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By Bianca Iboma-Emefu, Lagos
Blossom Flow Foundation, a non-governmental organisation, conducted a sensitisation programme on menstrual hygiene and literacy for female inmates at the Kirikiri Female Custodial Centre in Lagos State.
The initiative took place on April 12, with the aim of providing essential sanitary products and support to over 300 female inmates, including girls, nursing mothers, and pregnant women.
The event included an advocacy against period poverty as a significant highlight. The foundation acknowledged the challenges women face in accessing sanitary pads, which becomes even more difficult for female inmates who lack the means to purchase menstrual hygiene products, leading to poor sanitary health practices.
To address this issue, the NGO took action by providing immediate relief to the inmates affected by period poverty. Mrs Joan Faluyi, the convener of the initiative, emphasised the challenging situation faced by the inmates, highlighting the importance of alleviating their struggles.
The NGO, with the support of partners such as Multimodal Transport Technologies Ltd and Offshore Dimensions, as well as change-makers like Mrs Ofi Valentina Amiebi-Uchegbu, supplied not only sanitary products but also baby diapers, milk, and napkins. This comprehensive approach aimed to provide physical relief and emotional support to the inmates, fostering a sense of hope and resilience.
During the visit, some of the inmates shared their previous struggles with makeshift sanitary solutions, which often led to infections and discomfort. They expressed gratitude for the organisation’s efforts in providing menstrual solutions. The visit was marked by emotional exchanges, including heartfelt interactions between the volunteers and the inmates, symbolising the deep personal connections formed.
Mrs Faluyi affirmed the organisation’s commitment to advocating for menstrual health and dignity for all women, aiming to address issues of period poverty even in challenging environments.
DCP Esther Taiwo, the Deputy Controller of the Female Custodial Centre, commended the efforts of the Blossom Flow Foundation team. She acknowledged the significant contribution made in building a sense of community and solidarity among the inmates, leading to improved living conditions. Taiwo appealed for continued support and partnerships, recognising that it would enable Blossom Flow to make further strides in empowering women and girls across various sectors of society.
