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Msilisi Dube Gender Correspondent
WOMEN in Kusile District have applauded the introduction of re-usable sanitary pads which can last for three years.
The pads, adopted by a non-governmental agency, Lupane Women’s Centre (LWC) has been a hit in the area since 2012.
Hildegard Mufukare, the manager at LWC, said the re-usable pads can be washed and dried in the sun, and can be used for a period lasting 36 months.

“This initiative was first introduced by an organisation, Days for Girls International.  We at Lupane Women Centre saw it fit to bring the idea and it has proved to be cost effective while promoting high hygienic standards for women, in particular young girls.”
Mufukare said they sell the pads for $1 each.

“Most of the times ladies’ sanitary pads are not easily found in rural areas. If ever they are available, they are expensive.
“Most school girls end up resorting to using newspapers and toilet paper because they do not have money to buy them,” said Mufukare.
She added that after the adoption of the initiative in Lupane there was an overwhelming response from the community.

“We have toured schools like Jotsholo, Pupu, Mabhikwa, and Tshongokwe among others. The girls have responded very well. After using these pads they should be washed and made to dry in the sun. We are glad that they follow the instruction and keeping themselves clean.”
A 14-year-old Mabhikwa student said the re-usable pads have eased her life because she does not rely on newspapers anymore.

“Long back I was using newspapers, now I can also put on a pad. It feels good.
“I did not have money to buy pads. Both my parents are late and my grandmother cannot afford to buy pads every month. With the introduction of these pads my life is easy because they last for three years,” she said.