Free Menstrual Stigma Campaign Camp — Kagote, Fort Portal

Overview

The Free Menstrual Stigma Campaign Camp brought together 102 participants — 62 girls, 40 parents, and boys — for a full-day community empowerment event focused on menstrual health, reusable pad production, and stigma reduction through open dialogue.

Objectives

1. Train participants in reusable pad production for sustainable menstrual health management.
2. Educate on menstrual health and hygiene best practices.
3. Reduce menstrual stigma through open community dialogue.

Activities

1. Reusable Pad Workshop

Facilitators: Ongom Joseph, Mukibi Faruku, Marie, Grace

• Hands-on practical pad-making skills training.
• Participants learned material selection and stitching techniques.
• Girls and mothers worked together to produce reusable pads.

2. Health Education Sessions

Facilitators: Baluku Patrick, Kizito

• Comprehensive menstrual biology and cycle education.
• Hygiene maintenance practices during menstruation.
• Safe disposal methods and infection prevention.

3. Interactive Discussions

• Open dialogue facilitated between parents, girls, and boys.
• Addressed menstrual stigma and cultural misconceptions.
• Boys and fathers participated actively in reducing stigma.

Outcomes

• 102 participants gained practical reusable pad-making skills.
• Improved menstrual health knowledge across age groups.
• Reduced stigma through inclusive community discussion.

Participant Feedback

• Participants highly appreciated the hands-on learning approach.
• Parents expressed increased confidence in supporting their children's menstrual health.
• Boys reported improved understanding and willingness to support girls.

Conclusion

The camp successfully empowered the Kagote community with knowledge and practical skills while significantly reducing menstrual stigma. The inclusive approach — involving parents, boys, and girls together — created a supportive environment for lasting behaviour change.