The Uganda National Teachers' Union (UNATU), under the Simameni project, has donated sewing machines to secondary schools to support the production of reusable sanitary pads, aiming to improve girls' education and menstrual health.
A total of 48 sewing machines were distributed to 12 secondary schools in Kamwenge, Kyenjojo, and Kibaale districts during a handover ceremony at Kyenjojo Secondary School. The beneficiary schools include Biguli Secondary School, Kyabenda Secondary School, Rwamwanja Secondary School, Kyenjojo Secondary School, Katooke Secondary School, Kisojo Secondary School, Humura Secondary School, Kasule Seed School, and Bujubulu Secondary School.
While handing over the machines, Filbert Baguma, the General Secretary of UNATU, emphasized that the initiative seeks to ensure that no girl misses school due to a lack of menstrual hygiene products. "For many girls in Uganda, the inability to afford sanitary pads has been a major barrier to their education. Some miss several days of school each month, leading to poor performance and, in some cases, dropping out altogether. These machines will enable schools to produce affordable, reusable pads," he said.
Trust Mwine, a student at Kyabenda Secondary School, said the Simameni project has boosted girls' confidence to stay in school and continue their studies despite biological differences. She added that learning to make reusable sanitary pads will also help her earn extra income during school holidays.
Mackline Kasemire, a student at Kisojo Seed School, expressed gratitude to UNATU for the donation, saying they will use the machines to produce sanitary towels for students who cannot afford to buy them. Launched in 2019 with support from Global Affairs Canada, the Simameni project is dedicated to enhancing access, retention, and educational opportunities for girls in secondary schools.
