End Period Poverty in Rural Schools in Malawi

Report Summary

We are pleased to share progress from our recent activities under the End Period Poverty in Rural Schools in Malawi project. Thanks to the generous contributions from our GlobalGiving Donors, we were able to bring tangible impact to the lives of adolescent girls at John C Primary School, located in Mutu Village, Lilongwe District, Malawi.

Activities Conducted

1. Reusable Sanitary Pads Distribution

On July 14, 2025, in collaboration with our local partner Silver Bells Helping Hands, we distributed 90 reusable sanitary pads to girls aged 10–14 at John C Primary School. The majority of recipients were from grades 4 to 7, and approximately 90% of them come from rural villages, where menstrual hygiene products are scarce and period poverty leads to regular school absenteeism.

Due to the limited number of pads available, the girls collectively chose to receive one pad each, emphasizing the value of shared resources and mutual support. Their motto: “Sharing is caring.”

2. Menstrual Hygiene Education & Sewing Workshop

Alongside the distribution, we conducted a practical sewing workshop, where the girls learned how to sew reusable pads themselves. One student volunteer received a full set of four pads and helped demonstrate the process to her peers.

Production od the pads was facilitated using two sewing machines donated to us last year by Maja Kotala - Sewing Together (we told more about it in our previous report). The fabric for the pads was purchased locally in Malawi, thanks to the funding from GlobalGiving Donors, which not only supported the activity but also stimulated the local economy.

Outcomes & Impact

• 90 girls received reusable pads and training on how to make more
• Increased awareness of menstrual hygiene management
• Empowerment through skills: girls now have the knowledge to sew their own pads
• Reduced absenteeism risk: school staff reported a strong need for such interventions, as menstruation-related absenteeism is common
• Positive community engagement: school staff and local leaders expressed their gratitude for the initiative and noted the importance of continuing such programs

What’s Next

We aim to continue reaching more rural schools across Malawi, offering both menstrual hygiene support and practical skills training. With sustained donor support, we plan to:

• Increase the number of reusable pads distributed
• Expand training sessions to nearby schools
• Deepen engagement with local communities to reduce menstrual stigma

Thank You

We extend our heartfelt thanks to all our wonderful Donors on GlobalGiving. Your support is not only providing girls with essential menstrual hygiene products but is also empowering them with knowledge, confidence, and dignity.

Together, we are ending period poverty - one school at a time. ZIKOMO KWAMBIRI! Thank you very much!

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