Kenya requires meaningful and sustained conversation to break taboos on menstrual health to help women unlock their economic and educational opportunities.

Mrembo Empowerment Center Founder, Stellamaris Mwende has called on local leaders to take a leading role in helping break the chains holding back women from actively participating in economic development.

“We can no longer tolerate speaking in undertones on the scourge at the expense of our girls and economic development. The time for action is now,” she said.

She spoke at her Nairobi Empowerment Centre to mark the Menstrual Hygiene Day 2019 celebrations.

This year’s theme is “It’s Time for Action” clearly indicating the urgency of addressing menstrual health issues around the world.

The day highlights strides made to improve menstrual hygiene and suggests new and progressive ways governments, NGOs and corporates can work together to improve the lives of women.

Most women live in poor socio-economic environments that lacks basic sanitation facilities for young girls and women of menstruating age.

“Kenya is no exception with a majority of women living in informal settlements unable to access safe materials to manage their situation,” said Mwende.

About 65 percent of women and girls in Kenya are unable to afford sanitary pads, according to a study by the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation.