PADS AND PANTS INITIATIVE, NYAMIRA COUNTY, KENYA

Dear Friends, Supporters, and Cheerleaders,

As part of our continued commitment to safeguarding the dignity, wellbeing, and educational success of young girls, the HFAW team carried out a targeted menstrual dignity support initiative at Gesweswe Primary School ahead of the final examination period.

Recognizing that menstruation-related challenges often disrupt girls’ learning—especially during critical academic moments—the initiative focused on ensuring that girls could sit for their exams comfortably, confidently, and without unnecessary anxiety. During the exercise, a total of fifty (50) girls received sanitary pads and undergarments, essential items that play a vital role in promoting menstrual hygiene management (MHM), self-esteem, and uninterrupted school attendance.

The distribution was conducted in an organized and respectful manner to uphold the dignity of all beneficiaries. Many of the girls expressed their gratitude, sharing that the support made them feel cared for and better prepared to focus fully on their studies during this important time. For some, the assistance eased persistent worries around leaks, discomfort, and embarrassment—concerns that often affect concentration and confidence in the classroom.

The school administration warmly welcomed the initiative and expressed deep appreciation to HFAW. School staff highlighted that lack of menstrual supplies is a common contributor to absenteeism, stress, and reduced academic performance among girls. Even more important is our awareness creation which emphasized the importance of teacher and parent partnership to resolve these issues. By addressing this need, the intervention is directly removing a key barrier to learning and supports the girls’ right to equal participation in education.

This activity once again underscores the importance of practical, timely support in empowering girls to thrive—academically, emotionally, and socially. As HFAW, we remain committed to advancing menstrual dignity and ensuring that no girl is held back simply because of a natural biological process.

Follow-up engagements will be conducted to assess ongoing needs and to guide the expansion of similar support initiatives to more schools in the future.

With heartfelt appreciation for your continued support,

Sincerely,
Doris Kananu
Program Director, HFAW

Dear Friends and Supporters,

At the Hope Foundation for African Women (HFAW), we believe that every girl deserves to grow up with dignity, confidence, and the right knowledge to make informed choices. Recently, our team visited Ollolua Primary School, where we spent a powerful day with 55 adolescent girls.

The outreach focused on three key areas: menstrual health, prevention of early pregnancy, and building essential life skills. Too often, girls in rural areas miss school or suffer in silence because they lack information, sanitary products, or the confidence to talk about these challenges. We wanted to change that.

Through open discussions, and interactive lessons, we reminded the girls that menstruation is a normal part of life and there is nothing to be ashamed of. We demonstrated safe hygiene practices, encouraged them to ask for help when needed, and gave them practical tips to manage discomfort during their periods.

We also held a heart-to-heart session on early pregnancy. The girls learned about their right to say “no,” how to recognize inappropriate behaviour, and the importance of staying in school. To strengthen their resilience, we introduced simple but powerful life skills: communication, decision-making, problem-solving, and self-confidence.

To ensure the lessons were not just words but action, each of the 55 girls received a dignity pack containing sanitary pads and underpants. These small items carried a big message: you matter, your health matters, and your future is important.

The responses were touching. One girl shared, “I now feel prepared to manage my periods without fear of missing school.” Another said, “I have learned that I have the right to say no and to focus on my education.”

Teachers and staff at Ollolua Primary welcomed the initiative warmly and committed to supporting their learners beyond the training. Their involvement gives us hope that the change we started will continue to grow within the school.

At HFAW, we remain steadfast in our mission to restore dignity, break harmful taboos, and empower girls to thrive. Thanks to your continued support, we are making sure no girl is left behind.

Together, we are building a brighter future for girls in kenya and beyond.

With gratitude,
Doris Kananu, Program Director.