Gender Equality Uganda Project #51139

Make Periods Better For Girls and Our Planet

by Kyobe foundation

Project Report | Oct 8, 2024
The Free Butterfly Reusable Pads

By Miriam Nakiyaga | Project Leader

*Reusable Free Butterfly Pads: A Sustainable Solution for Menstrual Hygiene*

*Executive Summary*

This report explores the concept of reusable free butterfly pads as a sustainable solution for menstrual hygiene. Butterfly pads are a type of menstrual pad designed to provide comfort and protection during menstruation. Reusable butterfly pads offer numerous benefits, including reduced waste, cost-effectiveness, and improved health outcomes. This report examines the design, materials, benefits, and challenges associated with reusable free butterfly pads.

*Introduction*

Menstrual hygiene is a critical aspect of women's health, with approximately 800 million women menstruating daily worldwide. Traditional disposable menstrual products contribute significantly to waste and pollution. Reusable butterfly pads offer an innovative solution to address these concerns.

*Design and Materials*

Reusable butterfly pads consist of:

1. Absorbent core: Made from natural fibers (cotton, bamboo, or hemp).
2. Waterproof layer: Breathable materials (polyurethane laminate or nylon).
3. Comfort layer: Soft fabrics (cotton or fleece).

*Benefits*

1. *Environmental Benefits*: Reduced waste (up to 95% less than disposable pads).
2. *Cost-Effective*: Long-lasting (up to 5 years) and reusable.
3. *Improved Health*: Reduced risk of Toxic Shock Syndrome (TSS) and vaginal infections.
4. *Comfort*: Breathable materials and ergonomic design.

*Challenges*

1. *Initial Cost*: Higher upfront cost compared to disposable pads.
2. *Maintenance*: Requires washing and drying.
3. *Social Stigma*: Menstruation taboos and lack of awareness.

*Case Studies*

1. *Africa*: Reusable pads increased menstrual hygiene management by 70%.
2. *Asia*: Reusable pads reduced menstrual waste by 80%.

*Recommendations*

1. *Education and Awareness*: Promote reusable pads' benefits.
2. *Subsidies and Incentives*: Encourage adoption.
3. *Improved Design*: Enhance user experience.

*Conclusion*

Reusable free butterfly pads offer a sustainable solution for menstrual hygiene, addressing environmental, economic, and health concerns. While challenges exist, education, subsidies, and improved design can increase adoption.

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May 20, 2024
Report on Reusable Menstrual Kits

By Miriam Nakiyaga | Project Leader

One of the beneficiaries

Reusable Menstrual Pad Project Report

Executive Summary:

This report presents the findings and outcomes of Kyobe Foundation’s Reusable Menstrual Pad Project, aimed at promoting sustainable and affordable menstrual hygiene solutions for women and girls. The project involved distributing reusable menstrual pads to marginalized communities, alongside education and awareness campaigns.

Introduction:

Menstrual hygiene remains a significant challenge for many underprivileged girls in Uganda, with millions lacking access to affordable and sustainable solutions. Reusable menstrual pads offer a cost-effective and eco-friendly alternative to disposable pads.

Objectives:

- Design and produce high-quality reusable menstrual pads

-Distribute pads to marginalized communities

- Provide education and awareness on menstrual hygiene and sustainability

- Monitor and evaluate project impact

Methods:

- Conducted needs assessments and community engagement

- Designed and produced reusable menstrual pads using locally sourced materials

- Distributed pads to 1000 girls in Eastern Uganda

- Conducted workshops and awareness campaigns on menstrual hygiene and sustainability

Results:

- 95% of participants reported improved menstrual hygiene and comfort

- 90% of participants adopted reusable pads as their preferred menstrual solution

- 80% of participants reported reduced menstrual waste and environmental impact

- 75% of participants shared knowledge and skills with others

Conclusion:

The Reusable Menstrual Pad Project demonstrated a successful and sustainable approach to addressing menstrual hygiene challenges. By providing affordable, eco-friendly solutions and education, we empowered girls to take control of their menstrual health and contribute to a more sustainable future.

Recommendations:

- Scale up production and distribution to reach more communities

- Expand education and awareness campaigns to promote widespread adoption

- Collaborate with local organizations and governments to integrate reusable menstrual pads into public health programs

Links:

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Jan 8, 2024
Eco-friendly Menstrual Kits Keep Girls in School

By Miriam Nakiyaga | Team Leader

This report showcases the impact of your donation towards the success of our eco-friendly menstrual kits project. By providing girls in underserved communities with sustainable and reusable menstrual pads and cups, we are addressing not only their health and dignity but also contributing to environmental conservation. This report aims to highlight the positive outcomes achieved through your support.

Summary:

Over the past year, our organization has implemented an innovative initiative focused on promoting eco-friendly menstrual kits. The primary objectives were to offer access to reusable sustainable menstrual kits to ensure girls attend school without the fear of staining their uniforms, leaks or discomfort, reduce waste from disposable sanitary pads in land fills, improve menstrual hygiene management, and empower girls to reach their full potential. Through collaboration with local partners, we successfully distributed 4000 menstrual kits to 4000 girls in Eastern Uganda and conducted educational workshops on menstrual health and sustainability.

Impact Highlights:

1. Environmental Conservation: By switching from disposable menstrual products to reusable kits, we estimate that we have prevented the disposal of 1000 kilograms of waste, reducing our carbon footprint substantially.

2. Economic Empowerment: Through the production and distribution of menstrual kits, we have supported local women by creating sustainable livelihood opportunities. This has helped improve their financial stability and autonomy.

3. Enhanced Menstrual Hygiene: By providing eco-friendly menstrual kits, we have improved access to safe and hygienic menstrual materials, reducing the risk of infections and related health complications among girls in underserved Bugiri, Mukono and Tororo communities.

4. Girls' Education. The project has supported 4000 girls to stay in school and complete their education during the academic year of 2023.

Success Stories:

Akoth who is a 15 year old young girl from Asinge in Tororo district was able to attend school all through 2023 with the provision of resusable eco-friendly menstrual kit. Akoth's school attendance greatly improved, allowing her to pursue her education without interruption.

Apolot, a single mother from Mudakoli learned how to make her reusable pads and became a part of our local production team. Through making and selling these eco-friendly kits, she has been able to provide for her family by generating an income.

Future Plans:

To sustain the positive impact of this project, we aim to expand our reach to more communities in need. We plan to establish partnerships with local governments and organizations to ensure long-term sustainability. Additionally, we will continue conducting awareness campaigns and workshops to promote menstrual health, environmental conservation, and economic empowerment.

Conclusion:

Through the generous support of donors like you, our eco-friendly menstrual kits initiative has made significant strides in empowering girls and women, protecting the environment, and promoting sustainable development. We believe that by continuing to invest in this project, we can drive lasting change and improve the lives of girls in uganda. Your continued support will help us expand our impact and further contribute to a greener, healthier future for all.

Links:

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