Empower 2500 girls in Tanzania: Sew self made pads

Even in Constraints, Impact Matters: What Monitoring Reveals

Delivering support is only one part of the journey, understanding its effect is what ensures it truly makes a difference. In a period marked by limited resources, Msichana Imara Foundation prioritized learning through continuous monitoring and reflection to guide its work and remain accountable to the girls we serve.

During the first quarter, an impact assessment session was conducted at Irkisongo Secondary School. The purpose was to:

1. Examine progress in addressing period poverty
2. Strengthen menstrual health knowledge
3. Foster a more enabling school environment for girls

The session involved a mixed-methods approach, combining questionnaires, interviews, focus group discussions and observations with both students and teachers. This provided a well-rounded understanding of outcomes and experiences on the ground.

The results point to meaningful progress. Girls demonstrated stronger knowledge of puberty, menstruation and reproductive health, alongside increased confidence in discussing these topics with peers and family members. This shift reflects not only improved awareness but also a gradual breakdown of stigma and silence surrounding menstruation.

Changes in practice were equally notable. The adoption of reusable sanitary pads rose significantly following the intervention, offering a practical and affordable option for menstrual management. Many girls described these products as comfortable and manageable, while also easing financial pressure at the household level. Importantly, girls were able to remain in school during their menstrual periods, highlighting a positive shift in attendance patterns.

Improvements within the school setting also contributed to these outcomes. Access to water was enhanced through the installation tank and rainwater harvesting system, supporting better hygiene practices. At the same time, reduced reliance on disposable products contributed to a cleaner and more environmentally conscious school environment.

These insights underline important lessons. Addressing menstrual health requires more than information, it demands practical solutions, supportive infrastructure and an enabling environment. The involvement of teachers continues to play a vital role in reinforcing positive outcomes and ensuring sustainability

Shaping the Way Forward

These insights are guiding our next steps:

1. Expanding access to sustainable menstrual solutions to reach more girls
2. Increasing the quantity of materials provided to improve usability and convenience
3. Strengthening collaboration with school communities to enhance support systems
4. Adapting education sessions to be more interactive and responsive to girls realities

Each of these actions is informed by what girls themselves have shared.

Looking Ahead

While progress is evident, it also highlights the distance still to be covered. Gains can only be sustained when interventions are consistent, adequate and supported by a conducive environment.

This is why listening, learning and adapting remain at the center of our approach. Because meaningful change is not only about reaching girls, it is about ensuring that the support provided truly enables them to stay, learn and thrive.

Even within constraints, this process of reflection shows that well-targeted interventions can create real change. Monitoring not only measures progress, it guides improvement ensuring that every effort contributes meaningfully to girls dignity, confidence and ability to remain in school.