Menstrual Hygiene Management Policy 2019-2030

Abstract

Sanitation and hygiene occupy one of the most important spaces in Kenya’s constitution, our overarching policy framework, the Kenya Vision 2030; and our collective global sustainable development agenda. In all these spaces, one thing is clear, that it is our collective duty and responsibility to first, ensure that every person has sustainable access to clean, safe, adequate and equitable water, sanitation and hygiene services; second, to contribute towards an open defecation free environment and third, ensure clean and healthy environment for all that is free from public nuisances and with reduced threat to indiscriminate disposal of waste. Essentially, the represent not just mere aspirations but preconditions for the transformation of Kenya into an industrialized middle-income country that will provide a high quality of life to all citizens in a clean and secure environment. The Kenya Menstrual Hygiene Management Policy is an outcome of a situation analysis done as a precursor to its formulation. The Situational Analysis revealed gaps in knowledge about menstruation, compounded by taboos, myths, stigma surrounding the normal biological process of menstruation. This policy takes cognizance of devolution of sanitation functions and services to the 47 county governments in Kenya. As a result of nationwide consultations and validation meetings, this new policy takes a rights-based approach and redirects our efforts towards achieving the Kenya Vision 2030 and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Further, this policy seeks to ensure that myths, taboos and stigma around menstruation are addressed by providing women, girls, men and boys with information on menstruation. This knowledge will facilitate in breaking the silence around menstruation, ensure that women and girls menstruate in a safe and hygienic environment and that menstrual waste is properly disposed. Finally, it is envisaged that this policy will provide a critical reference to all agencies, both public and private that are, or will be, actively working towards achieving SDG 6.2 by ensuring that by 2030, Kenya pays special attention to the needs of women and girls and those in vulnerable situations through Menstrual management focused interventions. To ensure its effective execution, a Kenya Menstrual Hygiene Management Strategy has been prepared...