The Herpad Project focuses on improving menstrual health and dignity for women and girls by equipping them with practical skills to make reusable sanitary products. The project carries out community sensitization to reduce stigma, challenge myths, and promote open and informed conversations about menstruation. In addition, HerPad supports schools to integrate menstrual hygiene management into learning programs and guides them in forming menstrual hygiene clubs, creating safe spaces where girls can learn, share, and support one another.

In Uganda, menstrual health challenges cause school absenteeism, lost income as girls lose 3 to 5 days of productivity and long-term health risks. The pandemic only worsened the issue—deepening poverty, stigma and misinformation.

• “Up to 30% of girls miss school during menstruation (UNICEF, 2021).”
• “Women lose workdays due to lack of access (Ministry of Health, 2020).”
• “Infection risk and shame persist due to inadequate education and hygiene products.”

We believe menstruation should never be a barrier to education, opportunity, or self-worth.