Women Unite 4 WASH Launches Buy Me a Pad Initiative
Funmi Ogundare
A group of women are riding on the provision of the Water, Sanitation and Hygiene (WASH) programme to launch a campaign that will provide girls easy access to pads for menstrual hygiene.
According to the United Nations Department of Economic and Social Affairs Sustainable Development, “The core activity of WASH emphasises the teaching of basic sanitation and hygiene to communities and school children with a particular focus on girls’ education and gender equality, as a necessary complement to the success of water and sanitation infrastructure projects.”
The “Buy Me A Pad” initiative is spearheaded by the Women Unite 4 WASH, a group of five women-led NGOs under the umbrella body of the Society for Water and Sanitation (NEWSAN).
This project is not just about providing menstrual hygiene products, but about empowering women and girls across Nigeria, tagged “Buy Me a Pad” project, said the project initiative team lead, Ruth During.
“In Nigeria, like many other parts of the world, period poverty remains a harsh reality for far too many women and girls. Lack of access to menstrual hygiene products can lead to missed opportunities in education, health issues, and perpetuate gender inequality. But today, we are here to change that narrative.”
The “Buy Me a Pad” project, she reiterated, aims to address period poverty by providing free menstrual hygiene products to those in need. But it goes beyond just distribution. “Our initiative is focused on raising awareness, promoting education about menstrual hygiene, and advocating for sustainable solutions.
“We believe that everyone deserves access to the basic necessities of life, and menstrual hygiene products are no exception. By ensuring access to these products, we are not only promoting physical well-being but also empowering women and girls to pursue their dreams and ambitions without the limitations imposed by period poverty.”
According to her, Women Unite 4 WASH aims to reach every corner of Nigeria, ensuring that no woman or girl is left behind. In conclusion she said they understand that sustainable change requires collaboration and community involvement, and that they are committed to working hand in hand with all stakeholders to make a lasting impact.
