Keeping girls in school

According to the Ministry of Education, approximately 2.7 million girls in primary and secondary school lack access to sanitary pads, as well as consistent reproductive health education and adequate sanitation facilities. Without access to menstrual hygiene products, a girl can miss: 4 days of school every month, 6 weeks of school every year and Up to 156 learning days across a four-year secondary cycle. 

This absenteeism compounds existing inequalities, increases exposure to early marriage and other social risks, and limits future educational and economic opportunities. 

Since 2011, African Cotton Industries, in partnership with the Ministry of Education, has supported a multi-year national initiative providing sanitary pads to over one million underserved schoolgirls across Kenya. Through this program, we are helping ensure that girls can remain in school, learn with dignity, and build brighter futures.