In our continued mission to empower girls and women through sustainable, community-driven solutions, Othakarhaka Foundation recently held an intensive capacity-building workshop focused on menstrual hygiene and the production of reusable sanitary pads. Delivered in partnership with PLAN International, the training brought together 64 young women from Mulanje district, all ready to become catalysts for change in their communities.
The week-long workshop, expertly facilitated by Maggie Chilinda, was designed to equip participants not only with technical sewing skills, but also with the confidence and knowledge to teach others. These young women will go on to support girls in primary and secondary schools across the region, helping to address one of the most overlooked yet deeply impactful challenges facing adolescent girls period poverty.
For many girls, the lack of access to menstrual products leads to school absenteeism, a decline in academic performance, and feelings of shame or isolation. By training peer educators and pad makers from within the community, we are taking a practical and sustainable step toward ensuring that girls can stay in school, manage their health with dignity, and grow into confident, empowered women.
This initiative reflects Othakarhaka’s belief in community-led development where solutions are not imposed from outside, but nurtured from within. With the support of PLAN International, and the dedication of our young participants, we are proud to be advancing a future where every girl can manage her period without fear or interruption.
