We recently hosted @thecovaproject, our resourcing partner, for a week of learning, reflection and connection with the girls and communities we support. The visit provided an opportunity to go beyond reports and see first-hand how the project is supporting girls to manage their periods with confidence and dignity. During the visit, we engaged with three secondary schools in Jinja district, where we held menstrual cup trainings and distributed cups to 100 girls. Our partner also heard directly from girls, community women and school leaders about their experiences and the changes they have seen through the project. We also met with the Jinja District Education Officer to reflect on the role of local leadership in creating an environment where girls are supported to stay in school and participate fully without being limited by their periods. These engagements helped us understand what is working, the challenges communities face and where we can improve. The visit created space for shared learning, reflection and accountability, while reinforcing the importance of sustainable menstrual health solutions that respond to the realities of girls and communities. We are grateful for a partnership that goes beyond funding, creating opportunities to learn together, strengthen our work and contribute to lasting impact.

Our Regional Director, @LillianBagala emphasized that menstrual justice requires collective action across all levels from classrooms and communities to civil society and Parliament. She shared the importance of addressing the interconnected barriers that affect women and girls, including menstrual stigma, limited access to menstrual products and information, inadequate WASH facilities and gaps in policy implementation. She also highlighted how Irise Institute East Africa is contributing to this work through initiatives such as the Period Positive Schools model, Menstrual Justice Academy and Period Equality Network, which connect community-level action, advocacy and evidence with national and regional policy engagement. By working with schools, communities, advocates and legislators, these efforts aim to amplify the voices of women and girls and ensure menstrual health remains part of the wider policy and development agenda. @FJS #MenstrualJusticeForAll #MHHParliamentaryForumUganda