In a bid to address the pressing issue of menstrual poverty and promote the dignity of womanhood, especially among Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) in Nigeria, the Access PAD Me A Girl Initiative has made a tremendous impact.
In partnership with key stakeholders, the initiative has provided free reusable sanitary pads and menstrual hygiene education to girls and women in two IDP camps in Abuja and Benue State.
The project, which has reached over 2,000 girls and women, has left a positive mark, bringing smiles to the faces of these vulnerable individuals.
Meeting Farida Abubakar, a 14-year-old IDP in the Area 1 Camp, Abuja, was revealing. Likewise, Sewuese Terfa, a 16-year-old from the Ortese IDP Camp in Benue, shared the harrowing realities they face monthly during menstruation.
With a voice laced with frustration, Farida said, “When I get my period, I'm forced to use pieces of cloth because I don't have money to buy sanitary pads.” For Sewuese, “Sanitary pads are expensive and a luxury. I need to eat first before I think about my period,” she added with a trembling voice.
Their experiences echo those of millions of other Nigerian girls and women. Lack of access to sanitary products not only affects health but also dignity, self-esteem, and education.
But there is hope. Theresa Moses, Convener of the Access PAD Me A Girl Initiative, a GATMASH MEDIA project in partnership with Access Bank, has launched a Pad Bank to distribute free reusable pads to girls and women in need. The initiative targets IDPs in Abuja and Benue, with plans to expand to other states.
The reusable pads are sustainable, eco-friendly, and cost-effective. They can be washed and reused multiple times, reducing reliance on disposable products and minimizing waste. Hygiene education is also provided, teaching proper use, washing, and storage.
The Pad Bank aims to ensure a continuous supply of sanitary pads to IDP camps, offering a long-term solution to menstrual poverty. The initiative aligns with the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly:
SDG 4: Quality Education
SDG 5: Gender Equality
SDG 6: Clean Water and Sanitation
SDG 12: Responsible Consumption and Production
SDG 13: Climate Action
Access Bank’s support is pivotal. The bank has provided resources to aid the Pad Bank, reinforcing its commitment to corporate social responsibility and community development.
“Knowing that I’ll have access to pads every month is more than joyous,” said beneficiary Aisha Adamu.
“I'm grateful. I can now attend school without worrying about my period,” said 12-year-old Joy Terseer.
“These pads have given me confidence. I feel I can face the world again,” added Hadiza Ibrahim, 15.
“I used to rely on rags, but now I feel empowered,” said 13-year-old Ojime Doose.
“This Pad Bank will change my life,” said 16-year-old Washima Shachia.
“The hygiene lessons have improved my health,” echoed 14-year-old Esther Ayuba.
Ms. Lizzy Asan, Benue State Coordinator of the initiative, praised the impact:
“We’ve seen a boost in the girls’ confidence. This is a sustainable solution.”
Mrs. Liyatu Yusuf, Women Leader at Durumi IDP Camp, Abuja, added, “The pads are comfortable and reusable. Our girls can attend school freely now.”
Alhaji Ibrahim Amadu, Camp Chairman of Durumi Area 1 Camp, also commended the initiative:
“This project has restored dignity and brought hope. We look forward to continued support.”
Checkers Custard, a leading Nigerian brand, has been a valuable partner, donating its custard and pap products to support IDP families’ nutrition. Its involvement underscores a commitment to community upliftment.
Other partners include Vita Baites Foods, makers of nutritious kuli-kuli snacks, which have become a healthy food option for IDPs. Their support has been widely appreciated.
Additional sponsors include Prostar Sports International, the Jeffery Kuaran Foundation, Nigeria Online Media Alliance (NOMA), and several individuals who prefer to remain anonymous.
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