A non-governmental organization, Girls Shall Grow has successfully organized its Annual Menstrual Hygiene Conference, continuing its mission of promoting menstrual health education; breaking the stigma surrounding menstruation among young people.
For the past eight years, the organization has held the conference in Obuasi and its environs, making a significant impact on the lives of girls and communities through education and advocacy. This year, the initiative was expanded to include both Obuasi and Accra.
The Accra edition took place at Okoman M/A Basic School, where about 250 people including girls, boys, teachers, and community members, participated in the educational conference.
Disease Control Officer at Ussher Hospital, Ms. Portia Salia, who was the main speaker for the event led participants through an engaging session on menstrual hygiene management, emphasizing the importance of proper menstrual health practices and awareness.
The Executive Director of Girls Shall Grow, Mrs. Louisa Amoah, also enlightened the students on teenage pregnancy, highlighting its causes, effects, and prevention. She encouraged young people to make informed decisions and prioritize their education and personal development.
Held under the theme, “Together for a Period-Friendly World,” this year’s conference sought to promote inclusive conversations around menstruation and encourage collective action towards creating supportive environments for girls and women.
As part of the conference, Girls Shall Grow donated sanitary pads to the female students to support their menstrual hygiene needs and promote menstrual health management.
Speaking to Prima Media after the event, Mrs Louisa Amoah stressed that addressing menstrual health should be a shared responsibility.
“Parents, teachers, men, girls, and organizations all have a role to play. We must be able to talk freely about menstruation without fear, shame, or any inferiority complex so that we can create a period-friendly environment for everyone,” she said.
She noted that through education, mentorship, and open conversations, Girls Shall Grow continues to empower girls with the knowledge, confidence, and tools needed to manage their menstrual health with dignity.
Over the years, the organization has remained committed to contributing to promoting proper menstrual hygiene and ensuring that no girl is left behind in accessing information and support related to her reproductive health.
The conference forms part of Girls Shall Grow’s broader efforts to create informed and healthy communities where menstruation is understood, accepted, and openly discussed.
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