Winan Truevine CBO to Install Sanitary Pad Booths in Kisumu Schools

A community-based organization operating in Kisumu County has launched an initiative to install sanitary pad booths in selected schools to help keep girls in class during their menstrual periods.

The organization, Winan Truevine Community-Based Organization (CBO), has already adopted Kondele Comprehensive School, where it plans to install the first batch of sanitary pad booths as part of a pilot project.

The organization’s founder and director Winter Ogacho said the initiative will later be expanded to other schools across Kisumu Central Constituency.

Ogacho, who spoke during the the distribution of sanitary pads to sudents at Kondele comprehensive school on Thursday, said the project is aimed at ensuring girls remain in school during their menstrual cycles.

The director noted that the booths would help address stigma associated with menstruation and boost girls’ confidence during the period.

Ogacho observed that while condoms are readily available in health facilities and public places, sanitary pads are not as accessible. 

She called on the government to consider distributing sanitary pads in public spaces in the same way condoms are provided.

“It is time the government starts distributing sanitary pads in public places the way it is done for condoms,” she said.

The director expressed concern that many girls miss school or drop out altogether due to challenges associated with menstruation and the stigma surrounding it. 

She added that some girls become vulnerable to early pregnancies because they lack access to sanitary products and adequate reproductive health information.

According to Ogacho, some girls are lured into sexual relationships in exchange for money to buy sanitary pads, exposing them to the risk of unintended pregnancies and other consequences.

Kondele Comprehensive School Head Teacher Evans Dola praised the initiative, describing it as a step in the right direction. 

He said many girls face significant difficulties during their menstrual periods, affecting their education and well-being.

Dola noted that some girls are forced to use improvised materials such as old clothes and leaves, which are often unhygienic and can pose health risks. 

He added that girls who become pregnant are allowed to return to school and continue with their education.

The school head also called for tougher action against individuals who take advantage of vulnerable girls.

Meanwhile, there was excitement and joy among the students as they received the sanitary pads donated by the organization.