Reusable Sanitary Pads excite Women in Butta, Manafwa District

Reusable Sanitary Pads excite Women in Butta, Manafwa District

METGE aimed to provide a sustainable solution that improves health, supports girls’ education, reduces plastic waste, and fosters women’s economic independence.

For many girls and women in Manafwa, menstrual hygiene management remains a hindrance to education and everyday participation. Limited access to sanitary products, coupled with stigma and misinformation, often leads to school absenteeism, health issues, and diminished self-esteem. Additionally, the environmental impact of non-biodegradable disposable pads is a mounting concern.

Introducing reusable sanitary pads, METGE aimed to provide a sustainable solution that improves health, supports girls’ education, reduces plastic waste, and fosters women’s economic independence.

With support from Size of Wales I Maint Cymru Llywodraeth Cymru / Welsh Government under the WCVA | CGGC, we are empowering women to take charge of their future through the ‘Advancing Gender Equality for Climate Change Resilience and Adaptation project in Manafwa District.

In alignment with our mission to promote gender equality and climate resilience, Mount Elgon Tree Growing Enterprise (METGE) organized a practical training session on making reusable sanitary pads in Butta Subcounty, Manafwa District.

30 women and adolescent girls Participated in the training. They learned how to make reusable pads using locally available materials like cotton, fleece, and waterproof fabric. Training Sessions also included open discussions on menstrual health, hygiene, and overcoming social taboos.

Joyce Kimono, the gender and social inclusion officer from METGE, stated, “After this training, they are going to work as Trainers of Trainees (ToTs), helping other women in the community take up reusable sanitary pads as a business opportunity. This will not only enhance personal hygiene, but also serve as a business venture to improve household incomes. This innovative approach addresses both gender equality and economic empowerment, creating a ripple effect of positive change within communities.”

Mutonyi Irene, Coordinator of Reusable Pads, said, “This training is about empowering women to be self-sufficient. Once they perfect the skill, they can make pads not just for themselves, but also sell them to other communities and earn some income. It’s practical and life-changing.”

Mukitte Anna, a participant, noted, “The reusable pads are not expensive to make and don’t require costly materials. I’ve learned something that can help me earn money. This training is going to help many women like me start small businesses.”