, the MRI team, along with Olkaria Schools, showcased the power of collective action and the potential for transformative change when a community comes together for a shared cause. The seeds of inspiration sown during this event are sure to blossom into a brighter, more empowered future for the students of Olkaria Schools and beyond.