Toward Plastic-Free Periods: Nyango Pads at the Historic NIDISI & GIZ GmbH Event

I had the privilege of attending the historic meeting organized by NIDISI and GIZ GmbH, highlighted in Education News (https://educationnews.co.ke/researchers-now-champion-plastic-free-periods-to-combat-menstrual-poverty/), where researchers, innovators, and menstrual health advocates gathered to promote plastic-free periods.

This global initiative addresses a dual challenge:

  • Fighting menstrual poverty, which still affects millions of women and girls worldwide,
  • Protecting our planet by rethinking menstrual products that are often made with non-biodegradable plastic.

💬 Key Takeaways from the Meeting
During the discussion, experts emphasized the urgent need to:

  • Adopt local, natural, and biodegradable alternatives,
  • Involve communities and young girls in menstrual education and awareness,
  • Break the silence and stigma surrounding menstruation.

These insights deeply resonated with our mission at Nyango Pads — to provide menstrual protection that respects both women’s bodies and the environment.

🌺 Nyango Pads’ Commitment
At Nyango Pads, we believe that menstrual protection should never harm our health or the planet.
Our approach aligns with the vision shared during this meeting:

  • 🌱 Using biodegradable, plastic-free materials,
  • 🤝 Promoting local production led by women,
  • 🎓 Supporting education and awareness to end menstrual stigma.

💡 What’s Next?
This historic meeting inspired me to take our Nyango Project even further — building stronger collaborations with other African innovators in sustainable menstrual care. Together, we can create a future where every girl has access to safe, affordable, and eco-friendly menstrual products — and where periods are no longer a source of shame, pollution, or inequality.