Location: Kamuli District, Uganda
In partnership with AFRIpads Foundation, Tujifunze Africa Foundation recently completed a transformative menstrual health intervention that reached 130 school-aged girls across two primary schools in Kamuli district. This initiative combined practical support with vital education, addressing period poverty while creating period-friendly learning environments.
The Impact at a Glance
130 girls received reusable sanitary pad kits and underwear
2 primary schools reached: Kamuli Township Primary School and Balawoli Primary School
260+ items distributed: 2 cartons of school girl kits (130 pads) and 130 underwear sets
Comprehensive training delivered on menstrual hygiene management, pad use, and care
Boys included in sessions at Balawoli Primary to foster supportive environments
Meeting Real Needs in Our Communities
Working closely with senior women teachers at both schools, we identified the most marginalized girls who needed support the most. Our selection process was both needs-based and age-appropriate, ensuring that resources reached those who would benefit most.
As Mukooba Victor, a member of our team, observed: “The girls were happy to receive the pads. Many of them come from poor families and these pads are a relief to them and their parents.”
More Than Just Products: Building Knowledge and Confidence
The distribution went beyond simply handing out supplies. Our team facilitated interactive menstrual hygiene management sessions where girls learned how to use, wash, and store their AFRIpads properly. The Girl Talk booklets provided alongside the kits became instant favorites, with girls captivated by the accessible language and informative graphics.
One senior woman teacher noted: “Many organisations have been coming here to give us reusable pads. But the ones we received today look good and unique.”
Breaking Taboos: Engaging Boys as Allies
At Balawoli Primary School, we took an innovative approach by including boys in the training sessions. This decision proved valuable, as many boys asked thoughtful questions about how they could better support girls during their periods. Creating period-friendly schools and communities requires everyone’s understanding and support.
The Difference Reusable Pads Make
The excitement was palpable as girls received their kits. For many, these reusable pads represent:
Economic relief for families struggling with the monthly cost of disposable products
Uninterrupted education without missing school days due to lack of menstrual products
Dignity and confidence during their periods
Environmental sustainability through reusable, washable products
Training Our Team, Strengthening Our Impact
This intervention also built internal capacity within Tujifunze Africa Foundation. Our staff members, facilitating AFRIpads training for the first time, gained valuable experience and confidence. We learned important lessons about the power of multilingual delivery—using both Lusoga and English made the information accessible to all participants.
Looking Ahead
We remain committed to addressing period poverty in Kamuli district and beyond. With 15 additional kits reserved for girls in the community who will be selected through our ongoing needs assessment, this initiative continues to grow.
Through partnerships like the one with AFRIpads Foundation, Tujifunze Africa Foundation is not just distributing products—we’re creating lasting change by combining material support with education, building confidence, and fostering inclusive environments where every girl can thrive.
About This Initiative
Partner: AFRIpads Foundation
Implementing Organization: Tujifunze Africa Foundation
Contact: lyndaeunice@gmail.com | +256753351127
Website: www.tujifunzeafrica.org
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