In recent months, together with the Deutsche Postcode Lottery and the Ndlovu Care Group, we have been able to supply over 4,900 girls in the Moutse region of South Africa with menstrual hygiene products – specifically with over 11,600 packs of sanitary towels in April and May 2025 alone.
What seems like a purely logistical figure means something completely different on the ground: security, dignity and genuine participation in everyday education.
The feedback from the schools shows how urgently this help was needed:
“Before the program, some of our girls were missing several days a month. Now they are confident in class.” – Principal
“I am so grateful. My daughter can now go to school like everyone else.” – Mother
“Menstruation must not be a barrier to education. This project helps us to change that.” – Teacher
However, the provision of hygiene products alone is only part of the success. Accompanying information events and talks, for example by the PowerMamas, have integrated the topic of menstruation openly and sensitively into everyday school life – a big step against stigmatization and for education.
During Menstrual Hygiene Month in May 2025 in particular, the initiative was able to increase its reach once again – with school campaigns, talks and targeted distribution. The positive response from the entire community shows how great the need is and how profound the impact is.
Together with the German Postcode Lottery, we are continuing our efforts to ensure that no girl is prevented from learning due to a lack of sanitary products. Education starts with dignity – and dignity sometimes starts with something as simple as a pack of sanitary towels.
