How reusable sanitary pads are transforming education and the environment in Uganda

In Kasese, Uganda, 17% of girls drop out of school, 29% regularly don’t attend and many perform poorly, due to a lack of access to sanitary pads. This not only makes the girls feel inferior but also subjects them to stigma.

So we are working with our local partner, Alpha Women Empowerment Initiative (AWEI), to develop and distribute reusable sanitary pads to young girls. This initiative is transforming lives, boosting school attendance and helping the environment.

A pressing need

AWEI recognised that many girls were missing school or dropping out entirely due to inadequate menstrual hygiene management. And with the support of ITF, AWEI embarked on a mission to provide a sustainable solution.

Women from AWEI were trained by an expert on how to make reusable sanitary pads so that they could become Trainers of Trainees (TOT). These TOTs then trained single mothers, widows, and vulnerable girls in the community on how to produce these essential items.

The tree planting club at Royal Ranges School are among those learning to make their own reusable sanitary pads.

The meticulous process

The production of reusable sanitary pads involves several carefully chosen materials to ensure durability and comfort. The pads are made using cotton lining cloth, needles, scissors, thread, towels, buttons, measuring tapes and soft polyester.

The process begins with cutting the fabric into the required shapes and sizes, followed by stitching and assembling the layers to create the final product. Each step is meticulously followed to ensure that the pads are both functional and comfortable.

Community impact

The impact of this project has been profound. School dropout rates in the two schools involved have decreased from 17% to 7%, and absenteeism has reduced from 29% to 11%.

Plus, the girls' hygiene has improved, they are gaining confidence and they are able to focus more on their studies.

Kabugho Shivan is 17 years’ old and attends Nyakazinga Primary School, where she received reusable sanitary pads. “I come from a humble background where my parents couldn't afford disposable sanitary pads. For many times, I used dirty pieces of clothes, dry banana leaves and pieces of paper, which led to poor hygiene and frequent absenteeism from school.

“After receiving training from Alpha Women Empowerment Initiative on reusable sanitary pads and menstrual hygiene management, I am now happy and confident. The 10 reusable sanitary pads I received are supporting my hygiene and academic performance. Thank you, Alpha Women Empowerment Initiative, International Tree Foundation and Tree Sisters.”

A student receives her reusable sanitary pads

Dramatically reducing waste

The shift to reusable sanitary pads also has brilliant environmental benefits.

Unlike disposable pads, which are used once and then disposed of, reusable pads can be reused for 2-3 months. Although these homemade versions don’t last as long as shop-bought ones in the UK, this project is dramatically reducing waste and plastic pollution.

For instance, 348 disposable pads used annually can be replaced by just 62 reusable pads if looked after properly. The reusable pads are not only benefitting the environment but also promoting a sustainable lifestyle among the girls and their communities.

Since its inception, the project has supplied 1,210 reusable sanitary pads to 119 girls across Mbunga Primary School, Nyakazinga Primary and Trust Academy Secondary School.

Moreover, AWEI has been instrumental in educating girls about menstrual hygiene. Training sessions cover a range of topics from body cleaning and pad changing to managing menstrual problems.

Senior women teachers and health champions run weekly meetings to ensure girls are using and managing the pads appropriately. This educational component is crucial in empowering girls with the knowledge and skills to manage their menstrual health.

A brighter future

The demand for reusable sanitary pads remains high, and plans are underway to expand the project. In regions like Mbunga and Rukoki, 57% of girls drop out of school due to lack of sanitary pads!

Through the collaborative efforts of AWEI, ITF, and the support of the community, girls are not only staying in school but are also gaining confidence and dignity.

By reducing school dropout rates and minimizing plastic waste, the initiative not only empowers young girls but also promotes environmental sustainability. The project embodies resilience and hope, transforming the lives of many and paving the way for a brighter, more sustainable future.

This project is a beacon of hope, demonstrating that with the right support, we can overcome challenges and create lasting change.

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Help us create a future where Ugandan girls can live free of stigma in a greener and fairer world.