Malaika Reusable Pads with support from Action Aid Uganda and UNFPA have carried out an initiative to address issues affecting adolescent girls in Kween and Bukwo Districts.
The initiative was intended to promote quality, eco-friendly reusable sanitary pads as a means to restore girls’ dignity, empower girls to stay in school and reduce their vulnerability to early marriages.
A total of three schools benefitted from the initiative including Kapkwere Primary School, Chemwania Primary School and Chebinyiny Primary School.
A total of 200 girls each received a packet of reusable sanitary pads to enable them stay in school and pursue their dreams.
Additionally the girls received trainings on menstrual health and hygiene management. School clubs were established in the respective schools to provide a safe space for the girls to continue sharing experiences on how to make healthy life choices as they navigate through puberty.
The Red Box initiative was also introduced in the schools which contains emergency sanitary pads given to girls so that they do not have to skip class or return home in case their periods come unexpectedly.
According to Ms. Dorothy Awori the Executive Director of Malaika Reusable Pads, the initiative has brought onboard several actors including community leaders.
It is through these leaders that the fight against early marriage and teenage pregnancy will be sustained in the community. These include; parents, teachers, Village Health Teams, School Management Committee and religious leaders.
