By Onome Amuge
Klasha Inc.,a San Francisco and Lagos-based technology company building cross-border commerce solutions for Africa consumers and international businesses , has announced a new menstrual leave policy for Klasha’s female employees.
The menstrual leave policy, which is significantly, a first-of-its-kind for a technology company operating in Nigeria, will support female employees by granting self-care leave time during their menstrual cycle.
A statement by the first company in Nigeria to introduce progressive policy to support female employees, explained that the positives of a menstrual leave policy are various and diverse.
The new policy, according to the statement, is also a sustainable strategy for a company based on the fact that inclusive employee policies attract and retain talent, and promotes productivity as happier employees are more productive. In addition, It helps fight against the societal taboos around menstruation, and the difficulties they present.
“Morally and ethically, it is the right thing to do. It also encourages workplace diversity, which in turn empowers women to enter the workplace and begin a journey of career development,” the statement read.
Klasha further stressed that the policy also leads by example as it would encourage more companies to acknowledge the need for women who experience excruciating menstrual pain to take time off.
“With period shame and poverty being issues affecting females globally, Klasha believes its new policy is a significant move to breaking down these barriers, which – sadly – are still a reality in many parts of the world,” the statement added.
Jess Anuna, ceo of Klasha,in her remarks on the new menstrual leave policy, said:
“At Klasha, we understand that we must make room for women’s biological needs as a part of everyday business, rather than leave the subject as an unspoken taboo, we want to build a culture of trust, truth, and acceptance. In 2022, women being on their period leave should not be uncomfortable.”
Anuna, who described menstruation as a part of life, noted that while society is still far from fully understanding what women go through,progress must be made in the corporate world. She added that Klasha is delighted to be an early mover in the development, especially in Africa – where very few such policies are in place.
