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Local solution
To tackle period poverty, plastic waste from disposable products, and high unemployment among disadvantaged women, RuGirlz is empowering three unemployed single mothers to create eco-friendly, reusable sanitary pads. This initiative will meet the menstrual hygiene needs of 200 low-income schoolgirls, allowing them to stay in school during their periods while providing the mothers with a steady income. Additionally, 100 boys will join discussions about menstrual and reproductive health alongside teachers and staff.
Young women (ages 18-34) and schoolgirls (ages 10-17) in Atwima Nwabiagya, Ghana, face several challenges related to menstruation. Many girls miss school—sometimes up to 95%—because they cannot access sanitary products, which harms their education and health. Some use unsafe alternatives, risking issues like teenage pregnancy and sexually transmitted infections. The reliance on disposable menstrual products also contributes to plastic waste and pollution. Moreover, high unemployment, especially among young women, worsens as they miss work due to menstrual issues, leading to financial instability and increased risk of gender-based violence. The cultural stigma around menstruation further limits education and support. An assessment allowed women to discuss their financial struggles and schoolgirls to share how menstruation hinders their attendance.
Over six months, 3 mothers will take part in a sewing project to produce high-quality, eco-friendly reusable sanitary pads. Each kit, costing GHc 95.00, includes four maxi pads, a carry pouch, a dryer, and a care manual, providing a girl with menstrual supplies for two years. These kits will be given for free to 200 girls in two schools, and training sessions will engage around 300 students and staff in conversations about menstrual and reproductive health. Additionally, affordable sanitary options will be made available for low-income women, generating resources for sustainability as the project expands into rural areas. By promoting reusable pads, we aim to reduce waste and costs while minimising health risks for women.
Founded in 2012, RuGirlz has been a strong advocate for eco-feminism, empowering women in the Nerebehi community. The organisation has created sustainable livelihoods for over 25 women and positively impacted more than 3,000 underprivileged schoolgirls. Our experience and success give us confidence in our ability to implement this project and bring meaningful change to women and girls in the community.
Lives improvedIn the short term, 3 women will be employed by RuGirlz, allowing them to earn an income that benefits 12 family members. This job will help them gain financial independence and reduce their risk of violence and sex work.
Additionally, 200 schoolgirls from low-income families will receive free, locally-made pads that will last for two years. This will prevent them from missing school due to their periods, leading to better attendance and higher chances of graduating.
Community impactBy hiring local women to make sanitary pads, it boosts the local economy as they spend their earnings nearby. Providing free pads to 200 schoolgirls improves their attendance and performance, fostering a better-educated community.
The program empowers women, promotes equality, and raises awareness about menstrual hygiene to reduce stigma. Working together strengthens community ties.
Additionally, local production encourages sustainability and supports local businesses, bringing positive change to the community.
BudgetThe total budget for the project is GH₵49,442 (or €3,281). The allocation of funds is as follows:
- Tools and Equipment: Sewing machines, knitting machines, and raw materials.
- Training: Costs for recruitment, training, and Menstrual Health and Outreach program.
- Administration: Monitoring and evaluation expenses.
- 5% allocated to iMPACT direct for facilitating donations to local solutions, covering website maintenance, promotion, proposal writing, financial services, and NGO support.
Own Contribution: We will implement workshops, seminars, and interactive sessions within the Atwima Nwabiagya Municipality through strategic partnerships, fostering inclusive dialogue on reproductive health. Our holistic approach aligns with our commitment to long-term empowerment, aiming to break the cycle of poverty. Ultimately, we seek to cultivate a greener, healthier, and more informed community.
Project Details
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Project Proposal
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