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Menstrual Justice
Overview
Menstrual injustice continues to undermine the dignity, education, and leadership of girls and women across Uganda and the wider African region. Harmful cultural norms, stigma, inadequate WASH facilities, and weak policy implementation restrict girls’ participation in schools and communities. The World Health Organisation (2022) affirms that menstrual health and hygiene are closely linked to fundamental human rights, including the rights to health, education, work, and dignity. This means that when girls and women lack access to safe menstrual products, accurate information, and supportive environments, their basic rights and equal opportunities are compromised. It is within this context that Irise Institute East Africa advances menstrual justice by engaging policymakers and grassroots organisations to promote systems change and address the structural barriers that prevent girls and women from fully participating in society.
MENSTRUAL JUSTICE PROJECT
Irise Institute East Africa (IIEA), with support from the Foundation for a Just Society (FJS), implements the Menstrual Justice Project. This multi-level initiative integrates school-based education, youth leadership, community engagement, and policy advocacy to promote dignity, equality, and inclusion for menstruating girls and women across Africa. Working in partnership with grassroots organisations across East and West Africa, including Kaleke Kasome, Gufasha Foundation, Touch Ministries, and Awesome Minds Speaks, the project delivers menstrual health education in schools, establishes and mentors Menstrual Justice Clubs, trains peer champions in feminist leadership, conducts WASH assessments, and engages cultural and religious leaders to challenge harmful norms, taboos, and misconceptions. Through this holistic approach, the project strengthens locally driven solutions, breaks stigma, and influences policy, contributing to a future where menstruation is fully supported, understood, and no longer a barrier to participation, learning, or leadership.
MENSTRUAL JUSTICE ACADEMY
The Menstrual Justice Academy by Irise Institute East Africa builds the advocacy capacity of activists, youth leaders, and grassroots organisations to advance menstrual justice at community, national, and regional levels. It equips participants with practical knowledge, skills, and tools while supporting community-led initiatives through microgrants and fostering cross-country collaboration. The Academy convenes regional learning and exchange spaces that connect grassroots actors, national organisations, and government stakeholders. It also engages policymakers, cultural and religious leaders, educators, adolescents, and donors to strengthen inclusive and informed advocacy efforts. Through structured training and mentorship, participants develop key competencies in policy engagement, issue prioritisation, and evidence-based advocacy. The Menstrual Justice Academy by Irise Institute East Africa builds the advocacy capacity of activists, youth leaders, and grassroots organisations to advance menstrual justice at community, national, and regional levels. It equips participants with practical knowledge, skills, and tools while supporting community-led initiatives through microgrants and fostering cross-country collaboration. Selected participants design and implement advocacy action plans, driving sustained engagement, accountability, and impact within their communities.