By Charles Mkoka
Dar es Salaam, Tanzania — The Tanzania Medical Students’ Association (TAMSA) – MUHAS Chapter has launched a community health initiative focused on menstrual health education and support for adolescent girls in rural Kisarawe District, Pwani Region.
Recognizing menstruation as a critical public health issue, especially among adolescent girls, TAMSA–MUHAS has emphasized the need for sustainable solutions in menstrual hygiene management, access to sanitary products, and comprehensive reproductive health education.
“Menstruation is not just a biological process. It affects education, mental health, and social participation. We are committed to addressing these issues, particularly in underserved areas,” said Richard, the organization spokesperson.
The initiative forms part of a broader global effort to improve the health and dignity of women and girls.
Kisarawe District was selected through a clustered random sampling method, to reach rural communities often overlooked in mainstream health programming.
Pwani Region was prioritized due to its significant health service gaps in rural areas. Among various districts, Kisarawe was randomly selected as it fits the criteria for intervention.
TAMSA–MUHAS is in partnership with Miriam Odemba, an international advocate for Sexual and Reproductive Health and Rights (SRHR), whose commitment to grassroots engagement and youth-led advocacy aligned with the organization's mission.
“Her passion and work with other young changemakers made her an ideal partner in this effort to bring lasting impact to the lives of young girls,” the statement read.
Menstrual health, TAMSA noted, remains one of the most neglected areas within reproductive health, despite its wide-reaching effects on young people’s development and participation in society.
“As SRHR advocates, we are committed to ensuring that issues such as menstruation are no longer taboo or sidelined in public health discourse,” Richard added.
While acknowledging their limited capacity to provide direct services, TAMSA–MUHAS underscored the role of such outreach events in amplifying the voices of rural communities.
The organization emphasized — communities need sustainable services more than temporary aid. “Through these events, we serve as ambassadors to other stakeholders, particularly government institutions, to recognize these challenges and provide long-term, dignified health solutions.”
The initiative is part of TAMSA’s ongoing commitment to advancing community health and youth-led advocacy across Tanzania, on 28 May 2025.