# Reusable Sanitary Pads Empower Ethiopian Girls and Combat Menstrual Stigma Local production of washable pads addresses hygiene access and school absenteeism in Ethiopia. - **Source:** [Africanews](https://www.africanews.com) - **Published:** 2026-11-09 - **Topic:** [health](https://brifing.si/c/health) - **Original article:** - **On Brifing:** https://brifing.si/s/84f37aee-58d5-4fb4-be5a-9b463116fe78 ## Local Production Initiative In Addis Ababa, Hanan Ahmed founded Han's With Care to produce reusable cotton sanitary pads. By manufacturing these products locally, the initiative provides an affordable alternative to expensive imported disposable pads. The workshop currently maintains a production capacity of approximately 1,000 pads per day to meet the growing demand across Ethiopia. ## Addressing Economic Barriers Ethiopia relies entirely on imported sanitary products, which are often unaffordable for many women and girls. This financial barrier frequently leads to missed school days and lost income. Some individuals are forced to use unsafe alternatives, highlighting the urgent need for accessible, sustainable hygiene solutions that do not compromise personal health. ## Personal Inspiration for Change Founder Hanan Ahmed, 41, launched the company in 2021 after leaving the fashion industry. Her motivation stems from her own childhood experiences with heavy menstrual flows and the resulting social embarrassment. She aims to prevent other girls from feeling the same isolation and shame that once caused her to miss school. ## Product Design and Utility The washable cotton pads are designed for durability, lasting up to two years with proper care. Students like 15-year-old Betselot Mahareg report that these cloth pads offer better security against leaks compared to disposable options. This practical design helps girls maintain their confidence and hygiene while participating in their daily academic activities. ## Strategic Distribution Partnerships The business operates through partnerships with various sponsors, including local banks. These organizations purchase the pads and distribute them free of charge to girls and women throughout the country. This distribution model ensures that the products reach those who need them most, effectively bypassing the retail price barriers that limit access. ## Educational Outreach Efforts Beyond providing products, the initiative focuses on changing societal attitudes toward menstruation. Teachers at schools like Nigat Kokeb provide safety cues and information to young girls before their first period. This preparation is essential to reduce fear, prevent panic, and ensure that students do not feel alone during their transition to womanhood. ## Deeply Rooted Cultural Stigma Despite progress in Addis Ababa, menstrual stigma remains prevalent in many rural Ethiopian communities. In some areas, girls still face exclusion from their households upon starting their periods. Hanan Ahmed emphasizes that open conversations and education are the primary tools required to dismantle these long-standing cultural barriers and promote social inclusion. ## Future Outlook and Impact Hanan Ahmed is actively working to normalize menstruation within her own home, celebrating it as a natural part of growing up. By encouraging public discourse and raising awareness, she hopes to eliminate the shame associated with periods. The ultimate goal is to ensure that menstruation never again hinders a girl's education. ## Sources covering this story - http://www.africanews.com/2026/11/09/ethiopia-reusable-sanitary-pads-help-girls-break-the-silence-around-menstruation/ — --- _Summary written by Brifing from the original reporting. Copyright in the original article belongs to its publisher; read the full piece at the link above._