Cause Index

Isithunzi Sabo Bonke

We are a group of men and women focussed on uplifting the young women of South Africa. Menstruation-related problems are a gender-based barrier to girls’ education in South Africa. In our current climate there are many obstacles in the way that children may miss school – but menstruation should not be one of these reasons. In many African communities there are stigmas and taboos around menstruation that lead to so many young girls not receiving information about puberty and often being completely unprepared when they have their first period. In addition, girls who grow up in poverty often cannot afford period protection materials, which means that they subsequently don’t fully participate in school, sports or social life when they have their periods. All these obstacles, if left unattended can lead to increased school absenteeism, and for some girls, even dropping out of school altogether.

Click here to make a donation now