Kajiado Women Rep launches sanitary towels distribution programme, 38,250 girls targeted

Kajiado County Women Representative Leah Sankaire has launched a sanitary towels distribution programme to support girls and curb absenteeism linked to menstrual challenges.

The programme funded by the National Government Affirmative Action Fund targets at least 38,250 girls in public comprehensive schools in Kajiado County.

Speaking during the launch at AIC Girls Comprehensive School in Dalalekutuk Ward, Kajiado Central, Sankaire said the programme targets girls from Grade Four to Grade Nine in public schools across the county.

She said that each beneficiary will receive four packets of sanitary towels, describing the programme as a critical educational incentive designed to boost girls’ confidence during their menstrual cycle, improve hygiene management and ensure uninterrupted learning.

“This programme is about restoring dignity and giving our girls the confidence they need to stay in school every day of the month,” she said

She disclosed that a total of 153,000 packets of sanitary towels will be distributed across the county under the initiative, reaffirming her office’s commitment to promoting access to education and safeguarding the dignity of school-going girls.

“We are committed to ensuring that no girl misses school because of a lack of sanitary towels. Education is a right, not a privilege,” Sankaire said.

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The legislator called on parents, teachers and other stakeholders to take collective responsibility in supporting girls to remain in school. She expressed concern over rising cases of teenage pregnancies and early marriages, which continue to undermine education outcomes in parts of the county.

“Education is the greatest equaliser and the surest path to empowerment,” she said. “I urge our girls to remain focused, disciplined and committed to their studies so they can secure brighter futures.”

Sankaire emphasised that addressing menstrual hygiene barriers is key to reducing absenteeism among girls and enhancing academic performance, noting that many learners silently struggle due to lack of access to basic sanitary products.

The NGAAF-funded programme forms part of broader efforts to promote gender equality, protect the rights of the girl child and create a conducive learning environment for all students in Kajiado County.

By Kimutai Langat