In the vast and diverse tapestry of African mythology, the tale of Lowe emerging from the reeds stands as a powerful symbol of creation, resilience, and a deep spiritual connection to the natural world. This foundational myth intertwines with the profound relationship that mankind has forged with water, serving as a catalyst for life, shaping societies, and nurturing the development of civilizations across the African continent. The African creation story of Lowe rising from the reeds encapsulates the essence of origination and emergence. Depicted in various forms across different regions, this myth embodies the profound connection between humanity and the natural environment. As Lowe stepped forth from the reeds, the narrative symbolizes the birth of life, the primordial essence of creation, and the interconnectedness of all living beings with their surroundings. Water, in its myriad forms, holds a revered status in African cultures, serving as a fundamental aspect of existence, spirituality, and sustenance. The concept of life originating from water is deeply ingrained in African cosmology, reflecting an ancient wisdom that acknowledges the indispensable role of water in the genesis and perpetuation of life. This unifying belief manifests in rituals, folklore, and societal practices, signaling an enduring reverence for the life-giving properties of water. The interplay between the creational myth of Lowe and the elemental significance of water illuminates the foundational fabric of Black African societies. These narratives encapsulate the ethos of resilience, adaptability, and the enduring spirit of perseverance essential in navigating the complexities of life. The acknowledgement of life's origins in the natural world fosters a poignant perspective that shapes cultural norms, traditions, and social constructs, emphasizing harmony with the environment and a collective consciousness rooted in a shared heritage of myth and tradition. The influence of water extends far beyond the realms of sustenance and survival, permeating the cultural and spiritual landscapes of African societies. From the majestic Nile River to the shimmering waters of Lake Malawi, the presence of water has catalyzed the emergence of thriving settlements, trade routes, and centers of innovation throughout history. The symbiotic relationship with water has not only sustained life but also facilitated the evolution of complex civilizations, fostering interconnected communities bound by the ebb and flow of water's influence. The enduring myths and elemental significance of water in African cultures encapsulate a timeless wisdom that resonates with the rhythm of life itself. These narratives encapsulate the collective memory of societies, echoing through the annals of time and weaving a rich tapestry of spirituality, resilience, and cultural heritage. The profound interweaving of stories and elemental forces serves as a testament to the enduring legacy of African civilizations, shaping the essence of identity, interconnectedness, and the boundless potential for renewal and adaptation within the ever-changing currents of existence. In unraveling the tapestry of African creation stories and the elemental influence of water, one bears witness to a profound testament to the resilience, interconnectedness, and enduring spirit of African societies. The myth of Lowe emerging from the reeds and the perpetual presence of water as a catalyst for life stand as timeless symbols of the human experience, mirroring the enduring journey of creation, adaptability, and the unyielding connection to the nature of existence itself. In conclusion, the creational story of Lowe's emergence from the reeds echoes the timeless wisdom woven into the fabric of African societies. The reverence for water as the source of life and the elemental force that shapes civilizations serves as a testament to the enduring legacy of African cultures. Through the interweaving of myth and elemental significance, these narratives continue to inspire and enrich the collective consciousness, ensuring that the indomitable spirit of creation and interconnectedness endures, enveloping each generation in the timeless embrace of myth, tradition, and the unyielding power of water.

I just turned 11 and was preparing to get into High School, I was going to leave for boarding school the following day and mom had said she wanted to talk to me about something. My mind began racing, I had never had such serious conversations before. My heart was pounding, I was shy and didn't know exactly what to expect. My mind did go to Menstruation but having such conversation with my mom would be weird, I thought to myself. Prior to that day, I had had a lot of discussions with my friends (females) in Primary School. We couldn't wait to have our periods, we talked about this only behind our class during break time. We talked about all the myths we've heard about menstruation, the blood is bad blood, smells badly and so on. Finally it was time for mom and I to talk and yes I was right, it was about menstruation. She told me about how it's an "introduction into womanhood" as I could get pregnant and have children the moment I start menstruating. Being a typical African Woman, she didn't forget to mention that I should never tell people I'm on my period. When I finally started menstruating, the cramps (dysmenorrhea) were so unbearable and I'd just lay in my bed in the hostel and groan in pain since I wasn't supposed to tell anyone except for those who came close enough to find out what was wrong with me. Yes I attended an all Girls Boarding Secondary School. I had the opportunity to speak with GDSS girls, a secondary school in Kalgo LGA of Kebbi State, Nigeria & then it dawned on me how deep the culture of being "hush" with our periods had eaten deep into our consciousness. These beautiful school girls were too shy to share with me their experiences on period. Period is NOT a taboo, EVERY woman experiences it. Its amazing how something very normal & common is treated like a plague or curse. Menstruation, also known as a period or monthly flow is the regular discharge of blood and mucosal tissue from the inner lining of the uterus through the vagina. It happens when your ovum (egg) wasn't fertilized by sperm. Menstrual cycle ranges from 21 to 30days with the commonest being 28days (that's why it's called a cycle). The first day of your period is calculated as the first day of your menstrual cycle, the counting continues until the first day of another period, ovulation usually takes place at the middle of your cycle depending on the length of your cycle. For example if your period two months ago came April 2, and comes May 1st, it means you have a 30 day cycle, study your period for at least 3-6 months before concluding on your cycle length. Also the cycle doesn't necessarily remain the same for the rest of your life, it could change. For example you could get started on a 28days cycle and change to a 26days cycle and so on. Factors that cause changes in cycles include menarche, hormonal imbalance, change of environment, anxiety, fear, medication and even infections. Menarche is the term given to the "First ever menstrual flow". It usually takes about 2 years from age of menarche for menstrual cycle to stabilize. Although it may be less or more than two years for some other individuals. It is wrong to feel less of yourself because you're on your "Special Day" especially for those of you who are in Mixed Secondary Schools. It isn't wrong to take pain relievers if the pains are unbearable, use good sanitary products, bath regularly and don't forget your deodorants. Feel comfortable and be yourself. In the typical African especially Nigerian home, our moms tell us that once we start menstruating, if a man "touches" us, we'd get pregnant. In our young, naive minds, we ingested those counsels hook, line and sinker. I remember a friend of mine who got hugged by a male student in school, ran home crying she was pregnant. This is a myth. Myths like a girl menstruating is unclean and should be locked out, not permitted to cook and involve in social and domestic activities are what they are, myths and myths are not true. There is no better time to advocate for removal of tax on Sanitary wares than now amidst the COVID-19 pandemic, menstruation is NATURAL and will always be with us as long as man exists. For this reason, my team and I continue to work to ensure girls have access to eco-friendly, sustainable and cost-effective Menstrual Hygiene Products and are looking forward to fruitful collaborations. Be proud of your period, feel beautiful and be glad you're a woman!