Opinion by Nyarai Chuma
As women, we celebrate many milestones throughout our lives—graduations, marriages, new beginnings. Yet, one significant chapter that often goes unmentioned is menopause. For many African women, this natural transition can bring along a host of physical, emotional, and social challenges, yet the conversation remains largely hushed.
As a passionate advocate for women’s health, I am determined to raise awareness about menopause, destigmatize the topic, and create safe spaces for women to share their experiences.
Menopause, which typically occurs between the ages of 45 and 55, marks the end of a woman’s reproductive years. It is a biological process, yet its effects can be profoundly emotional and societal. Hot flashes, mood swings, and sleep disturbances are just a few symptoms that can impede a woman’s quality of life.
Moreover, the cultural norms in many African societies often discourage open discussions about reproductive health, leading women to suffer in silence. This silence can exacerbate feelings of isolation, anxiety, and even depression.
According to the World Health Organization, the population of women in sub-Saharan Africa is on the rise, with an estimated 40 million women in menopause by 2030. This demographic shift presents both a challenge and an opportunity for health education and advocacy. Women deserve to be informed about what to expect during menopause and to understand their health options.
That is why I intend to take my knowledge and experience to the grassroots level, creating forums and workshops where women can openly discuss their concerns, share their stories, and receive the support they need. It’s time to replace discomfort with dialogue. We can learn from each other, empower one another, and break the stigma surrounding menopause.
Moreover, I aim to collaborate with healthcare professionals to ensure that these discussions are coupled with accurate medical information. Raising awareness about menopause and its management can lead to better healthcare practices, as well as encourage policy changes that prioritize women’s health at all stages of life.
In these forums, women from various backgrounds can connect—whether urban or rural, educated or not—creating a community where everyone’s voice is heard and valued. Together, we can foster an environment that encourages not just individual well-being but also collective healing.
The journey through menopause is a shared experience that should not come with shame or solitude. By starting these conversations, we can create a culture of openness, enabling women to approach this natural phase of life with resilience and confidence. Let us shine a light on menopause and pave the way for the next generation of women to embrace their changes with knowledge and pride.
Ultimately, we must recognize that menopause is not an end, but a new beginning. It is a time of reflection, reinvention, and empowerment. Through awareness and support, we can transform the narrative around menopause in Africa—ensuring that it is met with understanding, compassion, and a sense of community.
For more information on upcoming forums and to participate in this vital conversation, please contact Nyari +447535874681 or email nyarie@tnmentalhealthconsulting.com.
Nyarai Chuma is a social change maker, mental Health practitioner with more than a decade experience influencing clinical outcomes across health and justice sectors. Most significant in Forensic Health.
Together, let’s embrace every stage of womanhood.
