Donor: Self-funded by Copper Rose Zambia, cooperating partners, and individual donations 

Overview

Candid Pride is a pioneering initiative launched by Copper Rose Zambia in 2015 to combat the stigma surrounding menstruation and sexual reproductive health among adolescents in Zambia. The project empowers young people, particularly adolescent girls, but also adolescent boys, by equipping them with the knowledge and resources to manage their menstrual health and make informed decisions regarding their sexual and reproductive well-being. Initially implemented in Lusaka and Kitwe, the campaign has since expanded to reach communities across Zambia.

The initiative includes comprehensive community outreach efforts, where workshops and seminars are conducted in schools and communities to educate adolescents about menstrual hygiene, sexual health, and gender equality. To ensure that adolescent girls have access to essential menstrual hygiene products, sanitary pads are distributed.

Additionally, the program focuses on capacity building for teachers and community leaders by providing them with training on how to effectively address menstrual health issues and support adolescent girls. Advocacy and policy engagement also play a critical role in the initiative, as efforts are made to promote policies and programs that enhance adolescent sexual and reproductive health.

Objectives

• Break the silence on menstruation and sexual reproductive health.
• Educate adolescents on menstrual hygiene practices and the importance of using sanitary pads.
• Distribute sanitary pads to girls in need.
• Empower girls and boys through education and awareness campaigns.
• Promote gender equality and challenge harmful gender norms.

Impact

• Increased Awareness: The project has successfully raised awareness about menstrual health and sexual reproductive health among 3500 adolescents.
• Improved Menstrual Hygiene Practices: The distribution of1000  sanitary pads and education on menstrual hygiene have led to improved menstrual health practices among adolescent girls.
• Empowered Youth: The project has empowered young people to make informed decisions about their sexual and reproductive health.
• Reduced Absenteeism: By addressing menstrual health needs, the project has helped to reduce absenteeism among adolescent girls.

Time frame: 2015 – 2023
Thematic area: Health and Wellbeing