Rafiki wa Binti launches MH Day 2026 Song, expands period underwear distribution

DAR ES SALAAM: IN celebration of Menstrual Hygiene Day on May 28, Rafiki wa Binti has released a new educational animated song aimed at empowering schoolgirls with menstrual health knowledge and promoting confidence, dignity, and school attendance.

Performed and written by famous Tanzanian singer Ashura Kitenge, the song forms part of Rafiki wa Binti’s broader menstrual health education program, which teaches girls how to properly use, wash, and care for reusable period underwear, an innovative and sustainable approach helping girls manage their periods safely and confidently.

Reusable period underwear remains a novel solution in Tanzanian communities and has become a key part of Rafiki wa Binti’s work supporting girls to stay in school and reduce stigma around menstruation.

Through its “Binti Packs” initiative, Rafiki wa Binti has already donated more than 24,000 pairs of reusable period underwear to schoolgirls across Mafinga, Kilwa Masoko, Kagera Region and Zanzibar. The period underwear is reusable for two years or more.

Each Binti Pack contains six pairs of reusable period underwear, menstrual health education and wet and dry storage bag.

An additional 24,000 pairs of underwear are expected to be distributed in upcoming program rollouts in the next few months as the organisation continues expanding its reach throughout Tanzania.

ALSO READ: Behind strong women lies silent exhaustion

“Menstrual health is about education and opportunity,” said Nancy Bondo. “The feedback from Government, teachers and students on the Binti Project has been overwhelmingly positive. It is helping girls stay in school during their periods with dignity and confidence.”

Rafiki wa Binti is proud to be an official partner of Menstrual Hygiene Day and a member of the Tanzania Menstrual Health Coalition, working alongside Government and partners across the country to improve menstrual health awareness and access.