The fight against period poverty and the push for menstrual dignity continues to gain momentum across Africa, with media outlets from multiple countries shining a spotlight on crucial initiatives that are changing lives. From radio interviews in Kenya to television coverage in the Democratic Republic of Congo, the message is clear: menstrual health is a fundamental right that deserves attention and action.
Kenya: Amplifying Voices on Disability and Dignity
Kenya showcased exceptional media engagement with multiple platforms covering menstrual health initiatives throughout May 2025.
K24 Television featured a compelling live studio interview on the Mchipuko Show, where Ashum Juma, founder of AJ Pads Drive and partner of Hands of Grace, eloquently discussed menstrual cups and their efficiency in fighting period poverty and environmental pollution. Her practical demonstration was so impressive that the show director expressed interest in producing a package story featuring CouldYou? in June.
KBC English Service, a prominent radio station, hosted an equally powerful discussion on Tuesday, May 27th, 2025. Irine Meli, a dedicated peer trainer working under Phyllis of Hands of Grace, participated in a live studio radio interview focused on “Disability and Dignity” – a critical intersection that highlights how menstrual health challenges are magnified for women and girls with disabilities.
Listen to the full interview: Disability & Dignified Periods – The Big Conversation
Sierra Leone: Rural Communities Get Recognition
The work in Sierra Leone received significant coverage through Young Africa Voices (YVA), which sent a journalist to the remote area of Kabala in Koinadugu District, Northern Sierra Leone. This rural setting, often underserved by mainstream media, became the focus of a comprehensive feature story highlighting menstrual hygiene initiatives.
The collaboration between WGESD and CouldYou? to commemorate Menstrual Hygiene Day in this northern region demonstrates the commitment to reaching even the most remote communities with vital menstrual health resources and education.
Read the full coverage: WGESD and Could You Commemorate Menstrual Hygiene Day in Koinadugu
Democratic Republic of Congo: Television and Radio Coverage
The DRC showcased exceptional media engagement with dual coverage from both television and radio outlets. Kipushi 24 TV provided comprehensive coverage of events in Kipushi, broadcasting the story on the same day to ensure timely dissemination of information to local communities.
Additionally, Divine Don Bosco Radio covered the event and confirmed their broadcast, creating a multi-platform media approach that reached diverse audiences across different media platform preferences.
Access the DRC media coverage: Google Drive Media Files
Uganda: Visual Storytelling and Expanded Coverage
Uganda demonstrated strong media presence with multiple successful initiatives throughout May.
Uganda Broadcasting Corporation (UBC) provided coverage of events in Mubende District, showcasing the local impact of menstrual health programs in rural communities.
NTV Uganda covered activities at Katanga slums on May 28th, bringing attention to menstrual health needs in urban informal settlements. This coverage highlighted the work of Florence, a key coordinator whose grassroots efforts are making a significant difference in underserved communities.
Watch the Uganda coverage: Uganda Menstrual Health Video
Nigeria: Extended Media Engagement
Nigeria’s coverage extended beyond the initial May 28th activities, demonstrating sustained media interest in menstrual health advocacy.
TVC News Nigeria featured an engaging morning show segment on Saturday, May 31st, dedicated to discussing menstruation. Kemi, a producer from TVC News, provided the platform for this important conversation about menstrual health awareness.
The coverage highlighted the exceptional work of Blessing, CouldYou?’s partner in Nigeria, whose enthusiastic response to collaboration invitations resulted in outstanding coverage that showcased the effectiveness of community partnerships in menstrual health advocacy.
View the Nigeria feature: Nigeria Menstrual Health Initiative
South Africa: Community Radio Engagement
Gwane FM in OR Tambo Province, Eastern Cape, conducted telephone interviews that brought menstrual health conversations directly to local communities. This radio coverage, coordinated through local partner Songe Social Change in the Eastern Cape, ensured that even remote areas had access to vital menstrual health information and awareness about sustainable solutions like the menstrual cup.
Additional Coverage Highlights
The month of May 2025 also saw successful media engagement across other countries in the CouldYou? network:
Menstrual Health Advocacy through the Media
This wave of international media coverage demonstrates several crucial points:
Breaking the Silence
Each media outlet that covers menstrual health helps break down the stigma and silence that traditionally surrounds menstruation. By bringing these conversations into mainstream media, we normalize discussions about periods and menstrual health needs.
Reaching Diverse Audiences
From radio interviews reaching rural communities to television broadcasts in urban centers, this multi-platform approach ensures that menstrual health information reaches people across different demographics, economic backgrounds, and geographic locations.
Highlighting Local Partnerships
The coverage consistently showcases the importance of local partnerships and community-led initiatives, demonstrating that sustainable change happens when international organizations work hand-in-hand with local advocates and community leaders.
Amplifying Marginalized Voices
The inclusion of discussions about disability and dignity, along with coverage from remote rural areas, ensures that the most marginalized voices in the menstrual health conversation are heard and their needs addressed.
Looking Forward
This international media attention represents growing recognition that menstrual health is a critical component of gender equality, public health, and human dignity. As these stories continue to circulate and inspire action, they contribute to a global movement that refuses to let period poverty persist.
The diverse media landscape covering these initiatives – from podcast platforms to television broadcasts, from rural community radio to international news outlets – creates a comprehensive communication network that ensures no community is left behind in the fight for menstrual dignity.
For more information about menstrual health initiatives and ongoing advocacy work, follow the links provided above to access the full media coverage from each country.