FREETOWN, May 28, 2026.
Across the world, many women and girls continue to face barriers that undermine their dignity, comfort, health and well-being.
The 2nd Edition of the Menstrual Hygiene Day Conference, organised by the Mariyam’s Ways Foundation, was successfully held at the Radisson Blu Mammy Yoko Hotel, bringing together health practitioners, youth advocates, and key stakeholders to advance discussions on menstrual hygiene and reproductive health.
The conference focused on promoting women’s reproductive and menstrual health, with strong emphasis on breaking cycle, improving access to quality health services, and strengthening family planning education. Participants noted that persistent misinformation and cultural silence around menstruation continue to negatively affect the wellbeing and confidence of many young girls.
Throughout the program, speakers highlighted the need for open dialogue and sustained community engagement to normalize conversations on menstrual health. They also stressed the importance of empowering girls and women with accurate information to enable informed decisions about their bodies free from shame, discrimination, or fear.
A key highlight of the event was the recognition of Mariyam’s Ways Foundation for its ongoing grassroots advocacy work. The organisation was commended for its efforts in reaching vulnerable communities, supporting awareness campaigns, and promoting menstrual dignity and reproductive health rights across Sierra Leone.
In addition to its advocacy initiatives, the foundation also showcased its youth empowerment programme through a beauty parlour initiative that provides vocational training in hairdressing, skincare, and beauty therapy. The programme aims to equip young people with practical skills, encourage entrepreneurship, and create sustainable income opportunities for both young women and men.
Discussions at the conference further reinforced reproductive health as a fundamental human right, linking it to broader national development goals, gender equality, and youth wellbeing. Experts also emphasised that comprehensive reproductive health education is essential in preventing early and unplanned pregnancies and reducing the spread of sexually transmitted infections.
Founder and CEO of Mariyam’s Ways Foundation, Ms Mariyam Konneh , said: “This programme was designed to highlight the importance of collective action in addressing menstrual health challenges and promoting dignity, confidence, and equal opportunities for girls and women in Sierra Leone.”
The event concluded as a significant milestone for Mariyam’s Ways Foundation, reinforcing its commitment to advocacy, empowerment, and improved health outcomes for women and girls across communities in Sierra Leone.
