By Kankiriho Obed
The Rotary Club of Mgahinga in partnership with the Mgahinga Community Development Organisation has taken the lead in training and raising awareness among school-going girls about the benefits of using reusable sanitary pads.
The pads are not only cost-effective but also environmentally friendly and long-lasting.
To kickstart the project, the pilot school selected is Nyakinama Seed Secondary School, situated in Nyatete trading center, Nyakinama Sub County.
During the initial awareness meeting at Nyakinama Seed, Patricia Muhawenimana, an expert from Mgahinga Community Development Organisation specializing in reusable sanitary pads, demonstrated the proper usage of these pads, emphasizing their exceptional comfort.
Patricia pointed out that in many instances, girls experience their menstrual periods when their parents are unable to afford disposable pads, which are used once and then discarded. She highlighted the longevity of reusable sanitary pads, which can be utilized for at least four years.
Several female students at Nyakinama Seed Secondary School, who spoke to our reporter, expressed their gratitude towards the Rotary Club of Mgahinga and Mgahinga Community Development Organisation.
They shared their challenges with using imported sanitary pads, including discomfort and the financial burden they pose.
Dinah Tuyisabe, the senior woman teacher at Nyakinama Seed, lauded the Rotary Club of Mgahinga for their commendable initiative, which is expected to address issues such as school absenteeism, dropout rates, and the risk of diseases.
She urged female students to prioritize their education, emphasizing its importance for their overall well-being.
Meanwhile, Innocent Rwabinuma, the President of the Rotary Club of Mgahinga, shared the club’s plans to purchase sewing machines and distribute them to selected schools.
This initiative aims to empower girls by teaching them how to sew their sanitary pads.
