AYV News, February 6, 2025
Sierra Leone’s First Lady, Dr. Fatima Maada Bio, has continued the distribution of free menstruation sanitary pads and free brand new shoes to school-going children in Port Loko and across Sierra Leone.
Dr. Fatima Bio said: “This initiative is aimed at eliminating barriers that prevent our school-going girls from attending school during their menstrual periods. The provision of shoes for both boys and girls is also an essential part of our efforts to support all children in their academic journey, ensuring they have the necessary resources to excel in their studies”.
After the distribution across the Eastern Province last month, Dr. Bio moved to Kambia and Port Loko in the North Western of Sierra Leone, as part of her continued efforts to promote education, gender equality and the well-being of children across the country.
Her aim is to remove obstacles that hinder young girls from attending school due to menstrual challenges while also supporting boys with proper footwear for their education.
During the distribution, the first lady emphasised the importance of menstrual health and hygiene in empowering girls to stay in school with confidence and dignity.
She said many girls miss out on their education simply because they lack access to sanitary pads, which should never be a barrier to learning. By ensuring that girls have the necessary hygiene products, this initiative aligns with her broader vision of creating an inclusive and supportive educational environment for all children.
Beyond menstrual hygiene support, Dr. Bio also recognised the need to provide essential resources for boys by distributing free shoes to ensure their comfort and safety in school.
She reiterated her commitment to fostering an equitable society where both boys and girls have the necessary tools to excel academically. The initiative was warmly received by students, teachers, and parents, who expressed deep gratitude for the first lady’s unwavering dedication to children’s education and welfare.
The humanitarian gesture reflects the first lady’s broader advocacy for women’s and children’s rights through her ‘Hands Off Our Girls’ campaign.
Dr. Fatima Maada Bio reaffirmed that she will continue championing initiatives that address critical challenges faced by school-going children in Sierra Leone, while encouraging community leaders, stakeholders, and development partners to collaborate in supporting programs that empower young people and create a brighter future for the nation.
