The Hope Alive for Possibilities Initiative (HAPI), a non-governmental organization dedicated to promoting effective menstrual health and hygiene management for women and girls with disabilities in Benue State, has launched its activities to commemorate the 2025 International Menstrual Hygiene Day.
This global event aims to raise awareness about menstrual health and hygiene management for girls and women.
During a practical session held at the Greg & Co ICT Hub Hall in Makurdi on Monday, HAPI’s Head of Programmes, Ms. Mercy Ngunan Jovkyundan, outlined the organization’s activities, saying, “We have a series of events planned for the international day on Wednesday, May 28, 2025.
“Today, we’ve provided practical sessions for women and girls with disabilities, enabling them to learn how to use menstrual products,” she added.
“We have also introduced them to new menstrual digital tools for menstrual dignity, such as the DIVA app, menstrual cups, and discs, as well as current technologies and accessories, including sanitary pads, tampons, reusable napkins, pain medication, and soap, designed to address diverse menstrual needs.”
The organization’s focus is on women and girls with disabilities in Benue State, aged 9-35, who are often overlooked in conversations about menstrual health due to the misconception that women with disabilities do not menstruate.
“Our aim is to reach out to all women and girls in this category,” Jovkyundan explained. “However, given their large numbers, we’re engaging with them in batches and sponsoring sensitization programs on radio and in newspapers for those who cannot attend physically.”
She added that another batch would participate in the activities the following day, and on May 28, HAPI would join other organizations in a march from Savannah Roundabout to IBB Square to create awareness and dismantle societal barriers against menstrual hygiene.
Other facilitators, including Dr. Laadi Terrumun Swende and Ehi Blessing Sunday, provided participants with practical skills on menstrual product maintenance, safe and hygienic practices, infection prevention, and disposal techniques
