In Kenya, period poverty is a pressing issue, with 2.7 million girls in primary and secondary schools unable to afford menstrual pads. As a result, one in ten girls misses school due to a lack of access to sanitary products. According to the Ministry of Education and Care International, many girls are forced to drop out of school because they cannot manage their periods hygienically. Addressing this crisis, Bethshiba Otuga, the founder of Ahadi Reusable Pads, is making a significant impact by providing high-quality, affordable, and reusable menstrual pads. Located in Buruburu Phase 2, Ahadi Reusable Pads uses locally available, hygienic, and breathable materials to ensure their products meet the highest standards.
Bethshiba Otuga, founder of Ahadi Reusable Pads
The Birth of a Dream
Bethshiba Otuga’s journey began with her own experiences of menstrual stigma and the challenges of managing menstrual hygiene. As a young girl, she and her peers often felt ashamed to discuss their periods or ask for sanitary products, leading to frequent school absences. A particularly traumatic incident where Beth found herself sitting in a pool of blood in the school reading room left a lasting impression on her. Despite the embarrassment and shame, her determination to become an English teacher motivated her to return to school and pursue her dreams.
During menopause, Beth found the cost of disposable pads prohibitive and began experimenting with reusable materials. She started cutting towels, bed sheets, and t-shirts, eventually discovering an excellent absorbent material. This experiment laid the foundation for Ahadi Reusable Pads, which officially started production in 2018 and began full operations in 2019.
Building Ahadi Reusable Pads
Bethshiba Otuga’s entrepreneurial journey was further supported by an acquaintance who introduced her to an African organization that incubates business start-ups. Through training and mentorship, Beth registered Ahadi Reusable Pads and began manufacturing high-quality reusable menstrual pads. The COVID-19 pandemic provided an opportunity for Beth and her team to make a significant impact by distributing pads to the less fortunate, including those in slums and children’s homes, in partnership with organizations seeking to end period poverty.
Ahadi Reusable Pads are designed for durability, reliability, and cost-effectiveness. The pads can be used for 4 to 6 hours depending on flow and come in packs of four, along with an instruction leaflet. Each pack, is priced at Kshs. 500, including a waterproof bag for storing both new and used pads. With proper care, the pads can last for up to 12 months, significantly reducing waste compared to disposable pads.
Bethshiba Otuga showcasing how the pads are packaged and how to use them.
Impact and Accomplishments Since its inception.
Since its inception, Ahadi Reusable Pads has made significant strides in reducing period poverty and menstrual stigma. By producing over 1,000 packs in the past year alone, Ahadi has impacted 1,000 girls in various schools, including a recent distribution of 120 packs to Seeds of Hope Education Center in Kibera. Overall, Ahadi has reached approximately 9,000 girls through partnerships and community outreach.
One of the notable accomplishments of Ahadi Reusable Pads is the significant reduction in waste. With reusable pads, only 1,200 pads are disposed of annually, compared to the 36,000 disposable pads that would have otherwise been used. This reduction in waste highlights the environmental benefits of using reusable menstrual products.
Period Poverty and Stigma in Kenya
Period poverty and menstrual stigma remain significant barriers to education and empowerment for many girls in Kenya. The inability to afford sanitary products leads to missed school days, impacting academic performance and increasing dropout rates. Additionally, the stigma associated with menstruation fosters shame and embarrassment, further hindering girls’ participation in daily activities.
Ahadi Reusable Pads addresses these challenges by providing an affordable, hygienic solution that allows girls and women to manage their periods with dignity and comfort. By eradicating the shame and stigma associated with menstruation, Ahadi empowers girls to attend school consistently and perform better academically.
Packaged Ahadi reusable pads
Bethshiba Otuga’s vision for Ahadi Reusable Pads is a testament to the power of innovation and determination in addressing period poverty and menstrual stigma. Through her efforts, Beth has created a sustainable solution that not only provides comfort and dignity to girls and women but also contributes to environmental conservation. Ahadi Reusable Pads is a shining example of how local initiatives can profoundly impact communities and drive positive change.
To place orders or to partner with Ahadi Reusable Pads, visit their social media on Instagram @ahadi.pads, their website at www.ahadipads.org, email info@ahadipads.com, or WhatsApp 0723309229.
