Empowering Girls Through Access to Sanitary Products: Jika Uluntu’s Pads Drive in Ward 50
In a concerted effort to address the socioeconomic barriers faced by girls in the farming communities of Ward 50 in the Buffalo City Municipality, Jika Uluntu has launched a pads drive initiative, spearheaded by Lethu Qhawekazi Mgengo, The Child Services Mentor, registered ASCHP Specialist Wellness Counsellor, and HPCSA registered Clinical Psychology. This initiative aims to provide girls with access to essential sanitary products, empowering them to manage their menstrual hygiene effectively and without fear of stigma or discrimination.
The lack of access to sanitary products, often referred to as “period poverty,” is a pervasive issue affecting girls and women in underserved communities. This lack of access can lead to a range of negative consequences, including physical discomfort, social isolation, and missed school days. In the rural farming communities of Ward 50, the issue of period poverty is compounded by factors such as limited financial resources, inadequate infrastructure, and traditional gender norms that discourage open discussions about menstrual hygiene.
The Jika Uluntu team recognises the critical role of access to sanitary products in girls’ overall well-being and educational opportunities. With her expertise in child development and mental health, Mgengo understands the profound impact that period poverty can have on girls’ self-esteem, confidence, and ability to participate fully in their communities.
The pads drive is not merely about providing girls with physical products; it is also about creating a safe and supportive space for open conversations about menstruation, dispelling myths and misconceptions, and fostering a sense of empowerment among girls. Mgengo’s expertise in counselling and her passion for mental health care will be instrumental in facilitating these conversations and providing girls with the knowledge and resources they need to manage their menstrual health effectively.
Jika Uluntu’s pads drive is a beacon of hope for girls in Ward 50, offering them a pathway to improved menstrual hygiene, enhanced self-esteem, and increased educational opportunities. By addressing the socioeconomic barriers that hinder girls’ access to sanitary products, Jika Uluntu is empowering girls to take control of their bodies and their futures.
