Nanja Secondary School Arusha Region

Lack of access to menstrual products and education often forces girls to miss school, impacting their academic performance and overall well-being, and many of Nanja Secondary School’s 700 students face significant barriers to managing their menstruation in a safe and dignified way. 

 

Many come from low-income families, where disposable sanitary products are an unaffordable luxury. As a result, these girls often resort to unhygienic alternatives, which not only pose health risks but also prevent them from fully participating in school activities during their menstrual cycle. This issue is further compounded by the cultural stigma surrounding menstruation and the lack of menstrual health education in rural areas.

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Comfy Care12 distributed 200 reusable pads to the Naja Secondary School students, along with a comprehensive educational program on menstrual hygiene management.This initiative not only provides the girls with the necessary products to maintain hygiene but also fosters awareness of menstrua l health as a fundamental human right. The tailored training enhances their understanding of menstrual hygiene and equips them with the knowledge to manage their periods safely and confidently.

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The positive impact of the project is already visible. With access to reusable pads, the girls can now attend school throughout their menstrual cycle, resulting in better attendance, improved academic performance, and greater self-esteem. By challenging the stigma surrounding menstruation, Comfy Care12 is also empowering these girls to become advocates for menstrual rights in their communities.

This intervention is helping to break the cycle of menstrual health challenges that have traditionally led to school dropouts and social isolation for many girls in rural Tanzania. 

 

With continued support, initiatives like this will contribute to building a more inclusive and equitable society where every girl can realise her full potential.