Local NGO Empowers Thousands of Women and Girls with Reusable Sanitary Pads
Despite financial challenges, the organization continues to serve as a beacon of hope, working tirelessly to empower and uplift the underprivileged for a more inclusive society.
Mzuzu, Malawi - The Citizen Impact Organization (CIO), a local non-governmental organization based in Mzuzu's Luwinga township, is making a significant impact by assisting over 4,000 girls and women in Mzimba and Nkhatabay districts in addressing menstrual hygiene challenges, writes Mustafa Makumba.
The CIO initiative, spearheaded by motivated youth, aims to combat poor menstrual hygiene by offering training on creating reusable sanitary pads.
Launched in 2021, the initiative has trained a substantial number of individuals who, in turn, train others to produce these essential hygiene products locally.
These locally made sanitary pads not only provide financial relief to the recipients but are also long-lasting, reducing the stress and discomfort associated with menstruation.
Monica Chirwa, based in Thandazga, Mzimba district, expressed her gratitude for the initiative, which rescued her from the financial constraints that made it challenging to purchase sanitary pads from stores.
She said, "We struggled to buy sanitary pads from shops as they are not affordable to us considering our financial status. We thank this organization for training us to make these reusable sanitary pads, which last longer."
For teen mothers like Rabecca Mbewe, the initiative has provided a lifeline. Being a single parent came with financial challenges, making it difficult to afford store-bought sanitary pads.
She said, "I am now able to make my own reusable pads which are long-lasting and sell the excess to others. It has become an income-generating activity for me."
The initiative's impact extends beyond improved menstrual hygiene and economic empowerment; it has also inspired a sense of hard work and determination among school-going children.
Estele Banda, a standard 8 learner, revealed how she struggled to attend classes while menstruating. However, thanks to the locally made sanitary pads, she can now confidently participate in her studies without fear of embarrassment or interruptions.
The reusable sanitary pads are crafted from fabric and can be sewn by hand or machine, making them accessible to almost everyone.
Their washable and reusable nature sets them apart from disposable commercial products, promoting sustainability and affordability for the underprivileged.
Founded in 2018 by Chimwemwe Banda, a dedicated gender activist in Mzuzu, the Citizen Impact Organization (CIO) is committed to empowering youth, women, and other socioeconomically disadvantaged groups.
The organization addresses sexual reproductive health issues, combats early child marriages and teenage pregnancies, and improves access to quality education by providing essential school supplies to deserving students.
Additionally, the CIO has played a pivotal role in helping women initiate pig and bee farming businesses, further promoting economic independence.
Despite financial challenges, the organization continues to serve as a beacon of hope, working tirelessly to empower and uplift the underprivileged for a more inclusive society.