One Economy, Lil-Lets spark open conversations around menstrual health

Growing focus on women's health and dignity
Many young women still feeling uncomfortable discussing menstrual health openly despite its impact on their wellbeing, dignity and academic participation.
Desmarius Hansen
  • 6 Days Ago

Menstrual health is increasingly being recognised as a national priority in Namibia, following an event hosted by the One Economy Foundation and feminine hygiene brand Lil-Lets last week aimed at breaking stigma and encouraging open conversations about menstruation.

The event followed the completion of Lil-Lets' university roadshow in Windhoek, which reached thousands of students through 14 activations at five tertiary institutions at the University of Namibia (UNAM), Namibia University of Science and Technology (NUST), International University of Management (IUM), Triumphant College and the UNAM Medical Campus.

According to organisers, the engagements highlighted the persistent stigma surrounding menstruation, with many young women still feeling uncomfortable discussing menstrual health openly despite its impact on their wellbeing, dignity and academic participation.

As part of an ongoing partnership, Lil-Lets donated 6 000 sanitary pad packs and five Menstrual Corners to the One Economy Foundation and its partners, including Girl Up Namibia, Havana Charity Work Foundation, Lidar Foundation and the Zambezi Girl Child Foundation.

The handover took place at the #BeFree Youth Campus in Windhoek.

Speaking at the event, Premier FMCG Exports representative Michaela Boing said the programme extended beyond the provision of menstrual products.

“This initiative is about more than providing products; it is about shifting mindsets. By working alongside national leaders, students and community organisations, we are helping to reposition menstrual health as a shared societal responsibility, not a silent struggle,” she said.

Former First Lady and Executive Chairperson of the One Economy Foundation, Monica Geingos, said placing menstrual health on the national agenda reinforces the importance of dignity, access and open dialogue. “When we normalise these discussions, we unlock confidence, opportunity and agency for women and girls across Namibia.”

Geingos added that the collaboration demonstrates how partnerships between the private sector, civil society and government can help advance menstrual health and contribute to broader social development goals.