Support Ending Period Poverty

Nomadic Assistance for Peace and Development (NAPAD) continues to make progress on this project aimed at providing menstrual hygiene products and education on menstrual hygiene management (MHM) among vulnerable girls in Mandera, County Kenya.

In Sub-Saharan Africa, period poverty affects 1 in 10 girls, with many unable to access and afford menstrual hygiene products. This lack of resources forces them to miss 20-30% of scheduled school days annually disrupting their education and continuing cycles of poverty. The onset of menstruation also often brings not only physical changes but also social challenges, with girls facing stigma, harassment, and exclusion during menstruation. Without access to proper sanitary products, they resort to unsafe and undignified alternatives such as old pieces of cloth or blankets, which can lead to infections and discomfort. Moreover, inadequate sanitation facilities in schools exacerbate these issues, creating barriers to education and personal development. In Mandera County, this reality is compounded by deeply rooted cultural taboos surrounding menstruation, inadequate water supply, and lack of privacy in latrines makes managing menstruation even more challenging.

Recognizing these challenges, NAPAD launched this fundraising campaign to provide menstrual hygiene products, including reusable sanitary pads, underwear, and soap, to 3,000 vulnerable adolescent girls. It also includes education on menstrual hygiene management by conducting training sessions for girls, as well as providing accurate, culturally sensitive information to dispel myths and stigma surrounding menstruation. This will improve school attendance and retention rates among girls and also reduce the stigma and isolation experienced by menstruating girls, creating a sense of dignity and empowerment. Moreover, access to sanitary products also promotes health and hygiene, reducing health risks and infections.

Currently, this campaign has raised $23 through GlobalGiving and engaged in the Giving Tuesday initiative. However, a significant funding gap remains, emphasizing the need for stronger donor engagement and better fundraising strategies to close this gap.

We are calling on supporters to join us in this effort to support vulnerable girls in Mandera county, Kenya have dignified access to menstrual hygiene products and the right knowledge on menstrual hygiene management. Any contribution, no matter how small, will make a significant difference in the lives of 3000 girls.

We thank you for your continued support and partnership in this work.