By Dorcas Bahati Mgogwe, Founder of Girls First Initiative 

In Tanzania, where cultural taboos and limited resources often hinder open conversations about menstruation, empowering girls with knowledge becomes a transformative act. Under the Girls First Initiative, the Hedhi Yangu, Mzunguko Wangu Project has taken a groundbreaking step to address this by introducing the Period Tracking Booklet.

The Period Tracking Booklet is more than just a tool; it’s a lifeline for thousands of girls and women, helping them understand their menstrual cycles and take control of their reproductive health. Designed to be simple, accessible, and culturally sensitive, the booklet provides guidance on tracking menstrual cycles, understanding bodily changes, and recognizing signs of potential health issues.

Since its launch, over 1,500 girls and women have benefited from this resource, using it to make informed decisions about their health. The booklet empowers girls to anticipate their periods, reducing the fear of unexpected leaks and ensuring they’re prepared with the necessary materials. It also serves as an educational tool, demystifying menstruation and breaking down the stigma surrounding it.

One of the most profound impacts of the booklet has been the boost in confidence and attendance among schoolgirls. Girls who once missed classes due to period-related anxiety now feel equipped to fully participate in their education. In addition, mothers and caregivers have embraced the booklet as a way to guide their daughters through puberty with compassion and knowledge.

The booklet’s success lies in its integration into the broader work of Hedhi Yangu, Mzunguko Wangu, which combines menstrual health education, reusable sanitary pad distribution, and community engagement. By equipping young women with practical tools like the Period Tracking Booklet, we’re not just addressing immediate needs; we’re building a foundation for long-term health, confidence, and empowerment.

What inspires me most about this initiative is my own experience growing up. I vividly recall the day I got my first period. Unprepared and uninformed, I stained my uniform at school and faced ridicule from my peers. That moment shaped me; it fueled a deep desire to ensure no girl would endure the same embarrassment or isolation. Today, when I see girls confidently using the Period Tracking Booklet to manage their cycles and navigate adolescence with dignity, I am reminded of how far we’ve come.

This Period Tracking Booklet is more than a project component; it symbolizes a shift toward dignity and self-awareness for girls and women across Tanzania. Through the Girls First Initiative, we’re fostering a generation that is informed, confident, and unafraid to take charge of their futures. Together, we’re ensuring that menstrual health is no longer a barrier but a stepping stone to equality and opportunity.