Chaste Inegbedion is the founder of the End Period Poverty initiative. He tells TOFARATI IGE why he is passionate about females all over the world getting sanitary items during their menstrual cycle
What was your motivation for starting the ‘End Period Poverty’ project?
My motivation for starting the End Period Poverty project stemmed from realising the challenges faced by individuals, who lack access to basic menstrual hygiene products. While browsing through Twitter, I came across tweets discussing the high cost of period products compared to free resources, such as condoms. This sparked my interest and made me aware of the emerging gender war surrounding menstruation. I delved deeper into the issue and discovered that period poverty is a global problem affecting girls and women across the world.
The realisation that period stigma begins at a young age, and the fact that homeless women often resort to using unsuitable substitutes, such as old socks and plastic bags further fuelled my determination to act. Inspired by the success of the ‘Save Pwashikai Nideono’ campaign, which aimed to raise funds for a five-year-old girl, who had undergone genital mutilation in North-Eastern Nigeria, I embarked on creating the initiative called ‘Padman Africa’. This initiative, inspired by the Menstruation Man in India, focuses on providing and supporting menstrual hygiene.
Our goals with Padman Africa were to end the current stigma associated with menstruation, support individuals in need of menstrual products, and educate future generations about menstruation. We organise statewide drives to collect menstrual product donations, raise awareness about period poverty and menstrual inequity, and actively engage with schools in discussions about menstruation.
How widespread is ‘period poverty’?
In Nigeria, period poverty is a significant issue that affects many girls and women. Limited access to menstrual products and a lack of education about menstruation contribute to the challenges they face. Inadequate sanitation facilities in schools and communities further compound the problem. As a result, girls might miss school during their periods, hindering their education and opportunities for advancement. Additionally, cultural taboos and stigmas surrounding menstruation can lead to social exclusion and discrimination.
Insufficient menstrual hygiene can have serious health consequences as well. A 2018 study conducted in India found a correlation between inadequate menstrual hygiene practices, and a higher prevalence of yeast infections, urinary tract infections, bacterial vaginosis, and trichomoniasis. Additionally, leaving a tampon in for an extended period can lead to the rare but severe condition known as toxic shock syndrome.
Addressing period poverty requires comprehensive efforts that encompass affordable access to menstrual products, education about menstrual health and hygiene, and destigmatisation of menstruation. Initiatives, organisations and advocates are working towards those goals to ensure menstrual equity, and improve the overall wellbeing of individuals affected by period poverty.
What are the major success stories you have recorded on the project?
The End Period Poverty project has achieved several significant successes in its efforts to combat period poverty and promote menstrual equity.
For one, there has been increased awareness. The project has successfully raised awareness about period poverty and the challenges faced by menstruating individuals. Through social media campaigns, community outreach, and public events, the project has sparked conversations and brought attention to the issue on a local, national and international scale.
The project has also organised drives for menstrual product donations, collecting a substantial number of sanitary pads, tampons, and other menstrual products. These drives have helped provide essential supplies to individuals in need, ensuring they have access to proper menstrual hygiene products.
Some people could argue that Africa has more pressing problems such as insecurity and poverty, than to pay attention to period poverty. What do you have to say to people who have such a mindset?
To individuals who argue that Africa should prioritise other pressing problems such as insecurity and poverty over addressing period poverty, it is important to recognise that the issue of period poverty is not mutually exclusive or separate from those larger challenges. In fact, addressing period poverty is a crucial aspect of tackling poverty and promoting gender equality in Africa.
Period poverty is interconnected with various social, economic, and health-related issues. Menstruation is a natural biological process experienced by half of the population, and lack of access to menstrual products and proper hygiene facilities directly affects the wellbeing, education, and economic opportunities of girls and women. By addressing period poverty, we can contribute to breaking the cycle of poverty, improving education outcomes, and empowering women and girls.
Some people might wonder why it is a man that is fighting for sanitary materials for ladies. What do you have to say to such people?
To those who question why a man is fighting for sanitary materials for women, it is important to emphasise that promoting menstrual hygiene and addressing period poverty is not solely the responsibility of women.
As a child, my exposure to scriptural lessons at a Catholic church instilled in me values that I now appreciate as a rich source of guidance in life. Concepts such as treating others as one would like to be treated, and showing love and compassion towards one’s neighbors have had a profound impact on me.
With a deep-rooted belief in gender equality, I have actively advocated for feminist causes, including addressing issues such as rape and female genital mutilation.
My journey of personal growth, coupled with a strong commitment to feminism, led me to actively engage in menstrual equity issues. I believe that every individual, regardless of their gender, has a role to play in advocating for change and promoting a more equitable society.
What are the personal qualities that have helped you get to this stage in your career?
Several personal qualities have contributed to my journey and helped me reach this stage in my career. They include passion, resilience, adaptability, empathy, collaboration, leadership, and continuous learning.
Those personal qualities, combined with my dedication and commitment, have played a significant role in shaping my career and enabling me to make a meaningful impact in the menstrual health space.
