I came across this published opinion on the People Daily newspaper written by Ngotiek Philip, that reusable pads are the solution to period poverty and i was totally appalled. I mean, we all have heard of reusable sanitary pads, a good temporary solution, but them becoming the solution to end period poverty is totally giving’ not researched about the actual cost and maintenance of this pads.
Laying it in simple terms, a reusable sanitary pads requires frequent changing, washing, and maintenance. You need cold water, and some antibacterial/ detergent definitely. Menses do actually have a smell and also if not washed properly can cause more harm than good. Well, we are talking of period poverty right? So I cannot be able to purchase 60 ksh sanitary towel and now you are telling me to get a 450ksh( See cost here) for one reusable towel, you need 4 per cycle at least. Then add cost for water which is scarce, i have to travel for kilometers, plus detergent or an antibacterial, yet, I live deep in the arid, Marsabit, for example. Can we get a bit realistic.
Reusable pad cost : 450*4= 1800 +water+soap Usage for a Maximum of 2 years. Sunny girl pads 60*12= 720*2years =1440 disposal by incineration. We need a conversation on Menstrual cups instead.
Its is a noble idea, I do not entirely disregard it ,comes in handy when need be, but, reusable pads are not for the ‘poor’ for lack of a better word. If they were sustainable, even them with access to water and machines could have taken them up for use. As for ‘period poverty’ they are not a sustainable solution. It does not make any sense getting them, then this lady is left dealing with Infections, every other month. The cons outweigh the pros. She cant afford basics, what of the add-ons of getting that sanitary towel clean?
You know as a country despite it being among the fastest growing and developing some problems just take us 5 steps backward, despite making 7 front. These are critical issues that should not be existing in our society, we should be enjoying some benefits like menstrual leave days, Free pads everywhere just like condoms. Its good to be honest, because most of these people peddling the reusable pads narrative, do not and probably have never used one, speaking from a point of privilege. Anyway it was just an opinion, what to do huh!
The Basic Education Act Section 39 (k)says: “It shall be the duty of the Cabinet Secretary to provide free, sufficient and quality sanitary towels to every girl child registered and enrolled in a public basic education institution who has reached puberty and provide a safe and environmentally sound mechanism for disposal of the sanitary towels.
It remains a game of wait and see! In the mean time if you wish to contribute some pads, do reach out +254711730944, or @thelistkenya@gmail.com. We do monthly pad distribution to different homes in Nairobi and Kajiado counties.
